Local attractions & Activities

Rathlin island

Situated 6 miles of the North Coast of County Antrim. Rathlin island is accessible by ferry from Ballycastle, ferry crossings run daily with Rathlin island Ferry ltd. 

There is a population of around 140 which is increasing year on year. The island is home to some very special guests…….the puffins!
The Puffins frequent the island from April to July so dont miss out on an opportunity to see these fascinating birds. Visit the West Light Seabird Centre to see the puffins and other spectacular seabirds. 

Discover the tranquillity and natural beauty of the island on your travels. 

Crossing time: 20/45 mins dependant on ferry
See The Ferry Times & Book Tickets on Rathlin Island Ferry Official Website >>

Rathlin island puffins

Carrick-a-rede rope bridge

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a famous rope bridge near Ballintoy in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The bridge links the mainland to the tiny island of Carrickarede. It spans 20 metres and is 30 metres above the rocks below. The bridge is mainly a tourist attraction and is owned and maintained by the National Trust.

Carrick-a-rede rope Bridge

The Giants Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is an area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption. It is located in County Antrim on the north coast of Northern Ireland, about three miles northeast of the town of Bushmills. 

The Giants Causeway

The Dark Hedges

It was intended as a compelling landscape feature to impress visitors as they approached the entrance to their Georgian mansion, Gracehill House. Two centuries later, the trees remain a magnificent sight and have become one of the most photographed natural phenomena in Northern Ireland. In fact, the iconic trees have been used as a filming location in HBO’s epic series Game of Thrones®, representing the Kingsroad.

Featured Scene: Season 2, Episode 1: The North Remembers – On the King’s Road, Arya Stark has escaped from King’s Landing, disguised as a boy. She is with Yoren, Gendry, Hot Pie and others who are to join the Night’s Watch, in a cart, travelling north on the Kingsroad. Find out about other Game of Thrones® Filming Locations in Northern Ireland at www.discovernorthernireland.com/gameofthrones

Ballycastle Swimrise

Wild or open water swimming, is more than just a recreational activity in Ballycastle; it’s a way of life. Local group Swimrise brave the ice cold dip each morning at 8:30am and anyone is welcome to join them. There’s something invigorating about surrendering to the elements, feeling the cool embrace of the sea, and letting go of all worries and cares. Take the plunge during your next stay.

Dalriada Kingdom Tours

This is a family run business with a history of guiding on the Giants Causeway that dates back more than 125 years. Our history and heritage affords us an insight into this iconic site that is totally unique and we bring the ‘Giants Causeway” back to life with pride and passion.

” I am a tour guide and a storyteller, I love my country and it’s  people and I am delighted to share it with you.’ 

Mark Rodgers

Game of Thrones

The Causeway Coast is home to the most filming locations for Game of Thrones.
The Dark Hedges (The Kingsroad)
Ballycastle, Fair Head (Cliffs of Dragonstone)
Cushendun Caves (The Stormlands)
Larrybane (The Stormlands)
Ballintoy Harbour (Lordsport Harbour, Pyke, The Iron Islands)
Dunluce Castle
Downhill (Dragonstone)

Golf

The Causeway Coast and Glens boasts some of the finest links and parkland courses on the island of Ireland. The Marine Hotel is ideally located for guests to enjoy the best of the provinces iconic courses, from Ballycastle Golf Club right outside our door, to Royal Portrush, Portstewart and Castlerock a short drive along our stunning coastline. We offer guests exclusive golf rates and packages; contact our sales team to discuss your next golfing trip.

Alive Surf School

Surfing is a sport for absolutely everybody no matter age, shape, size or fitness. Alive Surf Schools classes are suitable for kids from five years and upwards, there is no upper age limit. Alive also runs regular classes for families and people with learning difficulties so please get in touch to find out more. Alive is the longest running surf school in Northern Ireland