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The Giant's Causeway

The Giant's Causeway is the only World Heritage Site in Ireland and is less than two miles from Acorn Lodge. No visit would be complete without seeing it. You can go by car, or walk along the old tramtrack which starts at Tramway Drive.

Legend has it that the approximately 37,000 hexagonal pillars of volcanic basalt were created by the giant, Finn McCool, as stepping stones across the Irish Sea to reach his lady love on the island of Staffa, in Scotland.

From the award-winning Visitors Centre, you can walk to the Causeway or take the frequent minibus. The cliff path which overlooks the Causeway offers breathtaking views of the coastline and, on a clear day, pf some Scottish islands - you can follow this cliff path round the coast to Dunseverick Castle. To see how close we are to the Giant's Causeway, please see our 'how to get here' page.

Bushmills

Bushmills is a 'Conservation Village', situated in an 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty'.

The home of the famous Bushmills Distillery, Bushmills is a pleasant rural village which is well accustomed to welcoming tourists from around the world.

The River Bush, on whose banks it is built, is an excellent salmon fishing river. A new Millennium Walk has been provided on the river bank, linking the town's two bridges.

There are also plans to establish a steam railway from near the old Tramway Station to the Giant's Causeway along the route followed by the original Causeway Tram (the world's first hydroelectric train). Acorn Lodge is in nearby Tramway Drive. [Update: this has now been built.]

Bushmills is about one mile from Portballintrae. The road offers scenic views of the wooded hills of Dundarave, the meandering River Bush, Bushfoot Golf Course, Runkerry and the coast. Bushmills and its shops are a 5 minute walk away from Acorn Lodge.

Dunluce Castle

The ruins of Dunluce Castle are situated on a cliff top between Portrush and the Giant's Causeway - 3 miles from Acorn Lodge.

The castle dates from the 13th century. The most famous incident in its history occurred in 1639 when the kitchens fell into the sea during a storm. It is otherwise well preserved, and you can wander round the roofless 'rooms' and look out to sea, or admire it from a distance, silhouetted against the horizon. It is a popular subject for local and not-so-local artists.

Islands

Rathlin Island: Rathlin Island lies over 6 miles off the coast from Ballycastle. To get there, you can take one of the frequent ferry trips from Ballycastle. The 45 minute journey will, on a clear day, offer you beautiful views of the coast. The island, inhabited by about 100 people, is peaceful and quiet. It is of interest to birdwatchers and botanists, and to those who like to get away from it all.

The Glens of Antrim

Ballycastle: Ballycastle is at the north end of the Glens of Antrim. It is an attractive seaside resort, with sandy beaches, an attractive harbour, tall cliffs and views of Rathlin Island. From the harbour you can take the ferry to Rathlin Island, or go to Cambletown, in Scotland. On the last Monday and Tuesday of August the Auld Lammas Fair is held. This tradidional event with its hundreds of stalls, and horse and sheep trading, attracts many thousands of visitors.

Local towns

Portrush: Portrush is one of Northern Ireland's main seaside resorts. There are sandy beaches, scenic walks, hotels, guest houses and Barry's famous amusements and the new Dunluce Centre. Portrush appeals to families and people of all ages. The North-West 200 motorcycle race is held in early May on a route between Portrush, Portstewart and Coleraine. Coleraine: Situated on the River Bann, Coleraine is a flourishing university town and a popular shopping venue - well worth a visit.

Portstewart: Portstewart is a popular seaside resort, famous for its long premenade and also for its magnificent and huge sandy beach (Portstewart Strand). Portballintrae: Originally a small fishing village built around a bay, Portballintrae in now also popular with holiday makers who enjoy its beach, harbour, scenic walks, sand dunes and golf course. There are hotels, guest houses, and a large caravan park. You can walk along the coast from Acorn Lodge to the Giant's Causeway and beyond.

Activities

Walks: Walk along the coast, cliffs and unspoilt sandy beaches like White Park Bay. Bushmills village is just 5 minutes away. The sand dunes at Portballintrae are great fun for the children. There are beautiful walks along beaches, headlands and countryside, all within easy reach. Watersports: Surfing and jetskiing in Portballintrae.

Fishing: We can arrange fishing in the River Bush, which is only 1/4 mile away away. Portballintrae harbour is 1 mile away, and you can fish from a boat along the coast. Pony riding: Pony riding is available locally. Cycling: This is an ideal way to see the north Antrim scenery. Bikes can be hired in Portrush, and in some other towns.

Golf