11. Old Antrim Courthouse

Old Antrim Courthouse

Old Antrim Courthouse is a Grade A listed building erected in 1726 by the Grand Jury. Situated on a prominent site in the town’s Market Square, it is the oldest remaining courthouse in Northern Ireland and was in use as such until 1994. The repairs and restoration provided a multi-purpose community facility which accommodates an Information Centre with a café/bar area on the ground floor, in what was originally an open arcaded market place. On the first floor, inside the former court room, a hi-tech auditorium space caters for culture and arts performances, civic events and conferencing. Conservation works included timber repairs and a new lead covering for the cupola, strengthening of existing Queen post trusses, and repairs to rafter ends and externally at eaves level. Stonework included repairs to sandstone quoins and the reconstruction of internal sandstone Doric columns, along with refurbishment of existing sash windows. The Courthouse now hosts a wide range of theatrical and music productions, as well as corporate and private events, and is an approved Marriage Venue.