Sweet news for Antrim Castle Gardens as councillors approve plans for new ice cream parlour
Sunday 18 October 2026
Plans to open a new ice cream parlour within the historic Clotworthy House at Antrim Castle Gardens have been unanimously approved by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s Planning Committee.
The proposal will see the building’s existing shop, reception and garden exhibition area converted into an ice cream parlour with an indoor seating area, offering visitors another place to enjoy refreshments at one of the borough’s major tourist attractions.
Councillors were told the development would not have a “detrimental impact on the character of the area, listed building or amenity”.
Historic setting protected
Clotworthy House is a Grade B+ listed building dating from the early Victorian period. Designed in the Tudor Revival style, it was originally constructed as a coach house and stables.
A planning report noted that the building retains most of its original exterior features, although some of its original interior features have been lost.
Antrim Castle Gardens is also recognised as a registered historic park, garden and demesne, reflecting its architectural and landscape significance.
The report described the gardens as “a major attraction in terms of visitor numbers and historical and cultural importance, and significantly enhance the tourism offer within the borough”.
The recommendation to approve the planning application was proposed by Threemilewater Ulster Unionist councillor Stephen Cosgrove and seconded by his party colleague, Macedon councillor Robert Foster.
Planning permission was subsequently granted following a unanimous vote.
Potential £35,000 annual income
Approved ground floor plan for new ice cream parlour at Antrim Castle Gardens
During an earlier discussion held behind closed doors, councillors were informed that the proposed ice cream parlour could generate approximately £35,000 in annual revenue for the local authority.
The proposed business would offer a “wide range of high-quality ice creams”, alongside hot and cold drinks, with plans to remain open throughout the winter months.
The development comes as the council seeks to maximise the commercial potential of one of its best-known visitor destinations.
More than 90,000 people attended the 2025 Enchanted Winter Garden event at Antrim Castle Gardens, which was extended into the period between Christmas and New Year for the first time.
However, attendance was lower than the 98,000 visitors recorded during December 2024.
Rising costs of existing shop
Councillors had previously been informed that the cost of operating the existing Clotworthy House shop had increased substantially in recent years.
Operating costs rose from £21,852 in 2023/24 to £39,936 in 2024/25 — an increase of £18,084, or approximately 83%.
The approval clears a key planning hurdle for the proposed conversion, although an opening date for the new ice cream parlour has not yet been confirmed.
