Things to do in Cushendun

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Our Global Adventure
Photo by Our Global Adventure
Photo by Markus Hermannsdorfer
Photo by Markus Hermannsdorfer
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Top places to visit

1. Giant's Causeway

Giant’s Causeway is one of the premier natural history attractions in Northern Ireland. Discover the rock formations, take in the views from the cliffs, go bird-watching, or enjoy a picnic.
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Giant\'s Causeway which includes a monument, general coastal views and rugged coastline

2. Old Bushmills Distillery

One of the few historic operating distilleries to offer tours, the Old Bushmills Distillery is a must-do for whiskey lovers. Even if you don’t like the strong alcoholic drink, it’s interesting to see the making of the malt concoction that Ireland is so famous for at one of Northern Island’s best-known producers.
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Old Bushmills Distillery featuring signage

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. 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, heritage architecture and chateau or palace

5. 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, forests and a cascade

What to do in Cushendun

Popular places to visit

Glenarm Castle

Glenarm Castle

5/5(2 reviews)

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
Glenariff Forest Park

Glenariff Forest Park

4.5/5(15 reviews)

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

Cushendun Beach

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

Cushendun Beach

Red Bay Castle

Learn about the local history of Cushendall when you take a trip to 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

Slemish Mountain

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

Slemish Mountain

St. Killian's College

Take a campus tour or just explore the area of St. Killian's College during your trip to Ballymena. While in this quaint area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

St. Killian's College

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 savour the top-notch restaurants.

Cranny Falls

Ossian's Grave

Learn about the local history of Glenaan when you spend time at Ossian's Grave. While in this quaint area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Ossian's Grave
Ballymena

Ballymena

Ballycastle

Ballycastle

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 holidaying 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 neighbourhoods, 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 travelling adventures.