Antrim Coast Road

Bóthar Chósta Aontroim

A spectacular coastal drive connecting Belfast to Ballycastle, featuring dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches, and charming seaside villages. Often cited as one of the most scenic drives in the British Isles.

Things to do

• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge — Walk across this thrilling 20-metre-high rope bridge suspended between the mainland and a small island, offering breathtaking coastal views and access to a working salmon fishery.
• Giant's Causeway — Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring around 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns descending into the sea, one of Ireland's most iconic natural wonders.
• Dunluce Castle — Discover the dramatic ruins of this 13th-century castle perched on a cliff edge, with interactive exhibitions and panoramic views of the Antrim coastline.
• Bushmills Distillery Tour — Visit Ireland's oldest whiskey distillery (established 1608) for a guided tour followed by a tasting of their signature single malts.
• White Park Bay — Relax on this unspoiled sandy beach backed by rolling dunes, ideal for swimming, picnicking, or simply enjoying the wild coastal landscape.
• Cushendall Village Exploration — Wander through this charming Glens of Antrim village with its red sandstone buildings, local craft shops, and easy access to nearby glens and waterfalls.

Food to try

• Freshly Caught Seafood — Sample locally caught salmon, crab, and mussels prepared simply in coastal restaurants to showcase the region's pristine maritime bounty.
• Boxty — Try this traditional Irish potato pancake, often served with savory fillings or jam, commonly found in cafes along the coast.
• Wheaten Bread — Taste soda bread made with wholemeal flour, a dense and slightly sweet staple that pairs perfectly with local cheese and smoked fish.
• Ulster Champ — Enjoy this comfort food of mashed potatoes mixed with spring onions and butter, served as a hearty side dish in traditional restaurants.
• Bushmills Whiskey Cake — Indulge in locally-made desserts and confections infused with the region's famous whiskey, available in cafes and gift shops throughout the route.

Local customs & good to know

• Allow Extra Time for Scenic Stops — The 80-kilometre coastal drive typically takes 2-3 hours of driving alone, but visitors should allocate 6-8 hours to properly explore villages, hikes, and viewpoints.
• Respect Local Gaelic Traditions — Many villages and attractions use Irish language names alongside English; showing appreciation for the Gaelic heritage through attempting pronunciations is warmly received by locals.
• Plan Around Weather Changes — The coast experiences rapid weather shifts with frequent mist and wind; dress in layers and be prepared to postpone rope bridge or cliff-top activities if conditions deteriorate.
• Visit Major Sites Early or Late — Giant's Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede attract significant tour groups during midday; arriving before 10am or after 3pm provides a more intimate experience with fewer crowds.