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Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre: Gateway to a Geological Wonder

Explore the Giant's Causeway: Where geology meets legend on Northern Ireland's stunning coast. Visitor Centre with tours, exhibits, and more.

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The Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre serves as the entry point to Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage Site, a stunning landscape of interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity and steeped in myth and legend. The center enhances the visitor experience with exhibits, guided tours, and audio guides.

A brief summary to National Trust - Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre

  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds, especially during peak season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain around the Causeway can be uneven.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as the coastal weather can change quickly.
  • Consider purchasing a Visitor Experience ticket online in advance to save money and guarantee parking.
  • Take the shuttle bus down to the stones and walk back up to fully appreciate the views.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Causeway Coast Way Car Park (60 Causeway Road), walk along the Causeway Road towards the Visitor Centre. The walk is approximately 0.6km and will take about 10 minutes. Be mindful of traffic. This car park charges £15 per car.

  • Public Transport

    From Belfast, take the train to Coleraine. Then, take Ulsterbus service 172 from Coleraine Bus Station to the Giant's Causeway. The bus stops directly at the Visitor Centre. A one-way bus ticket from Coleraine to Giant's Causeway costs approximately £8.

  • Taxi

    From Bushmills, a taxi to the Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre takes approximately 5 minutes. Expect to pay around £10-£15 for the trip. Note that taxi availability may be limited, especially during peak season. Consider pre-booking.

  • Parking

    If driving, follow the B147 Causeway Road to the Giant's Causeway. On-site parking is reserved for National Trust members and Visitor Experience ticket holders. Alternative parking is available at the Causeway Coast Way Car Park for £15. Be aware that parking in the vicinity is limited, especially during peak hours.

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Discover more about National Trust - Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre

The Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre is more than just an entrance; it's an introduction to a world of geological wonder and Irish legend. Opened in 2012, the center itself is an architectural marvel, designed to blend seamlessly into the dramatic coastal landscape. Its grass roof, basalt columns, and glass walls offer panoramic views of the Causeway Coast, preparing you for the breathtaking sights to come. Inside, interactive exhibits delve into the science behind the Causeway's formation, explaining how volcanic activity millions of years ago created the unique hexagonal basalt columns. You'll also discover the legend of Finn McCool, the Irish giant said to have built the Causeway as a path to Scotland. The visitor experience includes access to audio guides and guided tours led by knowledgeable storytellers, offering insights into both the geology and folklore of the area. The Visitor Centre provides essential facilities such as restrooms, a café, and a gift shop showcasing local crafts. It also serves as a starting point for exploring the wider Causeway Coast, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. From here, you can embark on scenic walks along the cliff tops, discover hidden coves, and soak in the raw beauty of the North Antrim coastline. While access to the Giant's Causeway itself is free, the Visitor Experience ticket provides access to on-site parking, guided tours, audio guides, the exhibition, shop, and café. The center was built to manage the large number of tourists that visit the site each year.

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