Discovering hidden gems in the UK, from Reynards Cave and Dove Holes to Crystal Grotto in Surrey, there are numerous amazing caves waiting to be explored. If you’re seeking beautiful caves in Northern Ireland, Cushendun Caves should definitely be on your list. This detailed guide will assist you in planning a secret getaway away from the tourist crowds.
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How to Get to Cushendun Caves?
🚗💨 BY CAR
Cushendun Beach Car Park
To reach Cushendun Caves, we opted to rent a car from Belfast airport and enjoy a picturesque drive along the Northern Ireland coast. Beginning our journey at Torr Head, we reached Cushendun Beach Car Park within 20 minutes.
We took a break to explore Glenmona House located next to the Cushendun Beach Car Park before continuing our adventure. The car park offers ample space and amenities such as a playground and public toilets. It’s conveniently situated a short stroll away from the beach and a 15-minute walk to Cushendun Caves.
Cushendun Car Park
We made the decision to locate a parking area that was a bit closer to Cushendun Caves, keeping in mind that we could always return to the Cushendun Beach Car Park if there were no available spaces. After a bit of searching, we were fortunate enough to secure a free spot at the conveniently located Cushendun Car Park. It is just a short 10-minute walk away from the breathtaking Cushendun Caves.
Situated right next to the picturesque Cushendun Harbour, Cushendun Car Park offers visitors easy access to some fantastic amenities in the area.
For those looking to unwind after a day of exploring, there is the inviting Mary McBride’s Bar nearby, as well as The Village Tearooms Cushendun where one can enjoy a delightful meal or a cup of tea.
Additionally, visitors have the option to utilize the picnic area at the Car Park. It allows to soak in the stunning views of this charming location while enjoying a meal outdoors. Moreover, visitors will be happy to know that the car parks near Cushendun Caves are free to use.
Cushendun Caves – How to Get There from the Car Park?
To reach Cushendun Caves from the car park, start by walking across the bridge that stretches over Glendun River. Once you’ve crossed the bridge, continue along the road that offers a beautiful view of Cushendun Harbour. As you reach the end of the road, take a right turn and you’ll find yourself just a short distance away from the caves. The route is straightforward and easy to follow, so you won’t have to worry about getting lost along the way.
Where to Stay Near Cushendun Caves?
If you are looking for a place to stay near Cushendun Caves, it is important to note that the area does not have as many accommodation options as other popular tourist spots in Northern Ireland.
For those who prefer more convenience and amenities, staying in a more popular location like Ballycastle might be a better choice. Ballycastle is a vibrant town with various accommodation options, including the Marine Hotel Ballycastle, which is just a 20-minute drive from Cushendun Caves.
By staying in Ballycastle, you can easily access not only the caves but also other attractions in Northern Ireland like Torr Head and Fair Head Cliffs. Renting a car is recommended to make the most of your trip and explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace.
Another option for accommodation near Cushendun Caves is Bush House in Bushmills, which is approximately a 40-minute drive away. This location provides easy access to not only the caves but also popular attractions like Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, and more.
Cushendun Caves Directions from Belfast Airport
The journey from Belfast airport to Cushendun Caves covers a distance of 39 miles and typically takes around 1 hour to complete. To make the most of your trip to Northern Ireland, it is advisable to rent a car in advance. One of the recommended car hire services is Hertz, which conveniently has a desk located at Belfast airport for easy pick-up upon your arrival.
After collecting your rental car, the route to Cushendun Caves begins by following Antrim Rd, then Dublin Rd, and continuing on Ballymena Rd towards Ballymena. Upon reaching Balle Roundabout, take the third exit and proceed on M2 until you reach the exit for Broughshane Rd.
At the Roundabout, take the third exit onto Frys Rd. Continue your journey by following A43 and B14 until you arrive at Gaults Rd. Turn left at the end of Gaults Rd to join A2, then follow B92 until you reach your destination at Cushendun Caves.
Where are the Cushendun Caves?
The Cushendun Caves can be found in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, which is approximately a 3-hour drive from Dublin. If you are planning to make the journey from Dublin, it is advisable to confirm with a car rental service whether crossing borders is permitted.
For those flying in, the City of Derry Airport is just a 1 hour and 25-minute drive away from the caves. Additionally, the nearest major city to the Cushendun Caves is Belfast, which is about a 1 hour and 10-minute drive to reach this natural wonder.
Situated just a 10-minute drive from Cushendall, the caves are also conveniently located within a 20-minute drive from Torr Head, a scenic headland known for its breathtaking views.
Furthermore, visitors can reach the caves within a 35-minute drive from the famous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, offering an exciting adventure for thrill-seekers. For those interested in exploring more of Northern Ireland’s natural beauty, the Cushendun Caves are just a 50-minute drive from the iconic Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cushendun Caves Opening Times
Cushendun Caves are a popular destination in Northern Ireland, and it’s no wonder that many people are curious about the entrance fee, tickets, and opening times. Unlike some other attractions in the area that require purchasing a ticket, visitors will be pleased to know that there is no fee to enter Cushendun Caves. This means that you can enjoy exploring the caves at your leisure without having to worry about any additional costs.
Another great thing about Cushendun Caves is that they are open to visitors at any time of the day. Whether you’re an early riser looking to catch the sunrise or a night owl wanting to stargaze, you can visit the caves whenever it suits you. This flexibility allows you to plan your visit around your schedule and make the most of your time exploring this beautiful natural wonder.
How Much Time Does it Take to Visit Cushendun Caves?
Exploring Cushendun Caves can be a wonderful experience for those who love natural landmarks. The time it takes to visit the caves can vary depending on several factors. If you are planning to simply walk through the caves and take a few quick pictures, you may only need about 30 minutes. However, if you want to fully explore the caves, take in the stunning rock formations, and maybe even have a picnic nearby, you could easily spend a few hours there.
When we visited the caves at the end of May, we were fortunate to have the caves mostly to ourselves upon our arrival. This allowed us to take our time exploring and taking photos without feeling rushed or crowded. As we spent more time there, a few other visitors trickled in, but it did not significantly impact our experience.
Cushendun Caves Game of Thrones Scenes
The Cushendun Caves have been a natural wonder for millions of years, but it wasn’t until Game of Thrones that they gained worldwide recognition. Fans of the show will recognize these caves from various scenes throughout the series, making them a must-visit destination for any Game of Thrones enthusiast.
In season 2, viewers were introduced to the caves when Ser Davos Seaworth brought the Red Priestess Melisandre to the Stormlands to give birth to her Shadow Baby. The eerie atmosphere of the caves added to the mystique of the scene, making it a memorable moment in the show’s history.
Moving to season 8, the Cushendun Caves make another appearance as the backdrop for the intense battle between Euron Greyjoy and Jaime Lannister in King’s Landing. The natural beauty of the caves provided the perfect setting for the dramatic showdown. If you’re a fan of the show, a visit to the Cushendun Caves is a must.
Cushendun Caves Game of Thrones Tour
When you book a guided tour, you are not only saving time and money, but you are also ensuring that you get the most out of your holiday experience. This particular tour takes you on a journey through the stunning landscapes of Westeros, allowing you to immerse yourself in the world of Game of Thrones.
Starting from Belfast, this tour will show you various iconic locations such as Magheramorne, Larne, Ballygally Castle Hotel, Glenarm Castle (Ballymena), Carnlough, Red Bay Castle, Cushendall, and the famous Cushendun Caves.
In addition to these breathtaking locations, this tour also includes visits to the Glens of Antrim, Loughareema, Ballycastle, Causeway Coastal Route, Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunseverick, Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Old Bushmills Distillery, and The Dark Hedges. All of these stops are packed into just one day, making it a comprehensive and efficient way to see as much as possible in a short amount of time.
By taking this guided tour, you will have the opportunity to see some of the most famous and visually stunning locations from the Game of Thrones series. Whether you are a die-hard fan of the show or simply appreciate beautiful scenery, this tour offers a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories of your time in Northern Ireland.
Geology of Cushendun Caves
The geological marvel that is the Cushendun Caves dates back over 400 million years, shaped by the relentless forces of the sea and local weather patterns. The caves, though not extensive in size, offer a unique glimpse into the natural erosion process that has occurred over millennia. As you explore the caves, you’ll notice the walls adorned with a fascinating array of rocks, sea salt deposits, and remnants of sea creatures like mussels, painting a vivid picture of the area’s rich geological history.
Located along the northeast Irish coast of County Antrim, the geological diversity of the region is truly remarkable. From the ancient Precambrian rocks to the more recent Palaeogene formations, the area boasts a wide range of geological features. The Devonian puddingstone at Cushendun stands out as a prime example of the region’s geological heritage, showcasing the effects of erosion that have given rise to the captivating Cushendun Caves.
History of Hotels in Cushendun
The history of hotels in Cushendun is rich with stories of growth, change, and evolution. One of the prominent establishments, the Cushendun Hotel, has a fascinating origin story dating back to around 1920 when Mrs. McBride acquired the site and began construction.
With 30 rooms, homegrown produce from the hotel farm, seawater baths, electric light, and other modern amenities for its time, the hotel was a hub of comfort and hospitality. However, as time passed, two of the three hotels in Cushendun disappeared, leaving the third that would require significant modernization efforts that may never come to fruition.
Another notable hotel in Cushendun, The Glendun, has a history marked by change and transformation. Originally known as the Anchorage Hotel, it underwent a name change and redesign when Maurice Findlay took over the project.
Despite facing financial challenges that led to bankruptcy, the Elliots purchased the hotel in 1927 and rebranded it as The Glendun. Through their efforts, the hotel was extended and redesigned to cater to the evolving needs of guests and the changing times, showcasing a commitment to providing quality service and accommodation in Cushendun.
Marry McBride’s Bar in Cushendun
When visiting Cushendun, in addition to exploring the famous Cushendun Caves, make sure to take a break and enjoy a meal at Mary McBride’s Bar. This charming pub is not just any ordinary place to eat, it is a historical landmark in Antrim’s renowned North Coastal Route.
Mary McBride’s Bar has gained recognition as one of the top 100 hospitality businesses in Northern Ireland for three years in a row, making it a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists alike.
Interestingly, Mary McBride’s Bar was once known as one of the smallest bars in all of Ireland, adding to its unique charm and character.
For fans of the popular TV series Game of Thrones, a visit to this iconic pub is a must. Mary McBride’s Bar proudly houses one of the Game of Thrones Doors, featuring the inscription “Valar morghulis. Valar dohaeris.” This door tells the tale of Arya Stark’s adventurous journey to the free city of Braavos.
Johann Sculpture
Cushendun, a village known for its untouched beauty, commemorated their beloved goat by erecting a statue in 2002. Johann, the goat, was a familiar sight in the Cushendun harbor area, where he spent many years grazing along the riverbank and warmly welcoming visitors.
Unfortunately, Johann had to be culled following the 2001 outbreak of Hoof and Mouth disease in Northern Ireland. In honor of the cherished goat, artist Deborah Brown crafted a sculpture that captured his likeness.
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