Things to do in Ballycastle

No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Northern Ireland

The Dark Hedges

The Dark Hedges is a country road famous for its ancient beech trees, lined with rows of tall trees whose trunks stretch upward and branches intertwine overhead to form a natural arched canopy. The layered branches and leaves filter the sunlight, casting shifting patterns of light and shadow on the road to create a deep, unique view. The surrounding area, characterized by green meadows, farmland, and a rural setting, provides a stark contrast to the dense trees. The hedges were planted by the Stuart family, and as the trees grew, their branches gradually extended toward the center of the road, forming the iconic tree tunnel seen today.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Ballycastle

Carrick-a-Rede - National Trust

Carrick-a-Rede - National Trust is located near the village of Ballintoy and is a rope bridge connecting the coast of Ireland to Carrick-a-Rede island. The bridge spans a narrow channel between coastal cliffs, with a total length of about 20m and a height of about 30m above the sea below. The bridge deck is paved with wooden planks and features rope handrails on both sides. Beneath the bridge, you can see rocks, seawater, and steep coastal terrain, creating a distinctive coastal view. Its surroundings are characterized by rugged rocky coasts, green grassy slopes, and expansive ocean views. This is both a coastal attraction with a traditional fishing background and a sightseeing spot for experiencing the rope bridge and enjoying natural scenery.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Causeway Coast and Glens

Giant's Causeway

The Giant's Causeway is located on a headland on the edge of the Antrim Plain in Northern Ireland, about 3 kilometers from Bushmere. The 8-kilometer-long causeway under the cliff gets its name from the tens of thousands of densely-shaped stone pillars that appear to have been hewn by hand, lining up to form spectacular basalt columns. Forest. It is an unmissable natural wonder in Northern Ireland and was listed as a World Natural Heritage by UNESCO in 1986. According to legend, the formation of the Stone Pillar Forest "The Giant's Causeway" originated from the war between giants, and some people say that the "Giant's Causeway" comes from the footprints left by the giants chasing their lovers. According to the conclusion of scientific research conducted by geologists over the years, the structure of these stone pillars was formed by the continuous eruption of active volcanoes in the Tertiary period. . A splendid picture that merges with the sea Now, you can walk along the magnificent Giant's Causeway and get a close look at it. Most of the stone pillars are about 0.45 meters wide and have a hexagonal shape. They undulate and extend in an orderly manner, reflecting the roaring north wind and stormy waves on the island of Ireland. Walking on this magical embankment and looking out at the sea is definitely a treat. The locals put coins into the rocks, which are said to bring good luck, so give it a try. The visitor center is located on the hill uphill from the scenic bus station. It is the visitor center of the Giant's Causeway. You can get the guide book and Chinese audio guide here. There are also multimedia introduction areas such as voice, audio and video in the service center, where you can see the formation process and current appearance of the Giant's Causeway. The coast is about a 10-minute walk from the ramp extending in front of the visitor center, but the slope is steep. You can also take a shuttle bus to the beach.

No. 5 of Best Things to Do in Causeway Coast and Glens

Causeway Coastal Route

The Antrim Coast Road passes through the valley floors of the following nine glens. The road winds closely along the coastline, offering endless views where mountains and sea embrace, and the scenery along the way is in no way inferior to the wonders of the Giant's Causeway. It is no exaggeration to say that "the journey is more enjoyable than the destination." From north to south, they are: Glentaisie, also known as the Valley of the Princess of Rathlin Glenshesk, the Sedge Glen Glendun, the Brown Glen Glencorp, the Glen of the Dead Glenann, the Glen of the Little Ford Glenballyeamon, the Glen of Edward's Town Glenariff, the Arable Glen, also known as the Queen of the Glens Glencloy, the Glen of the Hedges Glenarm, the Glen of the Army

No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Causeway Coast and Glens

Dunluce Castle

Dunluce Castle is located on the north coast of County Antrim, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, near the town of Bushmills, and sits on a basalt headland facing the Atlantic Ocean; it is a representative medieval castle ruin in Northern Ireland. It is connected to the mainland by a narrow stone bridge and is surrounded by steep cliffs and the open sea; the architectural ruins and the rugged coastline complement each other, creating a distinctive coastal view. It is characterized by its cliffside castle ruins, unique coastal location, and medieval architectural remains, and is also an important sightseeing spot along the Causeway Coastal Route.

Ballintoy Harbour

Ballintoy Harbour is a picturesque port, where the vast sea makes one marvel at its vibrant blue color, and the leisurely boats add a touch of charm. This is the port of the Iron Flinders Group in the TV series "Game of Thrones," attracting many fans to admire its beautiful coastline.

Portaneevy Car Park & Viewpoint

2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle stands atop a volcanic rock cliff at the end of the Royal Mile. For nearly a thousand years, it has served as a royal residence, military stronghold, and prison, bearing witness to Scotland's turbulent history. The castle brings together several iconic buildings and exhibition halls: St Margaret's Chapel, built in the twelfth century, is one of the earliest surviving stone structures in Edinburgh, and this Romanesque chapel still retains its medieval appearance; the One O'Clock Gun, in use since 1861, was originally fired to help calibrate time for ships in the Firth of Forth, a tradition that has continued for more than a hundred years and is one of the castle's most recognizable traditional features. In the Crown Room of the Royal Palace, the Honours of Scotland are displayed alongside the Stone of Destiny; this set of treasures, comprising a crown, a sceptre, and a sword of state, dates back to the sixteenth century and is an important symbol of Scottish sovereignty. The National War Museum on the west side of the castle uses uniforms, medals, and weapons to trace Scotland's centuries of military history. Looking north from the high ramparts of the castle, visitors can take in the magnificent sea views of the Firth of Forth; this is also an excellent spot for overlooking the skyline of Edinburgh's Old Town.

Dunseverick Castle

Kinbane Castle