My Ireland
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As you cruise along the rugged coastline of County Antrim, you’ll be greeted by a magnificent medieval structure perched high on a craggy headland: the legendary Dunluce Castle.
Though today Dunluce Castle is a ruin, its walls have played witness to a feud laden with romance, betrayal and tragedy between the McQuillan and MacDonnell clans. Whether you’re a history buff or someone who loves adventure, you’re in for a treat.
Dunluce Castle, County Antrim
Over its history, Dunluce Castle has witnessed some of Ireland's most tumultuous and violent periods. The castle’s main structure was built by the McQuillan clan in 1500 and was hotly contested by their rivals, Clan McDonnell, who eventually seized the prized location in the mid-1500s. With its past littered with bloody feuds, it's no surprise that over time, ghostly murmurings have emerged about Dunluce's lonely old ruins.
The most famous of these is the story of Maeve Roe, the daughter of Lord McQuillan. The tale goes that Maeve refused to marry her father’s chosen husband, as she was in love with another man. As punishment, Maeve was tossed into the castle’s tower and locked away until she changed her mind. With all hope lost, the young woman’s beloved launched a daring rescue, but upon their escape, the pair of soulmates were drowned in the waves at the nearby Mermaid’s Cave. Local legend says she can be seen still keeping watch in the tower, and her cries can be heard on stormy nights…
Giant's Causeway, County Antrim © Shutterstock
Fancy visiting the film locations of HBO's Game of Thrones® while you're in Northern Ireland? Then look no further than the beautiful avenue of warped beech trees, The Dark Hedges. Although more globally renowned as the filming location for the Kingsroad, the site is also reputedly haunted by a spectral Grey Lady.
A short drive away from Dunluce, you’ll find the world-famous Giant’s Causeway. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most distinctive sights on the island, with an impressive 40,000 basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption from around 60 million years ago.
And don't forget about the historic city of Belfast. From alternative art galleries and the spectacular Titanic Belfast, to the buzzy George’s Market (Fri-Sun), this is a place bursting with creativity!
Dunluce Castle © Shutterstock
Need to know: Dunluce Castle
Don't worry if you’re travelling from Belfast without a car, as Dunluce is accessible by public transport. You can also get a bespoke bus tour such as City Tours Belfast, The Giant’s Causeway Tour and Paddywagon Tours.
The castle can be visited daily between 9.30am and 5pm with last entrance at 4.30pm (though it closes at 4pm in December and January). There is a charge to visit, and no need to pre-book.
You can get a nice view of the castle from the nearby Magheracross Lookout and Picnic Area which has parking facilities. It also boasts lovely views of the coastal headlands.
If you have time, make sure to visit Portrush, which boasts lovely beaches and some excellent golf.
Another nearby attraction is Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge – a stunning walkway that links the mainland to a tiny island. Advanced booking is recommended.
Giant's Causeway
Flanked by the wild North Atlantic Ocean and a landscape of dramatic cliffs, the Giant's Causeway is a geological wonder and home to a wealth of history and legend. The 40,000 basalt stone columns left by volcanic eruptions 60 million years ago, has captured the imagination of all who see it.
Bushmills
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The Bushmills Inn
The Bushmills Inn is a luxury Hotel with an AA Rosette restaurant in the heart of Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast. One of Ireland’s most well known luxurious hotels, The Bushmills Inn boasts open turf fires, gas lights and hidden nooks & crannies.
Bushmills
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Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Carrick-a-Rede is one of Northern Ireland’s most loved attractions, cared for by the National Trust. Enjoy the stunning views along the Causeway Coastal Route; known for its incredible scenery and natural beauty.
Ballintoy
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Belfast City Hall
Completed in 1906, Belfast City Hall is a magnificent Baroque Revival 'wedding cake' built to reflect Belfast's city status, granted by Queen Victoria in 1888. The grounds are also used for many events from continental markets to open air concerts.
Belfast
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Ulster Museum
Ulster Museum is home to treasures past and present. There’s something for art lovers, history buffs, inquisitive kids and the culturally curious! For a fun family day out dive into the Discovery Centres: Discover Art, Discover History and Discover Nature, where you can try on costumes from the past, get hands-on with specimens and create your own art to take home.
Belfast
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SS Nomadic
Built in 1911, Nomadic provides the story of Titanic's little sister, the only tangible surviving link with the world's most famous ship and the last White Star Line vessel in the world.
Belfast
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Royal Portrush Golf Club
Founded in 1888, the legendary Royal Portrush Golf Club has two Championship Courses - the renowned Dunluce Course and the smaller, but equally enjoyable Valley Course. Proud Hosts of The 148th Open in 2019.
Portrush
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Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne
Mussenden Temple is located in the beautiful surroundings of Downhill Demesne near Castlerock in County Londonderry. Awe inspiring views, colourful gardens and woodland walks.
Castlerock
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