Things to do in Cushendun

Activities, attractions and tours

Antrim Coast - Scene from Game of Thrones was filmed here - When Davos rows Melisandre in under Storms End in Season 2 #GOT
Antrim Coast - Scene from Game of Thrones was filmed here - When Davos rows Melisandre in under Storms End in Season 2 #GOT
The town of Cushendon, Northern Ireland. And a goat.
This is a real gem for fans of Game of Thrones: I found this beautiful Door in Mary McBride´s Bar. The Bar was once the smallest pub in Ireland but has now been extended and I can safely say it does a fine pint of Guinness. The Door sports the infamous Game of Thrones line ‘Valar Morghulis’ or ‘All men must die’ in High Valyrian. It also features the Titan of Braavos which guards the harbor entrance to the city. Finally it also features some scary looking figures at the bottom. My guess is that these are the slave masters that are currently invading Meereen to get their slaves back whilst Dany has been off burning the leaders of her martial people and giving impressive speeches about freedom and dragons.
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Top places to visit

1. Giant's Causeway

The beautiful natural rock formation that is Giant’s Causeway attracts visitors from all over the world for its wonderful views, abundant wildlife and intriguing natural history.
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Giant\'s Causeway showing heritage elements, general coastal views and rocky coastline

2. Old Bushmills Distillery

Whiskey lovers mustn’t miss out on the chance to visit the Old Bushmills Distillery, one of the few historic operating distilleries that offers tours to the public. Even if you aren’t too fond of the distinctive alcoholic malt drink that Ireland is famous for, it’s interesting to learn about its history and see how it’s made.
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Old Bushmills Distillery which includes interior views

3. The Dark Hedges

The Stuart family, who wished to impress visitors to their home in the nearby Gracehill House, planted the beech trees here some 200 years ago. It is quite apparent from a visit here just how successful they were, as the Dark Hedges still astound visitors today.
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The Dark Hedges featuring a park

4. Glenariff Forest Park

Set in the valley of Glenariff, one of nine County Antrim glens and popularly known as the “Queen of the Glens”, the park is under half an hour’s drive from Ballymena and around an hour from Belfast. Some car parking is available for a small fee.
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Glenariff Forest Park which includes a river or creek and forest scenes

5. Glenarm Castle

Unquestionably one of the finest castles in Ireland, it was built in 1636 and forms part of a working estate that includes forests, an organic farm and the Glenarm River, well-stocked with fish. Breathtaking views of the estate and the sea can be enjoyed from the Mount in the gardens.
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Glenarm Castle showing a park, a castle and heritage architecture

6. Carrick-a-Rede

One of the main reasons people cross the Carrick-a-Rede bridge is because of the area’s wild beauty. This is a Site of Special Scientific Interest on account of the unique and diverse geology, flora and fauna present. Indeed, it is a popular haunt of birdwatchers who come for the kittiwakes, guillemots and razorbills that nest here. On a clear day, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Scottish islands and the Causeway Coastline.
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11/19/16

What to do in Cushendun

Popular places to visit

Glenariff Forest Park which includes a river or creek, forests and a cascade

Glenariff Forest Park

If you love getting back to nature, then a visit to Glenariff Forest Park, which was formed by glaciers during the Ice Age, will not disappoint. This majestic park, covering over 1,000 hectares of mature woodland, conservation areas and shimmering lake, is immensely popular with walkers, horse-riders, caravanners and campers.

Glenariff Forest Park
Glenarm Castle showing a park, heritage architecture and chateau or palace

Glenarm Castle

The Earls of Antrim have called it home for 400 years and its spectacular walled garden is one of Ireland’s oldest, and at one time it was almost burned to the ground, it is said on account of a fire being kept permanently burning to warm up a featherless parrot. Glenarm Castle is truly one of a kind.

Glenarm Castle

Cushendun Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Cushendun Beach during your travels in Cushendun? Discover the countryside while you're in the area.

Cushendun Beach

Ossian's Grave

Learn about the local history of Glenaan when you take a trip to Ossian's Grave. While in this quaint area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Ossian's Grave

Red Bay Castle

Learn about the local history of Cushendall with a stop at Red Bay Castle. Wander the seaside in this quaint area.

Red Bay Castle

Galgorm Castle Golf Club

Enjoy a round of golf in Ballymena at Galgorm Castle Golf Club. Stroll along the seaside or visit the spas in this quaint area.

Galgorm Castle Golf Club

Cranny Falls

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Cranny Falls during your travels in Ballymena. While in this quaint area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Cranny Falls

Slemish Mountain

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Slemish Mountain during your travels in Ballymena. While in this relaxing area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Slemish Mountain

Lurig Mountain

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Lurig Mountain during your travels in Ballymena. Stroll along the seaside or visit the spas in this quaint area.

Lurig Mountain
Glenarm featuring a coastal town and general coastal views

Ballymena

Frequently asked questions

Is Cushendun worth visiting?
Famous for its walking trails and coastal beaches, finding fun things to do in Cushendun is a cinch. Make sure to add Glenariff Forest Park to your itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Cushendun?
Begin your day with a visit to Glenariff Forest Park and Curfew Tower. Then, check out other parts of Cushendun for tasty eats and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Cushendun?
Glenariff Forest Park is one of the top tourist attractions in Cushendun and deserves a spot on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Cushendun?
If you just want to see the most popular attractions, three days will be plenty of time for an escape to Cushendun. Stay for a week or longer for the chance to really appreciate the local vibe, visit nearby hotspots and explore off the beaten path.
What are some activities to do in Cushendun with kids?
Planning what to do in Cushendun with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're vacationing with toddlers or teenagers, there are many family-friendly attractions to keep everyone entertained here.
What to do in Cushendun for adults?
Adults of all ages will find plenty of things to do in Cushendun. Whether you're into traditional cuisine, outdoor adventures or just love discovering new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Cushendun?
From checking out parks to wandering around hip neighborhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in Cushendun. If you're in need of ideas, get some recommendations from a local tour guide. Curfew Tower is a top spot for anyone wanting to save on their traveling adventures.