Introduction
We used one of our days based in Belfast for a full-day visit to the Antrim Coast, using a rental car picked up at Belfast City Airport. The overall plan was to make a fast run to the north coast and dedicate a generous chunk of time to the Giant’s Causeway, which was always going to be the star attraction of such a side trip. We would then return to the city eastwards and southwards along the coastal road, before making a final brief stop at Carrickfergus Castle, on the north shore of Belfast Lough.
Giant’s Causeway
The Giant’s Causeway is a geological feature comprising tens of thousands of interlocking basalt columns, most of which are hexagonal. The landmark itself and a sizeable surrounding area are under the care of the National Trust. This wider area features a striking, modern visitor centre, as well as spectacular coastal scenery that includes both coastal and clifftop walks.
Cushendun
The small coastal village of Cushendun is a charming place, situated between Ballycastle and Cushendall. It lies at the end of Glendun, one of the nine Glens of Antrim. We stopped to have a look around and to enjoy a refreshment at Mary McBride’s Pub. All this took place within fifteen miles of my native Scotland, with the Mull of Kintyre in clear view from the area opposite the little harbour.
Carrickfergus Castle
On the way back to Belfast, we made a short photo stop at Carrickfergus Castle, one of the best preserved medieval structures in Northern Ireland.
