Categories: causeway coastal route, itineraries

A Coastal Escape in Mid & East Antrim

It's a great time of year to take a coastal break, before the summer crowds, while the air is still crisp and the coastline feels serene, creating the perfect backdrop for a rejuvenating getaway.

Unmissable Experiences 

When you visit a destination, there are some activities you just have to do, these are the things you can't return home without having tried! You'll find plenty of these types of activities on the Causeway Coastal Route, from trekking up an ancient volcanic plug to exploring inside an 800 year old castle overlooking the sea.

Carrickefrgus Castle

Get ready to step back in time at this incredible Norman castle nestled in the seaside town of Carrickfergus, on the shores of Belfast Lough. For more than 800 years, Carrickfergus Castle has been an imposing monument on the Northern Irish landscape

Blackhead Coastal Path

A short and delightful circular walk from the picturesque seaside town of Whitehead, around the coastal path to Blackhead with its iconic lighthouse, the most easterly point of County Antrim, then back to Whitehead for refreshments and shopping.

Slemish Mountain

Slemish Mountain is about 1,500 feet above sea level and is located close to Broughshane in County Antrim. It is the legendary home of Saint Patrick and is actually the central core of an extinct volcano. Hike to the top and enjoy fantastic views!

Whitehead Railway Museum

Whitehead Railway Museum will take visitors on a journey through time - see the large stock fully restored heritage Irish railway steam and diesel locomotives, vintage carriages coupled with state of the art interactive touch displays.

Memorable Moments

Whether you're a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, The Causeway Coastal Route promises to captivate your imagination and provide life-long memories with its wealth of fascinating experiences waiting to be uncovered. Dive into these engaging activities and really get to know the people and the place that make this one of the world's best destinations.

Carnlough Bay Boat Tours

Take a memorable, invigorating boat trip in this area of outstanding natural beauty. Passengers have the chance to spot an array of marine life including dolphins!

Gleno Waterfall

One of our lesser known ‘hidden treasures’, Gleno is a magnificent 30 foot waterfall nestling in The Glens of Antrim and owned by the National Trust.

Audrey Kyle Art - Economusee

Artist Audrey Kyle works from a converted barn called Gobbins Studio Économusée, nestled on top of the Gobbins Cliffs on a working family farm. She displays her original unique watercolour paintings, cards and prints in her studio/gallery and runs watercolour experience workshops.

Glenarm Castle & Garden

Crowned "Historic Houses 2023 Garden of the Year", Glenarm Castle and its walled gardens are a true national treasure. One of Ireland's oldest estates, and home to the Earls of Antrim, Glenarm Castle offers incredible garden walks, with stunning planting displays year round. 

Stay on The Causeway Coastal Route

Why the rush? Soak up as many experiences along the Causeway Coastal Route as you can by booking somewhere to stay along the way. Once you've sampled the food and drink, the quality accommodation and the world-famous hospitality of the region - you'll be glad you did! Here are a few highlights of places to stay close to the route...

Blackhead Lightkeepers' Houses

Once the guardian of Belfast's glory days of shipping, Blackhead guided many great ships on their journey, none more than the famous Titanic. Perched on the edge of a cliff, Blackhead offers a wild, windswept retreat with a difference.

Glenarm Castle Ocean View Pods

Escape to the 4* Glenarm Castle Ocean View pods for a stylish rural retreat. Fully furnished with ocean views, explore the estate's delights and nearby coastal attractions. Perfect for families or couples.

Ballygally Castle Hotel

The Ballygally Castle Hotel faces the soft, sandy beaches of Ballygally Bay. The Castle dates back to 1625 and is unique in that it is the only 17th Century building still used as a residence in Northern Ireland. 

Barbican

Romantic in appearance and setting, and approached by a bridge over the Glenarm river, the Barbican comprises a three storey block with a roof terrace which affords significant views over the surrounding countryside.

Food & Drink on The Causeway Coastal Route

Home to some of the most well-known and loved restaurants in the country, you'll find yourself on an unexpected foodie trail as you traverse the Causeway Coastal Route in Mid & East Antrim, sampling the best produce from both land and sea. So make some reservations and treat your taste buds to a gastronomical adventure!

The Fuzzy Beak

The Fuzzy Beak is located in the picturesque town of Whitehead and only a stone's throw away from the epic scenery of The Gobbins Cliff Path. Here you will find freshly prepared, home cooked comfort food.

Image: @SocialStephen
Dobbins Inn

Dobbins Inn in the heart of Carrickfergus offers warm hospitality, traditional Irish and modern European dishes, a cosy bar lounge, dog-friendly beer garden, and popular breakfasts in its central High Street location.

Whiskey Experiences at The Harbourview, Carnlough

At the Harbourview Hotel, step into a world where whiskey culture and Irish hospitality unite. Choose from an array of unique whiskey experiences tailored to your tastes. Join intimate fireside gatherings where you can savour drams from their curated collection.

The Dairy, Gleno

Rustic style bistro, butchers and farm shop set in the heart of the Gleno valley, within a few minutes walk of Gleno waterfall and an easy drive from Larne or Carrickfergus with a delicious menu and large range of local produce for sale.

For even more inspiration on places to see, things to do, places to eatc, drink and stay on the Causeway Coastal Route in Mid & East Antrim, click here!