Church Island

The ruins on Church Island sit in Lough Neagh like a monument to something half-remembered. You'll spot the weathered stone remains of what was once an early Christian monastery, its walls crumbling into the water's edge - the kind of place that makes you actually understand why people built churches in such remote spots. The island itself is small and peaceful, surrounded by the vast expanse of Northern Ireland's largest lake, and there's something properly moving about standing among seventh-century ruins while the water laps around you.

This is one for history heads, really. You won't find gift shops or information boards explaining everything - it's raw archaeology, which means you get the thrill of piecing it together yourself. The walk out to the island depends on water levels and access, so check locally before you go. Allow an hour or so if you're making the effort, though some folk spend longer just absorbing the atmosphere.

Antrim town is your nearest base, and staying at one of the lakeshore glamping spots nearby makes proper sense. Lough Beg Glamping is barely a mile away and gets five stars - you could wake up and walk to Church Island before breakfast. Sett on The Lough, three miles south, offers similar charm with proper views across the water. If you're doing a wider park holiday around Mid and East Antrim, this fits perfectly as a half-morning excursion that doesn't need advance booking or fees. Go early or late in the day when the light's interesting and fewer folk are about.