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Antrim Culture & history

Our most recommended Antrim Culture & history

From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

1. From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

Discover the beauty of Northern Ireland and the world-famous Giant’s Causeway on a tour from Belfast. Visit the Giants Causeway, Carrickfergus Castle, Glenarm Castle, Carnlough Harbour, Waterfoot Caves, Cushendun Curfew House, Rope Bridge, and The Dark Hedges while navigating the Antrim Coast Road. After leaving Belfast in the morning, a short journey will take you to the first stop of the day at Carrickfergus Castle, a 12th-century Norman castle. Walk around and take photographs of the castle and the harbor. Continue the drive along the Antrim Coast Road, traveling through some of the nine Glens of Antrim. Wind through small towns and villages, hearing the myths and legends of the fairies and leprechauns that reside in these Glens. Driving through Glenarm, pass Carnlough Harbour, the Waterfoot Caves, and Cushendun Curfew house. Travel up through Glencorp and Glendunn, passing the coastal town of Ballycastle before arriving at the Portaneevy View Point to see Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge.  Stop to admire views at the rope bridge and look across to the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland and Rathlin Island. Listen to the stories behind these sights before stopping next at the Dark Hedges, known as the Kingsroad in the Game of Thrones HBO series. Walk among the trees made famous by the Game of Thrones followed by a lunch stop at a traditional pub (costs not included).  Later, visit more locations from the Game of Thrones. Travel by Carnlough Harbour where Arya Stark swam and pass by Magharmorne Quarry where Castle Black was located. The finale of the day is a stop at the Giant’s Causeway where you can explore, walk across the historic stones, and learn about the legend of the Giant Finn MacCool. Discover how and why he built the Causeway.  After your day of exploring is done, travel directly back to Belfast via the inland route and get dropped off back in the city center or at the activity provider's office in Queen's Quarter.

From Belfast: Giant's Causeway Full-Day Guided Tour

2. From Belfast: Giant's Causeway Full-Day Guided Tour

On this full-day excursion to the Giant’s Causeway you’ll leave Belfast in the morning with your Irish guide and fellow travel partners for a drive through the rolling farmland of County Antrim to the northern coast of Ireland – an area of outstanding natural beauty. Dark Hedges (photos) Stop for photos and fresh air at one of the most amazing natural phenomena in Northern Ireland, the Dark Hedges. The trees were planted centuries ago by the Stuart family to make an impression upon guests visiting their estate. Many guests will recognize Dark Hedges as the King's Road from HBO's Game of Thrones. Carrick-a-Rede (photos) Enjoy amazing views overlooking the rope bridge. Traditionally fishermen erected the bridge to Carrick-a-Rede Island over a chasm of 23m-deep and 20m-wide, to harvest salmon from their nets. Enjoy views of the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland and Rathlin Island. Unesco Giants Causeway The Giant's Causeway has often been described as the 8th wonder of the world, and once you have visited the site you’ll quickly see why. The area consists of around 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns formed during a volcano eruption 60 million years ago. This is one of the world’s great natural attractions although many Irish passionately believe the causeway was built by the Celtic warrior hero Finn McCool. You’re guaranteed 2 hours at the Giant's Causeway on this tour before returning to Belfast. The entrance fee for the visitor center is not included as the Unesco World Heritage Site is actually completely free of charge to the public. Based on years of guest feedback guests prefer to have the best possible value price for the overall tour and then can make individual decisions locally as to whether they wish to access the adjacent visitor center for a fee at the door. Dunluce Castle (The House of Greyjoy) Make a photo stop at the incredible ruins of Dunluce Castle (entry not included), home to the McQuillan family who built the fortress around 500 years ago. Game of Thrones fans will immediately recognize the House of Greyjoy. One of the most spectacular castle ruins anywhere in the world, Dunluce Castle is located on top of cliffs that collapse into the North Atlantic below. The Castle’s dramatic history of violence, intrigue and rebellion is matched by the scandal and betrayal committed by the Greyjoys in Game of Thrones. Enjoy paid admission and approx 60 minutes to explore these most romantic ruins, grounds, and surrounds. Arrive Belfast The tour ends in Belfast in the late afternoon, which allows plenty of time for refreshments, rest, evening dinner, and entertainment options.

Belfast: Giant's Causeway, Dark Hedges, and Dunluce Castle

3. Belfast: Giant's Causeway, Dark Hedges, and Dunluce Castle

Discover the famous Giant's Causeway on a guided tour from Belfast. Visit the Dark Hedges, made famous in Game of Thrones, and admire the scenic views around Dunluce Castle. Depart Belfast and travel by coach to The Dark Hedges, a beautiful avenue of beech trees planted by the Stuart family in the 18th century as an impressive feature of the driveway to their Gracehill Manor. Continue to the Giant's Causeway to marvel at 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. Learn about the legend of Finn, said to have built the causeway to cross the Irish Sea to fight a Scottish giant known as Benandonner. Enjoy impressive views of Sheep Island and the Mull of Kintyre. Take around 2 hours to explore and look around. Stop for a picture at Dunluce Castle, a now-ruined medieval castle. Capture this photogenic castle built in the 13th century and hear how it has inspired many TV programs, poems, and songs.

Dublin: Giant's Causeway & Belfast (Titanic or Black Taxi)

4. Dublin: Giant's Causeway & Belfast (Titanic or Black Taxi)

Travel through the Boyne Valley on a full-day scenic tour from Dublin, and discover the home of the 5,000-year-old Hill of Tara, the ancient capital of the High Kings of Ireland. Upon arrival in Belfast you have the option to take a political sightseeing tour in an iconic black cab (taxi) or visit the Titanic Experience (the museum will be closed from 2nd January - 28th February 2023) For the black cab tour you will see sites that have played a key role in the city’s political history, such as the Falls and Shankill neighborhoods. Learn about the industrial roots of Belfast, and the 4 decades of civil unrest in the late 20th century. Sign the peace line, the towering wall that divides the communities, and read the political murals. A guide will relate their own family experiences to give your tour a more personal touch. Alternatively, go to the world’s largest state-of-the-art Titanic experience in Belfast’s new Titanic Quarter, located in the former shipyards of Harland and Wolf. This option is unavailable in january and february 2023 Relive the liner’s tragic voyage, sinking, and eventful discovery on the seabed, via exhibits that explain her construction, launch and history in 9 different galleries. Typically the tour would visit the Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge. However, it is currently closed for tour operators and it is not yet clear as to when it will reopen. As an alternative attraction, visit the very popular Dun Luce Castle. Enjoy this historic castle that dates back over 500 years and which is dramatically positioned on the edge of a cliff over the Atlantic. Discover this castle which has been used to film things like Game of Thrones. Visit and peruse the castle and grounds for 45 minutes. Arrive at the UNESCO World Heritage Giant’s Causeway, formed over 60 million years ago by volcanic eruptions. Admire its distinctive rock formations that span nearly 18 miles of coastline. Hike to the formations known as “The Wishing Chair”, “Giant's Boot”, and “Giant's Organ.” Learn the legend of the Irish giant Finn McCool, said to be the Causeway's creator. This is where you have the option to have lunch in a number of venues located at the Causeway. With 2 hours there is ample time to lunch and walk this fabulous coastal landscape. Continue along the Antrim Coastal, driving past spectacular scenery of stony shores, wooded glens and sheltered harbors. See the remains of Dunseverick Castle, and admire views of the Mull of Kintyre. On a clear day, see Scotland in the distance. The route back to Dublin is different than the route taken to the Causeway earlier in the day, giving you different scenery to enjoy. Arrive back in Dublin City Center at 20.30 and enjoy the rest of your evening. The tour guide will be on hand to help you with any directions or information you need.

Belfast and Giant's Causeway: 2-Day Guided Tour

5. Belfast and Giant's Causeway: 2-Day Guided Tour

On this 2-day tour from Dublin you’ll travel to Northern Ireland, which has been experiencing a new dawn after the end of 30 years of political violence. You’ll explore downtown Belfast as well as the glorious glens of Antrim. With its breathtaking scenery, welcoming local residents, unspoiled landscapes, and living history, Northern Ireland is sure to please. Detailed Itinerary Day 1: Dublin to Belfast At 09:00 you’ll depart Dublin, heading north for the 2-hour drive to Belfast on the new Peace Highway. Your first stop will be St. Peters Cathedral in Drogheda, where you’ll find the fully preserved head of St. Oliver Plunkett! He was beheaded by the English in 1681 and his head now sits staring out from a glass box by the altar. Take a drive off the highway to visit the haunting ruins of Monasterboice. You’ll see the 10th-century round tower and learn how residents of the time took refuge from the Vikings. See some of the most beautiful Celtic crosses in Ireland, carved by hand by monks in the 9th century. When you arrive in Belfast you’ll have 2 hours’ free time. You might consider an optional and highly recommended Black Taxi Tour of the Falls and Shankill Roads. Alternatively, you can use the free time for lunch and shopping in the city’s bustling downtown area. Depart the city center for a drive to the docks to visit Belfast's number 1 attraction: The Titanic Experience! Spend 2 hours on a tour of the all-new Titanic Belfast. You’ll follow the story from the ship’s conception in Belfast in the early 1900s, through her construction and launch, to her infamous maiden voyage and catastrophic demise. Overnight in Belfast's historic downtown university quarter. Day 2: Belfast – Giant's Causeway – Dublin The tour departs Belfast on a drive through the rolling farmland of County Antrim to the north coast of Ulster. Your first stop will be Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge - stop for photos overlooking the bridge and Rathlin island before continuing along the coast. The Giant's Causeway has often been described as the 8th Wonder of The World, and once you’ve visited you’ll see why. The site features an estimated 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns that were formed during a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago. After at least 2 hours exploring the Giant’s Causeway you’ll continue on to see the cliff-top ruins of Dunluce Caste, ancestral home of the MacDonnell Clan - enjoy paid entrance here and time for a comprehensive exploration. We'll also have time for a photo stop at amazing Dark Hedges - a tree lined road which is said to be haunted and made world famous by Game of Thrones. On the return to Dublin you’ll have a short rest and relaxation stop with time for some refreshments. You’ll arrive back in Dublin with a wealth of songs, stories, and memories of Belfast and the Giant’s Causeway!

Best of Ireland 6-Day Backpackers Economy Tour

6. Best of Ireland 6-Day Backpackers Economy Tour

Day 1: Dublin - Belfast Visit Belfast today and discover Titanic Belfast and the historic downtown quarter. Overnight Belfast Day 2: Belfast - Derry Explore the Antrim coast today with visits to Dunluce Castle and Giants Causeway and photo opportunities at Dark Hedges and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Enjoy a historic walking tour in Derry. Overnight Derry Day 3: Derry - Galway Depart Northern Ireland today and road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way to Galway. Stop in surfing hotspot Strandhill for lunch and a walk on the beach. Enjoy a free walking tour in Galway. Overnight Galway Day 4: Galway - Dingle Today takes you from Galway to Annascaul via Cliffs of Moher and the Burren. Overnight in Annascaul on the Dingle peninsula. Day 5: Dingle - Killarney Enjoy a full day of touring on the Dingle Peninsula, one of Europe’s most spectacular road trips. Overnight Killarney Day 6: Killarney - Dublin Depart Killarney for Dublin today. Enjoy a tour of the Killarney National Park and a visit to Blarney Castle in Cork. Tour ends in Dublin by early evening.

From Belfast: Private Giant's Causeway County Antrim Tour

7. From Belfast: Private Giant's Causeway County Antrim Tour

Launching our new VIP Luxury Private Tour for this Summer Season. We value our guest experience, putting you at the heart of everything we do, and this summer we aim to go that extra furlong for your comfort and style. Offering esteemed guests the new Luxury VIP Private Tour to The Giant’s Causeway. Exclusively bringing you a combination tour that encompasses the essence of quality and comfort to your most desired locations. Luxury Giant’s Causeway Tour brings you the ultimate experience, on this full-day tour Experience a jam-packed day filled with Northern Ireland's top attractions, including the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Old Bushmills Distillery, Dunluce castles. This tour lasts from the time you wish to start until you are finished - no rush it's Ireland! Cruise ship visitors are time-sensitive and must be returned on time, so we are flexible with our timings to suit you, so you can spend as long as you want at any venue. Your tour will begin from your pickup location, where you will meet your driver/guide for the day. There we will begin our journey to the north coast traveling through the rolling farmland of County Antrim. Antrim Coast Road: The Antrim Coast Road is widely agreed to be one of the finest stretches of road anywhere in the world. The road hugs the coastline giving incredible seaside views, passing unspoiled beaches, and sheltering under rugged cliffs. You may even see Scotland on a good day! Carnlough Village: Our first stop of the day takes us into the amazing picturesque fishing village of Carnlough for a quick comfort break. Carrick a Rede Rope Bridge: Next stop we visit one of the most visited places in Northern Ireland amazing Carrick-a-Rede Rope bridge where you can, of course, cross the bridge which spans a chasm over 75ft in height. The lovely coastal path provides a spectacular walk with stunning sea and cliff views. Next stop Giants Causeway, Commonly called ‘the 8th wonder of the world’, is the only World Heritage site in Ireland. During our stop here you can spend time climbing over the ancient stones, snapping photos, and reflecting on the myths and legends of this very unique area. Lunch Stop: we can stop for lunch in a nice Irish pub to sample our good food and maybe a cheeky pint of Guinness. Or you can sample some locally caught fish in one of the best fish and chips shops and of course not forgetting the mushy peas. Old Bushmills Whiskey Distillery: Our next stop of the day is at Bushmills Whiskey Distillery which has been creating beautiful ‘water of life ‘since 1608 making this the oldest working distillery in Ireland. Dunluce Castle: We continue a wonderful day with a photo stop at Dunluce Castle. We arrive at one of the most dramatic castle ruins in the world. Prepare to be amazed at the way this old castle hangs over the edge of the cliffs. The Dark Hedges: last stop is one of the most popular natural phenomena in Northern Ireland, the Dark Hedges.

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What people are saying about Antrim

Highlight of the trip . Barely noticed the amount of time spent on the journey up as the scenery was simply jaw dropping . Ideal amount of time spent at the Causeway . Driver have an interesting and entertaining commentary . Bus was incredibly comfortable . Outstanding value for money

we had to queue again at the counter for our 10-year-old child to access the castle, and again to access the garden, even though we had taken care to book on the Internet. Fortunately we were able to count on the kindness of the staff on site.

Really interesting trip, guide was really friendly, full of information and jokes to make the day fun and flow well. Stops were about the right length. Highly recommend it.

This was fantastic, it is truly a unique experience. We were lucky to have excellent weather.

lovely day out, lots of interesting stops to see many places.