Gortmore Viewpoint
Windswept Celtic vantage point where ancient mythology meets panoramic coastal views across three nations.
Perched on the Bishop's Road along the Binevenagh Loop, Gortmore Viewpoint offers one of Northern Ireland's most spectacular panoramas. On clear days, your gaze sweeps across the North Antrim Coast, stretching from Magilligan Point to Fair Head and Rathlin Island, with views extending to the Scottish islands of Islay and Jura. A sculpture of Manannan Mac Lir, the ancient sea god of Celtic mythology, stands sentinel at this windswept vantage point. Free parking, picnic facilities, and off-road walking trails make this a perfect stop along the Causeway Coastal Route.
A brief summary to Gortmore Viewpoint
- Bishops Rd, Limavady, BT49 0LJ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- 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
- Visit on clear days for optimal views extending to Scotland. Morning light often provides the clearest visibility and best photography conditions before afternoon haze develops.
- Bring wind-resistant clothing and layers. The exposed hilltop location means weather can change rapidly, and wind speeds are often significantly higher than in surrounding lowlands.
- Pack a picnic and allow time to explore the off-road walking trails that depart from the viewpoint, offering deeper engagement with the moorland landscape.
- Time your visit to catch sunset or sunrise for dramatic lighting that transforms the coastal panorama and enhances photography opportunities.
- Study the Manannan Mac Lir sculpture before your visit to deepen your appreciation of the Celtic mythology and cultural significance embedded in this landscape.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car from Limavady
From Limavady town centre, take the Windy Hill Road (B201) northeast for approximately 3 miles. Turn left onto Bishop's Road and continue uphill for approximately 2 miles to reach Gortmore Viewpoint car park. The road is narrow and winding with steep gradients; allow 15–20 minutes total travel time. Free on-site parking is available for approximately 25 vehicles. The route is open year-round, though winter conditions can make the steep sections challenging.
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Car from Castlerock or Downhill
From Castlerock or Downhill, follow the Mussendun Road (A2) signed as the Causeway Coastal Route. As you descend into Downhill, turn left onto Bishop's Road as it rises steeply. Follow brown and white signs for the Binevenagh Scenic Loop and Gortmore. The viewpoint is approximately 2.5 miles along this road. Travel time from Castlerock is approximately 10–15 minutes. The steep ascent on Bishop's Road requires careful driving, particularly in wet or icy conditions.
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Walking from surrounding trails
Off-road walking trails depart from Gortmore Viewpoint and extend into the surrounding moorland. These paths vary in difficulty and duration, ranging from 30-minute loops to multi-hour explorations of the Binevenagh uplands. Terrain is open moorland with exposed sections; sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. No formal trail markers exist on all routes, so local knowledge or detailed maps are recommended.
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Bicycle from Limavady
Experienced cyclists can reach Gortmore from Limavady via the Windy Hill Road and Bishop's Road, approximately 5 miles total distance. The Bishop's Road features steep gradients (up to 15% in sections) and is narrow with limited passing space. Travel time is approximately 30–45 minutes depending on fitness level. The route is suitable for road bikes on dry days but becomes hazardous in wet conditions due to loose gravel and steep descents.
Gortmore Viewpoint location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Gortmore Viewpoint
A Gateway to Coastal Mythology
Gortmore Viewpoint sits at the intersection of landscape and legend, where the North Antrim coastline meets the sweep of the Atlantic. The site's most distinctive feature is a sculpture of Manannan Mac Lir, the ancient Celtic sea god whose mythology is deeply rooted in this region. According to Irish and Scottish tradition, Manannan was a divine figure who controlled the seas and guided souls between worlds. His presence here, gazing out across the waters, connects modern visitors to centuries of cultural heritage and the spiritual significance this coastline held for ancient peoples.Unobstructed Vistas Across Three Realms
The viewpoint's elevation and positioning along the Bishop's Road create an exceptional vantage point. On clear days, the panorama is extraordinary: the entire North Antrim Coast unfolds before you, from Magilligan Point in the west to Fair Head and Rathlin Island in the east. The view extends further still, reaching across the North Channel to the Scottish islands of Islay and Jura, visible on the horizon. This three-way perspective—across Northern Ireland's dramatic coastline, toward Scotland, and out to the open Atlantic—makes Gortmore one of the region's most comprehensive viewpoints. The changing light throughout the day transforms these vistas, from golden morning illumination to dramatic sunset hues.The Binevenagh Loop and Causeway Coastal Route
Gortmore is a key waypoint on the Binevenagh Loop, itself part of the larger Causeway Coastal Route. This scenic corridor connects some of Northern Ireland's most celebrated natural and cultural landmarks. The Bishop's Road, which climbs steeply to reach Gortmore, is known for its challenging gradients and winding path—a route that rewards the effort with increasingly expansive views as you ascend. The road's name reflects the area's ecclesiastical history, though the exact origins of the designation remain part of local lore.Walking, Picnicking, and Seasonal Character
The viewpoint provides more than a stopping point; it serves as a trailhead for off-road walks that explore the surrounding moorland and coastal edges. The terrain is open and windswept, characteristic of exposed upland areas in Northern Ireland. Picnic facilities are available, allowing visitors to settle in and absorb the landscape at leisure. The site is accessible year-round, though weather conditions vary dramatically with the seasons. Winter brings shorter days and frequent cloud cover, while summer offers extended daylight and clearer sightlines. Spring and autumn provide moderate temperatures and often the most dramatic lighting conditions for photography.Practical Access and Visitor Experience
Free on-site parking accommodates approximately twenty-five vehicles, making it accessible for casual visitors and day-trippers. The viewpoint is open throughout the day and evening, allowing flexibility for sunrise and sunset visits. The site's exposure to Atlantic weather means wind is a constant presence, particularly in winter months. Visitors should come prepared for changeable conditions and dress in layers. The lack of shelter or catering facilities on-site means bringing supplies is advisable for extended visits.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Mussenden Temple
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Castlerock
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West Strand Beach
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Leisureland
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Ramore Head Lansdowne
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Portrush National Nature reserve
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Portrush Coastal Zone
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Essential places to dine
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The Anchor Bar Complex
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Villa Portstewart
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Amici Ristorante
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LIR
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The Tides Restaurant
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Elliot's Bistro
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Ramore Restaurants, Portrush
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Neptune & Prawn
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The Quays Bar & Gastropub
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Elephant Rock Hotel
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55 Degrees North | Restaurant | Bistro | Cafe
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The Newbridge Restaurant
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Wolf it Down Mobile Cafe
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
A Broader Picture - Home & Lifestyle Shop
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Olivia's Haven
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Causeway Coast Gifts
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Portrush Lifeboat House and Shop
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Jasper's Gift Shop
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Jaspers
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Explore Jaspers, Portrush's charming gift shop filled with unique treasures and local crafts that make perfect souvenirs.
PORTRUSH TOYS AND SOUVENIRS
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Explore Portrush Toys and Souvenirs for unique gifts and local memorabilia that capture the charm of this coastal gem.
PaddleCrab
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Paper Lily
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Jingles Gift shop
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The Souvenir Shop
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Creative Gardens Bushmills
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Harbour Bar
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The Scotch House Bar
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Blackwater Bar
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ORIGIN Nightclub & Bar Ballymena
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Viewpoints
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
