The Causeway Coast
A designated area of outstanding natural beauty, the North Antrim coast needs no introduction. "C'est géant!" as the French would say. We'd advise you to make a whole day of it and take in some of the following.
Portrush
Don't miss a visit to the popular seaside town of Portrush (great Victorian promenades, Barry's amusements, Crazy Golf and a fantastic beach walk from the Arcadia to the White Rocks). Go by train from Derry if possible - the railway line runs parallel to the sea, through a wildlife reserve, and along with the tunnels, that's presumably why the Guardian described this as "one of the world's greatest train journeys".
Bushmills
Irish whiskey lovers will appreciate the guided tour of the Bushmills Distillery. Licenced to distil in 1608, Bushmills is the oldest and by far the best brand of whiskey in the world (obviously). You can have lunch in the newly opened French Rooms in the village centre, in the award-winning restaurant of the Bushmills Inn or in the Tartine Distillers' Arms. Bushmills is a designated conservation village with a lovely crafts shop, a whole host of historic buildings and a river known to anglers throughout Ireland for its salmon fishing. The village is a gateway to the Giant's Causeway, which is just 3 miles away. You can park your car here free of charge and take the shuttle bus up to the Causeway.
The Giant's Causeway
The Giant's Causeway needs no introduction. It's one of the unmissables on any trip to the North of Ireland. A brand new visitor's centre has been opened which explains the origins of the rock formation and the legends that grew around it. The cliff walks are absolutely stunning.
Ballintoy and Carrick-a-rede
For those with a head for heights who enjoy a brisk walk and exhilarating views, Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge, run by the National Trust, is another must-do. The village of Ballintoy, between the Giant's Causeway and the rope bridge, has a lovely harbour and is also worth a visit.
Portrush
Don't miss a visit to the popular seaside town of Portrush (great Victorian promenades, Barry's amusements, Crazy Golf and a fantastic beach walk from the Arcadia to the White Rocks). Go by train from Derry if possible - the railway line runs parallel to the sea, through a wildlife reserve, and along with the tunnels, that's presumably why the Guardian described this as "one of the world's greatest train journeys".
Bushmills
Irish whiskey lovers will appreciate the guided tour of the Bushmills Distillery. Licenced to distil in 1608, Bushmills is the oldest and by far the best brand of whiskey in the world (obviously). You can have lunch in the newly opened French Rooms in the village centre, in the award-winning restaurant of the Bushmills Inn or in the Tartine Distillers' Arms. Bushmills is a designated conservation village with a lovely crafts shop, a whole host of historic buildings and a river known to anglers throughout Ireland for its salmon fishing. The village is a gateway to the Giant's Causeway, which is just 3 miles away. You can park your car here free of charge and take the shuttle bus up to the Causeway.
The Giant's Causeway
The Giant's Causeway needs no introduction. It's one of the unmissables on any trip to the North of Ireland. A brand new visitor's centre has been opened which explains the origins of the rock formation and the legends that grew around it. The cliff walks are absolutely stunning.
Ballintoy and Carrick-a-rede
For those with a head for heights who enjoy a brisk walk and exhilarating views, Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge, run by the National Trust, is another must-do. The village of Ballintoy, between the Giant's Causeway and the rope bridge, has a lovely harbour and is also worth a visit.
