Some of my favorite things to do in Northern Ireland include visiting locations built by Finn McCool (Giant’s Causeway), a Game of Thrones location (Dunluce Castle), a castled city, and much more.
On a short family trip to Northern Ireland, we saw incredible scenery, historical locations, and even some personal family history. While we would love to return to this enchanting area of the world, the memories will last forever.
This article has some of my favorite places to visit in Northern Ireland but I would love to hear your favorites.
8 Great Places to Visit in Northern Ireland
1. Giant’s Causeway
Finn McCool—no relation, or is he—and Irish legend, created a walkway between Northern Ireland and Scotland when he grabbed and hurled chunks of land into the sea. He and a Scottish giant had a tiff and proceeded to destroy the walkway, leaving the Giant’s Causeway. Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was one of my family’s favorite places to visit in Northern Ireland.
2. Causeway Coast Way Walking Trail
Busloads of visitors visit the basalt column area of Giant’s Causeway, but a small percentage of people take time (or are permitted time if they are on tours) to explore the surrounding areas. Look at these incredible views from the walking path above the Giant’s Causeway.
3. Old Bushmill’s Distillery
Only 2.5 miles from the Giant’s Causeway Visitors Centre, the Old Bushmill’s Distillery is the oldest operating distillery in all of Ireland and has been at this location in the village of Bushmills for over 400 years.
4. Finn MacCool’s Public House
Still in the village of Bushmills, take time to have another shot of Bushmills Whiskey before heading to your next attraction. Finn MacCool’s is housed in the oldest building in Bushmills and also provides lodging, including a convenient family room (4 persons).
5. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Another National Trust property—as is Giant’s Causeway—Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge looks scarier than it actually is. However, not everyone can handle the swaying bridge 100 feet above the turbulent sea below. Can you?
6. Dunluce Castle
Built over 500 years ago, Dunluce Castle is thought to be the inspiration for Chronicles of Narnia and is the setting of House of Greyjoy from Game of Thrones. The medieval castle is just a few miles west of Bushmills and occupies a majestic setting along the northern coast.
7. Londonderry
West about one hour driving time from Dunluce Castle is Northern Ireland’s second largest city, Londonderry. Located on River Foyle, Londonderry has a massive protective wall—over 1 mile around, 26 feet high, and up to 30 feet wide. Londonderry is a great place to view the ancient military fortification and cannons along with modern attractions. While walking along the top of the castle walls, we witnessed a peaceful demonstration.
8. Family History Locations
More than 25 million US residents can trace their family ancestry to Northern Ireland. Also, 12 US Presidents had Northern Irish ancestors. Note that this includes only Northern Irish and not Irish ancestors (like President Barack Obama has)! I am fortunate to trace the MCCOOL family line to a tiny (actually no longer existent) village called Toberhead in County Londonderry, near the small town of Magherafelt. During our visit we were granted special permission to visit the original McCool family house which has existed at this location since 1670. Have you been able to visit your ancestral homeland(s)?
See also Northern Ireland Mild Adventures and In the Footsteps of Finn McCool and Ireland Luxury Lodging: Where to Stay in Ireland.
What are your favorite places to visit in Northern Ireland?
The Giant’s Causeway reminded me of the old video game Qbert. It really is one of the strangest natural formations I’ve ever visited. Had mixed emotions over all the murals found in Belfast, Londonderry, etc. Many would be considered works of art but their messages were hard to swallow.
True, about those murals. Tough place, Northern Ireland, with the historic clashes. My McCool ancestors fled in 1720s but I wonder what it would be like to live there now.
Northern Island looks like a great place to visit. The art at the Finn MacCools tavern is funny.
Thank you.
Northern Island looks like a great place to visit! Also, funny image of the warrior holding the beer.
Glad you like it. Hope you get to visit Bushmills.
We just loved Northern Ireland, such a shame so many people skip it! We’ve been to four of these beautiful locations.
Superb. I am guessing that the McCool ancestral home was NOT one of your spots. 😀
Every time I see a photo of Giant’s Causeway I want to book a trip to Northern Ireland! Thank you for the travel inspiration!
Gosh, makes me want to make a return visit.
I’ve not yet been to Ireland, but your photos and the fact that the Guinness Storehouse is there are 2 very good reasons to make me want to go. Thx for sharing.
Let me know if you go!
Would love to visit Ireland, anywhere really. Northern Ireland looks beautiful. Dunluce Castle, and Narnia, Game of Thrones – hmm, grist for the writer’s mill! Want to visit!
You should. Have you?
I haven’t been to Northern Ireland yet but it sure looks beautiful. Bushmills? Count me in. Slainte!
You gotta go, Sue.
Haven’t been yet but I love the wildness of the places you visited and of course, Bushmills!
Bushmills for the win, right?