Things to do in Glens of Antrim

Discover the beauty of Northern Ireland and the world-famous Giant’s Causeway on a tour from Belfast. Visit the Giants Causeway, Carrickfergus Castle, Glenarm Castle, Carnlough Harbour, Waterfoot Caves, Cushendun Curfew House, Rope Bridge, and The Dark Hedges while navigating the Antrim Coast Road. After leaving Belfast in the morning, a short journey will take you to the first stop of the day at Carrickfergus Castle, a 12th-century Norman castle. Walk around and take photographs of the castle and the harbor. Continue the drive along the Antrim Coast Road, traveling through some of the nine Glens of Antrim. Wind through small towns and villages, hearing the myths and legends of the fairies and leprechauns that reside in these Glens. Driving through Glenarm, pass Carnlough Harbour, the Waterfoot Caves, and Cushendun Curfew house. Travel up through Glencorp and Glendunn, passing the coastal town of Ballycastle before arriving at the Portaneevy View Point to see Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge.  Stop to admire views at the rope bridge and look across to the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland and Rathlin Island. Listen to the stories behind these sights before stopping next at the Dark Hedges, known as the Kingsroad in the Game of Thrones HBO series. Walk among the trees made famous by the Game of Thrones followed by a lunch stop at a traditional pub (costs not included).  Later, visit more locations from the Game of Thrones. Travel by Carnlough Harbour where Arya Stark swam and pass by Magharmorne Quarry where Castle Black was located. The finale of the day is a stop at the Giant’s Causeway where you can explore, walk across the historic stones, and learn about the legend of the Giant Finn MacCool. Discover how and why he built the Causeway.  After your day of exploring is done, travel directly back to Belfast via the inland route and get dropped off back in the city center or at the activity provider's office in Queen's Quarter.

Embark on a scenic drive to Northern Ireland's most iconic locations from Belfast. Visit the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Ropebridge, Cushendun Caves, Carnlough Harbour, Bushmills Distillery, and the Dark Hedges. Learn about the history with live commentary on board. Board a comfortable bus and set off on your adventure. Make a stop at Carrickfergus Castle to take some striking photos. Then, journey along the Causeway Coastal Route, with stops at the Caves at Cushendun and Carnlough Harbour—both made famous by the hit TV show Game of Thrones. Enjoy a short photo stop at Portaneevy Viewpoint for breathtaking views of Carrick-a-Rede Ropebridge. Enjoy a delicious pub-grub-style lunch at the Fullerton Arms in Ballintoy (not included). Then re-board and head to the highlight of the tour, the Giant's Causeway. At Ireland’s only World Heritage Site, climb over the ancient stones and discover the myths and legends that surround this world-famous attraction. After the Giant’s Causeway, stop at the ancient ruins of Dunluce Castle, a castle ruin unlike any other in the world. Spend 30 minutes at Ireland's oldest whiskey distillery, Bushmills. Visit the gift shop or enjoy a taste of this world-famous and critically acclaimed whiskey. The final stop of the day is at the stunning Dark Hedges, so easily recognizable from Game of Thrones. Finally, relax on the comfortable return journey to Belfast.

Depart central Belfast onboard your luxury coach and head out onto the world famous causeway coastal road, voted one of the worlds best drives! Our first stop of the day is Carrickfergus castle where you will have time to grab a quick photo, the castle was built in 12th century by the Normans and still looks incredible even today. Next we will travel through the glens of antrim and navigate the tight famous coastal road to carnlough harbour, a picturesque Irish fishing village that time has almost forgotten. Disembark and stretch your legs, and explore the harbour or grab refreshemnts and use the toilets. We now travel deeper into the glens of antrim and to cushendun caves, discover the stunning caves and enjoy spectacular views over looking the mull of kintyre in Scotland which is easy to see on any clear day. The iconic dark hedges is our next port of call, and is one of the most instagramable spots in Northern Ireland, you will have the chance to walk along the famous road and also grab lunch at your own expense at the local pub. After lunch we re-board the coach and head to the highlight of the tour, the Giant's Causeway. At Ireland’s only World Heritage Site, you’ll spend some time climbing over the ancient stones and enjoying the myths and legends that surrounds this world-famous attraction at no extra cost! After the Giant’s Causeway, we make a short stop at the ancient ruins of Dunluce Castle where you can grab a quick photo before heading back to central Belfast for the final leg of the tour.

Tour the highlights of Northern Ireland on a day trip from Dublin aboard a comfortable touring coach. Explore iconic locations such as UNESCO Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle ruins, Dark Hedges and Belfast. Depart central Dublin and enjoy rolling green countryside and historical commentary as you travel across the Irish border on the M1 motorway. The road signs change from miles to kilometres as you depart the European Union and enter the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Arriving in Co. Antrim by mid-morning you will have panoramic views of Glens of Antrim, Whitepark Bay, Portbradden, Causeway Coast, Mull of Kintyre, Rathlin Island and on clear days the coast of Scotland. Your first stop on Northern Irish soil is typically at Dark Hedges - an amazing avenue of intertwined beech trees planted in the 1700s by the local Stuart family to line the approach to their estate and farm. Dark Hedges is eerily beautiful and has been made one of Northern Ireland’s iconic sights by Game of Thrones and Transformers. Apparently the road is haunted by a ghost - so we will only stop here briefly for fresh air and photos. Afterwards, visit the spectacular ruins of Dunluce Castle for a comprehensive tour with paid entrance included. This is the former residence of the McDonnell clan, made famous as House of Greyjoy in Game of Thrones and considered by many to be the most romantic castle in Ireland. Departing the area we’ll drive along the Causeway Coastal route between Dunluce and Ballycastle - one of the most dramatically scenic roads in the world. There will be time for lunch, typically in a good local pub, cafe or restaurant with options to suit every taste. Alternatively, feel free to bring a packed lunch. The highlight for many today is undoubtedly UNESCO Giant’s Causeway. Volcanic activity created the 37,000 basalt “stepping stone” columns and spectacular formations. Locals will tell you it was actually a local warrior Giant by the name of Fionn. Enjoy the local legend from your guide and then make your own mind up. You’ll enjoy at least 90 minutes at Giant’s Causeway - the perfect amount of time based upon 25 years of guest feedback. End the day with an orientation tour of Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. Highlights include City Hall, Victoria Square and famous Titanic Dock, where the world famous ocean liner Titanic was built in 1912. Your tour will drop you back in downtown Dublin with plenty of time for late dinner arrangements, entertainment and rest.

Visit Carrickfergus Castle, Carnlough Harbour, the Cushendun Caves, and walk along the King's Road on a guided tour of Game of Thrones filming locations from Belfast. Enjoy some free time at the Giant's Causeway and a photo stop at Dunluce Castle during the day. After departing central Belfast travel to the first stop at Carrickfergus Castle, a stunning 12th-century Norman structure. Walk around and take photographs of the harbor and the stunning castle. Continue the drive along Causeway coastal road around and through the Glens of Antrim. Navigating through small towns and villages, hear about local legends and stories from your guide. Visit Carnlough Harbour and fully discover a key Game of Thrones location that acted as Bravoos in Season 6. This location also acts as a refreshment stop where snacks can be purchased and toilets can be used. Travel to the Cushendun Caves which were used more than once in the hit show. Sir Davos Seaworth and Lady Melisandre landed ashore in Season 2 - Melisandre gives birth to a terrifying shadow baby, and in Season 8 the famous battle between Jaime Lannister and Euron Greyjoy. Next travel to The Dark Hedges, otherwise known as the King's Road. The road famously was where Arya Stark escaped from King’s Landing, disguised as a boy. Walk along the famous tree-lined road which has become a famous Instagrammable spot. Lunch can also be purchased at your own expense. After lunch, discover the Giant’s Causeway where you can explore, and walk across the historic stones, and learn about the legend of Irish giant Finn MacCool. Discover how and why he built the Causeway. Finally, enjoy a short photo opportunity at Dunluce castle, which was famously used as the seat for House Greyjoy. Travel directly back to Belfast via the inland route and get dropped off back at the meeting location in central Belfast.

Take a journey into Westeros and see epic filming locations from the Game of Thrones TV series. Board your coach at our meeting point at 22-32 Donegall Road, Belfast before setting off on an adventure to drive via luxury coach to the locations of Game of Thrones.  Enter the Caves of Cushendun where the Red Priestess Melisandre gave birth to a Shadow Assassin. Even visit Braavos - locally known at Carnlough. Travel down the Dark Hedges, aka the King’s Road, where Arya Stark traveled with Gendry and Hot Pie hoping to reach the Night’s Watch. See Ballintory Harbor, which was used for exterior shots for both Pyke and the Iron Islands. Marvel at the Giant’s Causeway, an area of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns which form a staircase. The ropebridge and the Giant’s Causeway haven’t appeared in Game of Thrones, but they would make excellent locations for your fan fiction. There is lots more included on the tour for those who aren't major Thronies - such as Bushmills Distillery, Dunluce Castle and Carrickfergus Castle. Why choose us? This is the original Game of Thrones Tour from Belfast - we even transported the Cast & Crew during filming here! This tour has more stops than any other. We have the most modern & comfortable coaches - like the tour, they're award winning. Our guides are the most experienced - some with more than 20 years in the driver/guide seat!

With an early start in Dublin this tour is designed to take you to the best locations in Northern Ireland to ensure with the limited time you have that you will make the most of the day ahead. Enjoy a relaxed journey and listen to the stories and history from the guide as we take you on an adventure you will never forget. The first stop of the day is at the Giant’s Causeway. This UNESCO world heritage site is truly a view to behold. With Thousand of interlocking basalt columns spreading across the coastline you will discover how the strange rock formation was formed thousands of years ago due to a volcanic eruption. Or maybe it is the legend Finn McCool himself that created the rock formation as he battled with the Scottish Giant? Dunluce castle is just around the corner. Spend 10 min here taking in the views from the Atlantic Ocean and hear the waves crash against the rocks. Experience the castle from a spectacular angle. Situated on the sheer cliff edge the ruins are truly majestic and have a lot of history and myths locked up in the walls. A perfect spot for a memorable photograph! As we travel through the Glens of Antrim we will visit the Dark Hedges. Made famous (Not that it was needed) by the hit TV series “ Game of Thrones” as the Kings road you will have the opportunity to walk along the avenue of Beech trees. Planted over 200 years ago as a stunning entrance to James Stuart’s new house it still lives on and still impress visitors today. Reaching Belfast we have one last stop and definitely another highlight of the day. The world renowned Belfast Titanic Exhibition extends over nine galleries, with multiple dimensions to the exhibition. From special effects, rides, full-scale reconstructions and interactive features you will explore the Titanic story in a fresh and insightful way from her conception in Belfast in the early 1900s, through her construction and launch, to her infamous maiden voyage and catastrophic demise. The journey goes beyond the aftermath of the sinking, to the discovery of the wreck and continues into the present day in the Ocean Exploration Centre. With the entrance ticket included in the price of the tour this is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity to see this attraction. When time allows we will stop in Belfast city to have a quick break before heading back to Dublin, where you will be home in good time to have a great night out to finish a great day out! As a added Bonus we included a complimentary Whiskey tasting back in Dublin. Ask your guide on the day for more details on how to book it for FREE!

Your adventure begins at 9:00 AM sharp, departing from Belfast City Hall, Donegal Square West. Carrickfergus Castle Your day begins with a visit to Carrickfergus Castle, one of Ireland’s best-preserved Norman castles. Built in 1177, this formidable structure has withstood sieges by the Scots, Irish, English, and French over its 800-year history. Explore its thick stone walls, ancient battlements, and learn about its storied past. You can also find the statue of King William III, commemorating his land at Carrickfergus on June 14, 1690. You’ll have the option to pay for entry and explore the castle or for those who prefer to stay outside, the castle’s surroundings offer plenty of charm and photo opportunities, along with a chance to grab a coffee to start your journey. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (Viewpoint Only) Stop at the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, where you’ll enjoy a stunning viewpoint overlooking the 75-foot chasm that separates the mainland from Carrick Island. While the bridge itself is not crossed on this tour, the viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the cliffs, the surrounding coastline, and the vibrant blue sea below. It’s a perfect spot for photography of the Northern Irish coastline. The Dark Hedges (Lunch Stop) Next, we visit The Dark Hedges, a tunnel of hauntingly beautiful beech trees planted over 300 years ago. Fans of HBO’s Game of Thrones will instantly recognize this as the Kingsroad, where Arya Stark made her daring escape from King’s Landing. Even if you’re not familiar with the show, the beautiful setting makes for an incredible photo opportunity. While here, enjoy a delicious lunch at the nearby Hedges Hotel. Whether you’re fuelling up for the rest of the journey or simply relaxing, this stop combines great food with unforgettable scenery. Dunluce Castle This medieval fortress perched on a cliff overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean is one of the most breathtaking views on the tour. Dunluce is also famously known to Game of Thrones fans as the House of Greyjoy. The castle has a history as wild and stormy as its setting. Tales of betrayal, intrigue, and tragedy surround this site, which has inspired countless legends and writers. You’ll have the option to pay for entry and explore the castle or admire the ruins from the outside. Either way, this stop offers a spectacular backdrop for photos. Giant’s Causeway Our tour’s highlight is the legendary Giant’s Causeway, often called the 8th wonder of the world. This unique natural formation features around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns created by volcanic activity 60 million years ago. However, local folklore tells a different tale, crediting the mythical Celtic warrior Finn McCool with building the Causeway to confront a Scottish giant Benandonner. Whether you’re a fan of science or legends, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see. After an unforgettable day, we’ll head back to Belfast, arriving around 6:00 PM.

Depart Belfast from outside Leonardo's Hotel on Great Victoria Street and travel along the coast road, enjoying one of the most scenic drives in Europe. Experiencing some of the most beautiful scenery Ireland has to offer, as you drive through the Glens of Antrim with its many quaint little villages and towns. Your first stop of the day will be in the quaint little village of Carnlough (30 mins). See its snug and compact harbor, which serves as the central hub of the village. The village has coffee shops and a store for anyone wanting to buy food to take with them for their journey. After leaving Carnlough, continue along the coast and through the Glens of Antrim with its outstanding natural views and scenery. Learn the history, myths, and legends of the small towns and villages along the route. The next stop of the day will be at Portaneevy viewpoint (15 mins) with its breathtaking scenery. Look down onto Carrick a Rede rope bridge, built by local fishermen to cross to a small island to land their catch of salmon. From Portaneevy, you will also see a few of the Scottish islands, the Isles of Isla, and the Mull of Kintrye Leaving Portaneevy, we will continue along the coast road with its magnificent views at Balintoy and White Park Bay. Our next stop of the day will be at "The Giants Causeway" (1 hour 45 mins), with its 40,000 interlocking basalt columns said to have been formed by a volcanic eruption over 60 million years ago. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must see experience. Walk in the footsteps of giants and be amazed by this unique rock formation while learning about the myths and legends about the Causeway. A short distance from the Causeway is our next stop of the day at Dunluce Castle (10 mins). Dunluce Castle was built in the 14th century on a large basalt rock and is only accessible via a small bridge from the mainland. The castle is said to be the most romantic medieval castle in Ireland. Be amazed at the beautiful scenery surrounding the castle while being transported back in time. After leaving the castle, we will make the short journey to the Bushmills Whiskey Distillery (35 mins). Bushmills is the oldest licensed distillery in the world, granted its license in 1608. Visit the gift shop and sample some of the whiskeys for sale at the distillery bar. Afterward, make the short journey to the Dark Hedges, made famous by the H.B.O series the Game of Thrones. Then, travel inland back to Belfast arriving at the departure point at around 4.30pm.

Giant's Causeway Tour:  Your adventure begins at 9:00 AM from Belfast City Hall, Donegal Square West. Carrickfergus Castle Kick off the day with a visit to Carrickfergus Castle, a remarkably well-preserved Norman castle built in 1177. Explore its ancient walls, battlements, and learn about its history of enduring sieges. You can opt to explore inside (entry fee applies) or enjoy the charming surroundings and grab a coffee. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (Viewpoint Only) Stop at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge viewpoint, offering breathtaking coastal views of the 75-foot chasm below. While crossing the bridge isn’t included, the dramatic scenery is perfect for photos. The Dark Hedges (Lunch Stop) Visit the iconic Dark Hedges, a hauntingly beautiful tunnel of beech trees, known as the Kingsroad from Game of Thrones. Enjoy lunch at the nearby Hedges Hotel while soaking in the atmospheric scenery. Dunluce Castle Admire Dunluce Castle, a cliffside medieval ruin famed for its dramatic history and its appearance as the House of Greyjoy in Game of Thrones. Choose to explore inside (entry fee applies) or enjoy stunning views from the outside. Giant’s Causeway The highlight of the tour is the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at its 40,000 basalt columns formed 60 million years ago, or dive into the legend of Finn McCool, the mythical builder of the Causeway. Belfast City Tour 1 Day Pass: This Belfast hop on hop off bus tour provides you with a comprehensive look at this special city and allows you to explore every area with 19 stops around the city. The tour operates seven days per week and tickets are valid for 2 days. If you decide not to hop off on the route the tour will take approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.  Some of the attractions where there are stops include Titanic Belfast (Discounts available), Crumlin Road Jail, HMS Caroline, Queens University, Botanic Gardens and the political wall murals.