We’ve all heard of the benefits of Animal Therapy at one point or another, and that’s why we like to spend as much time with our furry friends as we possibly can. Spending time with animals has been proven to boost our moods, lower blood pressure and provide us with companionship.

Here in the Causeway Coast and Glens, you can spend time with animals in a variety of different ways. From petting farms, to horse riding experiences, pet friendly places and wildlife centres, read on to get inspired ahead of your next visit.

Experience Days

Immerse yourself in a special experience with a friendly animal and their expert handlers. On the Causeway Coast, you can find horse-trekking experiences on our beautiful beaches, or you can take a picnic with a cute and cuddly alpaca.

Try something new with Crindle Stables on one of the many scenic packages on offer with their professional instructors.  Relax on a safe Irish cob while taking in the beautiful views of Binevenagh Mountain or take a relaxing ride along the beach at sunset.

How about spending an afternoon with your very own alpaca buddy? You can do just that with North Coast Alpacas. Take in the scenery from their stunning farm in Portrush, hike to the summit on a more challenging Dusk Trek, or have yourself an Alpaca Picnic for a truly unique experience!

For an authentic Irish farm experience, Dunfin Farm in Glenshesk offer Sheep Experiences – where you can watch a sheepdog demonstration, learn about sheep handling, shearing and, dependent on the season, have a go at hand feeding baby lambs.

Petting Farms

Visiting the Causeway Coast and Glens with kids? They’ll love the experiences to be had at a day out at a petting farm! Get up close and personal to everything from cute and fluffy bunny rabbits to friendly goats.  

Rosepark Farm is a 70-acre property outside Ballymoney which boasts a wonderful selection of animals including goats, reindeer, rabbits, and even exotic snakes for the truly brave! The site also has a stunning Blue Lagoon, perfect for a dip in the warmer months. Please note that Rosepark Farm opens on a seasonal basis, so check their opening hours before you visit.

Pet Friendly Places

Prefer to cuddle with your own animals instead? No problem - the Causeway Coast and Glens pet-friendly scene is constantly growing. Many businesses in the area have adopted dog and pet-friendly policies, meaning you can now have your best buddy by your side during your travels.

Looking for pet friendly accommodation? You’ll find a place to stay to meet you and your pooch’s needs with ease, from hotels to B&Bs, self-catering by the sea or even countryside glamping pods.

Restaurants, cafes, and pubs are also extending their hospitality to your pets – and we don’t just mean dining outside. Cosy up fireside with your pal at a rustic pub, or take a walk on the beach before grabbing a coffee and a puppacino at our many dog-friendly cafes!

LEARN MORE: See all pet-friendly places here

Conservation Centres

Several organisations across the Causeway Coast and Glens work hard to conserve our natural environment, which includes protecting our wildlife. If you’re a keen birdwatcher, you’ll enjoy a visit to Rathlin Island – home to a colony of puffins and a range of other fantastic seabirds. The RSPB Seabird Centre at Rathlin West Lighthouse (open seasonally) offers an educative experience learning about these birds and the history of the island.

Portrush Coastal Zone is the Department of the Environment's main coastal and marine centre. Discovery pools and tanks along with displays and activities give visitors the chance to learn more about Northern Ireland’s marine and coastal wildlife and heritage.

Explore our natural environment

When your done exploring our visitor centres, petting farms and experiences, get your walking boots on and get out there to explore our stunning forest parks and beaches.

Keep your eyes peeled for red squirrels in Cushendun, or go seal spotting on the shores of Rathlin Island. Listen to the birds sing on any of our forest walks, or take a walk along our rivers and marvel at the biodiversity of our destination. And the best part is – it won’t cost you anything!

Planning a visit to the Causeway Coast and Glens soon? Browse the rest of our website for even more inspiration, or contact one of our Visitor Information Centres ahead of your trip for the best advice on things to do, places to stay and more.