Discover the Majestic Shepherd's Steps
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.
Shepherd's Steps offers a breathtaking trek through nature's beauty, leading you to stunning views of the iconic Giant's Causeway. Experience the thrill of climbing steep steps that reveal the grandeur of the Northern Irish coastline as you explore this nature reserve.
A brief summary to Shepherd's Steps
- Bushmills, GB
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear to navigate the steep steps safely.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning coastal views and unique rock formations.
- Check the weather forecast beforehand, as conditions can change rapidly in this coastal region.
- Consider visiting during the off-peak season for a quieter experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From the main visitor center of Giant's Causeway, head southwest towards the Giant's Causeway coastal path. Follow the path along the coastline for approximately 0.5 miles (about 10-15 minutes of walking). The Shepherd's Steps are located west of the visitor center, with a clear signpost indicating the start of the trail.
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Public Transportation
If you are traveling from Bushmills, take the bus service (Translink's Service 172) heading towards the Giant's Causeway. The bus journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Once you arrive at the Giant's Causeway bus stop, follow the walking instructions mentioned above to reach Shepherd's Steps.
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Driving
If you are driving, set your GPS to 'Giant's Causeway Visitor Center' (Bushmills BT57 8AR). There is a large parking area available, but note that there may be a parking fee (approximately £8 for the day). After parking, exit the visitor center area and follow the coastal path heading southwest for about 0.5 miles until you reach Shepherd's Steps.
Discover more about Shepherd's Steps
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Giants Causeway Carpark
0.6 km
Explore the legendary Giants Causeway, a breathtaking natural wonder with unique basalt columns and stunning coastal views.
National Trust - White Park Bay
6.4 km
Explore the natural beauty of White Park Bay, a stunning beach in Northern Ireland known for its golden sands and breathtaking coastal views.
Whitepark Bay viewpoint
7.3 km
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Causeway Coastal Route
9.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history along the iconic Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland, filled with stunning landscapes and cultural treasures.
National Trust - Carrick-a-Rede
11.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, where adventure meets stunning coastal views in Northern Ireland.
The Dark Hedges
14.1 km
Explore the Dark Hedges, an iconic beech tree avenue in Northern Ireland, offering breathtaking views and a touch of cinematic magic.
National Trust Barmouth Bird Hide
18.2 km
Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of nature at Barmouth Bird Hide, a premier birdwatching and nature reserve in Northern Ireland.
National Trust - Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne
21.0 km
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Merrick Stone
25.3 km
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Moville Shore Path Walk, Inishowen
34.3 km
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American Monument
40.6 km
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Culdaff Beach
41.0 km
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The Temple of Deen
41.4 km
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Carraig Fhada Lighthouse
46.3 km
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Soldiers Rock
47.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Giant's Causeway Viewpoint
0.3 km
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Organ Pipes - Giant's Causeway
0.3 km
Explore the stunning Organ Pipes at Giant's Causeway, a natural wonder with breathtaking views and unique geological formations in Northern Ireland.
Giant's Causeway
0.4 km
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Amphitheatre Viewpoint - End of the cliffwalk
0.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and stunning geological formations at the Amphitheatre Viewpoint in Bushmills, Northern Ireland.
Bay of the Cow Viewpoint
0.6 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
0.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Bay of the Cow in Northern Ireland - a hidden gem offering stunning views, rich wildlife, and unforgettable coastal adventures.
Giant's Causeway - Blue Trail
0.9 km
Experience the natural beauty and unique geology of Giant's Causeway - Blue Trail, a must-visit hiking area in Northern Ireland.
National Trust - Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre
0.9 km
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Giant's Causeway & Bushmills Railway
1.1 km
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The Gajowy cave
1.2 km
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Portcoon Jetty
1.2 km
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Runkerry Beach
2.5 km
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Three Quarter bridge
2.8 km
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Causeway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
3.0 km
Explore the stunning Causeway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where dramatic cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean in Northern Ireland.
Salmon Rock Beach
3.1 km
Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Salmon Rock Beach, a serene escape on Northern Ireland's stunning Causeway Coast.
Essential places to dine
National trust cafe
0.9 km
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The Nook
0.9 km
Discover The Nook in Bushmills - where fresh seafood meets stunning coastal views for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Causeway Hotel
0.9 km
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Hungry Giant Causeway
1.1 km
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Finn McCool's Giants Causeway Hostel
1.1 km
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Clubhouse Restaurant & Bar
2.9 km
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Causeway Tavern B & B
3.1 km
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Bayview Hotel
3.6 km
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The Bushmills Inn Restaurant and Bar
3.7 km
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The Bushmills Inn Hotel
3.7 km
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Bushmills Townhouse
3.8 km
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Lorna's Kitchen
3.8 km
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Market Square
3.8 km
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Mike's Coffee Shop
3.8 km
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The Bush House Bar
3.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Express Snack Hub & Hot Drinks
0.9 km
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Causeway Tackle
3.1 km
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Co-op Food - Bushmills
3.7 km
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Therapy Style Studio
3.8 km
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Therapy:Sole
3.8 km
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CentraBushmills
3.8 km
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Lilly's
3.8 km
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Carleton’s Corner Shop
3.8 km
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Glass's Fruiterer & Florists
3.9 km
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The Designerie
3.9 km
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Taylor Yates
3.9 km
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Linen Lane
3.9 km
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Hollie’s Highlighters
3.9 km
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Causeway Books
3.9 km
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Bushmills Save the Children
3.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
McBrides Bar
3.1 km
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The Scotch House Bar
3.8 km
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Chonga Castlecatt
7.2 km
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Kon-Tiki Boat Bar
9.3 km
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Springhill Bar
9.9 km
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Kiwi's Brew Bar
10.0 km
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The Offshore
10.1 km
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The Station Bar
10.1 km
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The Harbour Bar
10.3 km
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Harbour Gin Bar
10.3 km
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Blackwater Bar
12.9 km
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The Armada Inn
16.5 km
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ANZAC BAR, RESTAURANT & OFF SALES
16.6 km
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Glenshesk Bar
16.7 km
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House of McDonnell
16.7 km
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