Glens of Antrim Drive

Overview

The Glens of Antrim are a collection of nine verdant valleys that fan out from the Antrim Plateau to the rugged Causeway Coast. Within a compact twenty‑square‑mile area you will encounter glacial valleys, sandy beaches, vertical sea cliffs, tundra‑like plateaux, wooded glens and cascading waterfalls. The landscape is punctuated by picturesque villages – Ballycastle, Cushendun, Cushendall, Waterfoot and Carnlough – each with its own character and a strong sense of Gaelic and Hebridean heritage. The drive along the coastal road offers uninterrupted sea views, glimpses of Rathlin Island and the iconic Giant’s Causeway in the distance.

History & Background

The nine glens – Glentaisie, Glenshesk, Glendun, Glencorp, Glenann, Glenballyeamon, Glenariffe, Glencloy and Glenarm – have been inhabited for centuries by families of native Irish and Hebridean Scots. Their names echo ancient myths: Glenaan is said to be the burial place of Oisín, son of the giant Fionn mac Cumhaill, while Glentaisie holds the legend of Taisie, a fair daughter of a Rathlin king. Historic sites pepper the route, from the 15th‑century Friary of Bonmargie in Glenesk to the derelict railway viaduct in Glenballyeamon, a reminder of the area’s mining past. Glenarm Castle, a National Trust property, showcases centuries‑old architecture and award‑winning gardens.

What to See & Do

Scenic Drive

The coastal drive begins near Larne and follows the A2 past the Giant’s Causeway, winding through each glen’s mouth before climbing inland. Along the way, stop at Ballycastle Beach for a panoramic view of Rathlin Island, or pull into Cushendun to admire its thatched cottages. The road offers numerous lay‑bys where you can photograph the dramatic cliffs that plunge into the Irish Sea.

Walking & Hiking

• Mare’s Tail Waterfall (Glenariff) – A short, well‑marked path leads to the iconic cascade, ideal for a quick nature break.
• Moyle Way – A challenging 26‑mile trek that traverses five of the nine glens, typically completed over two days and praised for its varied terrain.
• Glenariff Forest Park Trails – A network of riverside walks suitable for families and seasoned walkers alike.

Cultural Stops

• Glenarm Castle – Explore the walled gardens and historic interiors; the castle was crowned “Historic Houses 2023 Garden of the Year”.
• Glenarm Visitor Information Point – Provides detailed maps, heritage information and guidance on local events.
• Harry’s Restaurant (Cushendall) – Offers sustainably sourced seafood and beef, showcasing the region’s culinary traditions.
• Ballycastle Heritage Trail – A self‑guided walk that links the town’s historic market square, the Lammas Fair site and the harbour. (Ballycastle Heritage Trail)

Geology & Landscape

The Glens of Antrim sit on a complex geological tapestry that spans from the Jurassic period to the Palaeogene volcanic era. Along the coast, Jurassic chalk and limestone outcrops can be seen at Portrush and White Park Bay, while the inland glens are dominated by 60‑million‑year‑old basalt flows that formed during the opening of the North Atlantic. These basaltic layers create the dramatic vertical cliffs at Carrick‑a‑Rede and the columnar formations of the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The volcanic activity also produced rich mineral veins that supported a once‑thriving mining industry – evidence of which remains in the derelict railway viaduct at Glenballyeamon. Weathered basalt has produced fertile, iron‑rich soils that support the lush, mixed‑wood forests of Glenariff and the heath‑land plateaux of Glencloy. Geology enthusiasts will recognise the area as part of the Antrim Coast and Glens Geopark, a designated UNESCO Global Geopark.

Seasonal Events & Festivals

• Tulip Festival at Glenarm Castle – Late April to early May, when the castle gardens burst into colour.
• Lammas Fair in Ballycastle – Held each August, this historic fair features music, craft stalls and traditional food.
• Rathlin Island Puffin Season – Late May to early August; boat trips from Ballycastle allow close views of nesting puffins.
• Summer Folk Sessions – Many pubs in the glens host informal music evenings, especially in Ballycastle and Cushendall.

Practical Information

The Glens of Antrim Drive is a public road; there is no admission fee and parking is generally free in the villages and at designated lay‑bys. The route is fully sign‑posted, and the visitor centre in Glenarm can supply up‑to‑date information on walking routes, seasonal events and local transport options. While the drive is accessible year‑round, some of the more remote walking trails may be limited in winter due to weather‑related conditions. For cyclists, several guided self‑led tours operate from Belfast, offering 24‑speed touring bikes, pannier bags and daily luggage transfers; these tours typically avoid the busiest Sunday traffic by using quieter backroads.

Getting There

• By Car – From Belfast, follow the A2 north‑east along the Causeway Coast; the drive to the first glen takes about 45 minutes.
• Public Transport – Regular bus services connect Belfast with Ballycastle and other coastal towns; from there, local taxis or community shuttles can reach the glen entrances.
• Cycling – The Sustrans cycle path runs from Belfast to Carrickfergus, after which quieter inland routes lead into the glens.

Visitor Services

• Accommodation – A range of B&Bs, cottages (e.g., Glenaan Cottage) and hotels are scattered throughout the glens, many offering sea‑view rooms.
• Food & Drink – Local pubs and restaurants serve traditional Irish fare; the area is also close to the Bushmills Distillery, the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery.
• Seasonal Highlights – The annual tulip festival at Glenarm Castle (May) and the summer folk music sessions in Ballycastle draw both locals and tourists.

The Glens of Antrim Drive is more than a scenic detour; it is a living tapestry of natural beauty, mythic history and vibrant community life. Whether you are cruising the coastal road, hiking a forest trail, or stepping into a centuries‑old castle garden, the glens promise an unforgettable slice of Northern Ireland’s heritage.