1. Introduction
When road-tripping along the rugged landscape of County Antrim, you will find Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site and most visited attraction, the Giant’s Causeway. It is a natural wonder, and depending on when you go, your visit can be amazing or average.
2. Tips for Visiting the Giant’s Causeway
If you’re planning to visit the Giant’s Causeway and want to make the most of your trip, follow this guide to experience it like a pro. We have visited three times. We’ve marveled at its unique basalt columns at sunrise, sunset, and everywhere in between. So, we know the best way to visit this landmark. Are you ready to start planning? Let’s go!
The Giant’s Causeway never ceases to amaze; its basalt columns look like perfectly placed stepping stones leading out to the water’s edge. However, on one visit, we encountered large crowds because we chose the wrong time of day. Therefore, to help you avoid this mistake, we will share the best strategies for visiting the Giant’s Causeway from our experiences exploring Northern Ireland’s North Antrim Coast.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a magical landscape steeped in myth and beauty. Known for its unique basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic eruptions, the Giant’s Causeway truly lives up to its reputation.
3. Where is the Giant’s Causeway
The Giant’s Causeway is located in County Antrim on the northeast coast of Northern Ireland, about 60 miles from Belfast. The best way to reach this iconic landmark is by car, allowing you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Check for Rental Car Prices here.
Driving from Belfast takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the M2 and A26, leading you through stunning landscapes. It is just 2.5 miles north of Bushmills Village and about an hour and 20 more minutes from Belfast.
If you don’t have a car, public transportation options include train services from Belfast to Coleraine, followed by a connecting bus to the Causeway. Additionally, there are bus services from Balintoy Village.
4. The Best Time to Visit the Giant’s Causeway
The Giant’s Causeway is open year-round, but the best times to explore are during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). During these months, visitors can enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds. Temperatures typically range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), ideal for walking and photography.
While summer months (July and August) promise warmer weather (15°C to 20°C or 59°F to 68°F), they also bring the peak tourist season, resulting in larger crowds and longer wait times. Conversely, winter months can be challenging due to lower temperatures (5°C to 8°C or 41°F to 46°F) and shorter daylight hours.
5. Best Time of Day to Visit
The best time to visit during the day is at sunrise or sunset. While the Visitor Centre operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, you can enjoy the site outside of these hours. To fully appreciate its beauty without the crowds, aim for an early morning or late afternoon visit. We visited during these times multiple times and enjoyed quiet moments, stunning photographs, and time to roam.
Walking down at sunrise, well before the visitor center opened, allowed us to explore the rock formations from different angles, leaving just as the buses began to arrive. The same experience occurred at sunset; we enjoyed the view with just a couple of other visitors.
6. What is the Giant’s Causeway
The Giant’s Causeway is a unique natural phenomenon and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, formed around 60 million years ago during a volcanic eruption. It features over 40,000 basalt columns, stacked to create what resembles a giant set of interlocking bricks extending toward the sea.
The columns were formed when flowing lava encountered the cold ocean, cooling and solidifying into volcanic stones. Similar formations are found worldwide, including in Iceland and the Scottish Isle of Staffa, where Fingal’s Cave is another remarkable sight from volcanic activity.
7. Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre
The Giant’s Causeway is managed by the National Trust, which promotes the conservation of natural wonders. The Trust has established a Visitor Centre featuring interactive displays that enhance the visitor experience.
Entrance is free with a National Trust Membership. Since most visitors may not have this membership, let’s go through the costs.
If you stay at the Causeway Hotel, you can also enjoy free access to the Giant’s Causeway.
Current entrance fees are £13.50 for adults and £6.70 for children, which provide value for those interested in learning more about the area’s geological and mythological background. Membership offers free entry and parking, while prices may vary during the peak season.
The Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre opens at 10:00 am, closing times vary by season, from 5 pm to 9 pm. Visitors staying at the Causeway Hotel can go anytime; from the parking lot, a tunnel takes you to the Blue Trail, a half-mile walk downhill.
8. Driving and Car Park Locations
If you are not staying at the Causeway Hotel, parking fees apply, or you may choose to walk from nearby guest houses. Additionally, there are excellent hiking trails leading to the Giant’s Causeway, allowing for a scenic approach from Dunserverick Castle or Portballintrae.
When driving, a parking ticket must be purchased, costing £13 per adult in the car (£32.50 for a family and £6.50 for children). This makes The Causeway Hotel an attractive option, as parking and entrance are included for guests.
Another nearby car park along the Causeway Road charges £10 and is an easy walk to the Visitor Centre.
Online ticket purchases include parking, guided tours, and audio guides, along with access to the Visitor Centre, exhibitions, café, and souvenir shop.
9. Guided Tours
For those hesitant to drive, numerous guided tours from Dublin and Belfast are available. With a guided tour, you won’t have to worry about separate costs. Here is a reputable full-day guided tour that explores more of County Antrim and Northern Ireland.
This full-day guided tour is highly rated and takes you through the Causeway Coastal Route, stopping at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, The Dark Hedges, and the Giant’s Causeway.
10. Giant’s Causeway Walking Trails
Blue Trail – This common trail is along the paved road leading to Giant’s Causeway from the Visitor Centre.
Green Trail – A 3.2 km (2 miles) hike that takes 1.5 hours. It begins at the Causeway Hotel and heads toward Runkerry Head. This trail is wheelchair accessible and suitable for families with children.
Red Trail – A moderate trail lasting about 1.5 hours, starting at the Giant’s Causeway visitor centre and along the top of the cliffs.
Yellow Trail – A challenging hike that begins at Runkerry Head and ends at Hamilton’s Seat. It is accessible near Portballintrae and connects to the Blue Trail, allowing flexibility in your journey.
11. Where to Stay at the Giant’s Causeway
We highly recommend spending more time at the Giant’s Causeway rather than just on a day trip. Staying overnight allows you to experience the causeway at sunrise and sunset when the crowds are less daunting.
Causeway Hotel
The Causeway Hotel is the closest lodging, situated directly next to the visitor centre. There are various BnBs available and additional hotels in Bushmills, just 2.5 miles away, providing easy access to the Giant’s Causeway.
The Causeway Hotel features a bar and restaurant, allowing guests to remain on-site and maximize their time exploring the causeway. Although the rooms are basic, their location compensates for the lack of modern amenities.
Bushmills Inn
The Bushmills Inn is another fantastic option located in the town. Dating back to 1600 and having undergone full renovation, it now offers luxurious 4-star accommodations. A worthwhile choice if you prefer upscale lodging even if it requires a short drive to the Giant’s Causeway.
12. Giant’s Causeway History – The Legend
Inside the visitor center, visitors can find a gift shop, snack bar, and coffee shop, along with a film depicting the legend of the Giant’s Causeway, involving the Irish Giant Finn McCool and the Scottish Giant Benandonner.
Long before scientific explanations surfaced, it was believed that the Irish giant Finn McCool constructed the Giant’s Causeway as a bridge to Scotland to face his rival. Legend suggests continued conflict between Finn McCool and Benandonner, leading to Finn’s monumental challenge.
13. The Actual History of the Giant’s Causeway
Formed over 60 million years ago due to intense volcanic activity, the Causeway is celebrated for its 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, creating a captivating spectacle that has fascinated visitors over the centuries.
This combination of geological marvels and enchanting tales, alongside the site’s stunning natural beauty, makes the Giant’s Causeway an essential destination for tourists and a topic of interest for geologists.
14. Accessibility and Mobility at the Giant’s Causeway
For individuals with mobility challenges, a bus service is available to transport visitors to and from the Giant’s Causeway from the visitor centre. Wheelchairs and scooters can also be borrowed from the centre on a first-come, first-served basis.
15. Nearby Attractions and Activities
After visiting the Giant’s Causeway, numerous attractions and activities await along the Causeway Coastal Route, known for its stunning scenery.
16. What to See and Do
Beyond the awe-inspiring basalt columns, the area around the Giant’s Causeway offers numerous attractions:
- The Visitor Centre: Start your trip here to learn more about the geological and mythological significance of the Causeway.
- The Shepherd’s Steps: For panoramic views, challenge yourself to climb these steep steps.
- The Giant’s Boot: Explore this unique rock formation believed to belong to Finn McCool.
- Dunluce Castle: A short drive away, these historic ruins provide insight into Northern Ireland’s past.
- Bushmills Distillery: Don’t miss visiting the world’s oldest licensed distillery, known for its tours and tastings.
Dunluce Castle
Dunluce Castle, just 10 minutes from the Giant’s Causeway, is a picturesque ruin perched on a cliff’s edge. Be sure to continue westward to reach the newly opened viewing platform, featuring stunning scenery of the castle and breathtaking sea cliffs.
Bushmills Distillery
Bushmills is a favorite distillery known for its quality products. A distillery tour is highly recommended, or at least take a moment to explore the grounds and the gift shop.
The Dark Hedges
Located 20 minutes from Giant’s Causeway, the Dark Hedges are famous for their stunning beauty and many photographs. This avenue lined with beech trees served as The King’s Road in Game of Thrones. While some trees have been cut down, a significant number still stand.
Carrick-a-Rede
The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a thrilling stop just 15 minutes away. Initially a fishermen’s crossing, it is now a restored attraction allowing tourists to experience breathtaking coastal views.
17. Giant’s Causeway Tours from Belfast
Day tours to the Giant’s Causeway from Belfast are available for those not self-driving. This popular tour showcases several key landmarks along the Antrim coast before arriving at the Giant’s Causeway.
From Dublin
Tour packages to the Giant’s Causeway also operate from Dublin. This highly rated excursion is ideal for visitors with limited time who wish to enjoy key Northern Ireland destinations.
- Admire the formations of the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Travel to Portaneevy View Point for views of Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
- Enjoy the beautiful scenery along the coastal route of Antrim.
- Immerse yourself in stories filled with folklore, history, and myths.
- Visit various Game of Thrones filming locations.
Other Global Sites with Similar Columns
Hexagonal columns are found in many locations around the globe. Apart from Iceland and Scotland, these formations can be seen in places as diverse as Mongolia and Thailand. Other notable sites include Iceland, Namibia, Australia, and California.
Resources for Planning Your Trip to Northern Ireland
- Things to do in Belfast, Northern Ireland
- 27 Best Things to Do in Northern Ireland
- A Game of Thrones Tour of Northern Ireland
- The Dark Hedges of Northern Ireland – Tips to Visit and What you Need to Know
- The Ultimate Causeway Coastal Route Itinerary, Northern Ireland
- Things to do in Derry – Londonderry, Northern Ireland
