THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Antrim

Things to do in antrim, explore popular experiences, tours in and around antrim.

best places to visit in antrim

Shore Excursion from Belfast: Including Giants Causeway and Belfast City.

best places to visit in antrim

6 Hours | Giants Causeway Express Tour

best places to visit in antrim

Giant’s Causeway Day Trip from Belfast

best places to visit in antrim

Private Giants Causeway & Coastal Tour from Belfast in Luxury Mercedes

best places to visit in antrim

2hours Belfast’s political war and peace private taxi tour

best places to visit in antrim

Giants Causeway, Rope Bridge, Carrickfergus Castle and Dark Hedges Tour

best places to visit in antrim

Game of Thrones and Giant's Causeway Full-Day Tour from Belfast

best places to visit in antrim

Giant's Causeway Tour Including Game of Thrones Locations

best places to visit in antrim

Cab Tours Belfast Famous Black Taxi Tours

best places to visit in antrim

Guided Day Tour of Giant's Causeway from Belfast by Comfortable Coach

Top attractions in antrim.

best places to visit in antrim

Other Top Attractions around Antrim

best places to visit in antrim

What travellers are saying

Eimear S

  • Antrim Castle Gardens
  • Antrim Lough Shore Park
  • Benvarden Gardens
  • Shanes Castle
  • Mill Race Trail
  • Murlough Bay
  • Antrim Library

Travel Around Ireland

Best Things to Do in Antrim, Northern Ireland (County Guide)

When it comes to great things to do, Antrim has it all. This beautiful county of Northern Ireland has everything from beaches and castles, to mountains, glens and some rather famous places. Discover the best things to do in Antrim to help you plan your time in this lovely pocket of Ireland.

Antrim Coast Road

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Antrim is home to some of the best places to visit in Ireland . Home to the Antrim Coast Road, the Causeway Coast and one of Ireland’s natural wonders , the Giant’s Causeway, Antrim is gaining in popularity thanks to these and other great places to visit in the county. If you have never been to Antrim and are considering visiting this beautiful corner of Ireland, then this post is for you.

In this county guide for Antrim in Northern Ireland, I am not only sharing with you some of the best things to do in Antrim, but I’ll also give you some facts about County Antrim and tell you the best places to stay near each Antrim attraction where applicable.

Best things to do in Antrim, Northern Ireland

In this guide, you will find the top things to do in County Antrim, a county in Northern Ireland that has so much to offer those visiting. From the capital of Belfast to famous filming locations and some stunning landscapes, it can often seem like Antrim has it all.

Giant’s Causeway

One of the most famous tourist attractions in County Antrim is the Giant’s Causeway. Found along the famous Causeway Coast, this geological wonder of Ireland is one of the most popular Antrim tourist attractions and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Although the famous hexagonal rock formations were formed 60 million years ago when a thick layer of molten basaltic lava cooled, hardened and contracted to leave behind the five-, six- and seven-sided columns we see today, there is a legend behind the Giant’s Causeway. Antrim was home to a giant named Finn McCool who built the bridge in order to reach Scotland to fight the Scottish giant Benandonner. The Scottish giant pursued Finn back across the causeway, but he took fright and fled back to Scotland, ripping up the bridge as he went. What remains of the bridge can be found at the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland and Staffa in Scotland, which has similar rock formations.

There is a Visitor’s Centre which has information about the Causeway and the rocks. Guided tours leave from here and you can also pick up an audio guide from the centre to listen to as you explore the area. The causeway is a short 10 to 15-minute walk from the Visitor’s Centre. There are several different areas to discover and not far from the Causeway is Port na Spaniagh or Bay of the Spaniards that has an interesting story.

The Giant’s Causeway is located 8 miles from Portrush and there is a seasonal hop on hop off bus link or you could take the number 172 from Portrush. If you are arriving by car, there is a car park which is payable, although only available as a combined ticket with entry to the Visitor’s centre. Parking-only tickets are not available. As this is one of the best places to visit in Antrim, it gets extremely busy so arrive early or go midweek and out-of-season to avoid the crowds.

Take a guided tour of the Giant’s Causeway from Belfast. Book your tour here .

Stay at the Causeway Hotel. Find latest prices and availability here .

A picture of the Giant's Causeway with blue skies above it

Dunluce Castle

Of the best things to see in Antrim, Dunluce Castle is another found on the Causeway Coast. This ruined castle sits on top of sheer basalt cliffs and is reached via a narrow bridge from the mainland.

Dating from the 15 th century, this was once the seat of the MacDonnell family, with Randall MacDonnell becoming the first Earl of Antrim in 1620. The round towers and outer walls date from 1480.

There is a Visitor’s Centre at the entrance to the castle from where you can take guided tours running at 11am and 2pm daily. In the castle complex, you can visit remaining guest lodgings, stables, a brewhouse and in the remains of the 17 th -century Manor house, you can even see the huge fireplaces and staircase supports. There is also a discovery room where you can view excavation finds.

Dunluce Castle is located just 3.5 miles from Portrush and you can also reach the castle via a leisurely stroll from Portrush along the coast which is 5 miles long. You can download the free Dunluce Castle app for an audio tour with computer-generated images of how the castle once looked to use as you explore the ruins. For the best views of the cliff-top castle, stop at the Magheracross car park, 750 metres west of Dunluce.

Book a tour from Belfast to visit the Game of Thrones filming locations which include a stop at Dunluce Castle. See this tour and get the latest prices and availability here .

Stay in the Inn on the Coast Hotel for easy access to Dunluce. See the latest prices and availability here .

A picture of the ruins of Dunluce Castle on the Causeway Coast in Antrim with sunlight bathing it and the sea in the background

Belfast City and the Titanic Quarter

Belfast City is another great thing to do in Antrim. However, people often get confused asking is Belfast in Antrim or Down. The River Lagan is the border between Antrim and Down, and the original town of Belfast was located north of the River Lagan which runs through it. Therefore, it was classed as being in Antrim. However, like many cities, it grew and as a result sprawled across the river into County Down. Today part of the city lies in Antrim and part of it is Down.

Belfast has a wealth of things to do and see and is becoming a popular tourist destination in Ireland as it reinvents itself after the Troubles. Old shipyards on the banks of the Lagan have given way to the modern Titanic Quarter, while the area around St Anne’s Cathedral has become a cultural and creative hotspot, far from its once run-down and derelict appearance. Queen’s Quarter around the university is a bustling and vibrant part of the city thanks to its large student population.

In terms of family-friendliness, it is worth visiting Belfast as a family as there are lots of things to keep even the youngest members of the family entertained.

Belfast highlights for visitors include Titanic Belfast where you can learn about the ill-fated liner, the Ulster Museum and the Botanic Gardens. Another thing that is popular with visitors to the city is to take a Black cab tour to view the political murals across the city.

No matter what your interests, Belfast has something for everyone and is also a great place to start a full tour of Ireland.

Find out more about the Black cab tour of the political murals and book one here .

Get your Titanic Trail tickets here . Or book your Titanic Experience here .

And if you are looking for hotel recommendations, why not check out the Titanic Hotel or the Merchant Hotel .

A picture of the exterior of the Titanic Belfast building

Old Bushmills Distillery

Another one of the top tourist attractions in Antrim is the Old Bushmills Distillery, found in the town of Bushmills. The distillery is located just a short 10-minute drive from the Giant’s Causeway, making it an ideal location to visit after the causeway.

As the world’s oldest licensed distillery, Bushmills has been making whiskey for over 400 years, surviving fires and World Wars. Their whiskey is made with Irish barley and water from the St Columb’s Rill tributary of the Bush River. The whiskey is matured in oak barrels and single malts of 10, 16 and 21 years are produced along with the Original and Black bush varieties of the whiskey.

The distillery offers tours and children over the age of 8 years of age are permitted. Visitors can learn about the history of the distillery and whiskey-making, and those over the age of 18 can taste some of the whiskeys at the end of the tour. Bushmills is one of the best Irish distilleries to visit.

Book a combined Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills Distillery tour from Belfast and let someone else do the driving. Find out more and book your tour here .

Stay in the Causeway Hotel near the Giant’s Causeway, just an 8-minute drive from the distillery. This is a great place to stay if you are visiting both sites and want accommodation close to both. Book this hotel here .

A picture of the exterior of the Old Bushmills Distillery in Antrim

Games of Thrones Locations

One thing this county of Ireland has become famous for is the locations in which the TV series Game of Thrones was filmed. These include the Dark Hedges. Antrim provided quite a few filming locations and the Dark Hedges is the one that attracts the most visitors.

The mystical landscape of this corner of Ireland, with its unique rock formations, wooded glens and ruined castles made it the perfect backdrop for the TV series. Tour operators from Belfast run daily tours to the filming locations which include:

  • The Dark Hedges – Planted in the 18 th century to line the route to a Georgian mansion, these gnarled, entwined beech trees have become a Northern Ireland attraction in their own rights thanks to them doubling up for the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones. With its growing popularity, non-essential traffic is banned from the road, but there is nearby parking if you are visiting the Dark Hedges.
  • Portstewart Strand – This wide sandy beach was used to film scenes of the Dorne coast in the TV series. It lies just over 4 miles west of Portrush.
  • Ballintoy Harbour – located roughly halfway between the Giant’s Causeway and Ballycastle, this picturesque village was used as the location for scenes on Pyke and the Iron Islands.
  • Fair Head and Murlough Bay – Murlough Bay, located 6 miles east of Ballycastle, was used as Slaver’s Bay where Tyrion Lannister and Ser Jorah Mormont are discovered and captured. The cliffs above are where Renly and Stannis parleyed. And the nearby headland of Fair Head was used in scenes in several episodes.
  • Larrybane Quarry – Located close to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, this disused quarry was used to film scenes for Renly Baratheon’s camp in Stormlands and also for the Kingsmoot in the Iron Islands.
  • Cushendun Caves – 12 miles southeast of Ballycastle you will find the Cushendun Caves which is where the scenes of the red priestess, Melisandre, gives birth to a shadow creature.

These and more locations are a big reason why people come to visit Antrim.

Visit some of these and other Game of Thrones filming locations on a tour from Belfast. Click here to find out more and see the latest prices and availability.

A picture of the famous Dark Hedges in Antrim, a road covered with entwined beech trees

The Glens of Antrim

Once the wildest and most remote part of Ulster, the 9 Glens of Antrim is a region of the county between Cushendun and Glenarm where nine rivers carved deep valleys through the Antrim Mountains towards the sea. Hence their name “the Glens of Antrim”.

They have been made more accessible by the Antrim Coast Road (see further on) and are an Area of Outstanding Beauty. Each of the nine glens is stunning and with wooden forest, rivers and waterfalls, it is easy to see why people flock here. One of the most popular is Glenariff whose waterfalls in the Glenariff Forest Park Trails are worth visiting.

Glens of Antrim Map (with Game of Thrones filming locations)

Visit the Glens of Antrim on a full Northern Ireland coastal tour from Belfast. Find more information, latest prices and availability and book it by clicking here .

A picture of a waterfall in the Glenariff Forest Park in Antrim, Northern Ireland

Rathlin Island

Less than 4 miles off the coast at Ballycastle lies Rathlin Island. A rugged, L-shaped island it is home to seals and thousands of nesting birds in spring and summer. There are around 150 residents who make a living from farming, fishing and tourism.

Rathlin Island is almost tree-less thanks to the salty winds that roll off the Atlantic Ocean. High white cliffs encircle most of the island. It is also home to Bruce’s Cave, said to have been where the Scottish hero Robert Bruce watched a spider spinning a web in 1306 after fleeing Scotland following defeat at the hands of the English king. The perseverance of the spider inspired Bruce to return to Scotland and win back his kingdom.

Rathlin Island has some spectacular walking routes and the Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre offers amazing views of neighbouring sea stacks where nesting birds come to breed. There is also an exhibit on the marine life and history of Rathlin in the lighthouse tower.

To reach Rathlin you need to take a ferry from Ballycastle. Note that only residents can drive onto Rathlin Island but nowhere on the island is more than one and a half hour’s walk from the ferry terminal. Daily sailings are available but advanced booking is essential. There are a few guesthouses and hostels on the island if you want to stay overnight.

For a guided walking tour of Rathlin by a local, click here where you can find more information, prices and availability.

You can stay in Ballycastle for visiting Rathlin Island. Check into the Carnately Lodge B&B. See the latest prices and availability for this B&B here .

A picture of buildings at the harbour side on Rathlin Island, Antrim with a green grassy hill in the background

Carrickfergus Castle

If you are wondering what to do in County Antrim, then a visit to Northern Ireland’s most impressive medieval fortress is a must. Located just 11 miles from Belfast in the town of the same name, this impressive castle stands overlooking the harbour. Originating in the 12 th century and built by John de Courcy after his 1177 invasion of Ulster, Carrickfergus Castle is one of the finest and best-preserved Norman castles in Ireland.

The walls of the outer ward date back to the 13 th century while visitors can also see the 17th-century red-brick gun ports. The castle keep houses a museum and there are life-sized figures dotted around the castle illustrating the castle’s history.

Carrickfergus Castle is a National Monument and is one of the best places in Antrim to visit if you love history.

Visit Carrickfergus Castle and three other castles, as well as the Glens of Antrim, Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge in one day trip from Belfast. Click here for more information, the latest prices and availability .

If you are looking to stay in Carrickfergus, then check out Walter’s Place B&B. Find the latest prices and availability here .

A picture of Carrickfergus Castle at the shoreline bathed in golden sunlight with blue skies overhead

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Another one of the top places to visit in Antrim is Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Located on the Causeway Coast just over 1 mile east of the town of Ballintoy, this hair-raising experience will test your nerves.

First erected by fishermen in 1755, the rope bridge hangs 30m (100ft) above the waves of the Atlantic Ocean and is by no means steady, swaying and twisting as soon as you step foot on it. The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is made from planks of wood strung between wires and provides access to the tiny island of Carrick-a-Rede. The bridge stretches across the 20m (65-ft) chasm, hence not being for the faint-hearted.

The National Trust who manage and operate the bridge has introduced a ticketed timed system due to the growing popularity of this Northern Ireland attraction. Arrive early or pre-book your tickets to avoid long queues or worse still, disappointment. There is on-site parking, a gift shop, guided tours are available and there is a small cafe.

The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is included in many daily tours from Belfast including this one , or you can visit it yourself.

Or how about a kayak tour under the bridge. Discover more about this activity and how to book it here .

You can either stay in Ballycastle (see above accommodation recommendation) or near the Giant’s Causeway to visit the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.

A picture of the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge on the Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland

The Northern Ireland Antrim Coast is a stunning part of the country and the A2 follows much of it. There is a very scenic section in Antrim that has earned it the name of the Antrim Coast Road. It is regarded as one of the best tourist routes in the world thanks to the many amazing places to visit along its route.

Running for 25 miles from Larne to the Red Arch near Cushendall, the Antrim Coast Road passes through the villages of Ballygalley, Glenarm, Carnlough and Waterfoot. Completed in 1842 it was built in order to make the Glens more accessible. Take care if driving it yourself as it is a single-lane two-way road that hugs the coast along some hairy sections. Summer is a busy time on this road, so if you want to enjoy it to the full, avoid this time of year to visit it.

A picture of a road following a coastline, which is the Antrim Coast Road in Northern Ireland

Things to know about County Antrim

If you’ve never visited Antrim and would like to know more about it, this section has some information about the county.

Where is Antrim? – If you are still wondering where is County Antrim, it is in the top northeast corner of the island of Ireland. It is part of Northern Ireland and stretches from the northeast shore of Lough Neagh east to Belfast and northwest to Derry.

County Antrim facts :

  • Antrim comes from the Irish word ‘aontroim’ which means lone ridge.
  • The county covers an area of 3.046 square kilometres (1,176 square miles) and the population of County Antrim is approximately 618,000.
  • It is one of the six counties of Northern Ireland which is a part of the United Kingdom, but one of 32 counties found on the island of Ireland. Read this post to understand why these 6 counties are not a part of the Republic of Ireland.
  • It is only one of two counties in Ireland where the majority of the population are from a Protestant religious background. The other is County Down.
  • The majority of Belfast is located in County Antrim, with the other proportion located in County Down.

Notable cities and towns in County Antrim – Major cities in Antrim include Belfast and Lisburn while other towns include Larne, Ballycastle, Portrush, Antrim town, Newtownabbey, Ballymena, Carrickfergus and Bushmills.

Weather in Antrim – The weather in County Antrim is much like most places in Ireland. Summer has longer days with temperatures reaching around 20C, while winter is dark and cold with short days. Rainfall is common throughout the year. Temperatures in Antrim can be lower on average than parts of southern Ireland thanks to the winds that blow in from the Atlantic Ocean along the coast. To find out more about the weather in Ireland and the best time of year to visit Ireland, read this post .

Famous people from Antrim – Antrim has produced its fair share of famous people including James Adair, an 18th-century explorer, trader and historian. TV and film stars include James Nesbitt and Liam Neeson and famous sportspeople from County Antrim include Joey Dunlop (1952-2000, Isle of Man TT motorcycle racer), Geoff Wylie (darts) and Tony McCoy (jockey).

I hope this post has given you a glimpse into what to do in Antrim if you are thinking of visiting. It has some of the most popular tourist attractions in Northern Ireland along with a stunningly beautiful landscape.

If you don’t want to drive yourself, then consider these Northern Ireland tours from both Belfast and Dublin:

  • Visit the Dark Hedges, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Giant’s Causeway from Belfast. Learn more about this tour and book it here .
  • Visit all the main Game of Thrones filming locations in Antrim on a premium tour. Find out about this tour and book it here .
  • Take a 2-day tour of Northern Ireland from Dublin visiting Belfast and the Giant’s Causeway. Click here to see more and book this tour .
  • Day trip from Dublin taking in the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Giant’s Causeway and Belfast. See this tour and book it here .

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A post about the best things to do in Antrim, Northern Ireland

Top Things to Do in Antrim, County Antrim - Antrim Attractions

Things to do in antrim, explore popular experiences, tours in and around antrim.

best places to visit in antrim

Shore Excursion from Belfast: Including Giants Causeway and Belfast City.

best places to visit in antrim

6 Hours | Giants Causeway Express Tour

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Giant’s Causeway Day Trip from Belfast

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best places to visit in antrim

2hours Belfast’s political war and peace private taxi tour

best places to visit in antrim

Giants Causeway, Rope Bridge, Carrickfergus Castle and Dark Hedges Tour

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Cab Tours Belfast Famous Black Taxi Tours

best places to visit in antrim

Guided Day Tour of Giant's Causeway from Belfast by Comfortable Coach

Top attractions in antrim.

best places to visit in antrim

Other Top Attractions around Antrim

best places to visit in antrim

What travellers are saying

Eimear S

  • Antrim Castle Gardens
  • Antrim Lough Shore Park
  • Benvarden Gardens
  • Shanes Castle
  • Mill Race Trail
  • Murlough Bay
  • Antrim Library

The 6 Best Things to See in County Antrim, Northern Ireland

County Antrim is one of the 6 counties in Northern Ireland, and it’s also the most populated. 

The question is: What are the best things to see in County Antrim?

Well, that’s exactly what you’re going to see in this guide as we’ll be showcasing the best things to see in Country Antrim Northern Ireland. 

A little bit about County Antrim

County Antrim is the most populated of the 6 counties in Northern Ireland, and the most visited too. The county spans over 3,046 square km (1,176 square miles), or 2 times the size of Los Angeles.

The two major cities in County Antrim are Belfast (Northern Ireland capital city) and Lisburn. The county has plenty of incredible locations to discover: stunning medieval castles, high cliffs, green valleys, and quaint cities. 

Where is County Antrim?

County Antrim is located on the northeast side of Northern Ireland

best places to visit in antrim

The county is situated north of County Down, and east of County Derry/Londonderry.

The 6 Best Things to See in County Antrim Ireland

I loved exploring Derry/Londonderry because it’s literally filled with beautiful buildings and interesting things to see. If you have plenty of time, simply go walk in the streets , and you’ll be sure to discover epic places.

If you are traveling to Northern Ireland, and want to know the very best things to see in County Antrim, here’s the full list of the 6 best things to see:

  • The Giant’s Causeway
  • Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge
  • Dunluce Castle
  • The Dark Hedges
  • The Glens of Antrim

So there you have them, the 6 best places to visit in County Antrim Ireland. You’ll find below more information about each place, including photos, to help you decide if you should add these places to your list of places to see.

1. The Giant’s Causeway

The first item on this list had to be the Giant’s Causeway: it’s the most visited place in Northern Ireland and blows the mind of thousands of people on a daily basis (more than 2,500 per day to be precise).

The Giant’s Causeway is a natural marvel, created more than 50 million years ago by an absolutely massive lava burst. The lava cooled down, and formed unique patterns, as you can see on the photo below:

best places to visit in antrim

These hexagonal shapes are all over the Giant’s Causeway: in fact, there are over 50,000 pillars like this, all made of basalt.

In addition to these basalt columns, you’ll also find unique shapes in the Giant’s Causeway: the Camel, the Wishing Chair and the Chimney Tops are some of the formations you can see there.

As stated above, the Giant’s Causeway is a popular spot in County Antrim, and it attracts a lot of visitors every day. If you want the best experience of this place, I highly recommend waking up early and going to explore the Causeway for sunrise, or at least early in the day. This will ensure you have the place for yourself, and you’ll be free to enjoy it without the crowds.

Pro tip: contrary to what the signs and websites say, the Giant’s Causeway is free to visit. You don’t have to pay to visit the Giant’s Causeway: simply go around the visitor center, and you’ll be able to walk down to the spot. The entry fee is only for access to the visitor center, or to use the main parking (there are other parking spots nearby)

Learn more about the Giant’s Causeway here: Giant’s Causeway travel guide  

2. Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge

Picture this: planks of wood, tied together by thick ropes, dangling 30 meters above the sea, connecting mainland Northern Ireland and a tiny island. Looks pretty epic, right? Well, that’s exactly how Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge looks like.

best places to visit in antrim

This rope bridge is located on the north coast of County Antrim, and only a 15-minute drive away from the Giant’s Causeway. 

To see the rope bridge, you have different options: from afar or from up close.

If you go to the Portaneevy car park, you’ll have a view of Carrick-a-Rede from a distance. From this point of view, you’ll see the location in its totality, with the rope bridge and the island. You’ll have the best sense of scale, with the tiny rope bridge, the tiny people crossing it, and you’ll see the full island too.

best places to visit in antrim

From up close

The second option is to see the rope bridge from up close. To get this view, simply follow the path that leads to the rope bridge, and right before reaching the bridge, take a right at the fork. This will lead you to the main viewpoint, where you’ll have the best view of the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.

If you want to take it one step further, you can actually walk on the bridge, and cross to the Carrick-a-Rede island. If you’d like to cross the bridge, you’ll have to purchase a ticket (£9 for adults / £4.5 for children). I highly recommend booking your tickets online in advance, as it can get quite crowded, and only a fixed amount of visitors can cross each hour.

Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland, and the majority of the city is in County Antrim. The rest of the city is in County Down. No visit to County Antrim and Northern Ireland would be complete without visiting Belfast.

The city is a delight of ancient architecture, and you’re sure to stumble upon many stunning buildings while exploring the streets.

best places to visit in antrim

The Belfast city hall is the most beautiful piece of architecture in the city, and it’s truly stunning from every angle. If you have time, I recommend stepping into the building, which will surprise you with its beauty. 

Once in the city hall neighborhood, simply wander the streets, get lost in the city and you’ll discover many gems.

best places to visit in antrim

Here are a few locations you can look for:

  • Bittles Bar
  • Albert Memorial Clock
  • Saint Anne Cathedral 

Belfast is also famous for its succulent food, and of course the nightlife. Enter a restaurant for the night, then visit an authentic saloon for the full experience.

best places to visit in antrim

Read also: Belfast with kids

4- Dunluce Castle

Have you ever dreamt of medieval castles? Well, then you will absolutely enjoy Dunluce Castle! Built in 1500 by Scottish mercenaries, the castle has since changed hands quite often. The castle is now in ruins, but to be honest it still looks quite impressive. 

The castle is very close to the Giant’s Causeway, it’s only a 10 minutes drive.

best places to visit in antrim

You can see the castle from different angles along the coast, and even from up close like in the picture above. If you have time, you can also visit the castle. 

The castle is connected to the mainland by a stone bridge, that you will cross in order to enter the castle. It feels amazing to explore the castle from inside and to be surrounded by the massive stone walls. Below the castle, there is a massive cave named « Mermaid’s Cave ». You can also visit it, by taking the steps all the way down. 

To visit the castle, you’ll have to purchase a ticket (£5.5 for adults / £3.5 for children). 

5. The Dark Hedges

The Dark Hedges is a very tiny spot on the Ireland map, yet it attracts an incredible number of visitors every year; it’s even the most photographed spot in Northern Ireland.

What exactly is « the Dark Hedges »? It’s the driveway to a house. Doesn’t sound exciting right? Well, what’s impressive is that the owner of the land wanted to make his house even more magnificent, and planted more than 150 beech trees in the driveway. The result? It now looks like an epic tunnel of trees, straight out of a fantasy movie.

best places to visit in antrim

It looks so much out of a fantasy movie that the Game of Thrones series used the Dark Hedges as a filming location in Season 2 (Kingsroad in the series). The appearance in the very famous series has skyrocketed the popularity of the Dark Hedges.

You don’t have to pay anything to visit the Dark Hedges; it’s simply a road, that everyone can access. Due to its popularity, the road has now been closed to public traffic, but you can walk there.

6. The Glens of Antrim

The last item on this list of 6 best things to see in County Antrim is the Glens of Antrim. The Glens of Antrim, also called The Glens, is one of the most beautiful regions of County Antrim, and you could spend months exploring the region.

The name comes from the Irish « glen », meaning « Valley ». The Glens of Antrim is a vast region made of 9 valleys in the north of the county. 

The 9 Glens are:

  • Glenaan: valley of the burial chamber
  • Glenariff: valley of the arable valley
  • Glenballyeamon: valley of Eamonn’s town
  • Glenarm: valley of the army
  • Glencloy: valley of the sword
  • Glencorp: valley of the body
  • Glendun: valley of the river Dun
  • Glenshesk: barren valley
  • Glentaisie: damp valley

The Glens of Antrim have been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency. 

When you visit the Glens, you’ll understand why Ireland is named the Green country.

More ideas for your County Antrim trip

Have you already visited all of these 6 best spots in County Antrim? Or do you simply want more ideas of spots to explore? I’ve got you covered! You’ll find below more ideas for what to visit in County Antrim:

  • Rathlin Island
  • Dunseverick Castle
  • Slemish Mountain

I hope you enjoy your trip to County Antrim and Northern Ireland ! 

If you have any questions, let me know on social media, I always reply.

Keep reading:

  • Here’s why you need to visit Ireland next
  • Best things to do in Ireland

Contributing members are responsible for the accuracy of content contributed to A World to Travel.

Top Things to Do in Antrim, County Antrim

Places to visit in antrim, explore popular experiences, tours in and around antrim.

best places to visit in antrim

Shore Excursion from Belfast: Including Giants Causeway and Belfast City.

best places to visit in antrim

6 Hours | Giants Causeway Express Tour

best places to visit in antrim

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best places to visit in antrim

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  • Antrim Castle Gardens
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best places to visit in antrim

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best places to visit in antrim

Giant's Causeway Tour Including Game of Thrones Locations

best places to visit in antrim

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best places to visit in antrim

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Top attractions in antrim.

best places to visit in antrim

Other Top Attractions around Antrim

best places to visit in antrim

What travellers are saying

Eimear S

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Antrim coast guide: things to do, best walks and places to stay

One of the UK’s most amazing shorelines sets the scene for epic adventures both real and fantastical. Delve into the history of Northern Ireland’s stunning Antrim and Causeway Coast and discover its Game of Thrones treasures, best walks and places to stay with our travel guide.

Martin Fletcher

The rugged edge of Antrim, with its remote glens, sheer cliffs, tiny fishing villages, pristine beaches and colourful history, is one of the world’s more stunning and least spoiled coastlines.

Discover all this and more with our guide to Northern Ireland's Antrim coast.

Giants Causeway in County Antrim, Northern Ireland

Why visit the Antrim coast?

Northern Ireland has seen tourism boom over the past two decades. The Giant’s Causeway’s basalt majesty is world famous, and another magnet lures visitors to these parts: Game of Thrones fans want to see where the hit TV series was filmed. Among other sites, viewers flock to the dramatic Dark Hedges, a tunnel of overarching beech trees that star as the Kingsroad on screen; to the precipitous ruins of Dunluce Castle to see the real-life Castle Greyjoy; and to Ballintoy’s attractive harbour, the fictional setting for Lordsport in the Iron Islands.

The coastline is dotted with harbour villages and seaside towns with inlets and mooring spots. The seascape looks across to Scotland’s west coast, over sandy beaches that are so inviting it’s hard to keep going. The turquoise water and magnificent waves make it look out of place on a map of the UK. California, eat your heart out.

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History of the Antrim coast

The 11th Earl of Antrim lived in Glenarm Castle on the coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland. His favourite spot was a hilltop behind his pepperpot-chimneyed pile with spectacular views across the sea to Scotland. He loved that glorious panorama so much that he asked to be buried on the hilltop, in an upright position, so he could continue posthumously to savour it.

The Buzzard, as he was known, died in 1918. His pallbearers duly staggered three miles uphill with his corpse. Unfortunately they were so exhausted by the time they reached the top that they inserted the coffin upside down – or so the story goes.

Ballycastle, Northern Ireland

Things to do on the Antrim coast

The Antrim coast is packed with things to see and do. Starting mid way up Northern Ireland's east coast, our list of recommended sites follows the coast north then west towards Londonderry.

The Gobbins

Gobbins Cliff Top Walkway in Northern Ireland

In the late 1800s, the Belfast and Northern Counties Railway Company built a line out here from Belfast. To lure day-trippers, it designed a spectacular one-and-a half-mile walkway along a cliff face above the churning waves. Blasted from sheer basalt, the path led through tunnels, past caves and over chasm-spanning bridges. Opened in 1902, the Gobbins was a huge success until it fell into disrepair during the Second World War.

Larne, Northern Ireland

Head north and you will reach Larne and the Ulster-American memorial. This statue of a bible-clutching family commemorates the departure of Ulster’s first emigrants to America in 1717 with an inscription that reads: “There is no other race in the United States that can produce a roll of honour so long and so shining in distinction.”

By 1775, Ulster-Scots emigrants formed a sixth of America’s population. They provided a dozen early presidents, several signatories of the Declaration of Independence, and the frontiersmen Davy Crockett, Kit Carson and Jim Bowie. Protestant followers of King William who settled in the Appalachian mountains inspired the term ‘hillbillies’.

Glenarm Castle

Glenarm village, Northern Ireland

The real beauty begins beyond Larne. A single tranquil road hugs the winding coast, and in the clear light of a seemingly endless early summer’s evening it passes fields of wild irises and sandy beaches, past Glenarm Castle whose wonderful walled garden is now open to the public.

Carnlough harbour along the Causeway Coast in Antrim, Northern Ireland

This east-coast village has a picturesque harbour overlooking Carnlough Bay, and Londonderry Arms is a great places to stay.

The Marchioness of Londonderry built the hotel as a coaching inn in 1848. Her grandson later bequeathed it to his second cousin, Sir Winston Churchill, but the great man’s memory is rather eclipsed by that of a great racehorse – Arkle. Hairs from the steeplechaser’s tail and an iron shoe from his hoof have pride of place in the bar that bears the horse’s name.

Famine Stone

A little north of Carnlough is the Famine Stone, a massive limestone boulder on which the aforesaid Marchioness had engraved: “An imperishable memorial of Ireland’s affliction and England’s generosity in the year 1846-47.” Given that Ireland lost a quarter of its population to starvation or emigration during the famine, the offensive words were long ago defaced. Even today the shells of long-abandoned stone cottages litter the empty countryside.

Cushendall and Cushendun

Cushendall, Northern Ireland

Continue on and you will reach Cushendall, whose ancient tower once served as “a place of confinement for idlers and rioters”, and Cushendun, near which there is another large boulder snared in the roots of an ancient tree with a small altar beside it. Roman Catholics would furtively worship at this Mass Rock when the penal laws banned them from practising their religion in the early 18th century. A local priest still conducts a service there each summer.

Cushendun’s sea caves made waves as the ominous Stormlands in Game of Thrones but despite the fanfare, these ancient red sandstone caves remain down to earth.

Torr Head near Ballycastle, Antrim, Ireland

Leaving Cushendun, you have the option to abandon the main road for a tiny ribbon of tarmac that loops round the north-easternmost point of Northern Ireland via Torr Head. The lane is flanked by gorse of impossible yellow, and fields of impossible green that fall away to a silver sea far below. On a clear day you can just make out the Mull of Kintyre across 12 miles of serene water.

Ballycastle

Harbour, Ballycastle, Antrim, Northern Ireland, UK

West of Torr Head is Ballycastle where, in 1898, Guglielmo Marconi found the first commercial use for his newly invented radio transmitter. At the behest of Lloyds of London, he established a radio link to Rathlin Island, six miles out to sea, so the islanders could report on passing ships.

Rathlin Island

Rathlin Island coastline

You can take the ferry to Rathlin, an L-shaped wedge of moorland resting atop fortress-like cliffs with one small community clustered around the harbour. In 1306, Robert the Bruce took refuge in a cave here, following his defeat by the English at Perth. He was so inspired by the perseverance of a spider spinning its web that he returned to win the Battle of Bannockburn and the Scottish throne. Today the Manor House offers rather more comfortable accommodation, and the population of 140 is swelled by visitors who come less for refuge than the abundant bird life.

Walk along Rathlin’s western extremity where, far below, the rocky outcrops are covered by tens of thousands of puffins, razorbills and guillemots – not to mention their pungent excrement.

Carrick-a-Rede

Carrick-a-Rede, Northern Ireland

Back on the mainland, make your way up the steep hill out of Ballycastle and head west along the north Antrim coast towards some of its better known attractions. First stop is Carrick-a-Rede, a small island of rock reached by a bouncy rope bridge strung across a narrow channel.

Giant’s Causeway

Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland

A few miles further on, past the sublime white sand crescent of Whitepark Bay, we reach the geological wonder that is the Giant’s Causeway. Comprised of some 40,000 upright hexagonal basalt columns, each of a different height but slotted together like a perfect honeycomb, the sea-girt promontory is remarkable.

Dunluce Castle

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The ruins of this magnificent medieval fortress perch on top of the steep, sheer cliffs of a rocky promontory along the gorgeous Antrim coast. Not far away is the Giant’s Causeway, so two top heritage sites in one! The views are stunning, its bloody history is well told, and fans of Game of Thrones may recognise it as the seat of the House of Greyjoy.

Downhill Demesne

Ruins of Downhill House Mansion, Northern Ireland

Beyond the resort towns of Portrush and Portstewart – Northern Ireland’s so-called ‘Riviera’ – is Downhill Demesne, a National Trust property. Walk across the vast expanse of rolling grass filled with wildflowers to the shell of a ruined 18th-century mansion. This was built by Frederick Hervey, the colourful Earl of Bristol and Bishop of Derry, who sprinkled flour in the upstairs corridors at night so he could tell which guest had visited whom.

Mussenden Temple

Mussenden Temple, Northern Ireland

Beyond Downhill Demesne, perched dramatically on the cliff overlooking the sea, stands the exquisite Romanesque folly Mussenden Temple, which held Hervey’s library and was named after his lover. Its inscription reads: “Tis pleasant, safely to behold, from shore, the rolling ship and hear the tempest roar.”

Binevenagh Mountain

Binevenagh Mountain in Northern Ireland

Climb to the summit of Binevenagh Mountain and you are rewarded with a stunning panorama of land, sea and sky. To the north lies the vast blue Atlantic and Islay, the most southern of the Inner Hebrides. To the west, we gaze across the mouth of Lough Foyle to the distant hills of Donegal’s Inishowen peninsula. Behind us lie moors and the Sperrin Mountains.

Antrim and Game of Thrones

Tourism in Northern Ireland has increased dramatically during the past 20 years ago. And much of this is thanks to Game of Thrones . Between Carrick-a-Rede and the Causeway we pass the picturesque harbour at Ballintoy, thankfully far calmer than its alter-ego of Lordsport in the fantasy drama. Beyond the Causeway, teetering on the edge of vertiginous cliffs, the turreted Dunluce Castle recalls the House of Greyjoy – without its armour-clad seafarers. And a few miles inland, the beech-lined avenue of Dark Hedges, known to viewers as the grand Kingsroad ( right ), draws keen crowds.

Best walks along the Antrim coast

The causeway coast, county antrim.

Escape the crowds on a deserted coastal path just minutes from the Giant’s Causeway. Map and route .

Giant's Causeway: The famous area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns

The island offers trails of one to four miles with wonderful views of lighthouses, the Atlantic and the Scottish islands. Watch out for the amazing seabirds and seals basking on the shore. Map and route .

Rathlin Island off the Northern Irish coast

North Antrim Cliff Path

The five-mile cliff path begins at ruined Dunseverick Castle, and winds around beautiful headlands and bays before offering hikers a panoramic view of its final destination, the Giant’s Causeway. The 162 Shepherds Steps lead down to the Unesco World Heritage Site. Map and route .

Northern Ireland, County Antyim, Dunseverick Castle

Where to stay

The londonderry arms.

This charming, old-fashioned coaching inn once owned by Sir Winston Churchill is just across the road from the harbour in Carnlough. If traffic disturbs you, ask for a room at the back. glensofantrim.com

Manor House

Facing you as you step off the ferry on Rathlin Island is the newly refurbished, whitewashed, 18th-century Manor House. Look no further for accommodation. manorhouserathlin.com

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The Brown Trout Inn

A few miles inland from the attractions of the north Antrim coast at Aghadowey, this friendly and comfortable inn has good food and its own nine-hole golf course. You would never guess that it was blown up by the IRA in 1973. browntroutinn.com

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Food and drink

Mary mcbride’s pub.

Once claimed to be the smallest pub in Ireland before an extension in the 90s, this Cushendun inn still has history and charm. In 2015 it opened a seafood bistro, The Little Back Door, upstairs. mcbridescushendun.com

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Map of the Antrim Coast

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Martin Fletcher is a former foreign and associate editor of The Times, and now a freelance writer based in London. He is the author of Silver Linings: Travels Around Northern Ireland (Little Brown, 2000).

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The Irish Road Trip

A Guide To The Lively Coastal Town Of Portrush in Antrim

By Author Gillian Birch

Posted on Last updated: January 2, 2024

A Guide To The Lively Coastal Town Of Portrush in Antrim

If you’re debating staying in Portrush in Antrim, you’ve landed in the right place.

This scenic little coastal town is home to plenty of things to see and do and it’s also a short spin from some of the best attractions the Causeway Coastal Route has to offer.

Throw in  lots  of great restaurants and some excellent seaside pubs and you’ve everything you need for a memorable weekend by the sea.

Below, you’ll find everything from things to do in Portrush to where to eat, sleep and drink. Dive on in!

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows before visiting Portrush in Antrim

Ariel photograph of Portrush

Photo via Ballygally View Images on shutterstock.com

Although a visit to Portrush in Antrim is nice and straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.

1. Location

Portrush is situated on the Causeway Coastal Route on the north coast of Antrim. Situated on the mile-long peninsula, Tamore Head, it’s just an hour from Belfast and a short drive from the  Old Bushmills Distillery and the Giant’s Causeway .

2. Seaside vibes 

This lively town is finely plonked right by the sea with plenty of amusements, pubs and restaurants on offer. The big draw are the three golden sandy beaches (see our Portrush Beach guide).

3. A fine base for exploring   

Portrush is ideally located for exploring some of the best things to do in Northern Ireland . As well as attracting many golfers, Portrush is ideal for beach lovers, surfers, walkers and fishing trips. Within 10-15 minutes there’s Portstewart, the Giant’s Causeway and the Old Bushmills Distillery as well as plenty of coastal walks.

4. Royal Portrush Golf Club

This quiet community is home to the world-famous Royal Portrush Golf Club . Opened in 1888, it has two 18-hole courses: Dunluce Links championship course and the Valley Links.

About Portrush  

portrush village

Photo by Chris Hill via Tourism Ireland

This small coastal town swells with summer visitors, both from Ireland and overseas. It’s one of the nearest towns to the Giant’s Causeway and the Bushmills Distillery.

Three beautiful beaches are popular for family seaside holidays. These are the stunning Whiterocks Beach , West Strand (West Bay) and East Strand (Curran Strand) beaches.

The Blue Flag waters offering swimming, surfing and miles of walks along the edge of the waves. The coastline is backed by white limestone cliffs that are riddled with sea caves (and gave Whiterocks Beach its name!)

The town itself is a cluster of family-owned businesses, shops and pubs. Whether you want to sup a pint of Guinness, sample the freshest fish and seafood, or listen to local entertainment, there’s plenty of choice.

Portrush has a promenade for walking and cycling and traditional amusements. Fishing trips set sail each morning so you can catch your dinner fresh from the sea and have a great day’s fishing too.

Things to do in Portrush

So, we have a dedicated guide on the best things to do in Portrush , but I’ll give you a quick overview of our favourite attractions.

Below, you’ll find everything from Whiterocks Beach and Barry’s Amusements to Bushmills and plenty of walks and scenic drives.

1. Head for a stroll along Portrush Whiterocks Beach  

portrush beach

Photo by Monicami (Shutterstock)

Located on the west-facing side of the peninsula, Whiterocks Beach is truly amazing. It combines dramatic scenery with excellent waters for swimming and surfing.

It is named after the white limestone cliffs that run along the Causeway Coastal Route from East Strand to Dunluce Castle.

Caves and arches include Shelagh’s Head, the Wishing Arch, Elephant Rock and Lion’s Paw. Surfers and body-boarders flock to this life-guarded beach in the summer. Equipment rentals and lessons are available seasonally.

2. Drive or cycle the Causeway Coastal Route 

giants causeway tour

Photo by Gert Olsson (Shutterstock)

The Causeway Coastal Route has 9 scenic routes through the scenic landscape stretching from Carrickfergus to Limavady. Drive, hike or cycle your way along enjoying the sights.

Visit (and sing about) the Nine Glens of Antrim , admire Slemish Mountain and walk the famous Gobbins Cliff Path .

Portrush is towards the west end of the Causeway Coastal Route, close to the 26-mile Bann Valley Scenic Route and the 20-mile Binevenagh Scenic Route.

3. Visit the Old Bushmills Distillery 

bushmills whiskey tour

Photo via Bushmills

Whiskey lovers will enjoy a tour of the Old Bushmills Distillery just 10 minutes from Portrush. These whitewashed cottage accommodates the oldest licensed distillery in Antrim which dates back to 1608.

Prebook one of the tutored tours and tastings for the full experience. Watch the whiskey making process, learn some secrets and enjoy a wee taster or two. It’s a fascinating experience ending in the gift shop where there are souvenirs a-plenty.

4. Follow in the footsteps of golfing greats at Royal Portrush Golf Club

Royal Portrush Golf Club

Photos via Royal Portrush Golf Club on Instagram

Book yourself a tee-time and play a round in the steps of some of the greatest golfers in the world. In 2019, the Royal Portrush Golf Club hosted the 148th Open Championships when thousands of spectators watched some of the biggest names in golf play the course.

In case you were wondering, it was won by Irish-born golfer, Shane Lowry who set a new course record of 61. Beat that!

5. Get the adrenaline going at Barry’s Amusements

Barry’s Amusements in Portrush

Photo via Barry’s Amusements

Barry’s Amusements is a Portrush landmark and once employed actor James Nesbitt! Located above West Strand Beach it has been entertaining visitors for over 90 years.

Free to enter, you can purchase tokens for rides at 50p each. The amusement park has 15 top attractions including two roller coasters, a water slide, helter skelter, caterpillar, Express Train, dodgems and carousels. For more thrills, don’t miss the white-knuckle Extreme Orbiter and the Airborne Shot!

6. Hop and Jump on the Giant’s Causeway

giants causeway ireland

Photo left: Lyd Photography. Right: Puripat Lertpunyaroj (Shutterstock)

Thousands of basalt pillars making up the Giant’s Causeway are a must-see but there’s some dispute over the origins.

Legend attributes it to being the stepping stones of hunter-warrior Fionn MacCumhaill while others believe was created by volcanic fissure eruptions over 50 million years ago.

Either way, it was the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland. There’s a Visitor Centre, exhibition and 11 miles of hiking paths from the site.

Portrush accommodation

Portrush hotels

Photos via Booking.com

If you’re thinking about staying in Portrush in Antrim (if you’re not, you should!), you’ve a pick of places to stay.

We go through accommodation in depth in our Portrush hotels guide, but here’s a quick overview of what to expect.

Hotels    

There’s a good choice of hotel accommodation in and around Portrush. From quaint hotels on the Main Street in Portrush to upscale hotels overlooking the Atlantic, there are some great hotels to choose from. Family-run hotels include some with 4 star luxury. For golfers, look no further than the Golf Links Hotel just a short walk with your clubs to the golf course.

B&Bs   

Portrush has an abundance of pleasant B&Bs that welcome singles, couples and families. Choose one close to the beach and enjoy being within walking distance of the fresh sea air and fun on the beach. Most B&Bs include a hearty cooked breakfast to set you up for a day’s hiking, surfing and exploring this beautiful coastal area.

Places to eat in Portrush

Portrush restaurants

Photo via Kiwi’s Brew Bar on Facebook

Although we go into the town’s food scene in depth in our Portrush restaurants guide, you’ll find the best of the bunch (in our opinion!) below.

1. Adelphi Bistro   

The Adelphi Bistro , located in the 4-star Adelphi on Main St, is a family-friendly restaurant serving up quality food made from fresh local ingredients. They serve gourmet food in a relaxed setting, perfect for a family get-together or a relaxed evening out with friends. Start your meal with a prawn cocktail made from Atlantic prawns before tucking into a local 8oz sirloin steak. The bistro caters to everyone with a kid’s and gluten-free menu.

2. Urban Restaurant

Situated in the heart of Portrush on Dunluce Ave near West Strand, the Urban Restaurant is in a modern contemporary building with a vibe to match. Everything is chef-prepared including perfectly cooked salmon, prawns and chilli chicken. The menu includes wine, whiskey and daiquiris as well as local meat, fresh seafood, pasta and scrumptious desserts.

3. Kiwi’s Brew Bar

Kiwi’s Brew Bar is the home of Craft Beer on the North Coast. It has strong links with many artisan breweries and pulls pints you simply can’t find anywhere else. The “Meet the Brewer” nights are popular with beer drinkers but they also serve cider, gin and wine. Located on Portrush Main Street, it’s a lively gastropub known for its tasty burgers and pizzas.

Pubs in Portrush   

Portrush pubs

Photo left via Atlantic Bar on Facebook. Photo right via Springhill Bar on Facebook

There’s some mighty pubs in Portrush that are perfect for a post-surf pint with friends. Below, you’ll find three of our favourites.

1. Springhill Bar

With its traditional frontage and warm atmosphere, the Springhill Bar is all about drinks with mates and plenty of craic. Gather at the bar and chat with locals or warm your toes in front of the cosy open fire. Trad music nights include live bands, acoustic artists, DJs and a juke box. Major sports are shown on the large projector screen so you won’t miss a match.

2. Harbour Bar  

With its harbour views and live music, the Harbour Bar offers a classic no-frills pub experience in Portrush. It’s part of the famous Ramore Restaurant complex and is one of the oldest pubs on the north coast. You can expect an expertly pulled pint and a warm welcome from landlord Willie Gregg. The upstairs Gin Bar serves premium spirits and wood-fired snacks.

3. The Quays Portrush

This gastropub on Eglington St has everything you need for a solid night out – a large selection of drinks, cocktails, live music and a pretty decent food menu to top it all off. Head in for a bite of lunch and a midday pint after a day of surfing or spend your evening here listening to live music, sipping cocktails and chowing down on some buffalo wings. 

FAQs about visiting Portrush in Antrim

Since mentioning the town in a guide to Portrush that we published several years ago, we’ve had hundreds of emails asking various things about Portrush in Antrim.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

Is Portrush worth visiting?

Yes! Portrush is a scenic town that’s close to some of the best places to visit in Antrim. There’s plenty to do in the town, and there’s loads of places to eat.

Is there much to do in Portrush?

The three beaches are arguably the town’s biggest attractions. However, there’s also the world-famous golf club, Barry’s Amusements, and lots of nearby attractions.

Are there many pubs and restaurants in Portrush?

Yes! There’s a good mix of casual places to eat and fancier spots for a bite in the town. There’s also several great, traditional-style pubs on offer.

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COMMENTS

  1. 26 Best Things to do in Antrim (2024 Edition)

    4. Rathlin Island. Photos by Andrea Srotova (Shutterstock) If you're looking for off-the-beaten-path things to do in Antrim, look no further than a spin out to Rathlin Island. The island is just 6 miles/10 km from the town of Ballycastle and you can reach it by ferry (it takes just 25 minutes).

  2. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Antrim

    1. Antrim Castle Gardens. 559. Gardens. The Antrim Castle Gardens site is an absolute gem and you will find nothing like these 400 year old gardens anywhere else. A recent £6m restoration project which received generous support from Heritage Lottery Fund has now preserved this historic site for generations to come.

  3. 10 BEST things to do in Antrim in 2024 (we tried them all)

    Bushmills Distillery - the oldest licensed distillery in the world. 5. Glenoe Waterfall - a stunning and majestic waterfall. 4. Carrickfergus Castle - an important castle steeped in history. 3. Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge - the most famous bridge in Ireland. 2. The Dark Hedges - one of the top best things to do in Antrim.

  4. Things to do in Antrim: Scenic Drives, Charming Villages, and Stunning

    Things to do in Antrim - Giant's Causeway Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Test your courage by crossing this famous rope bridge, which spans a 30-meter-deep chasm between the mainland and Carrick-a-Rede Island. This is one of the thrill-seeking things to do in Antrim and is sure to have your heart in your throat, but it is definitely worth the reward for the stunning views of the Antrim Coast ...

  5. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Antrim (Updated 2023)

    These rankings are informed by traveller reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time. 1. Antrim Castle Gardens. The coffee shop there is also a great place to stop, I haven't been for a visit since covid hit but before we would r...

  6. Best Things to Do in Antrim, Northern Ireland (County Guide)

    As this is one of the best places to visit in Antrim, it gets extremely busy so arrive early or go midweek and out-of-season to avoid the crowds. Take a guided tour of the Giant's Causeway from Belfast. ... Another one of the top places to visit in Antrim is Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Located on the Causeway Coast just over 1 mile east of ...

  7. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Antrim

    1. Antrim Castle Gardens. 559. Gardens. The Antrim Castle Gardens site is an absolute gem and you will find nothing like these 400 year old gardens anywhere else. A recent £6m restoration project which received generous support from Heritage Lottery Fund has now preserved this historic site for generations to come.

  8. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in County Antrim

    4. Dunluce Castle. 2,710. Castles. By Ancientmariner01. The cliff-top location is stunning, with some of the best views in Northern Ireland up and down the coast. See ways to experience (109) 5. Causeway Coastal Route.

  9. 12 Best Things To Do In Antrim, Northern Ireland

    12. Drop by the beautiful Glens of Antrim. Known locally as just "The Glens", the Glens Of Antrim is a sprawling area along the Causeway Coast, in the northern part of the county. It stretches about 80 miles (128.8 km) and is composed of 9 glens (or valleys), encompassing 6 main towns and villages.

  10. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in County Antrim

    4. Dunluce Castle. 2,710. Castles. By Ancientmariner01. The cliff-top location is stunning, with some of the best views in Northern Ireland up and down the coast. See ways to experience (108) 5. Causeway Coastal Route.

  11. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Antrim

    1. Antrim Castle Gardens. 559. Gardens. The Antrim Castle Gardens site is an absolute gem and you will find nothing like these 400 year old gardens anywhere else. A recent £6m restoration project which received generous support from Heritage Lottery Fund has now preserved this historic site for generations to come.

  12. THE 10 BEST County Antrim Sights & Landmarks to Visit (2024)

    By 263hughk. The Church and Graveyard are well mworth a visit. Very good restaurant and a Museum as well as a moderm Primary School... 25. Giant's Causeway & Bushmills Railway. 176. Points of Interest & Landmarks. By Tathecam. A lovely ride on the train between Bushmills and The Causeway.

  13. 30 BEST Places to Visit in County Antrim

    4. Dunluce Castle. 2,710. Castles. By Ancientmariner01. The cliff-top location is stunning, with some of the best views in Northern Ireland up and down the coast. See ways to experience (108) 5. Causeway Coastal Route.

  14. Causeway Coastal Route: Stops, Map + Itinerary (2024)

    In this guide, you'll find a Causeway Coastal Route map, the main stops (in order) and a logical itinerary to follow.. Packed with scenery, historical sites and colourful coastal villages, the 185km/115-mile Antrim Coast Road packs a punch. Home to the Glens of Antrim, the world-famous Giant's Causeway and plenty of walks and hikes, there's a reason this is one of the best things to do ...

  15. The 6 Best Things to See in County Antrim, Northern Ireland

    Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. Belfast. Dunluce Castle. The Dark Hedges. The Glens of Antrim. So there you have them, the 6 best places to visit in County Antrim Ireland. You'll find below more information about each place, including photos, to help you decide if you should add these places to your list of places to see. 1.

  16. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in County Antrim

    4. Dunluce Castle. 2,710. Castles. By Ancientmariner01. The cliff-top location is stunning, with some of the best views in Northern Ireland up and down the coast. See ways to experience (103) 5. Causeway Coastal Route.

  17. 30 BEST Places to Visit in Antrim

    These rankings are informed by traveller reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time. 1. Antrim Castle Gardens. 557. Gardens. The Antrim Castle Gardens site is an absolute gem and you will find nothing like these 400 year old gardens anywhere else.

  18. THE 10 BEST Antrim Things to Do (Updated 2024)

    Things to Do in Antrim, Northern Ireland: See Tripadvisor's 6,478 traveller reviews and photos of Antrim tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in January. We have reviews of the best places to see in Antrim. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.

  19. Antrim coast guide: things to do, best walks and places to stay

    Antrim coast guide: things to do, best walks and places to stay - Countryfile.com. Explore Northern Ireland's stunning Antrim coast and discover its Game of Thrones treasures, best walks and places to stay with our travel guide.

  20. Larne Antrim: Things To Do, Hotels + Food (2023 Guide)

    Although a visit to Larne in Antrim is nice and straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that'll make your visit that bit more enjoyable. 1. Location. Larne is located on the east coast of County Antrim. It's a 20-minute drive from Carrickfergus and a 30-minute drive from both Belfast City and Ballymena. 2.

  21. Cushendun: Things to do, Food + Pubs (2024 Guide)

    The glens or valleys of northern Antrim are dotted with towns and villages including Ballycastle, Cushendall and of course, Cushendun. This makes Cushendun a nice little base from which to explore the other Glens of Antrim and surrounding towns during your visit, with so many beautiful places to explore form waterfalls to beaches. 4. Castle Carra

  22. Portrush Antrim: Things to do, Food + Pubs (2024 Guide)

    Portrush is a scenic town that's close to some of the best places to visit in Antrim. There's plenty to do in the town, and there's loads of places to eat. Is there much to do in Portrush? The three beaches are arguably the town's biggest attractions. However, there's also the world-famous golf club, Barry's Amusements, and lots of ...