Things to See and Do in Northern Ireland

When we went on our trip to Northern Ireland, we made it a point to visit some of the most iconic places in the region. We couldn’t miss the chance to see the breathtaking Giant’s Causeway and walk across the thrilling Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge. We also made sure to explore the picturesque Dunseverick Falls and seek out some of the hidden gems in Northern Ireland, such as the stunning Mussenden Temple and the scenic Garron Point. There were so many amazing things to see and do in Northern Ireland, and we were determined to experience as much as possible.

One of the highlights of our trip was hiking the Fair Head and Torr Head Cliffs, which offered stunning views of the coastline. We also had the opportunity to explore the famous Cushendun Caves, which served as a filming location for the popular TV show Game of Thrones. It was incredible to see these caves in person and imagine the scenes that were filmed there. I highly recommend visiting Northern Ireland and taking the time to explore all attractions it has to offer.

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One of the Best Things to See and Do in Northern Ireland

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Giant’s Causeway

One of the best things to see and do in Northern Ireland is Giant’s Causeway. This natural wonder consists of 40,000 stone pillars that have been formed by geological processes over millions of years.

To make the most of our visit, we decided to rent a car at Belfast airport and drive to Giant’s Causeway on our first day in Northern Ireland. For those who are not comfortable with driving, there are also Full-Day Guided Tours available that will take you to Giant’s Causeway and other amazing places in Northern Ireland. These tours provide a convenient and informative way to explore the area.

Visit Paid Attractions – Things to See and Do in Northern Ireland

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Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge

It is worth to explore the wonders of Northern Ireland with a Full-Day Guided Tour that includes a visit to the iconic Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. This impressive bridge stretches 20 meters across and is suspended 30 meters above the rocky terrain below.

During our trip to Northern Ireland, we had the opportunity to stay at the nearby Bush House Accommodation, which provided us with convenient access to explore the bridge and its surroundings. Don’t miss the chance to learn about the bridge’s past and its significance in our article about Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.

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Dunluce Castle

For those embarking on a Full-Day Guided tour from Belfast, Dunluce Castle is a highlight not to be missed. This tour offers the perfect opportunity to capture memorable photos of the castle’s location on the coastal cliffs of north County Antrim.

The castle was originally constructed by the MacQuillan family in the 16th century and later became the residence of the earls of Antrim. During the Tour, visitors can immerse themselves in the castle’s dramatic history, including stories of the legendary night when the castle kitchens collapsed into the sea during a storm in 1639.

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Old Bushmills Distillery

Staying at Bush House Accommodation was an unforgettable experience due to its close proximity to the Old Bushmills Distillery. We had the chance to explore the oldest licensed whiskey distillery globally.

Established in 1784, the Old Bushmills Distillery has a rich heritage. It is no surprise that it attracts a large number of tourists each year, with approximately 120,000 visitors coming to witness the distillation process and sample the exquisite Irish whiskey.

Our experience of tasting the whiskey that had been matured in former Oloroso sherry and bourbon casks at the Old Bushmills Distillery was unparalleled. The Full-Day Guided tour from Belfast will allow you to savor some of the finest whiskey in the world. I am sure it will be one of the best whiskies you will ever try.

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The Bush House Bar

Staying at Bush House Accommodation offered us the wonderful perk of having an authentic Irish bar conveniently located downstairs. The Bush House Bar is very small, but as soon as we stepped inside, we could unwind and enjoy a drink after a long day of exploring in the cozy atmosphere.

Game of Thrones Tour – Things to See and Do in Northern Ireland

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The Dark Hedges

The Dark Hedges, located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is a famous avenue of beech trees that creates a magical tunnel-like atmosphere along Bregagh Road. This enchanting location has gained worldwide fame after being featured in the popular TV series Game of Thrones.

To preserve the beauty and integrity of the Dark Hedges, a ban on traffic was implemented on the road between Ballinlea Road and Ballykenver Road. This decision was made in response to the increasing number of visitors, which posed a threat of potential damage to the roots of the trees.

When planning a visit to the Dark Hedges, it is recommended to park at Coach and Car Parking near The Hedges Hotel, which is conveniently located just a short 5-minute walk from Bregagh Road.

The mystical ambiance of the Dark Hedges is not heavily influenced by the weather, making it a great destination even on rainy days. For an added touch of mystery, consider visiting during dusk or evening and perhaps you will catch a glimpse of the legendary Grey Lady ghost said to haunt the area.

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Cushendun Caves

Cushendun Caves have captivated visitors for centuries with their natural beauty. However, it was the popular TV series Game of Thrones that truly put them on the map for people around the world. Best of all, there is no admission fee to enter the caves, making it easily accessible attraction for everyone.

If you rent a car, you will have the freedom to explore Cushendun Caves at your own pace. Embarking on a tour from Belfast, you will have the opportunity to explore a multitude of iconic locations such as among others Magheramorne, Larne, Ballygally Castle Hotel, Glenarm Castle in Ballymena and of course, the famous Cushendun Caves themselves.

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Carnlough Harbour

The decision to make Carnlough Harbour our final stop along Antrim Coast Road was definitely a great choice. The picturesque harbor is a must-see for any Game of Thrones fan, as it is one of the iconic filming locations along the Causeway Coastal Route.

The staircase leading down to the sea is instantly recognizable to fans, as it was featured in the show as part of the Free City of Braavos Canal. This is where Arya Stark emerged from the waters after being stabbed by the Waif in Season 6, making it a truly special spot for fans of the series.

As we explored the area, we couldn’t help but notice the Irish flag waving proudly at Carnlough Harbour, adding to the charm and character of the place. The Observation field provided stunning views of the harbor, and we took our time taking in the beautiful scenery.

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The Hidden Village of Galboly

Nestled between Cushendun Caves and Carnlough Harbour lies The Hidden Village of Galboly, a picturesque location that has gained fame as a filming spot for the popular Game of Thrones series.

The village, with its abandoned stone houses, was once a thriving rural settlement where residents made their living from the land and sea. Interestingly, Galboly was also known as the “village of thieves”, with tales of locals swindling unsuspecting travelers who passed through the area on the Antrim coastal road.

Despite its prosperous past, the village began to see a decline in population over the years. By 1850, only a small number of around sixty inhabitants remained in Galboly. The isolation of the village, coupled with lack of employment opportunities, led to many young people leaving in search of better prospects elsewhere. This gradual depopulation continued, and by 1950, the village was left with just six residents, marking a stark contrast to its bustling past.

The village’s decline reached its peak when, by 2013, only one person remained in Galboly – a monk from Portglenone Abbey. He lived out his days in the deserted village, embodying a hermit-like existence.

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Fair Head Cliffs

As my partner and I drove along the Causeway Coastal Route in our rented car, my eyes were drawn to a magnificent sight in the distance. The towering Fair Head cliffs stood out against the horizon, beckoning me to come closer and witness their grandeur up close.

Standing at an impressive height of 200 meters, the Fair Head cliffs have been featured in the popular Game of Thrones series, adding to their allure. The sheer vertical drop of the cliff face makes Fair Head a must-see destination for anyone exploring the stunning landscapes of the UK.

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Larrybane Quarry

When you’re thinking about visiting Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, be sure to include a stop at the nearby Larrybane Quarry in your plans. This quarry holds special significance for Game of Thrones fans, as it was the filming location for Renly Baratheon’s Camp in the TV series. Walking through the quarry, you can almost picture the scenes that took place there, and it’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Westeros.

Free Things to See and Do in Northern Ireland

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Dunseverick Falls

As we traveled along the picturesque route connecting Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, we were drawn to Dunseverick Falls. The sight of the waterfall cascading down towards the sea was nothing short of enchanting, creating an atmosphere that felt almost otherworldly.

To our surprise, Dunseverick Falls remains somewhat of a hidden gem in Northern Ireland, despite its convenient location along the Causeway Coastal Route. During our visit, the area was relatively quiet, with only a handful of fellow travelers sharing the experience of exploring Dunseverick Falls with us.

In stark contrast, the nearby attractions of Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge were bustling with tourists, making our time at the falls feel even more special and intimate. If you ever find yourself renting a car in Northern Ireland, I truly recommend making a stop at Dunseverick Falls.

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Mussenden Temple

When I reached out to fellow travel bloggers for recommendations on hidden gems in the UK, Mussenden Temple was brought to my attention. Instantly, I was captivated by the idea of visiting this historical circular structure located in Northern Ireland. The thought of seeing a building perched on a cliff edge intrigued me, and I knew I had to experience it for myself.

As I delved deeper into the history of Mussenden Temple, I learned about the gradual erosion of the cliff face at Downhill, which has caused the temple to edge closer to the precipice over time. The architectural design, inspired by the Temple of Vesta in Rome, was originally intended to serve as a library. It was commissioned in memory of Bishop Lord Bristol’s niece, Frideswide Mussenden, and was once adorned with bookcases along its walls.

Visiting Mussenden Temple is a surreal experience. Standing on the cliff overlooking the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, you will feel a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty and history of the place.

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Torr Head

For those seeking hidden gems in Northern Ireland, Torr Head is a must-visit destination. The short trek from the Torr Head Car Park to the cliff’s summit is enjoyable journey that can be accomplished in a matter of minutes.

As you make your way along the path, you’ll find yourself gradually climbing to an incredible viewpoint that reveals breathtaking vistas of the ocean and the distant Scottish coastline, specifically the Mull of Kintyre, which lies about 12 miles away.

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Garron Point

If you are someone who loves plants, I’m sure you’re familiar with succulent plants like Living Stones (Lithops). When we reached Garron Point in our rented car, the sight of the rocks immediately brought to mind these unique plants.

The resemblance between the rocks at Garron Point and the succulent plants I used to care for in small pots was striking. Admiring these larger versions of what looked like Living Stones along the Antrim Coast Road was truly a memorable experience.

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Kinbane Castle

If you’re seeking a unique experience away from the usual tourist attractions, Kinbane Castle is a must-visit destination in Northern Ireland. Nestled in a picturesque setting, this historical site offers a tranquil escape where visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

The area is characterized by its striking geological formations, primarily composed of ancient white chalk that dates back to the Cretaceous Period, approximately 80 million years ago. While the iconic White Cliffs of Dover may be more widely recognized, the cliffs near Kinbane Castle provide a stunning backdrop that is equally captivating.

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The Wishing Arch

On our road trip through Northern Ireland, we made a stop at Magheracross Car Park & Viewpoint to capture some stunning photos of Dunluce Castle. To our surprise, we stumbled upon modern viewing platforms and The Wishing Arch, which added an unexpected touch of beauty to our visit.

The Wishing Arch, with its location near White Rocks Beach, provided us with a unique opportunity to witness the natural beauty of Northern Ireland’s coastline. Despite the limited time we had and the rainy weather, we were able to make the most of our visit by exploring the stunning white limestone cliffs and the surrounding rock formations.

Explore the Best Beaches – Things to See and Do in Northern Ireland

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White Rocks Beach

White Rocks Beach is an ideal destination for those seeking attractions that can be enjoyed even on a rainy day. Before embarking on your trip to Northern Ireland, it is advisable to purchase a rain poncho to ensure you stay dry and comfortable. Rest assured, wearing a rain poncho is a common sight during this type of weather in Northern Ireland, so you will blend right in with the locals.

Families with children will find White Rocks Beach to be a fantastic spot to visit. Kids can have a great time exploring the various rock formations and climbing the smaller rocks scattered along the beach.

Moreover, the beach is a popular destination for walkers coming from East Strand. If you are staying in one of the Portrush hotels like Antrim House Bed and Breakfast, a visit to White Rocks Beach is highly recommended regardless of the season.

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Downhill Beach

Downhill Beach stands out as one of the most stunning coastal locations in Northern Ireland. It is characterized by its breathtaking backdrop of towering cliffs and the iconic temple that sits majestically on the cliff’s edge. From May 1st to September 30th, horse riding is a popular way to explore the sandy shores and take in the magnificent views.

When planning your visit to Downhill Beach, it’s important to be mindful of parking options, as many vehicles have unfortunately become stuck in the sand when parked at the beach. To avoid this common issue, it is advisable to park along Seacoast Road. However, keep in mind that parking spaces in this area are limited, so arriving early is a smart strategy to secure a spot.

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