Giant's Causeway Blue Trail: A Walk Through Legend
Discover the legendary basalt columns of Northern Ireland's Giant's Causeway on the accessible and scenic Blue Trail. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Blue Trail at the Giant's Causeway offers an accessible route to witness the awe-inspiring basalt columns of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. This well-maintained path allows visitors to easily reach and explore the unique geological formations and soak in the surrounding coastal scenery.
A brief summary to Giant's Causeway - Blue Trail
- Bushmills, BT57 8SU, GB
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes with good grip as the basalt columns can be slippery, especially when wet.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy softer light for photography.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as coastal conditions can change rapidly.
- Consider taking the hourly guided tour or audio guide from the Visitor Centre to learn about the Causeway's geology and legends.
- If you're driving, be aware that the on-site car park is reserved for Visitor Experience ticket holders and National Trust members. Alternative parking is available in Bushmills.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre, the Blue Trail begins at the rear of the building. Follow the paved path downhill towards the Causeway stones. The walk is approximately 0.8 miles (1.3km) and takes around 25 minutes. The path is well-maintained but can be steep in places. Take care on the basalt columns themselves, as they can be slippery, especially when wet.
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Public Transport
From Belfast, take the train to Coleraine. Then, transfer to the Ulsterbus Service 172 to reach the Giant's Causeway. The bus stop is a short walk from the Visitor Centre, where the Blue Trail begins. A one-way bus ticket from Coleraine to Giant's Causeway costs approximately £4. Alternatively, take the direct bus from Belfast Europa Bus Station to Giant's Causeway. Check the Translink website for the most up-to-date schedules and fares.
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Driving
From Bushmills, follow the B147 Causeway Road for approximately 2 miles (3 km) to reach the Giant's Causeway. Note that the main car park adjacent to the Visitor Centre is reserved for National Trust members and those with Visitor Experience tickets. Parking at the Causeway Coast Way Car Park (60 Causeway Road) costs £15. Alternatively, use the Park and Ride service from Dundarave Car Park in Bushmills for a reduced rate on Visitor Experience tickets. Parking at the Causeway Hotel costs £10, but you get a £10 voucher to spend at the bar.
Discover more about Giant's Causeway - Blue Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Giants Causeway Carpark
0.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Giants Causeway Carpark, the gateway to Northern Ireland's iconic natural wonder and captivating myths.
National Trust - White Park Bay
6.9 km
Experience the unspoiled beauty of White Park Bay, where dramatic landscapes meet serene beaches in Northern Ireland's breathtaking coastline.
Whitepark Bay viewpoint
7.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Whitepark Bay viewpoint, a scenic gem along the Northern Irish coastline offering stunning views and tranquility.
Causeway Coastal Route
9.9 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich heritage along the Causeway Coastal Route, a scenic journey through Northern Ireland's breathtaking coastline.
National Trust - Carrick-a-Rede
11.6 km
Experience the thrill of crossing Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, a breathtaking connection to nature and history on Northern Ireland's stunning coastline.
The Dark Hedges
13.9 km
Discover the enchanting beech tree-lined avenue of The Dark Hedges, a must-visit natural wonder in Northern Ireland, perfect for photography and serene strolls.
National Trust Barmouth Bird Hide
17.4 km
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National Trust - Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne
20.3 km
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Merrick Stone
24.6 km
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Moville Shore Path Walk, Inishowen
33.6 km
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Culdaff Beach
40.5 km
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The Temple of Deen
40.9 km
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American Monument
41.4 km
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Carraig Fhada Lighthouse
47.1 km
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Whitebay
47.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre
0.1 km
Explore the Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre and uncover the myths, geology, and stunning scenery of Northern Ireland's iconic coastal landmark.
Giant's Causeway & Bushmills Railway
0.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich heritage of the Giant's Causeway & Bushmills Railway, a must-visit destination in Northern Ireland.
Bay of the Cow Viewpoint
0.4 km
Discover breathtaking views and serene landscapes at the Bay of the Cow Viewpoint, a must-visit attraction along Northern Ireland's stunning coastline.
Bay of the Cow
0.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Bay of the Cow in Northern Ireland - a hidden gem offering stunning views, rich wildlife, and unforgettable coastal adventures.
The Gajowy cave
0.6 km
Explore the enchanting Gajowy Cave near Bushmills, a stunning natural wonder filled with captivating geological formations and rich biodiversity.
Portcoon Jetty
0.6 km
Explore the breathtaking views and tranquil beauty of Portcoon Jetty, a must-visit scenic point in Antrim, Northern Ireland.
Giant's Causeway Viewpoint
0.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Giant's Causeway Viewpoint, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning basalt columns and captivating coastal scenery.
Shepherd's Steps
0.9 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Shepherd's Steps, a natural wonder that offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Northern Ireland's rich geological history.
Giant's Causeway
0.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Giant's Causeway, a natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland.
Organ Pipes - Giant's Causeway
1.2 km
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Amphitheatre Viewpoint - End of the cliffwalk
1.4 km
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Runkerry Beach
1.6 km
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Three Quarter bridge
2.0 km
Discover the charm and beauty of the Three Quarter Bridge in Portballintrae, an architectural gem with stunning views and rich local history.
Salmon Rock Beach
2.3 km
Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Salmon Rock Beach, a serene escape on Northern Ireland's stunning Causeway Coast.
carrick bridge
2.8 km
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Essential places to dine
The Nook
0.1 km
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National trust cafe
0.1 km
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The Causeway Hotel
0.2 km
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Hungry Giant Causeway
0.3 km
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Finn McCool's Giants Causeway Hostel
0.3 km
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Clubhouse Restaurant & Bar
2.1 km
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Bayview Hotel
2.7 km
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The Bushmills Inn Restaurant and Bar
2.9 km
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The Bushmills Inn Hotel
2.9 km
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Bushmills Townhouse
3.0 km
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Lorna's Kitchen
3.0 km
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Market Square
3.0 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Market Square in Bushmills - where delicious food meets vibrant culture.
Mike's Coffee Shop
3.1 km
Experience the charm of Bushmills at Mike's Coffee Shop—your go-to destination for delicious breakfast and exceptional coffee.
The Bush House Bar
3.1 km
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Flash In The Pan
3.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Express Snack Hub & Hot Drinks
0.2 km
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Causeway Tackle
2.2 km
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Co-op Food - Bushmills
3.0 km
Discover convenience in the heart of Bushmills at Co-op Food, where local products meet everyday essentials for tourists and locals alike.
Therapy Style Studio
3.0 km
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Therapy:Sole
3.0 km
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CentraBushmills
3.0 km
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Lilly's
3.1 km
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Carleton’s Corner Shop
3.1 km
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Glass's Fruiterer & Florists
3.1 km
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The Designerie
3.1 km
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Taylor Yates
3.1 km
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Linen Lane
3.1 km
Explore Linen Lane, a unique lighting shop in Bushmills, offering exquisite lamps and lampshades for every taste and style.
Hollie’s Highlighters
3.2 km
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Causeway Books
3.2 km
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Bushmills Save the Children
3.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Scotch House Bar
3.0 km
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McBrides Bar
3.4 km
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Chonga Castlecatt
6.6 km
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Kon-Tiki Boat Bar
8.5 km
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Springhill Bar
9.2 km
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Kiwi's Brew Bar
9.3 km
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The Station Bar
9.4 km
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The Offshore
9.4 km
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The Harbour Bar
9.5 km
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Harbour Gin Bar
9.6 km
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Blackwater Bar
12.4 km
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The Armada Inn
16.5 km
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ANZAC BAR, RESTAURANT & OFF SALES
17.0 km
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Glenshesk Bar
17.1 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Glenshesk Bar, Ballycastle's favorite spot for local brews and live music.
House of McDonnell
17.1 km
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