Dunluce Castle: A Glimpse into Ireland's Rich Heritage
Explore the enchanting Dunluce Castle, a medieval fortress on the Antrim coast, rich in history and stunning coastal views.
Dunluce Castle, perched on the dramatic Antrim coastline, is a stunning medieval fortress steeped in history. A visit here reveals breathtaking views, fascinating ruins, and captivating tales of its storied past, making it a must-see for all travelers to Northern Ireland.
A brief summary to Dunluce Castle
- 87 Dunluce Rd, Bushmills, BT57 8UY, GB
- +442820731938
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
- Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain around the castle can be uneven and rocky.
- Don't forget your camera; the views from the castle are breathtaking at sunset.
- Consider exploring the nearby coastal path for additional scenic views and a lovely walking experience.
Getting There
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Car
From Belfast, take the M2 motorway heading north. Continue on the M2 until it merges with the A26. Follow the A26 until you reach the junction for the A37 towards Ballymoney. Continue on the A37 until you reach the A2, then turn left onto the A2 towards Portrush. Follow the A2 coastal road for about 10 miles until you reach Bushmills. Once in Bushmills, follow the signs for Dunluce Castle which is located at 87 Dunluce Rd, BT57 8UY. There is parking available near the castle.
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Public Transportation
From Belfast, take a train from Belfast Lanyon Place Station to Coleraine. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour. Once you arrive at Coleraine Station, transfer to Bus 172 towards Portrush. The bus will take you to Bushmills, where you will need to get off at the bus stop nearest to Dunluce Castle. It is about a 15-minute walk to the castle from the bus stop. Follow Dunluce Rd, and you will see the signs leading you to the castle entrance.
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Car
If you are in Derry/Londonderry, take the A2 coastal road south towards Limavady. Continue on the A2 until you reach the A37 junction. Turn onto the A37 towards Ballymoney, then merge onto the A2 again towards Portrush. Follow the A2 to Bushmills and look for signs for Dunluce Castle at 87 Dunluce Rd, BT57 8UY. There is parking available near the castle.
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Public Transportation
From Derry/Londonderry, take a bus to Coleraine, which usually takes about 1 hour. Once in Coleraine, switch to Bus 172 towards Portrush. Get off at the Bushmills stop. From there, it’s a 15-minute walk to Dunluce Castle. Head down Dunluce Rd, and follow the signs for the castle entrance.
Discover more about Dunluce Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
National Trust - White Park Bay
11.1 km
Experience the unspoiled beauty of White Park Bay, where dramatic landscapes meet serene beaches in Northern Ireland's breathtaking coastline.
Whitepark Bay viewpoint
12.1 km
Dramatic clifftop vista of white sand and ancient dunes on the North Antrim coast.
National Trust Barmouth Bird Hide
12.6 km
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Causeway Coastal Route
14.3 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich heritage along the Causeway Coastal Route, a scenic journey through Northern Ireland's breathtaking coastline.
The Dark Hedges
15.2 km
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National Trust - Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne
15.5 km
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National Trust - Carrick-a-Rede
16.0 km
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Kinbane Castle
18.4 km
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Merrick Stone
19.9 km
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Moville Shore Path Walk, Inishowen
29.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Moville Shore Path Walk in Inishowen, where stunning coastal views and serene pathways await every nature lover.
Culdaff Beach
37.0 km
Discover the beauty of Culdaff Beach in County Donegal, where golden sands meet the Atlantic, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
The Temple of Deen
37.1 km
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American Monument
45.0 km
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Doagh Famine Village
49.1 km
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Whitebay
49.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Slot
1.4 km
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Ulster Way / Causeway Coast Way
1.9 km
Experience the stunning Ulster Way and Causeway Coast Way, a breathtaking hiking trail along Northern Ireland's rugged coastline rich in history and natural beauty.
White Rocks Beach
2.0 km
Discover the stunning White Rocks Beach in Portrush, Northern Ireland's coastal paradise with golden sands and breathtaking cliffs.
Giants Causeway & Bushmills Heritage Railway
3.1 km
Step aboard a historic heritage railway for a scenic journey from Bushmills to the legendary basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway.
Millennium Park Bushmills
3.5 km
Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of Millennium Park Bushmills, a perfect retreat for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Co-op Food - Bushmills
3.6 km
Your friendly local convenience store in Bushmills, open daily from 7 AM to 10 PM for all your quick shopping needs.
Mike's Coffee Shop
3.6 km
Cozy café in Bushmills serving hearty breakfasts and specialty coffees, perfect for a pitstop near the Giant’s Causeway.
carrick bridge
3.6 km
Experience the thrill of crossing the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, a historic landmark on Northern Ireland's stunning Causeway Coast.
chaussée des geants
3.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Chaussée des Géants, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring stunning basalt columns and rich folklore.
Alphabet Angel - Ulster-Scots statue
3.6 km
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The Designerie
3.6 km
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SPAR Bushmills
3.8 km
Your friendly, convenient local store in Bushmills, open daily with extended hours for all your essential needs.
Old Bushmills Distillery
4.1 km
Discover the legendary Old Bushmills Distillery, the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world, and experience centuries of Irish whiskey heritage.
Portcoon Jetty
4.4 km
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The Gajowy cave
4.4 km
Discover the breathtaking Gajowy Cave, a natural wonder in Bushmills, rich in geology and local history, perfect for adventure and exploration.
Essential places to dine
Bayview Hotel
2.3 km
Experience coastal charm at Bayview Hotel in Portballintrae - your gateway to Northern Ireland's stunning landscapes and rich heritage.
Clubhouse Restaurant & Bar
3.0 km
Discover exquisite grilled cuisine at Clubhouse Restaurant & Bar in Portballintrae – where local flavors meet breathtaking coastal views.
Wolf it Down Mobile Cafe
3.3 km
Discover mouth-watering takeout at Wolf it Down Mobile Cafe in Bushmills - perfect for fueling your adventures around Northern Ireland's stunning landscapes.
The Bushmills Inn Restaurant and Bar
3.6 km
Discover culinary delights at The Bushmills Inn Restaurant and Bar - where traditional Irish hospitality meets modern gastropub dining.
The Bushmills Inn Hotel
3.6 km
A historic 17th-century coaching inn reborn as a 4-star boutique retreat on the Causeway Coast, with peat fires, an AA Rosette restaurant, and easy access to the Giant’s Causeway.
Bushmills Townhouse
3.6 km
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Lorna's Kitchen
3.6 km
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Flash In The Pan
3.6 km
Experience authentic British cuisine at Flash In The Pan in Bushmills – home of delicious fish and chips and warm hospitality.
Market Square
3.6 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Market Square in Bushmills - where delicious food meets vibrant culture.
The Bush House Bar
3.6 km
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Tartine at the Distillers Arms
3.7 km
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55 Degrees North | Restaurant | Bistro | Cafe
4.6 km
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Finn McCool's Giants Causeway Hostel
4.6 km
Boutique hostel with panoramic coastal views, just steps from the Giant's Causeway, offering budget-friendly comfort and a friendly atmosphere.
Hungry Giant Causeway
4.6 km
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The Causeway Hotel
4.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Causeway Tackle
2.6 km
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Creative Gardens Bushmills
2.7 km
Discover the enchanting Creative Gardens Bushmills, where vibrant flora meets exquisite outdoor furnishings in a serene setting.
Therapy Style Studio
3.6 km
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Therapy:Sole
3.6 km
Explore Bushmills' Sole Therapy for stylish shoes that blend comfort and local craftsmanship, perfect for every occasion.
Carleton’s Corner Shop
3.6 km
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CentraBushmills
3.6 km
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Glass's Fruiterer & Florists
3.6 km
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Lilly's
3.6 km
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Hollie’s Highlighters
3.6 km
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Taylor Yates
3.6 km
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Linen Lane
3.6 km
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Val-U Style
3.6 km
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MAEGDEN
3.6 km
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Causeway Books
3.6 km
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Bushmills Save the Children
3.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Scotch House Bar
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Kon-Tiki Boat Bar
3.8 km
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Springhill Bar
4.6 km
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The Station Bar
4.7 km
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Kiwi's Brew Bar
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The Offshore
4.9 km
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The Harbour Bar
5.0 km
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Harbour Gin Bar
5.0 km
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Chonga Castlecatt
6.4 km
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McBrides Bar
7.4 km
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Blackwater Bar
11.9 km
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The Armada Inn
18.4 km
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ANZAC BAR, RESTAURANT & OFF SALES
20.8 km
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Glenshesk Bar
20.9 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Glenshesk Bar, Ballycastle's favorite spot for local brews and live music.
House of McDonnell
20.9 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kellys Complex Portrush
3.8 km
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The Legends Lounge
5.0 km
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Halyon Club
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Bailey Redcastle Nite Club
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Tul Na Ri
42.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Co. Donegal at Tul Na Ri, where great music, dancing, and a friendly atmosphere await.
ORIGIN Nightclub & Bar Ballymena
42.8 km
Discover Ballymena's nightlife at ORIGIN Nightclub & Bar, where music, dancing, and vibrant crowds create an unforgettable experience.
Ibiza Orchestra Live
52.2 km
Experience the electrifying fusion of live orchestral music and iconic Ibiza dance beats in Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife hotspot.
Metro Bar
52.7 km
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Tinney's Bar & The Shirt Factory
52.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Tinney's Bar & The Shirt Factory in Londonderry, the perfect blend of tradition and modern pub culture.
The Thirsty Goat Derry
52.8 km
Experience the vibrant charm of The Thirsty Goat Derry, where great drinks and friendly faces create the perfect pub atmosphere.
Nacional de Cuba
52.8 km
Experience the vibrant energy of Nacional de Cuba, Londonderry's premier cocktail bar with a taste of Cuban culture and lively nightlife.
The Ardview Inn
52.8 km
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FIFTY SEVEN Waterloo St
52.8 km
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No. 1 Charlotte Street
52.8 km
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Dukes Bar
52.9 km
Experience Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife at Dukes Bar, where lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere await.
