Overview
Stretching from the bustling capital of Belfast to the historic walled city of Derry/Londonderry, the Causeway Coastal Route is a 120‑mile (193 km) journey along Northern Ireland’s north‑eastern shoreline. The drive hugs the Atlantic, weaving through the Glens of Antrim, past volcanic basalt columns, dramatic sea‑cliffs and a string of picture‑perfect villages. Whether you have a single day or a week, the route rewards frequent stops – each turn reveals a new story, a new vista, and a new reason to linger.
History & Background
The road itself follows the historic A2, a coastal artery that has linked Belfast and Derry for centuries. Along the way lie some of the island’s oldest monuments: Carrickfergus Castle, founded by John de Courcy in 1177, still dominates the Belfast Lough; Glenarm Castle has been home to the McDonnell family since the 1600s; and the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, bears legends of the giant Fionn MacCumhaill battling a Scottish rival. These layers of history – from Norman fortifications to 18th‑century follies like Mussenden Temple – give the route a sense of timelessness that modern visitors can still feel.
What to See & Do
The route is a string of attractions that can be explored at your own pace. Highlights include:
- Belfast – Start with Titanic Belfast, an interactive museum that tells the story of the ill‑fated ship. Nearby you can also visit the SS Nomadic and HMS Caroline, or enjoy a market stroll through St George’s Market on a weekend.
- Carrickfergus Castle – One of Ireland’s best‑preserved medieval castles, offering panoramic views over Belfast Lough (admission £6).
- Whitehead & Blackhead Lighthouse – A short coastal walk from Whitehead Car Park leads to the 1902 lighthouse, with sea‑cave vistas along the way.
- The Gobbins Cliff Path – A century‑old cliff‑side walkway that clings to basalt cliffs; tickets must be booked in advance.
- Glenarm Castle & Gardens – Explore the walled garden and Georgian village of Glenarm; the castle dates back to the 1600s.
- Glenariff Forest Park – Known as the “Queen of the Glens”, it offers waterfall walks and river‑side trails.
- Cushendun Caves – A Game of Thrones filming location; the caves are accessible at low tide.
- Carrick‑a‑Rede Rope Bridge – Suspended 30 m above the Atlantic, this iconic bridge requires pre‑booking (£14 per adult).
- Giant’s Causeway – Walk among 40,000 interlocking basalt columns; the Visitor Centre provides exhibitions and a café (admission £13.50, free for children under 5).
- Old Bushmills Distillery – Ireland’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery (tour £10‑£15).
- Dunluce Castle – Ruins perched on a sheer cliff edge (admission £5.50).
- Mussenden Temple & Downhill Demesne – A neoclassical folly perched on a cliff, offering spectacular sunset views.
- Portstewart Strand & Portrush – Blue‑Flag beaches, world‑class golf at Portstewart and Royal Portrush, and seafood at Harry’s Shack.
- Derry/Londonderry – End the journey in the only remaining walled city in Ireland, with its 17th‑century walls, Guildhall and vibrant cultural scene.
Admission Summary
| Attraction | Admission (Adult) |
|---|---|
| Carrickfergus Castle | £6 |
| Carrick‑a‑Rede Rope Bridge | £14 |
| Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre | £13.50 (free under 5) |
| Dunluce Castle | £5.50 |
| Old Bushmills Distillery | £10‑£15 |
Practical Information
Distance & Timing – The full route is roughly 120 miles (193 km). Non‑stop driving takes 3‑4 hours, but most visitors spread the journey over 2‑3 days to allow ample time for stops, meals and overnight stays.
Getting There – The nearest airports are Belfast International Airport and Belfast City Airport. From either airport you can hire a car or join a guided day‑tour that follows the route. Public transport is limited; the most flexible option is a self‑drive.
Where to Stay – Accommodation ranges from historic castle hotels (Ballygally Castle, Bushmills Inn) to boutique B&Bs (Cul‑Erg House & Kitchen in Portstewart) and budget hostels in Ballycastle. A common itinerary places the first night in the Ballygally/Bushmills area, the second night in Ballycastle or Portrush, and the final night in Derry.
Booking Essentials –
- Carrick‑a‑Rede and Giant’s Causeway can become very busy in summer; pre‑book tickets online.
- The Gobbins requires advance reservation, especially for the tubular bridge sections.
- Bushmills Distillery tours are best booked a few weeks ahead during peak season.
Map & Resources – A downloadable route map is available from the official tourism site: Causeway Coastal Route map (PDF). The map marks attractions, car‑parks and recommended viewpoints.
Driving Tips – The road is narrow in places, especially around the Glens and the Dark Hedges detour. Driving on the left means the sea is on your left when travelling from Derry to Belfast, making pull‑offs easier. Large vehicles may find some sections challenging; consider a compact car for maximum flexibility.
Accessibility – Many major attractions (Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre, Carrickfergus Castle) provide wheelchair‑friendly access, though the coastal paths and some cliff‑top walks are uneven and may not be suitable for all visitors.
Food & Drink – The route is a food lover’s playground. Sample fresh Atlantic seafood at Harry’s Shack in Portstewart, enjoy a traditional Irish breakfast at Morton’s Fish & Chips in Ballycastle, and sip a dram of Bushmills whiskey at the distillery’s restaurant. Local pubs such as Mary’s Bakery in Ballycastle and the Harbour Bar in Portrush offer hearty fare and live music.
Seasonality – Summer offers the longest daylight (sunset after 10 pm) and the busiest crowds. Spring and autumn provide milder weather, fewer tourists and lower accommodation rates. Winter brings dramatic, moody seascapes, but some attractions close early and daylight is limited.
Beyond the Route – The Causeway Coastal Route is part of the larger Causeway Coast & Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. From Derry you can continue north into County Donegal via the Wild Atlantic Way, or head inland to explore the historic towns of Coleraine and Limavady.
Whether you’re chasing geological wonders, medieval history, or simply a series of unforgettable sea‑views, the Causeway Coastal Route delivers a compact yet richly varied Irish adventure.
Official website: https://www.ireland.com/en-us/plan-your-trip/trip-ideas/causeway-coastal-route/