The Giants causeway: A natural wonder Bed and Breakfast The Giants Causeway; just how many pillars are there? The Giants Causeway is Northern Ireland's premier tourist attraction and fascinating geological wonder. A visit to Northern Ireland will be incomplete if you don't see the Giant's Causeway. It consists of thousands of basalt rock pillars, mostly hexagonal in shape and at times up to 100 meters deep, that at times are so geometrically fine as if custom designed by some intelligent super entity (hence the reference to giants). How many pillars in the Giants Causeway? Thousands! Some people estimate around 40.000 but this is by no means an accurate number. Even if you were to count them on your next visit, you would have missed the ones that are covered by the sea. How to Get There Ideally, make a visit to the Giants Causeway a tour day and include some of the other attractions in the area. In which case, take the coastal route A2 from Belfast/ Larne or Londonderry/Coleraine. It is also accessible via the A27 from Ballymena. Ensure you have a map with you always when driving in Northern Ireland.

Parking at the Giants Causeway Once you are near, the Giants Causeway is well signposted. There is an ample car park where you will pay about £5 for the day. If you prefer not to pay, follow the small country road that goes down the hill on the left side as you approach the Causeway complex. Go down the hill about 500 meters, past the Causeway & Bushmills steam rail station, and there you can park free on the side of the road. Please ensure that you don't block any of the farm entrances or farm traffic. Parking free means you will have to walk up the hill to get back up so if you would rather not, just leave your car at the car park. The Giants Causeway Visitor Centre You have parked your car walked past the entrance and are wondering where the Causeway is. Well, you are not there yet. What you have before you is a Visitor's Centre which includes a tourist shop; a small restaurant with another tourist shop; toilets. Use all three if you need to. The tourist shops have a plethora of guides, souvenirs, and other nice things and chances are you will want to spend at least half an hour there.

There is also an audio/visual presentation which is very informative. From the Visitor Centre to the Giants Causeway Once you have finished with the Visitor's Centre take the road down towards the sea. It is paved but no cars are allowed apart from the shuttle buses that ferry people up and down every 15 minutes or so. If you feel brave you can walk down to the Causeway and then back again. It takes about 15 minutes going down and a little longer coming up. Or you can take the shuttle bus. Many visitors walk down and take the shuttle bus back. If you decide to return by shuttle bus, make sure you know what time the last one leaves because they tend to stop early, especially in winter. The road from the Centre to the Causeway goes down towards the sea and swerves to the right following the coast for another 500 meters to the Causeway itself. The view is beautiful. Take your time. Walk around. See the waves splash on the rocks. Enjoy it, it is worth it. At the Giants Causeway Make sure you are wearing good walking shoes. The rocks are uneven and can be slippery. Also, in places there are steep climbs/falls.

So tread carefully and if you have small children preferably hold them by the hand. Sunsets can be very romantic there, but remember the minibus timetable if you are planning to use it. To the Pipe Organ? If you like walking/hiking, walk beyond the Giants Causeway to the Pipe Organ. The Pipe Organ is a similar rock formation that can be seen on the side of a cliff a few hundred meters beyond the Causeway. Follow the path beyond the Causeway and you will see the Pipe Organ on the side of the cliff. Then rather than return to the Causeway, follow a path that follows the side of the cliff for some more spectacular views. You will end up on the top of the Antrim cliffs, on the same level as the Visitor Centre, but above the Causeway. How Much Time? Allow for a minimum of 1 hour even if you are using the shuttle bus both way. However, to fully appreciate the area take up to three hours. Do not rush this visit, as the time spent there is well worth it. How was the Giants Causeway Formed? Here's the evolutionary theory, the creationist explanation and the mythological story...

Volcanic Activity The scientific view is that the Causeway was formed by volcanic activity resulting in seven separate lava flows. As each lava flow cooled by the sea water splashing onto it, other lava flows followed and cooled in turn. As the surface cooled and hardened, it contracted creating the cracks visible to this day. The sea water hastened the cooling time and helped produce the cracking. Geologists traditionally date these lava flows to about 60 million years ago while Creationists maintain a much younger age, roughly around 4,500 years ago. You can read more on how the two schools of thought explain the phenomenon, in Answers in Genesis. Giants' Activity According to Irish mythology, the giant Finn MacCool (Fionn mac Cumhail), lived in the Antrim coast area with his family many years ago. Across the water in Scotland (just 21 kilometers away) lived another giant named Benandonner (Fingal according to other sources). The two exchanged insults across the sea until one day Finn decide to go to Scotland and destroy the foul mouthed Scot. He therefore built the Causeway which, incidentally, also appears on the coast of Scotland.

As he approached unnoticed, he realized that Benandonner was much bigger than him, and so quickly turned around and rushed back to Ireland. Benandonner noticed the causeway and, in turn, decided to go to Ireland to take care of his haughty opponent. When Finn show him approaching he was terrified. His good wife Oonagh thought up a stratagem. She dressed Finn as a baby and put him to supposedly sleep. When Benandonner arrived and declared his intentions, Oonagh asked him to wait around until Finn returned from a supposed hunting trip. In the meantime she asked him to help her feed “the baby”. When Benandonner saw the size of “the baby” he was terrified as he wondered how big the father would be. He therefore excused himself and in horror and hurry left back to Scotland tearing up the Causeway on the way to ensure his safety. Henceforth the two giants lived happily ever after in their respective lands and never hurled abuse at each other. Shuttle bus information: shuttle bus fare: is £2 for adults return trip and £1 for children return.

wheelchair friendly Timetable 10am - 6:45pm (summertime) Things to see nearby: Lacada point - treacherous rocks that brought the Girona ship of Spanish Armada to the bottom of the sea. Carrick-a-rede rope bridge - walk it if you dare! Steam Train - from Giant's Causeway to Bushmills and back. Fancy some castle ruins? Here are some on your way: Dunluce Castle - So close to the waves, once upon a time the kitchen collapsed in the sea! Dunseverick Castle - It stood for ages - since the 5th century- but the waves brought it down. Ruins in a dramatic setting. Kinbane Castle - Somebody loved the sea. Another Castle ruin that belonged to the powerful MacDonnell clan. Ok, you are there. Anything else to see nearby? Don't miss.... The Giant's Causeway - Made by Giants -so they say - for you to enjoy! I repeat: Don't miss it. Giant's Causeway travel guide - Wikitravel Giant's Causeway is a spectacular rock formation on the Antrim coast of Northern Ireland .

The site consists of some 40,000 basalt columns rising out of the sea. The Giant's Causeway is Northern Ireland 's only UNESCO World Heritage Site . The Giant's Causeway Understand[ edit ] The Causeway was created over 60 million years ago following a volcanic eruption. The formation of the Giant's Causeway was due to intense volcanic activity. The Giant's Causeway has a "twin" at Fingal's Cave on the Isle of Staffa in the Inner Hebrides off Scotland (near the island of Mull ), approximately 150km to the north east across the Atlantic. The close proximity of the two sites is what gave rise to the Myth of Finn MacCool - described below. Myth[ edit ] Popular mythology attributes the creation of the Causeway to an Irish giant named Fionn mac Cumhaill (or Finn MacCool). To prove his superior strength and status, Fionn decided to fight against a rival Scottish giant named Benandonner. As there was no boat large enough to carry huge Finn across the sea to confront Bennandonner, he built his own pathway of stepping stones from Ireland to Scotland. He then was able to walk across the sea without getting his feet wet.

When he crossed the sea, however, he saw just how large Benandonner was. He ran back to Ireland before Bennandonner saw him, but the causeway was built and Bennandonner came to fight. Fionn crawled into a crib and when Bennandonner came to the door to fight him, his wife told him not to wake the baby. Seeing just how large Fionn's "baby" was, Bennandonner grew afraid and ran back to Scotland, tearing up the causeway as he went to prevent Fionn following him. Get in[ edit ] Entry to the Giants Causeway is free, however there are lots of extras that will cost you. Firstly there is a Visitor Center which costs £9. This is a museum about the geology of how it was built. You can visit the causeway without visiting the museum. Parking in the official car park is only available to people who visit the Visitor Center. To avoid this, either take the free park and ride from Bushmills, or park in the Causeway Railway Car park (£6), on the left as you approach the Visitor Center.

Getting from the Visitor Center to the Giants Causeway is about 1km, and there is a bus that can drop you down and back £1 each way. This is an easy walk for most people. By bus[ edit ] From Bushmills : There is a free bus that runs from the Park and Ride at Bushmills . But using this bus means you will have no choice but to pay £7.50 per person at the Giants Causeway. This bus runs frequently during the day. From Coleraine : There is a Bus from Coleraine Via Portrush its called the Causeway Rambler service number 402 this departs from and returns to Coleraine Bus and Train station (which is all in the same building) the service can also be accessed from Portrush dunluce avenue (near medical centre) Please note that the 402 Causeway Rambler runs only from start of summer until late September. At other times during the year take the 172 bus that goes to Ballycastle from Coleraine Bus/Train station but always check at the station the bus stops at the Giants Causeway (Marked " aird giants causeway the Nook" on timetables).

find the 402 timetable below (Causeway rambler Causeway coast rambler timetable link can be found here . Fare is £6.00 this is a hop on hop off service From Belfast : Bus 221 runs directly from Belfast Europa bus centre to the Giant's Causeway. There are day trips to the Giant's Causeway which also include stops at Bushmills whiskey distillery and the Glens of Antrim. Allens Tours , Finn McCools Tours , McCoomb's coach travel are run tours. From Dublin : Either take daily direct express or take a train by Irish Rail/ bus by Bus Eireann from Dublin to Belfast first, then follow the above instruction. By car[ edit ] From Belfast, follow the signs for the "Giant's Causeway Coastal Route" for a beautiful scenic route to the Causeway. It takes longer (around 2 hours depending on traffic) but it is worth it for the views. There is also the more direct route along the A26 from Belfast or the A2/A37 from Derry/ Londonderry if time is a factor.

By sightseeing tour from Dublin[ edit ] Several Dublin based tour operators offer daily tours from Dublin city to the Giant's Causeway, often including other areas of interest along the way such as Belfast City, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle and the Antrim Coast. Typically tours depart around 07:00/07:30 in the morning and return at approximately 20:00. Tickets generally cost €60-69. For many travellers such tours can provide the independence they want with the structure and local insight that makes for a relaxing tour. Get around[ edit ] Public transportation is scarce over the weekends, especially on Sundays after late September. Getting into Belfast, or even to the local towns and villages can be challenging. Hiring a car, or making an advance note of a minicab company's phone number is recommended step to take. Travellers should be prepared to walk long distances if they miss the daily bus that runs once in each direction on Sundays along the coast (towards Ballintoy/Ballycastle, bus route 172).

While it might be worth considering this walk as the scenery alongside the road is neat, it is somewhat dangerous as along the villages and farms, public lighting is non-existent and often dogs are on the loose that are not welcoming towards tourists. See[ edit ][ add listing ] The focal point of the area is, of course, the Giant's Causeway itself. There is no charge for visiting the causeway, although you will find that parking is included in the entry to the visitor center. That being said, this is a free site (eg. no entry fee), so a car with four people works out quite reasonable. Cheaper still, check out the near-by Causeway railway car park (£6) or park on the verge of the main road (free!) Do[ edit ][ add listing ] Once parked up or off the bus at the visitors centre, you will find there is actually a further road that gets you down to the Causeway. There is a bus service running constantly back and forth between the visitors centre and the rocks themselves, but walking there will only take around 20 minutes and will give you a chance to take in some more of the coastal scenary.

Feel free to pose for photos on the rock columns, but be aware that waves will be splashing up onto the rocks, meaning that you can be soaked by the sudden swells and waves, or you can lose your footing on the slippery rocks. Buy[ edit ][ add listing ] There is a gift shop, selling the typical tourist tat of causeway and themed stationery, kitchenware, etc, and there is also an Information centre and Bureau de Change to change currency. Please be aware that The Giants Causeway Visitor centre Does NOT accept euros only pounds sterling; if you need pounds change your foreign currency into pounds at the exchange bureau Sleep[ edit ][ add listing ] There is the Bushmill's Inn which is very nice and strongly Irish themed. It's about 10 minutes drive from the causeway. Given Northern Ireland's relatively small size, you may feel that you want to stay nearer to or in a city such as Belfast or Derry/Londonderry and then drive to the Causeway from there. This would give you a much wider choice of accommodation. Get out[ edit ] Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge is near by. Fun and (despite what your instincts may tell you) perfectly safe.

It costs between £4 and £6, with family tickets available. A chance to walk around some more coastal countryside and walk to the Island across the rope bridge. Home - The Giants Causeway Official Guide Home Contact Foreword by Dr David Bellamy "You are standing on, or are about to visit, one of my favourite places. The jewel in the crown of the fabulous coast of Antrim. A site of World Heritage and therefore ranked alongside Mount Everest and the Giant Redwoods of California for it's importance to humankind.Volcanic activity helped Finn Mc Cool forge this wonder of the World some 60 Million years ago. It is today the habitat of rare plants and animals. Please treat their home with the pride and the care it deserves." - A reminder of the past - A Causeway to all our futures. David Bellamy On this site you will find information about the history of the Causeway along with information on how to get here and what facilities are on offer once you're here. Introduction For centuries countless visitors have marvelled at the majesty and mystery of the Giants Causeway.

At the heart of one of Europe's most magnificent coastlines its unique rock formations have, for millions of years, stood as a natural rampart against the unbridled ferocity of Atlantic storms. The rugged symmetry of the columns never fails to intrigue and inspire our visitors. To stroll on the Giants Causeway is to voyage back in time. Your imagination will travel along stepping stones that lead to either the creative turbulence of a bygone volcanic age or into the mists and legends of the past. In 1986 the Giants Causeway Visitors centre opened, coinciding with the World Heritage Conventions addition of the Causeway to its coveted list of sites, which are of exceptional interest and universal value. The facilities at the Causeway Centre now include Tourist Information offices, Bureau De Change, Accommodation Booking Service, an Interpretive Audio-Visual Presentation and a Souvenir Shop. The National Trust are the custodians of the Causeway and provide the National Trust Shop and Tea Rooms (for opening times please contact directly). The Causeway Coaster bus service from the centre to the Causeway is now running in conjunction with the opening hours of the centre.

The range of amenities on offer is geared to accommodate your individual needs and ensure that all our guests can benefit from and enjoy their visit. The centre caters for the interest and enjoyment of the half a million tourists that visit the Giants Causeway each year. The management, the staff and our facilities are at your disposal during a visit that we hope will be the first of many. View Tours Visitor Centre In 2007 the Giant's Causeway visitor centre received a National Award of Excellence for 'Best Tour Visit' by CIE Tours International, for the 5th consecutive year. The new Visitor Centre , designed by Heneghan Peng opened in July 2012. It has already received well over 300,000 visitors from over 150 countries, along with awards for its sensitive architecture and sustainability. The Visitors Centre is open all year round except Christmas Day and New Years day. Opening Times Mobility parking and Visitor Centre is accessible. There is an accessible trail and the grounds are partly accessible. Some visitors may require assistance from their companion. Accessible toilets and Changing facilities (key on request). The causeway stones are uneven and can be slippery. Supervise children at all times. Wear sensible footwear and clothing.

For more safety information visit the National Trust website. General Facilities Explore the Giant's Causeway with an interactive exhibition . Outdoor audio guide availiable and an audio guide for visually impaired visitors also available. Enjoy local food and refreshments in the Visitor Centre. Local and unique gifts for sale in the gift shop. Tourist Information Centre. Parking across three car parks and Park and Ride facility. Family Facilities Pushchairs and baby back-carriers admitted. Accessible path for pushchairs. Dogs must be kept on a leash. Prices Pre-purchase and save: £1 on adult admission, 75p on child admission and £2.50 on family admission. Go green and save: Arrive by public transport, bicycle or on foot and save £1.50 on adult admission , £1 on child admission and £3 on family admission. Green admission discount also available from Park and Ride in Bushmills village (March to October). Green savings applied at admission point. Shuttlebus to stones is operated by Translink and a separate charge applies to non-members. Prices include car parking and entry to the visitors centre.

Adult View Tours In The Beginning When the news of the "discovery" of an amazing natural phenomenon broke on an unsuspecting world in 1693 it was by the presentation of a paper to the Royal Society from Sir Richard Bulkeley, a fellow of Trinity College, Dublin. The "discoverer" had, in fact, been the then Bishop of Derry a year earlier. The news caused quite a stir in 'the polite society' of the time and in 1697 a draughtsman was sent to make drawings of the Natural Curiosity on the North East tip of the island of Ireland. What seems remarkable to us now, in the 21st century, is that there was much argument as to whether the Causeway had been created by men with picks and chisels, by nature, or by the efforts of a giant. For in the 17th century nothing like it had been seen before. As an artist, Miss Susanna Drury spent, in 1740, quite some period of months on site. Depicting the magnificence that she found, ensured that the Causeway became noted on The Grand Tour.

And it was not until 1771 that a Frenchman, Demarest, announced the origin of the causeway to be the result of volcanic action. Geology Sixty million years ago Antrim was subject to intense volcanic activity, when highly fluid molten rock was forced up through fissures in the chalk bed to form an extensive lava plateau. The dramatic cliff like edge of the plateau forms the Causeway coastline. The larger fissures, through which the lava flowed, can be clearly seen as bands of dark rock which cut down the cliff faces and jut out to sea. There were three periods of volcanic activity which resulted in the flows, known as the Lower, Middle and Upper Basalts. It is the Middle Basalts rocks which forms the columns of the Giants Causeway. The rapidly cooling lava contracted and variations in the cooling rate resulted in the world famous columnar structure. The columns are mainly hexagonal though there are some with up to eight sides. Weathering of the top of of the lower Basalts formed the Inter Basaltic Bed - the band of reddish rock which is a feature of the area.

The same action of the weather created circular formations round a nugget of basalt which are known locally as "giants eyes". Some other formations with popular names are the Chimney Stacks, The Harp, The Organ and the Camel's Hump. Local Wildlife Perhaps less well known is the fact that the area is a haven for sea birds such as fulmar, petrel, cormorant, shag, redshank guillemot and razorbill. Rock pippits and wagtails explore the shoreline and eider duck are found in sheltered water. The National Trust has made an inventory of rare and interesting plants which have survived the feet of many thousands of visitors. They include sea spleenwort, hare's foot trefoil, vernal squill, sea fescue and frog orchid making this an exciting place for botanists, with also, in summer, great stretches of sea campion. The Giants Causeway has something to offer almost every interest, be it plants to be viewed through a magnifying glass or standing in awe among the columns. As you leave, look over your shoulder and with eyes half closed you may just catch a glimpse of the giant form of Finn McCool striding among his works.

Once Upon a Time View Tours World Heritage The Giants Causeway was included on the World Heritage site list in November 1986. It is on the list as both a cultural and natural site, one of only 25 in the world to achieve this status. This is because the Causeway meets two of UNESCO's criteria for this: (1) It is a prime example of earth's evolutionary history during the tertiary epoch. (2) It contains rare and superlative natural phenomena The site also has outstanding cultural value in that it contains the wreck of the Girona. The Giant's Causeway lies at the foot of the basalt cliffs along the sea coast on the edge of the Antrim plateau in Northern Ireland. It is made up of some 40,000 massive black basalt columns sticking out of the sea. The dramatic sight has inspired legends of giants striding over the sea to Scotland. Geological studies of these formations over the last 300 years have greatly contributed to the development of the earth sciences, and show that this striking landscape was caused by volcanic activity during the Tertiary, some 50-60 million years ago.

Quick Links Discover Northern Ireland | The Northern Edge Find out more about Carrickfergus Castle "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." The Gobbins Excite all the senses on this exhilarating cliff-face path, which was first enjoyed in the early 1900s. Located on the scenic Islandmagee peninsula, the attraction has been reborn and reimagined for the 21st century giving unparalleled access to the rugged Antrim Coast. The dramatic and challenging path includes spectacular tubular and suspension bridges, caves, steps and tunnels. There is also a fascinating Visitor Centre and cliff-top path. Find out more about The Gobbins "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Carnfunnock Country Park An excellent day out for all the family, the park is packed full of exciting and unusual attractions, in a spectacular setting overlooking the Antrim Coast.

Highlights include an outdoor adventure playground, family fun zone, nine-hole golf course, walled garden, walking trails, geocaching, a hedge maze in the shape of Northern Ireland, caravan and camping site and and a modern visitor centre/café. Find out more about Carnfunnock Country Park "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Slemish With its unmistakable profile rising above the surrounding plain, this extinct volcano has always captivated visitors. Slemish is famous as the location where, according to legend, Saint Patrick tended sheep for six years after being captured and taken to Ireland. From a car park with interpretation, there is a looped walk ascending to the summit - a popular pilgrimage walk on Saint Patrick’s Day each year. Find out more about Slemish "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Glenarm Castle and Walled Garden Visit the ancestral home of the McDonnells, Earls of Antrim, with its glorious Walled Garden packed full of natural and manmade features. Enjoy a treat in the charming tea-room, located in the 19th century Mushroom House.

The castle itself is open on selected dates, where you can see superb examples of Irish furniture plus family portraits. Open Easter until end of September. Find out more about Glenarm Castle and Walled Gardens "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." The Glens of Antrim Take time to explore the famous Glens of Antrim. There are nine altogether, each with its own scenic drive, with lyrical names such as Glencloy, Glentaisie and Glenballyemon. Don’t miss Glenariff Forest Park , set in the ‘Queen of the Glens’, with bracing walks and beautiful waterfalls. Stop off in pretty towns and villages such as Glenarm, Carnlough, Cushendall and Cushendun, and enjoy a traditional music session. "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Cushendun Don’t miss a stop off at the pretty coastal village of Cushendun, nestled at the foot of Glendun, one of the nine Glens of Antrim.

A designated Conservation Area, it was designed in the style of a Cornish village by eminent architect Clough Williams-Ellis. Look out for the goat sculpture, ‘Johann’, and the caves behind the village which were one of many local locations used in the filming of HBO’s Game of Thrones® "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Torr Head Take a detour off the main Causeway Coastal Route towards this rocky headland which forms our closest point to Scotland, just 13 miles away. It’s a narrow, winding road but it’s worth it for the stunning views of Fair Head, Rathlin Island and the Antrim and Scottish coastlines. A ruined 19th century lookout on the headland once tracked transatlantic ships. "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Bonamargy Friary Stop off at the picturesque ruins of Bonamargy Friary , just outside the lively seaside town of Ballycastle.

It was founded around 1500 by the Franciscans and contains the remains of chieftain Sorley Boy McDonnell. In the town itself, look out for a memorial to Guglielmo Marconi who carried out the first tests on radio signals here in 1898. "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." The Dark Hedges This iconic archway of intertwining beech trees has become one of our most photographed natural phenomena. It was planted by the Stuart family in the eighteenth century to impress visitors approaching the entrance to their Georgian mansion. Today the site is perhaps best known as a filming location in HBO’s Game of Thrones® ; it doubled as The King’s Road in Season Two of the epic series Find out more about The Dark Hedges "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Rathlin Island Take a day trip or stay over to experience the rugged beauty and tranquillity of Northern Ireland’s only inhabited offshore island, reached by ferry from Ballycastle.

Follow one of the island’s scenic walking trails or hire a bicycle to explore the quiet roads. Learn about island life at the Boathouse Visitor Centre, watch the seal colonies, visit the island’s three lighthouses or the popular RSPB Seabird Centre situated at the distinctive West Lighthouse. Find out more about Rathlin Island "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Take the exhilarating rope bridge challenge across to tiny Carrick-a-Rede island (a Site of Special Scientific Interest) and enjoy a truly cliff-top experience. Set amid unrivalled scenery on the North Antrim Coast, the 30-metre deep and 20-metre wide chasm is traversed by a rope bridge that was traditionally erected by Salmon fishermen. It’s a bit more sturdy these days but there’s still only one way off the island - back across the swinging bridge!

Find out more about Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Ballintoy Harbour This small, picturesque fishing harbour is a short detour from Ballintoy village. Follow the narrow winding road downhill past the white-washed Ballintoy Parish Church "one of Ireland’s most photographed churches. The harbour’s stunning natural setting led to it being used as a filming location in the fantasy TV series Game of Thrones® , as exterior Pyke shots and as the Iron Islands. "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Whitepark Bay Enjoy a stroll on this spectacular sandy beach which forms a white arc between two headlands on the North Antrim Coast. Your only company might be the cows who are known to rest on the beach. Don’t miss the picturesque little harbour and hamlet of Portbradden at the western end of the bay. It is home to the beautiful St.Gobban's Church, one of the smallest in Ireland.

Find out more about Whitepark Bay "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Giant's Causeway Not to be missed on any itinerary is this geological wonder which gives the route its name. The Giant’s Causeway sits at the centre of an Area of Outstanding Beauty and is Northern Ireland’s only World Heritage Site, famously steeped in myth and legend. Begin your visit at the state-of-the-art Visitor Centre then stroll down to the intriguing polygonal stones to search out distinctive formations such as the Camel, Wishing Chair, Granny and Organ. "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Old Bushmills Distillery Take a guided tour through the heart of Ireland’s oldest working distillery, its original grant signed by King James I in 1608. The finest Irish whiskeys have been produced here for over 400 years, using the same traditional methods and the water from the distillery’s own stream.

Take in the sights and smells, enjoy tutored tastings and relax with a whiskey (or soft drink) in the 1608 Bar at the end of your tour, before browsing the excellent gift shop. Find out more about the Old Bushmills Distillery "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Dunluce Castle One of the jewels on the route, this breathtaking castle ruin has inspired artists and writers such as C.S. Lewis. Perched dramatically on the cliffs of the North Antrim Coast, it was built around 1500 by the local MacQuillan family and later seized by the Scottish MacDonnell clan who eventually established a small town here. Discover the castle’s tumultuous history with an audio-visual tour and smartphone app. Find out more about Dunluce Castle "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Downhill Demesne Experience the wild and dramatic setting of Downhill Demesne which was the romantic vision of Frederick Hervey, an 18th century Earl Bishop of Derry.

Beyond the ruined mansion lies one of our most iconic monuments - the circular Mussenden Temple, perched on a cliff edge high above Downhill Beach. It was built as a summer library and inspired by the Temple of Vesta near Rome. Don’t miss a visit to Hezlett House , a picturesque, late 17th century thatched cottage. Find out more about Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Binevenagh With its line of dramatic, basalt cliffs, Binevenagh mountain dominates the surrounding countryside. Take a detour off the main Causeway Coastal Route and ascend a scenic drive to the summit, with its fishing lake and panoramic views of the Roe Valley , Sperrin Mountains, North Coast and across Lough Foyle to Donegal. The more adventurous can follow one of the hiking trails to the summit.

"Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Magilligan Point A remote and beautiful location, Magilligan Point guards the entrance to Lough Foyle at the tip of one of the British Isles’ largest sand dune systems. Visit the Martello Tower , one of best preserved of a chain built to defend the coast of Ireland during the Napoleonic Wars. Then enjoy a brisk stroll on the golden sands of the Blue Flag Benone Strand before enjoying a meal in the popular Point Bar. "Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Limavady Sculpture Trail Explore the myths and legends of the scenic Roe Valley area with this trail of beautiful and innovative art pieces. Learn about the notorious, 18th century highwayman Cushy Glen, enjoy the stunning coastal views from the sculpture of Celtic God of the Sea Manannàn Mac Lir, and see the writhing form of Lig-na-paiste - the last remaining serpent in Ireland.

"Nothing much changes, people have time to chat and the boats that rock gently in the harbours are in no hurry." Roe Valley Country Park Take time out from driving to explore this scenic and tranquil park on the outskirts of Limavady, known for its abundance of wildlife, birds and Springtime wild flowers. Enjoy woodland walks and spectacular riverside views, learn about the industrial and natural heritage of the area in the museum and countryside centre then enjoy a snack in Ritters Tea Room. Don’t miss the ‘Leap of the Dog’ sculpture inspired by a legend behind the town’s original name, ‘Leim an Mhadaidh’ Giant's Causeway, Antrim, Northern Ireland Giant's Causeway, Antrim, Northern Ireland Click on image to enlarge Facilities The Giant's Causeway, renowned for its polygonal columns of layered basalt, is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland and in 2015 was awarded the UKs Best Heritage Attraction at the British Travel Awards. Resulting from a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago, this is the focal point of a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has attracted visitors for centuries. It harbours a wealth of local and natural history.

Sea birds can be seen off the coast around the Causeway, with species such as fulmar, petrel and razorbill being frequently observed alongside rare and unusual plant species on the cliffs and nearby rock formations. The Giantâs Causeway is also steeped in myth and legend. Some say it was carved from the coast by the mighty giant, Finn McCool who left behind an ancient home full of folklore. Look out for clues of his existence â including The Giantâs Boot and Wishing Chair. Rising and blending into the landscape, with walls of glass, basalt columns and a state of the art interior designed by award winning architects Heneghan-Peng, The Giantâs Causeway Visitor Centre is truly innovative. The grass roof offers 360 degree views of the Causeway coastline. Explore the interactive spaces, watch Finn McCool on the big screen and unlock the secrets of this inspirational landscape. There are four stunning trails at the Giantâs Causeway suited to every ability, from a pram friendly jaunt to a challenging coastal hike and in addition, a new accessible cliff top walk for families and people with disabilities.

The area is suitable for picnics, cliff and country walks, and dogs are welcome on leads (guide dogs only within the Visitor Centre). For visitors who do not wish to avail of the facilities on-site, alternative parking is available during peak times at the Railway car park adjacent to the Causeway (£6 per day), from which visitors can walk to the stones for free. Contact Visitor Information for more details. Alternative catering is provided at the site by the Causeway Hotel, The Nook and McConaghy's shop. National Trust Free Open Day - NB. This map is based on the postcode and so may not reflect the exact location.

Prices: This includes access to â¢ A new state of the art visitor centre featuring an illuminating exhibition showcasing the stories and the science behind the Giant's Causeway â¢ Innovative pocket size audio guide available in 9 languages: English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Mandarin, Russian and Polish â¢ The option of a guided walk led by an experienced member of the National Trust team (available daily at hourly intervals during off-peak times and becoming more frequent during peak season; please contact Visitor Information for exact timings) â¢ A new retail facility introducing new and exclusive local products â¢ Tourist Information (please note this service at the centre is free to access) â¢ Fully accessible toilets and a Changing Places facility for people with disabilities â¢ A grab and go style café â¢ Orientation leaflet and Parking If you park within the defined area of the visitor experience, the admission charge will be applied. Staff will be on standby to check tickets. Pedestrian access to the Giantâs Causeway is free. However, if you wish to use any of the facilities at the site, including parking but excluding the Visitor Information service, the visitor experience charge will apply.

Adult: £9.00 Family: £22 (2 Adults + 3 Children under 17 years - under 5 years free) National Trust Members Free Groups visits (min. 15 people) can pre-book by contacting (028) 2073 3419. Pre-purchase and save: visit to pre-purchase your tickets and save £1.50 on adult admission, £1 on child admission and £3.50 on family admission. Go green and save: if you arrive by public transport, by bicycle or on foot, youâll save £2 on adult admission, £1.25 on child admission and £4 on family admission. Green saving applied at admissions point. Green admission discount is also available from Park and Ride in Bushmills village (March to October). The Park & Ride service is only for those wishing to gain access into the Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre. Shuttle bus from visitor centre to the stones is run by Translink and is an extra charge, currently £1 per adult and 50p per child each way. National Trust members who present their membership cards travel for free as do Northern Ireland Senior Citizens who present a Smart Pass.

Opening times: Stones and coastal path open daily from dawn until dusk. 2015 visitor centre opening hours January: 09:00 - 17:00 1 April- 30 Sept: 09:00 - 19:00 October: 09:00 - 18:00 Closed 24th, 25th, 26th December Last admission to visitor centre is one hour before advertised closing time. During spring and summer, our busiest times are between 11:00 - 15:00, so come early or plan an evening visit. Book using: Giants Causeway | Ireland.com Giants Causeway Bushmills, County Antrim Bushmills Irish Whiskey is made at Ireland's oldest working distillery on the beautiful North Coast. Read more Giant's Causeway Visitor Information Centre Bushmills, County Antrim Take advantage of the excellent practical help and assistance at the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre Read more Where do you want to stay? No results match your search criteria Choose from a great range of airlines and destinations to travel to Ireland. Travel Information Ask a question Want to know more?

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Giants Causeway Tour | Carrick-a-Rede | Belfast Giants Causeway Tour DEPARTURE LOCATION : Suffolk Street – MAP HERE PRICE : €65 Adult PRICE : €60 Student – Senior – Youth 13yrs / 16yrs PRICE : €32:50 Child 5yrs / 12yrs PRICE : Children under 5 free THE GIANTS CAUSEWAY TOUR ALSO INCLUDES CARRICK A REDE ROPE BRIDGE, THE DARK HEDGES, ANTRIM COASTLINE, DUNLUCE CASTLE & BELFAST CITY. Giants Causeway Tour Overview Join us on our uniquely structured Giants causeway tour to one of Ireland’s 7 wonders which is also one of the most northern points in all of Ireland. From the moment you step foot onto our tour bus, you will have the ideal opportunity of gaining valuable knowledge in regards to Ireland’s enchanting history all the while driving along some of the most impressive coastline in Ireland. You will also get to see a few Game of thrones locations as we bring you to the fantastic Dark Hedges and afford you spectacular views of Dunluce Castle.

The Giants Causeway is listed as Ireland’s very first World Heritage site which is only one of the many reasons why you honestly can’t pass up this opportune chance of joining us for such an insightful experience. Not to mention the fact that we have such an A-list crew! More specifically, our guides are fully equipped with fun-loving humour, wisdom and of course irresistibly good looks which will keep you coming back for more exciting adventures! Take in the genuine beauty of the causeways while exploring the various stone formations and crevices that are fully engulfed with fascinating history as well as mysterious Irish folklore. Now the question is can you look fear in the eye by courageously crossing the legendary “Carrick-a-Rede” rope bridge for which the price is conveniently included! Better yet. The Northern coastline of County Antrim is immersed in ancient history and mythology which you’re able to discover on your Giants Causeway tour with us.

In addition, listed below is our detailed itinerary in order for you to have a more comprehensive inside-look at what our Giants Causeway tour has to offer… Itinerary 6:30am The meeting place for this tour is on Suffolk Street outside the stone church (sitemap is available within the link to the booking page) near Grafton Street. Once there you'll be greeted by your fun loving and knowledgeable guide and meet your fellow travelers. The bus will head north out of Dublin city towards Belfast. Keep your camera at the ready as there are many beautiful picturesque views.We will stop for a breath of fresh air and a short stroll. 10.00pm The Game of thrones has become world famous and highlights some of the most beautiful places in Northern Ireland. One of the iconic settings is the dark hedges and this is our next stop. This beautiful stretch of road is surrounded by intertwining trees and is a fantastic site. 10.30pm Afterwards, we will head towards the Carrick a Reid rope bridge which is managed by the National Trust. In order to show our personal support for this conservation charity, we include the price of the bridge-tour within the price of our packaged deal.

Also, you may notice some of the native wildlife along the way as you prepare for the 20 minute ascent up to the bridge for your courageous “leap of faith”. As you fearlessly walk across, you will genuinely experience the breathtaking views looking out towards the Rathlin Island’s and Mull of Kintyre in Scotland. 12:00pm From there we will drive through the charming village of Ballintoy as well as having the surreal opportunity of seeing spectacular views over Whiteparks Bay and Portbradden. We will stop for lunch along the way. Once we arrive at the Causeway, we highly suggest strolling up to the very peak of the cliffs so that you’re able to enjoy a panoramic view of the causeway then descend down to the point referred to as the “Organ”, you will be highly impressed by this wondrous sight. Take your time to explore this fantastic natural attraction formed 50million years ago. 3:00pm Next, we will jump aboard the bus once again around 2:30pm to head towards the grand city of Belfast.

Our tour will be setup as a roundabout route so that you’re able to capture a full-length picture of the praised about Dunluce Castle, the most romantic castle in all of Ireland which was home to the McDonnell Clan for many years. Not to mention, that the Dunluce Castle has been referred to as the primary inspiration for CS Lewis’s fictional castle “Clair Paravel” which was established in her popular series, “The Chronicles of Narnia”. In addition, we’ll be passing through the spirited town of Bushmills where Ireland’s very first hydro power plant was originally built as well as being the proud makers of a wonderful brand of whiskey! 4:00pm Once we’ve arrived at the notable city of Belfast, you’ll be allotted an hour and a half to go sightseeing at your own convenience. We recommend visiting the main shopping district for souvenirs, the historic Titanic Quarter and of course the Belfast City Hall. You also have the option to do the "Black Taxi Tour" Let your guide know and he will book it in advance for you so that your taxi is waiting. Afterwards, we’ll finish up our fun filled adventure by making our way back to Dublin.

Giant's Causeway Tour Testimonials “Amazing Guides and Amazing Views” I highly highly recommend these tours to people traveling with or without people. I took the Cliffs of Moher and the Giants Causeway tour alone and had an absolute blast. My tour guides (Bud and Mac) were fantastic! Both of them were so caring and considerate of all of our needs and super funny. I couldn't get enough of Buds charming stories and Mac's constant jokes. Both of them did a great job informing us on the history of all of the locations as well as Ireland in general. These tours went above and beyond my expectations! I also thought that the routes and itinerary were perfectly planned. Never did I feel rushed or in need of anything. The lunch spots in addition were very very tasty. My only disappointment was that the Giants Causeway tour was sightly changed. I signed up because you advertised that we would drive along the Antrim Coast, but found out the day of that the coast had been dropped to see the dark hedges. Since a hurricane took out most of the trees, I much rather would have seen the coastal drive. Just me two cents. I know a lot of people on my tour were equally disappointed about it.

Regardless, take these tours! So much fun and a good value for the money you are paying. TRIP ADVISOR - Visited February 2016

Question: On what island would you find the Giant's Causeway?
Answer: Ireland