Official tourism website for Northern Ireland

Dunluce Castle
Causeway Coastal Route

You are here: Home > Destinations > Causeway Coastal Route > Activities & Attractions along the Causeway Coast

Activities & Attractions along the Causeway Coastal Route

A whole host of attractions and activities await travelers along the Causeway Coastal Route. Maybe you’d like to get wet while coasteering under cliffs and over rocks. Perhaps you’d prefer to wet your whistle with some fine whiskey at Old Bushmills Distillery. Or why not explore local myths and legends with a trip to the Giant’s Causeway?

Whatever your passion, you’re sure to find an incredible selection of activities, restaurants and accommodation along this world-famous coastal route, as well as friendly locals to share the experience with. They’ll only be too happy to show you how we do it in Northern Ireland.

Experiences fit for giants

The imposing Carrickfergus Castle is an early stop off if you’re starting the Causeway Coastal Route from Belfast. This medieval construction has had a rich and colourful role in the history of Northern Ireland and its story is integral to the story of its people.

Further along the route is the world famous The Gobbins Cliff Path. When railway engineer, Berkeley Deane Wise, constructed this cliff walk in 1902, it was declared “a perfect marvel of engineering”...“with no parallel in Europe”. Located on the scenic Islandmagee peninsula, The Gobbins is not for the faint-hearted. You will face dramatic and challenging paths that include spectacular suspension bridges, caves, steps and tunnels. In other words, it is an unforgettable experience!

Become king or queen of the North

Whether you’re a fan of the show or not, the Game of Thrones® Tour , by Giant Tours Ireland, offers you a great way to see some of the most spectacular parts of Northern Ireland. Many of Northern Ireland’s remote locations featured as filming locations for the HBO hit TV series, and on an intimate tour like this, you’ll be setting foot in the real life ‘Westeros’.

Thronies will want to experience an aerial tour of the 'Seven Kingdoms', catch a boat from 'Lordsport Harbour' and enjoy themed afternoon tea in Ballygally Castle Hotel. Or why not pack up the car and do the Game of Thrones® self-drive tour, exploring the various filming locations at your own leisure? The official app will help you navigate your way around each of the ‘10 doors’ and other filming locations from the show.

Cross that bridge when you come to it... if you’re brave enough!

Having been inspired by all the stories of bravery and valour, you will no doubt have the courage to cross the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge...or will you? It’s much sturdier now than when it was originally built by salmon fishermen over 350 years ago, yet this experience never fails to stir up all the senses.

With a strong breeze from the Atlantic Ocean blowing through your hair, the sound of the waves crashing and swirling 30 metres below your feet and the smell of the sea filling your nostrils, it’s exceptionally exhilarating. An unforgettable opportunity to get back to nature and test your nerves of steel.

If you prefer to view the bridge from an alternative perspective, you can always see what it looks like from the water with Causeway Coast Kayaking Tours.

Embrace a Giant Spirit

Further along the Causeway Coastal Route is Northern Ireland’s most famous site. Legend has it that the Giant’s Causeway was created when legendary Irish giant, Fionn MacCool, constructed a bridge to Scotland to take on his arch foe Bennandonner. In reality, the famous causeway is the result of a volcanic eruption which left behind this strangely perfect hexagonal patchwork that reaches out into the sea.

The most straight-forward way of experiencing the Giant’s Causeway is to begin your visit at the Visitor Centre and then stroll down to the intriguing stones to search out distinctive formations such as the Camel, Wishing Chair, Granny and Organ.

Away-A-Wee Walk provide guided walking day tours along the stunning Giant’s Causeway cliffs, taking lesser-known paths off the beaten track. If you’re used to trekking across country, this might be the perfect option for you, giving a different perspective of the causeway and avoiding crowds at the same time.

Whatever way you choose to explore it, the Giant’s Causeway, the only UNESCO World Heritage site in Northern Ireland, is well worth the visit.

Giant appetites also catered for

On Wendy Gallagher’s Causeway Coast Foodie Tours you can explore and eat as you go. Wash down everything from eel and goat with local craft ales, whiskey, gin, cider or coffee and ingest the views with your eyes.

Along with fresh Atlantic air comes even fresher Atlantic breezes and we will admit, there are days when you will feel the chill on the Causeway Coast. Just as well that one of Ireland’s finest and most famous whiskeys has been produced in the nearby Old Bushmills Distillery for over 400 years. Take a tour and find out all about the maker’s traditional methods before enjoying a kindly drop in their cosy bar.

Embrace your adventurous spirit

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or trying something new, we highly recommend that you indulge in a little coasteering along this dramatic coast. Coasteering NI know the best spots to take you and these guys guarantee a day full of thrills, spills, laughter, and adrenaline.

If you prefer to spend your time in the water, Aquaholics Diving & Sea Tours in Portstewart will bring you through the teeming and unspoiled underwater world of Northern Ireland. They offer a full range of scuba diving courses along the Causeway Coast - a first class experience.

Or if you’re keen to keep your feet dry, then you might prefer to take a day trip over to the rugged beauty of Rathlin Island. This is Northern Ireland’s only inhabited offshore island, though it’s often so quiet you wouldn’t really know. There are scenic walking trails that bring you to seal colonies and you can visit the popular RSPB Seabird Centre situated at the distinctive West Lighthouse, known as Ireland's only 'upside down' lighthouse!

Inspiring spirits from the past

Back on the coast road is the stunning Dunluce Castle. Built around 1500 by a local family, the castle sparked the imagination of writer C.S. Lewis who reimagined it as the Cair Pereval, home to the rulers of Narnia. Though it has been a ruin for many years, it remains as inspiring as ever and is likely one of the most Instagrammed castles on the planet.

Equally dramatic is the Mussenden Temple which perches some forty metres above the Atlantic Ocean and offers spectacular views west over Downhill Strand towards County Donegal and back east towards Castlerock beach Portstewart and Portrush.

With all that going on, where else would you prefer to be?

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure information is correct, we strongly advise checking in advance before you travel to your intended destination to ensure its open and book tickets if applicable.

Plan your trip

Stay
What's On
Things to Do
Food & Drink
Shopping

Things to Do Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

What's On Search

Dates

Start Date:

End Date:

Any date in the future

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Food & Drink Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Shopping Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Number of results: 258

, currently showing 41 to 60.

Sort By A-Z Lowest A-Z Highest

Thieves & Steel Day Tour

Larne

Address

1b Nixon Building, LEDCOM, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 3AW

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2858 0385

bookings@condorexecutive.com

Type

Type:

Sightseeing

As you travel, our storytellers will delight you with tales of fairies, giants and local folklore. This tour combines ethereal myths and legends with the power of castles, engines and steel walkways. It’s Ireland as you’ve never seen it before.

More Info
East Strand

Portrush

Address

Causeway Street, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8AF

Telephone
+44 (0) 2766 0230

visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Beach

East Strand Beach in Portrush is a famously golden sandy beach, with views of The Skerries and Causeway headlands. This is a popular destination for groups of families and friends, with lots of great seaside facilities to enjoy.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement - Restrictions apply 1st June to 1th September.
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Off site parking - Other public car parks nearby, fees apply
- On site parking - Fees apply (all year round)
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
40 reviews
Portmuck Walk

Islandmagee

Address

Portmuck Harbour, 68 Portmuck Road, Islandmagee, County Antrim, BT40 3TP

visitorinfo@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Tranquil harbour and dramatic coastal walk

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Amberjack Sea Angling Trips

Carnlough

Address

c/o Carnlough Harbour, Harbour Road, Carnlough, County Antrim, BT44 0EU

Telephone
+44 (0) 7956 586 432

billy@boats4u.com

Type

Type:

Sea Fishing

Hop aboard the Amberjack and enjoy a 3 hour fishing trip out of Carnlough or Glenarm (subject to tidal and weather conditions) and enjoy spectacular views of the Causeway Coast.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Ballycastle Golf Club

Ballycastle

Address

2 Cushendall Road, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6QP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2076 2536

info@ballycastlegolfclub.com

Type

Type:

Links Golf Course

Situated in an 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty' on the North Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland and only 20 minutes from the famous Royal Portrush Championship Links this is a course that should be included in every golfers trip. Bring your camera.

More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on site
Cutting Edge Helicopters

Eglinton

Address

City Of Derry Airport, Eglinton, County Londonderry, BT47 3GY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7181 2555

info@cuttingedgehelicopters.com

Type

Type:

Sightseeing

Check out the beautiful scenery from a dizzying new perspective! Cutting Edge Helicopter, situated at the City of Derry Airport, offers the experience of a lifetime in with the choice of various custom charters. The stunning views from above give…

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
7 reviews
Larne Town Parks

Larne

Address

Glenarm Road, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 1DY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8232

parks@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Public Park

Town Park and Chaine Park are delightful parks located on the Causeway Coastal route in Larne offering dramatic coastal views out to Scotland, pleasurable walks, unique heritage features and entertainment for all the family.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
68 reviews
Ballygally Beach

Ballygally

Address

Coast Road, Ballygally, County Antrim, BT40 2QZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9335 8232

Parks@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Beach

Escape to Ballygally Beach, just 10km north of Larne on the Causeway Coastal Route. Enjoy a scenic walk, fun sandcastle building, or a refreshing swim at this family-friendly seaside destination.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Glenariff Nature Reserve Waterfalls Walk

Glenariff

Address

Glenariff Forest Park, 98 Glenariff Road, Glenariff, County Antrim, BT44 0QX

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Forest walk with spectacular waterfalls

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Dunluce Lodge Spa

Portrush

Address

Dunluce Road, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8NB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7053 1700

spa@dunlucelodge.com

Type

Type:

Spa and Well-being

Nestled within our serene hotel on Northern Ireland’s breath-taking Causeway Coast, Dunluce Lodge Spa offers a tranquil escape inspired by the rhythm of the sea and the beauty of the landscape. Whether you're unwinding after a day of coastal…
Special Offers
- Thoughtfully Crafted Spa Experience
  From £355
  Indulge in a thoughtfully crafted spa package at Dunluce Lodge this autumn which includes an overnight stay in one of their lavishly-appointed suites and breakfast the following morning. Luxuriate with a personalised spa experience including a 10 minute consultation to tailor your treatment to your needs, a 60 minute bespoke treatment with a fully trained therapist and a 10 minute post-treatment guided meditation. Excludes Saturday nights and holiday dates.
  Book Now
  More offers like this - Experiences & Attractions
Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Open 09:30 - 18:30
More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Ella Mor Outdoor Adventures - Causeway Coast Experiences

Limavady

Address

Limavady, Country Londonderry, BT49 0TW

Telephone
+44 (0) 7793 542 468

info@ellamor.co.uk

Type

Type:

Guided Tour

Embrace the natural beauty of the Causeway Coast and Glens in the company of qualified local guide, and owner of Ella Mor Outdoor Adventures, Heather Nicholl. Growing up exploring this magical playground, Heather loves to share her childhood…

More Info
Portrush to Bushmills

Portrush

Address

Portrush Harbour, 63 Kerr Street, Portrush, County Antrim, BT56 8BP

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

A linear walk on the North Antrim Coast

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Victoriana Flower School

Larne

Address

51 Ballypollard Road, Magheramorne, Larne, County Antrim, BT40 3JF

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9337 2519

kim@victorianafloral.co.uk

Type

Type:

Craft Workshops and Courses

Learn the art of flower arranging with exquisite florist Kim Davies at Victoriana Flower School, located just outside Whitehead, on the Causeway Coastal route. A wide range of courses are available for all levels of participants and interests.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Cheeky Chimps

Coleraine

Address

Northbrook Industrial Estate, Coleraine, County Londonderry, BT52 2JB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 70343005

cheekychimpscoleraine@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Indoor Play Area

Let your kids enjoy a fun filled adventure at Cheeky Chimps Coleraine.

More Info
Rathlin Island Cycle Hire

Rathlin Island

Address

Soerneog View, Rathlin Island, County Antrim, BT54 6RT

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2076 3954

john_jennifer@btinternet.com

Type

Type:

Cycle Hire & Holidays

Cycle Hire to enjoy the freedom of the Island.

More Info
Loughareema (The Vanishing Lake)

Ballycastle

Address

Loughareema Road, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6WL

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2076 2024

visitor.information@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Lake / Reservoir

A lonely and mysterious Moorland Lake, sometimes called the 'Vanishing Lake'.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Rathlin Trail

Rathlin Island

Address

Rathlin Island Harbour, Rathlin Island, County Antrim, BT54 6RT

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Coastal walk with splendid land and seascapes. Highlights on this walk include Knockans RSPB Reserve, Kinramer ASSI and Kebble National Nature Reserve

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Fiona Shannon Ceramics

Portstewart

Address

185 Coleraine Road, Portstewart, County Londonderry, BT55 7HU

Telephone
+44(0) 7511 004484

fionashannonceramics@gmail.com

Type

Type:

Craft Workshops and Courses

Discover your inner artist with an inspiring pottery painting experience under the guidance of local potter Fiona Shannon on the beautiful Causeway Coast.

More Info
Old Church Centre Cushendun

Cushendun

Address

1 Church Lane, Bay Road, Cushendun, County Antrim, BT44 0PS

Telephone
+44 (0) 2821761 522

info@cushendunbpt.org

Type

Type:

Arts Centre

The beautifully restored Old Church Centre offers arts & heritage events, exhibitions, wedding ceremonies and venue hire. We also provide tourist information on the rich cultural heritage of the building, Cushendun and the Glens.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
157 reviews
Gleno Waterfall

Gleno

Address

Waterfall Road, Gleno, County Antrim, BT40 3LE

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9064 7787

belfast@nationaltrust.org.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

The National Trust

One of our lesser known ‘hidden treasures’, Gleno is a magnificent 30 foot waterfall nestling in The Glens of Antrim and owned by the National Trust.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
- Parking (free)