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Giant's Causeway, County Antrim

Giant's Causeway

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There’s nothing modest about Northern Ireland's coastline. Drive along the famous Causeway Coast, and one stunning site leads to another.

The craggy castle ruins of Dunluce Castle,  the pale cream sands of Whiterocks Beach or the stunning views of the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge  are just some of the fine attractions. But as you weave along this great driving route, one sight jumps out as truly spectacular: the Giant’s Causeway.

Stand on the hills that gently arc this unique place and you’ll look down on thousands of basalt columns tumbling down into the Atlantic Ocean. It’s an epic sight, with a whopping 40,000 or so of these hexagonal-shaped stepping stones, which date back to a volcanic age almost 60 million years ago.

The Giant's Causeway, County Antrim

The Giant's Causeway

County Antrim

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Explore the Causeway Coastal Route

If you’ve made your way to the Giant’s Causeway, don’t stop there… it may be the jewel in the crown of the Causeway Coastal Route, but there are plenty of other places to enjoy on this epic road trip…

Step into the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre and you can discover a story that’s close to the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The star of the show is Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn McCool) – an Irish giant who picked a fight with Scottish big man Benandonner.

Legend has it that the giants loathed each other. And so one day after enduring insults from Benandonner, Fionn built a path to use as stepping-stones to reach Scotland, which was then ripped up by Benandonner. The result was the Giant’s Causeway.

It's highly recommended that you book your visit in advance online. Tickets include reserved parking, guided tours, audio guides and access to the Visitor Centre and all of its facilities.

Giant's Causeway things to do

L-R: The Giant's Causeway, County Antrim

It’s no wonder this place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, because beyond the mindboggling beauty, the Causeway is our portal into Earth’s most ancient past. ELEANOR KILLOUGH, GIANT’S CAUSEWAY VISITOR CENTRE

And what a truly special place it is. An enjoyable walk of just under a kilometre will bring you down to the Causeway itself, where you can hop over the stones, explore the surrounding hills, or just sit and contemplate the puzzling geology that has led to one of the most remarkable natural sites in Europe. Here, the light changes through the day, with remarkable beauty from sharp greens and greys to warm tobacco brown.

It’s what dreams are made of.

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County Antrim highlights

Don't miss these things to see and do

giant's causeway tourism

The Gobbins Cliff Path

giant's causeway tourism

5 ways to see Belfast city

You don’t just have to walk around Belfast to see it up close!

giant's causeway tourism

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

giant's causeway tourism

Dunluce Castle

giant's causeway tourism

Accommodation

The Bushmills Inn

Flanked by the wild North Atlantic Ocean and a landscape of dramatic cliffs, the Giant's Causeway is a geological wonder and home to a wealth of history and legend. The 40,000 basalt stone columns left by volcanic eruptions 60 million years ago, has captured the imagination of all who see it.

Carrick-a-Rede one of Northern Ireland’s most loved attractions in Northern Ireland, cared for by the National Trust, a registered conservation charity founded to protect beautiful and special places for ever, for everyone.

Dunluce Castle is located dramatically close to a headland that plunges straight into the sea, along the North County Antrim coast.

The Bushmills Inn is a luxury Hotel with an AA Rosette restaurant in the heart of Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast. One of Ireland’s most well known luxurious hotels, The Bushmills Inn boasts open turf fires, gas lights and hidden nooks & crannies.

Explore Northern Irelands Only World Heritage Site

The giants causeway guide.

giant's causeway tourism

Giant’s Causeway Tour with Guided Cliff Walk

From £57 Per Person

The giants causeway at dusk looking from the sea to the cliffs over the stones

Giant’s Causeway, Belfast Titanic Experience, And Dark Hedges Tour

From £162 Per Person

giant's causeway tourism

Tour of Giants Causeway and Bushmills Distillery

From £480 Per Group

“You are standing on, or are about to visit, one of my favorite places. The jewel in the crown of the fabulous coast of Antrim. A site of World Heritage and therefore ranked alongside Mount Everest and the Giant Redwoods of California for its importance to humankind. Volcanic activity helped Finn Mc Cool forge this wonder of the World some 60 Million years ago. It is today the habitat of rare plants and animals. Please treat their home with the pride and the care it deserves.”

— David Bellamy

giant's causeway tourism

Welcome to one of the most amazing places on the planet; The Giant’s Causeway . The Giants Causeway comprises around 40,000 thousands of mostly hexagonal basalt columns descending gently into the sea. Depending on who you believe, the stones were formed either by an underwater volcano’s geological actions or by a giant named Finn McCool, who lived and battled along the north Antrim Coast.

The Giant’s Causeway Official Guide prides itself on offering a place to find fun and educational guided tours for you, your family, and your friends. We delight in sharing this natural wonder with visitors to Northern Ireland. 

Make your trip memorable by spending a day on a tour of The Giant’s Causeway from Portrush, Belfast, or Dublin. You will enjoy a comprehensive visit to Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage site and visit nearby famous attractions. There’s no need to read about the rich history; let our tour guide provide the facts and figures while you focus on taking in its beauty.

Travel along the iconic Giant’s Causeway Coast Route in comfort, and let yourself be enchanted by the gorgeous locations on the Antrim Coast, the lush beauty of the Irish landscape, and of course, the Giant’s Causeway itself. Take away the hassle of checking maps, and stopping to ask for directions, and we will ensure you see the best spots and get plenty of time to explore the Giant’s Causeway.

giant's causeway tourism

The Giant’s Causeway

The coastline of County Antrim in Northern Ireland is  renowned  for its scenic beauty, possibly the world’s best-driving route, the Causeway Coast Route, clinging to its edge. The Giant’s Causeway, sitting at the northern end, takes the centerpiece as the crown’s unique jewel, known as the 8th Wonder of the World to many here in Ireland and beyond. The famous jagged promontory of around 40,000 neatly packed columns of hexagonal volcanic basalt columns was created some 6 million years ago by a basaltic lava flow.

The Giant’s Causeway is a place where myth and science meet. Were the spectacular basalt columns formed through the rapid cooling of lava from an underwater volcano, or, as some may say, created by the legendary mythical Irish Giant Finn MacCool?

For centuries countless visitors have explored the Giant’s Causeway and marveled at its unique rock formations. Situated on one of Worlds most spectacular coastlines, its unique rock formations have, for nearly sixty million years, stood as a natural rampart against the unbridled ferocity of the North Atlantic storms. The rugged symmetry of the columns never fails to intrigue and inspire our visitors. To stroll on the Giant’s Causeway is to voyage back in time.

The Visitor Center

In 2012 the new architecturally designed bespoke Giant’s Causeway Visitor center opened, replacing the original building built in 1986 when UNESCO added the Giant’s Causeway to its coveted list of exceptional interest and universal site value.

The new center is the gateway to the famous Giant’s Causeway, semi-hidden in the hillside. It offers various ways to learn more about myths, legends, social history, wildlife, and conservation. There are large screens for shows and a shop (selling souvenirs and local crafts), and a cafe that supplies books, pamphlets, tourist information, and multi-lingual audio guides.

The National Trust runs the Causeway Visitor Centre, so it’s free to enter with a National Trust Membership.

giant's causeway tourism

Similar Structures Around The World

The Giant’s Causeway is not as unique as you’d think. There are similar sites worldwide that are home to impressive hexagonal columns like those found on the North Antrim Coast. The nearest is just across the water on a Scottish Island Called Staffa Flow, where Fingals Cave is lined with large basalt columns. You can see similar structures in Isreal, Iceland, Mexico, and Russia….but obviously, none are as fantastic as The Giant’s Causeway

giant's causeway tourism

History Of The Giant’s Causeway

Despite the Giant’s Causeway being formed over 60 million years ago, the 40000 or so basalt columns of the Giants Causeway only came to be known by the broader public from around 1690 when it was “discovered” by the Bishop of Down and Conor, William King. Here you can discover more about the Giants Causeway’s history and how it became a world heritage site.

Geology Of The Giant’s Causeway

“ When the world was molded and fashioned out of formless chaos, this must have been the bit over—a remnant of chaos !” William Thackeray Tweet Thackeray’s

The Giant’s Causeway has some of the most amazing geological experiences on the Causeway Coast and in Northern Ireland. Visitors of this popular tourist spot have more than just the stones to view, with many natural phenomena such as the Giant’s Boot, the wishing chair, and the Giants Organ.

The coastal walk to the stones takes in many of these offerings and the opportunity to get the obligatory selfie on the giant’s boot

giant's causeway tourism

MYTHS & LEGENDS OF THE CAUSEWAY

The Giant’s Causeway, near Bushmills , has been drawing thousands of tourists from near and far with its mystery and rare geological formations; however, according to legend, the columns are the remains of a causeway built by a giant Finn McCool. The story goes that the Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn MacCool), from the Fenian Cycle of Gaelic mythology, was challenged by the Scottish giant Benandonner. Fionn accepted the challenge and built the causeway across the North Channel to meet the two giants. The legend of Causeway Giant’s Finn McCool and Benandonner battle is told on the big screen in the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre, which the National Trust runs.

Flora & Fauna

The Giant’s Causeway isn’t just home to incredible rock formations. The Giants Causeway and the Causeway Coast are a haven for sea birds such as fulmar, petrel, cormorant, shag, redshank guillemot, and razorbill. Simultaneously, the weathered rock formations host several rare and unusual plants, including sea spleenwort, hare’s foot trefoil, vernal squill, sea fescue, and frog orchid.

giant's causeway tourism

A Gallery Of The Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is one of Northern Ireland’s, if not the world’s, most photographed places. With stunning sunrises, sunsets, and incredible images of the solar system. Check out some of the fantastic pictures we’ve found on our Instagram and more

Affiliate Disclaimer

Remember that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced in order to help you make the best choice for you.

© Content Kings Media Ltd

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  • Description

The Giant's Causeway lies at the foot of the basalt cliffs along the sea coast on the edge of the Antrim plateau in Northern Ireland. It is made up of some 40,000 massive black basalt columns sticking out of the sea. The dramatic sight has inspired legends of giants striding over the sea to Scotland. Geological studies of these formations over the last 300 years have greatly contributed to the development of the earth sciences, and show that this striking landscape was caused by volcanic activity during the Tertiary, some 50–60 million years ago.

Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

Chaussée des Géants et sa côte

Au pied des falaises qui bordent le plateau d'Antrim en Irlande du Nord, la Chaussée des Géants, composée de quelque 40 000 colonnes de basalte, s'enfonce doucement dans la mer. Elle a inspiré des légendes où des géants l'utilisaient pour franchir la mer jusqu'en Écosse. Les études géologiques qui lui ont été consacrées depuis 300 ans ont contribué au développement des sciences de la Terre et montré que ce paysage spectaculaire s'expliquait par des activités volcaniques datant du tertiaire, il y a quelque 50 à 60 millions d'années.

ممر العمالقة وساحله

عند قدم المنحدرات الصخرية المحيطة بهضبة أنتريم في ايرلندا الشمالية، ينغمس ممر العمالقة المؤلف من 40000 عمود من البزلت بهدوء في البحر. وقد شكل مصدر ايحاء لعدد من الأساطير حيث كان العمالقة يستخدمونه لعبور البحر حتى اسكتلندا. وساهمت الدراسات الجيولوجية التي خصصت له منذ 300 عام في تطور علوم الأرض وأثبتت ان روعة هذا المنظر تعزى الى نشاطات بركانية يعود تاريخها الى الزمن الجيولوجي الثالث أي من 50 الى 60 مليون سنة.

source: UNESCO/CPE Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

“巨人之路”位于北爱尔兰安特令平原边沿,沿着海岸坐落在玄武岩悬崖的山脚下,由大约40 000个黑色玄武岩巨型石柱组成,这些石柱一直延伸到大海。这个令人称奇的景观使人们联想出巨人跨过海峡到达苏格兰的传说。300年来,地质学家们研究其构造,了解到它是在第三纪(大约5000-6000万年前)时由活火山不断喷发而成的。这个状观景点同时大大推动了地球科学的发展。

Calzada y Costa del Gigante

Al pie de los acantilados que bordean la meseta de Antrim, en Irlanda del Norte, la Calzada del Gigante, formada por 40.000 columnas de basalto, se hunde suavemente en el mar. Su fantástica apariencia ha inspirado leyendas de gigantes que cruzaban el mar por ella hasta las costas de Escocia. Los estudios de que han sido objeto estas formaciones geológicas en los tres últimos siglos han contribuido al desarrollo de las ciencias de la tierra, mostrando que este paisaje espectacular fue originado por la actividad volcánica de la Era Terciaria, hace unos 50 o 60 millones de años.

ジャイアンツ・コーズウェーとコーズウェー海岸

source: NFUAJ

Giant’s Causeway en Causeway kust

De Giant’s Causeway ligt aan de voet van de basaltrotsen langs de kust, aan de rand van het Antrim-plateau in Noord-Ierland. De rotsformatie bestaat uit zo’n 40.000 massieve zwarte basaltzuilen die uit de zee steken. De dramatische aanblik was inspiratie voor legendes over reuzen die over zee naar Schotland liepen. De Causeway-kust - zo'n zes kilometer lang - toont een ongeëvenaarde weergave van geologische formaties, het gevolg van vulkanische activiteit tijdens het Tertiairtijdperk, zo’n 50 tot 60 miljoen jaar geleden. Geologische studies van deze formaties gedurende de afgelopen 300 jaar hebben veel bijgedragen aan de ontwikkeling van de aardwetenschappen.

Source: unesco.nl

giant's causeway tourism

Outstanding Universal Value

Brief synthesis

The Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast is a spectacular area of global geological importance on the sea coast at the edge of the Antrim plateau in Northern Ireland. The most characteristic and unique feature of the site is the exposure of some 40,000 large, regularly shaped polygonal columns of basalt in perfect horizontal sections, forming a pavement. This dramatic sight has inspired legends of giants striding over the sea to Scotland. Celebrated in the arts and in science, it has been a visitor attraction for at least 300 years and has come to be regarded as a symbol for Northern Ireland.

The property’s accessible array of curious geological exposures and polygonal columnar formations formed around 60 million years ago make it a ‘classic locality’ for the study of basaltic volcanism. The features of the Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast site and in particular the strata exposed in the cliff faces, have been key to shaping the understanding of the sequences of activity in the Earth’s geological history.

Criterion (vii): The cliff exposures of columnar and massive basalt at the edge of the Antrim Plateau present a spectacle of exceptional natural beauty. The extent of visible rock sections and the quality of the exposed columns in the cliff and on the Causeway combine to present an array of features of considerable significance.

Criterion (viii): The geological activity of the Tertiary era is clearly illustrated by the succession of the lava flows and interbasaltic beds which are in evidence on the Causeway Coast. Interpretation of the succession has allowed a detailed analysis of Tertiary events in the North Atlantic. The extremely regular columnar jointing of the Tholeiitic basalts is a spectacular feature which is displayed in exemplary fashion at the Giant’s Causeway. The Causeway itself is a unique formation and a superlative horizontal section through columnar basalt lavas.

Most of the 70 ha site is in the ownership and management of the National Trust. Access to the coast is by a system of footpaths which allow visitors the opportunity to view the coastal scenery from the cliff tops and also examine the geological features at close range. The path is generally unobtrusive, and monitored and maintained to keep it in a safe condition. The cliff exposures and causeway stones, key attributes of the property, are protected by ownership in perpetuity by The National Trust. The removal of ‘souvenir’ stones from the Causeway, which occurred before the area was protected, has long since ceased.  

Protection and management requirements

The property has many layers of statutory and non-statutory protection. In addition to World Heritage status, most of the property is a National Nature Reserve and also forms part of the Giant’s Causeway and Dunseverick Area of Special Scientific Interest. Almost all of the terrestrial area of the property (mainly its vegetated sea cliffs) has been designated as the North Antrim Coast Special Area of Conservation (SAC) under the Habitats Directive (Natura 2000). The designation of the Causeway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which covers an area of spectacular coastal scenery stretching over approximately 29 km, gives formal statutory recognition to the quality of the landscape.

The UK Government protects World Heritage properties and their surroundings under the spatial planning system through a hierarchy of regional and local policies and plans. Planning Policy Statements (PPSs) for Northern Ireland set out policies on land-use and other planning matters. Two PPSs specifically refer to World Heritage properties and SACs, noting that “development which would adversely affect such sites or the integrity of their settings will not be permitted unless there are exceptional circumstances.”

The National Trust holds most of the land in inalienable ownership, with approximately 5% of the property remaining in private ownership. The Crown Estate is considered the legal owner of all lands between high and low water mark and has rights over the sea bed within territorial waters. A World Heritage Steering Group comprising relevant stakeholders provides the framework for implementation of the property’s Management Plan, ensuring the conservation of the property as well as managing visitation, as the Causeway is Northern Ireland's most popular tourist attraction. A world-class visitor centre, aimed at improving both the visitor experience and ensuring the integration of the centre within the landscape in order to maintain the property’s outstanding scenic beauty, has been built by the National Trust.

This management framework ensures delivery of the management requirements for the property and its Outstanding Universal Value, as well as the conservation requirements arising from all the various designations, with the delivery of a world-class experience of the property by its visitors.

The Giant’s Causeway World Heritage Site Management Plan acknowledges the continuing effects of natural erosion which will gradually alter the cliff exposures. Path routes, and possibly even site boundaries, may need to be changed to accommodate the effects of this process. Changes in sea level or an increased frequency of storm events may also, in the future, affect the degree to which the causeway is accessible or visible. The need to continue to monitor the effects of climate change and erosion is recognised in the Management Plan and associated action plan.

Other threats requiring effective protection and management include direct damage to natural features within the property through human impact. This is addressed through legal control and management by the National Trust. Damage to the setting of the property through human impact resulting from inappropriate development or land use is addressed through legal and spatial planning control measures. 

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State of Conservation (SOC)

How To Visit the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland

Written By: The Planet D

Northern Ireland

Published On: February 29, 2024

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 truly is a natural wonder. But, depending on when you go, your Giant’s Causeway visit can be amazing or average. We will share how to visit the Giant’s Causeway with insider tips for how to avoid the crowds, where to find the best places to stay, and what you will actually see when you make a stop at this awe-inspiring destination along the Causeway Coast.

If you’re planning a visit and want to make the most of your trip guide to experiencing the Giant’s Causeway like a pro, you have come to the right place. We have visited the Giant’s Causeway three times on organized tours and independently. We’ve marveled at its unique basalt columns at sunrise, sunset, and everywhere in between. So, are you ready to fall in love with the Giant’s Causeway like we did? Let’s go!

Tips for Visiting the Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway never ceases to amaze us, its basalt columns look like perfectly placed stepping stones leading out to the water’s edge. However, one of our Giant’s Causeway visits was less than stellar due to crowds because we visited at the wrong time of day. So, to help you avoid making the same mistake we made on our first visit, we will share the best ways to visit the Giant’s Causeway from out other experiences exploring the North Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a magical landscape steeped in myth and beauty. Known for its unique basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic fissure eruptions, the Giant’s Causeway is Northern Ireland’s most popular attraction. It is truly incredible and lives up to the hype.

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, offering the flexibility 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 some of Northern Ireland’s most picturesque landscapes. It is just 2.5 miles north of Bushmills Village and 1 hour and 20 minutes from Belfast.

Public transportation options include train services from Belfast to Coleraine, followed by a connecting bus to the Causeway. There is bus service from Balintoy Village.

If you don’t have a car, you can join a guided tour from Belfast or Derry/Londonderry, which often includes other attractions along the Causeway Coast.

The best time to visit The Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is open year-round, so you can visit anytime. However, the best times to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site are 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 during these seasons average a comfortable 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), ideal for walking and photography.

While the summer months (July and August) promise warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), they also bring the peak tourist season, resulting in larger crowds and longer wait times.

The winter months, though less crowded, can be challenging due to colder temperatures, around 5°C to 8°C (41°F to 46°F), and shorter daylight hours.

Best Time of Day to Visit

The best time to visit the Giant’s Causeway during the day is at sunrise or sunset. The Visitor Centre is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, but you can visit outside of opening hours.

To truly appreciate its splendor without the crowds, aim to visit either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. We visited both times in different years and times of year, and both times, we had it virtually to ourselves. Plus the softer light made for stunning photographs as we enjoyed quieter moments while roaming the site.

We walked down at sunrise well before the visitor center opened and could hike all over the weathered rock formations, taking in views from different angles. By the time the buses started arriving, we had our fill and went back to the hotel for breakfast.

We did the same thing at night. Once the buses left, we walked down to watch the sunset with a group of two other people. When you are along the Giant’s Causeway, it is truly magical.

The one time we were on a bus tour, we arrived in mid-day, and it was chaos.

Many people visit the Giant’s Causeway on a road trip around the Causeway Coast or as part of a day tour from Belfast. The guided tours and bus tours stop at the Giant’s Causeway starting at 10 am, so if you can get in before that, you will have a better time.

What is the Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is a unique natural phenomena of exceptional beauty easily making its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was formed 60 million years ago during a volcanic eruption and it is truly a wonder of the world. There are more than 40 thousand basalt columns that are perfectly stacked, creating what looks like a giant set of interlocking bricks leading out to the sea.

The basalt columns were formed during the eruption when the flowing lava crashed into the waves of the sea. As the ocean cooled the lava, it turned them into volcanic stones. There are similar basalt columns worldwide, including in Iceland and across the sea; you can visit the Scottish Island Staffa Flow (Isle of Staffa) to see Fingals Cave, which is another amazing sight that was formed by volcanic activity.

Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre

The Giant’s Causeway is run by the National Trust, which is an organization that promotes the preservation of natural and architectural wonders. They have created a Visitor Center to enhance the visitor experience with interactive displays and an interpretation area that blends seamlessly with the landscape.

If you have a National Trust Membership, entrance is free . Most tourists obviously won’t have a membership, so let’s go through the coasts.

If you stay at the Causeway Hotel, you can also visit the Giant’s Causeway for free.

Prices vary, with current entrance fee rates at £13.50 for adults and £6.70 for children, offering value for those interested in learning more about the geological and mythological background of the area. National Trust members can enjoy free entry and parking. Prices change at peak season.

The Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre opens at 10:00 am and closes depending on the time of year, anywhere from 5 pm to 9 pm. But you can visit it alone and walk down anytime if you stay at the Causeway Hotel. From the parking lot, you will walk through a tunnel taking you to the Blue Trail which is a half-mile walk downhill.

Driving and Car Park Locations

If you are not staying at the Causeway Hotel you will need to pay for parking or you can walk. Some of the guest houses near Giant’s Causeway are not too far away as well. There are some good hiking trails to the Giant’s Causeway as well and if you are up for a hike, you can walk from Dunserverick Castle or Portballintrae.

If you are driving, you will need to purchase a parking ticket. Using the car park closest to the visitor centre costs £13 per person, adding up quickly. The cost for parking is £13 per adult in the car. £32.50 for a family and £6.50 for children.

That makes The Causeway Hotel an even more desirable option. When you stay here, parking and entrance is free.

There is another car park along the Causeway Road, The Causeway Coast Car park costs £10 and is an easy walk to the visitor centre.

When you purchase a ticket online, it includes parking, a guided tour, and audio guides. You also have access to the Visitor Centre, the exhibition, café and souvenir shop.

Guided Tours

We realize that most people will not want to drive on the other side of the road and there are plenty of guided tours from Dublin , and Belfast . Plus, if you book a tour, you won’t need to worry about any of these costs as they will all be included. Here are a couple of guided tours that we recommend that also explore more of County Antrim and Northern Ireland.

This full-day guided tour is highly rated and takes you along the Causeway Coastal Route to see the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, The Dark Hedges, and Giants Causeway.

Giant’s Causeway Walking Trails

Blue Trail – This is the common trail that is along the paved road leading to Giant’s Causeway from the Visitor Centre.

Green Trail – This is a 3.2 km (2 miles) hike that takes 1.5 hours. This trail starts at the Causeway Hotel and follows the path toward path towards Runkerry Head. This trail is suitable for people with disabilities and is wheelchair friendly. It is also kid-friendly for buggies. This trail takes you out to see the Portcoon Cave, 150 yards long and 40-foot high, sea cave.

Red Trail – The Red Trail is a moderate trail that takes about 1.5 hours. It starts at the Giant’s Causeway visitor’s centre and goes along the top of the cliffs.

Yellow Trail – The Yellow Trail is a challenging hike, that begins at Runkery Head and ends at Hamilton’s Seat. The trailhead is accessible near the village of Portballintrae and goes past the Causeway Hotel and Visitors Centre. You’ll meet up with the Blue Trail and can go down to the Giant’s Causeway or stay high to continue on the Yellow Trail. There are sheer cliffs on this path, so be careful.

Where to Stay at the Giant’s Causeway

We highly recommend spending more time at the Giant’s Causeway than just on a quick day trip. The reason being is that if you join a tour, you will arrive at the Giant’s Causeway at midday with all the crowds. On two of our visits, we stayed at the Causeway Hotel and could walk down to see the Giant’s Causeway at sunrise and sunset. During these times of the day, we had it all to ourselves.

Causeway Hotel

The Causeway Hotel is the closest hotel to the Giant’s Causeway located directly at the visitor’s centre. But there are plenty of BnBs around the area and other hotels in Bushmills which is just 2.5 miles away. You can then easily drive to the Giant’s Causeway for sunrise or sunset. See reviews on TripAdvisor and Check prices on Booking.com

The Causeway Hotel has a bar and restaurant so you don’t have to leave at all and can spend maximum time at the Giant’s Causeway. The rooms are pretty basic, though, and need an update. What the rooms lack in ambiance is made up for in its location.

Bushmills Inn

The Bushmills Inn is another great option located in town. We ate here and had an amazing meal. It dates back to 1600 and was a coaching inn at the time. It has been completely renovated and the rooms are now a 4-star luxury. If you want something more upscale and don’t mind needing to drive to the Giant’s Causeway, this is a great option. See reviews on TripAdvisor and Check Prices on Booking.com

Giant’s Causeway History – The Legend

Inside the visitors center, there is a gift shop, a snack bar, and a coffee shop. There is also a film about the legend of the Giant’s Causeway involving the Irish Giant Finn McCool and the Scottish Giant Benandonner.

Before science, it was believed that the Irish giant Finn McCool made the Giant’s Causeway to create a bridge to Scotland to challenge his rival. Legend says that rivals Fionn Mac Cumhaill (Finn McCool) of County Antrim in Ireland were constantly bickering with the Scottish Giant Benandonner.

One day Finn McCool decided to build a bridge to cross the sea and challenge Benandonner to a fight. It’s an easy legend to believe, as each stone seems to be placed there for a purpose. Read the full legend at The Legend of the Giant’s Causeway – Do You Believe?

The Actual History of the Giant’s Causeway

Formed over 60 million years ago due to intense volcanic eruptions, the Causeway is famous for its 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, creating a natural phenomenon that has intrigued visitors for centuries.

This blend of geological wonder and mythical tales, coupled with the site’s breathtaking natural beauty, makes the Giant’s Causeway a pivotal subject of study for geologists and a must-visit destination for tourists worldwide.

It is Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of its ancient origins or intrigued by the enchanting stories passed down through generations, the Giant’s Causeway offers a unique window into the past, making it an essential part of Northern Ireland’s cultural and natural heritage.

Mobility and the Giant’s Causeway

For those with mobility issues, there is a bus that you can take down and up to the Giant’s Causeway from the visitor’s center. They also have wheelchairs and scooters available to borrow at the Giant’s Causeway visitor centre. Note that they are available on a first come first serve basis. The bus costs

Things to do Near the Giant’s Causeway

After the morning visit, there are plenty of things to see and do nearby. Giant’s Causeway is located along the Causeway Coastal Route, and it is one of the most spectacular road trips on earth.

What to See and Do

Beyond the awe-inspiring basalt columns, the Giant’s Causeway area is rich in attractions worth exploring:

  • The Visitor Centre : Start your visit here to delve into the Causeway’s fascinating geological and mythological stories.
  • The Shepherd’s Steps : Challenge yourself with a climb up these steep steps to be rewarded with panoramic views.
  • The Giant’s Boot : Discover this curious rock formation that, according to legend, belongs to the giant Finn McCool.
  • Dunluce Castle : A short drive away, the ruins of this medieval castle offer a glimpse into Northern Ireland’s storied past.
  • Bushmills Distillery : No trip to County Antrim is complete without a visit to the world’s oldest licensed distillery, offering tours and tastings.

Dunluce Castle

Dunluce Castle is a lovely stop located just 10 minutes from Giant’s Causeway. The ruins sit high on a cliff and are one of the most picturesque castles in Northern Ireland.

Make sure to continue driving west to stop at the viewing platform just a short distance further. This just opened this year, and there are two fantastic lookouts where you can see Dunluce Castle on one side and the high sea cliffs of Northern Ireland on the other.

Bushmills Distillery

Bushmills is Dave’s favourite whisky, and we always stop to pick up a bottle of their signature 16-year-old. You can do a distillery tour and it is highly recommended. Even if you don’t do a tour, you can get into the grounds for a peek and into the gift shop to purchase a bottle or two. Bushmills Distillery is located in Bushmills Village and is just a five-minute drive from Giant’s Causeway.

Dark Hedges

The Dark Hedges is 20 minutes from Giant’s Causeway and they are the most photographed place in Northern Ireland. The Dark Hedges are located on Bregagh Road near the town of Ballymoney in County Antrim. It is lined with 90 beech trees forming an arch all the way along the road. It was used as The King’s Road in Game of Thrones. Note: Some Dark Hedges have been cut down due to deteriorating conditions, but there are still many standing. Read more: The Dark Hedges of Northern Ireland – Tips to Visit and What you Need to Know

Carrick a Rede

The Carrick a Rede Rope Bridge is another amazing stop that is located just 15 minutes from Giant’s Causeway. It was once a dangerous bridge to cross only used by fishermen, but today it has been restored and tourists can walk across this suspension bridge for unparalleled coastline views.

The Giant’s Causeway and the Causeway Coast are extraordinary places to visit. Spending time in this part of Northern Ireland will create memories to last a lifetime as you explore one of the most beautiful coasts in the world. Read more about the Causeway Coast at: The Ultimate Causeway Coastal Route Itinerary, Northern Ireland

Giant’s Causeway Belfast Tours

You can book day tours to the Giant’s Causeway from Belfast if you aren’t doing a self-drive around the Causeway Coastal Route. This highly rated tour takes you to see famous sights along the Antrim coast before reaching the Giant’s Causeway. Places you’ll see en route to the Giant’s Causeway are Cushendun Caves, Carnlough Harbour, and the Dark Hedges. Learn about the history from live commentary on board.

Another excellent option for a tour from Belfast to the Giant’s Causeway is this popular Game of Thrones Tour. You’ll enjoy the beauty of the Antrim Coast before hitting the world-famous Giant’s Causeway. During this guided day tour, you’ll stop at places like Carrickfergus Castle and the nine Glens of Antrim before seeing the coastal town of Ballycastle. It’s then time to see HBO’s Game of Thrones filming locations like Magharmorne Quarry, which is the location of Castle Black and the Dark Hedges, to see King’s Road.

From Dublin

Tours to the Giant’s Causeway even be booked from Dublin. This highly rated tour is the perfect day trip for people with limited time but who still want to enjoy some of the top Northern Ireland destinations when they visit Ireland. Visit the Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle, and Giant’s Causeway, and spend some time in Belfast on a guided tour from Dublin.

  • Admire the formations of the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Head to Portaneevy View Point to see the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
  • Marvel at the stunning scenery of the Antrim coastal route
  • Hear stories of folklore and history with a few myths and legends too
  • See some of the Game of Thrones sites throughout the day

Other Places with Columns in the World

A quick Google search will show you that there are dozens of hexagonal columns around the world. We noted Iceland and Scotland, but they can be found from Mongolia to Thailand. Ones that we’ve seen with our own eyes are Iceland, Namibia, Australia, and California. We even recently saw incredible formations in Santiago Chile.

If you aren’t driving, this is a good day tour that includes visiting the top attractions on the Causeway Coast including Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle and the Dark Hedges. Visit RentalCars.com to see prices for car rentals from Dublin or Belfast.

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

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

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1 thought on “How To Visit the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland”

wow!! amazing write up. I got a lot of information about Northern Ireland. This is the best place of northern Ireland. Thanks a lot for sharing it.

Giants Causeway

giant's causeway tourism

The Giant's Causeway (or Irish: Clochán na bhFómharach) is an area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. It is located on the northeast coast of Northern Ireland, about two miles (3 km) north of the town of Bushmills. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986, and a National Nature Reserve in 1987 by the Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland. In a 2005 poll of Radio Times readers, the Giant's Causeway was named as the fourth greatest natural wonder in the United Kingdom. The tops of the columns form stepping stones that lead from the cliff foot and disappear under the sea. Most of the columns are hexagonal, although there are also some with four, five, seven and eight sides. The tallest are about 12 metres (36 ft) high, and the solidified lava in the cliffs is 28 metres thick in places.

The Giant's Causeway is today owned and managed by the National Trust and it is the most popular tourist attraction in Northern Ireland.

During the Paleogene period, Antrim was subject to intense volcanic activity, when highly fluid molten basalt intruded through chalk beds to form an extensive lava plateau. As the lava cooled rapidly, contraction occurred. While contraction in the vertical direction reduced the flow thickness (without fracturing), horizontal contraction could only be accommodated by cracking throughout the flow. The extensive fracture network produced the distinctive columns seen today. The basalts were originally part of a great volcanic plateau called the Thulean Plateau which formed during the Paleogene period.

Legend has it that the Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn McCool) built the causeway to walk to Scotland to fight his Scottish counterpart Benandonner. One version of the legend tells that Fionn fell asleep before he got to Scotland. When he did not arrive, the much larger Benandonner crossed the bridge looking for him. To protect Fionn, his wife Oonagh laid a blanket over him so he could pretend that he was actually their baby son. In a variation, Fionn fled after seeing Benandonner's great bulk, and asked his wife to disguise him as the baby. In both versions, when Benandonner saw the size of the 'infant', he assumed the alleged father, Fionn, must be gigantic indeed. Therefore, Benandonner fled home in terror, ripping up the Causeway in case he was followed by Fionn.

Another variation is that Oonagh painted a rock shaped like a steak and gave it to Benandonner, whilst giving the baby (Fionn) a normal steak. When Benandonner saw that the baby was able to eat it so easily, he ran away, tearing up the causeway.

The "causeway" legend corresponds with geological history in as much as there are similar basalt formations (a part of the same ancient lava flow) at the site of Fingal's Cave on the isle of Staffa in Scotland.

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The Irish Road Trip

Visiting The Giant’s Causeway: History, Parking, Tickets + Seeing It For Free

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: January 30, 2024

Visiting The Giant’s Causeway: History, Parking, Tickets + Seeing It For Free

I’ve a love/hate relationship with the Giant’s Causeway, mainly due to the ridiculous parking charges .

You can visit the Giant’s Causeway free if you’re walking/cycling , but if you’re driving and you want to park near by, you really do pay for the privilege …

Now, there are ways of visiting the Giant’s Causeway for free , and you’ll find them below, but if you drive up with 3 adults in the car you could end up forking out £45 …

Below, you’ll find info on the Giant’s Causeway tickets to the different walks in the area and the parking options.

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows about visiting the Giant’s Causeway

Giants Causeway

Photos via Shutterstock

Although a visit to the Giant’s Causeway is fairly straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.

1. Location

The Giant’s Causeway is situated on the Antrim Coastal Route , a 5-minute drive from the Old Bushmills Distillery , a 10-minute drive from Dunluce Castle  and a 15-minute drive from Carrick-a-rede .

You’ll need to pay for the Giant’s Causeway tickets if you want to park at and visit the visitor centre. There are peak and off peak prices . I’ll put the peak prices in brackets:

  • Adult : £13.50 (£15.00)
  • Kids : £6.75 (£7.50)
  • Family : £33.75 (£37.50)

The Giant’s Causeway parking is what you’re paying for with the ticket prices above. Although the visitor centre has an interactive exhibition, most people only head into it to use the toilets and restaurant. There are other Giant’s Causeway parking options, which we’ve plotted on the map below.

4. Opening hours

The opening hours change slightly , depending on time of the year, however, the visitor centre is generally open from around 09:00 to 17:00 while parking is open all day.

5. How to see it for free

You can visit the Giant’s Causeway for free if you walk from either Dunserverick Castle or Portballintrae . These are long and scenic coastal walks. If you/someone you’re travelling with has limited mobility, you are best off parking at the visitor centre. More info below.

6. The shuttle bus

If you don’t want to walk from the visitor centre to the Causeway, there’s a shuttle bus that runs at 15-minute intervals . It costs £1 per person.

7. Weather plays a big part

If you arrive at the Giant’s Causeway on a day when the rain is pummelling down, you’re in for a tough time . The Giant’s Causeway is completely exposed – even if you take the shuttle bus, you’ll be soaked when you reach the basalt columns, so ensure to 1, pack rain gear and 2, pack a change of clothes.

The main Giant’s Causeway parking options

giant's causeway parking

Click to enlarge map

There are four main Giant’s Causeway parking options that are within a reasonable walking distance of the entrance point.

Each of these are paid parking – if you want to visit the Giant’s Causeway for free, scroll to the next section.

1. The ‘main’ car park

The main spot for parking at the Giant’s Causeway is the visitor centre car park ( here on maps). 

They use a system similar to the Cliffs of Moher where they justify the ridiculous cost by pushing the fact that you also get access to the visitor centre.

The advantage of parking here is that it’s right next to the Giant’s Causeway, so it’ll be handy for visitors with limited mobility.

2. Causeway Coast Way Car Park

The second Giant’s Causeway Car Park, known as the ‘Causeway Coast Way Car Park’, is a 7-minute walk away and it’s also a rip-off ( here on maps).

You’ll pay £10 to park here and this doesn’t include access to the visitor centre. Now, they’ll justify this by saying ‘But sure you have all-day parking’, when realistically you’ll be here for 2 hours max.

3. Parking at The Nook

The Nook ( here on maps) is right next to the visitor centre and, if you buy food here, you can also use their car park.

This is a handy option, if you can get a spot, as at least you’ll get a feed on top of your parking!

4. Parking at the Causeway Hotel

The car park at the Causeway Hotel ( here on maps) charges you £10 upon entry, but with that you’re given a £10 voucher to spend in the hotel restaurant.

Decent value when you compare it to the 2nd car park above where you’ll only get access to the toilets for your £10er.

How to visit the Giant’s Causeway for free

visit the Giant's Causeway for free

The only way to visit the Giant’s Causeway for free if you have a car is to park at either Portballintrae or Dunseverick and then walk from there.

Of course, if you have a bike and can cycle there from where you’re staying, that’d give you access to the Giant’s Causeway for free, too! Here’s an overview of both options:

1. Walk from Portballintrae (1.5 – 2 hour loop)

Park your car for free at Salmon Rock Beach and take the 1.5 to 2-hour coastal loop from Portballintrae.

This is a gorgeous coastal walk that treats you to stunning views throughout. Good walking shoes are needed as the trail can get muddy in places.

2. Walk from Dunseverick Castle (1.5 hours each way)

If you fancy a decent ramble, you can always park at Dunseverick Castle and take the 4.8 mile (one way) trail to the Causeway. The scenery is incredible and the trail, for the most part, is well maintained.

The walk from the castle to the Causeway takes roughly 1.5 hours each way. If you don’t fancy walking back to the car, you can get the Translink Service 172 from near The Nook just down from the visitor centre back to Dunseverick.

About the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland

Right, now that we have info on the Giant’s Causeway parking out of the way, it’s time to dive into some Giant’s Causeway facts.

1. It’s a UNESCO world heritage site

The Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO world heritage site and it is considered by many to be among Europe’s greatest natural wonders.

It made the list thanks to the ‘Outstanding Universal Value’ that it offers visitors .

2. It’s old. Really old

It’s believed that the Giant’s Causeway is between a whopping 50 and 60 million years old (more info on how it formed below) and geologists have been studying the Causeway for nearly 300 years.

3. It’s made up of 40,000+ basalt columns 

One of the most popular Giant’s Causeway facts is the number of huge, black basalt columns that it comprises of – there are 40,000 of them jutting proudly out of the sea.

4. There’s a ‘giant’ tale linked to the Causeway

According to Irish folklore, the Giant’s Causeway was formed after an Irish giant was challenged to a fight by a fierce Scottish Giant (more info below).

The story goes that the Causeway is in fact stepping stones that the Irish giant used to get to Scotland.

How was the Giant’s Causeway Formed? The facts and the folklore!

Giant's Causeway legend

Now, you tend to hear two different stories about how the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland formed. The first story is the sciencey one. It involves volcanic activity and that kind of thing.

The second is a tale that many people that grew up in Ireland were told at bedtime. I’m talking, of course, about the legend of Fionn MacCumhaill and his fight with a Scottish giant.

Story 1: Volcanos and eruptions

Roughly 60 million years ago, the area around what is now known as the Giant’s Causeway was a hotbed of volcanic activity.

This era is referred to as the Paleocene Epoch, a time when the earth looked very different from how we see it today When molten basalt leaked through chalk beds to make a large lava plateau, the lava cooled and then contracted.

Horizontal contraction fractured and the cracks propagated down as things cooled, hence the pillarlike structures we see today.

In most situations, the horizontal fracture brought about a convex bottom end whilst the upper was concave. The size of the columns was determined by how quickly the lava cooled. 

Story 2: The legend of Fionn MacCumhaill

Although story 1 is the official, scientific explanation of how the Causeway formed, there remain those who err on the side of ancient legend to explain how the Giant’s Causeway was formed.

According to Irish mythology , the causeway was formed when a giant named Fionn Mac Cumhaill built it to get to Scotland for a duel with another giant.

Whilst certainly more entertaining than the official version of events, this explanation is today mostly reserved for children! Read the full story in our guide to the legend of the Giant’s Causeway .

The best Giant’s Causeway tours

giants causeway tours

We receive a constant stream of emails and direct messages from tourists asking for advice on the best Giant’s Causeway tour, so we’ve rounded up several with great reviews.

Note: if you book a tour through one of the links below we may make a tiny commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we really do appreciate it.

Giant’s Causeway Tours from Dublin

When it comes to visiting the Giant’s Causeway from Dublin, it is key to remember that it’ll take just over three hours to get there by car/tour bus, so factor that into your planning. Here are two with excellent reviews:

  • Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, and Belfast Tour from Dublin
  • Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones Tour from Dublin

Giant’s Causeway Tours from Belfast

If you’re looking to visit the Giant’s Causeway from Belfast, you’ve plenty of choice. Here are two tours with top-notch reviews:

  • Giants Causeway & Game of Thrones Locations Tour from Belfast
  • Giant’s Causeway Fully Guided Day Trip from Belfast

Things to do near the Giant’s Causeway

One of the beauties of the Giant’s Causeway is that it’s a short spin away from a clatter some of the best places to visit in Antrim .

Below, you’ll find a handful of things to see and do a stone’s throw from the Causeway (plus places to eat and where to grab a post-adventure pint!).

1. Old Bushmills Distillery (5-minute drive)

Bushmills Distillery

Photos courtesy of Tourism Northern Ireland

One of the most popular things to do near the Giant’s Causeway (especially when it’s raining!) is to do the Old Bushmills Distillery tour. It’s popular among whiskey lovers and non-whiskey drinkers alike. You can also visit The Dark Hedges when you’re done. 

2. Castles galore (10 to 20-minute drive)

Dunluce Castle

One of the more unique things to do near the Giant’s Causeway is to visit one of the  many  medieval ruins that can be found nearby. Dunluce Castle is a 10-minute drive away, Dunseverick Castle is a 5-minute drive and Kinbane Castle is a 20-minute drive.

3. Heaps more attractions (10 to 25-minute drive)

Causeway Coastal Route Drive

If you’re looking for more things to do near the Giant’s Causeway, you’ve plenty to choose from, with many of the most popular Causeway Coastal Route attractions a short spin away. Here are some of our favourites:

  • Portrush Beach (20-minute drive)
  • Torr Head Scenic Route (20-minute drive)
  • Whitepark Bay (10-minute drive)

FAQs about Giant’s Causeway facts and tours

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘How was the Giant’s Causeway formed? ‘To where to park for the Giant’s Causeway?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

Where is the best parking near the Giant’s Causeway?

If you don’t want to get stung with the hefty Giant’s Causeway parking charges at the visitor centre, park at the Causeway Coast Way Car Park (10 minute walk) for £10.

How can you visit the Giant’s Causeway for free?

If you want to visit the Giant’s Causeway for free, park at Dunseverick Castle or Salmon Rock Beach (info on the walks above).

What are the best things to do near the Giant’s Causeway?

There are plenty of things to do near the Giant’s Causeway, from Dunluce Castle and the Bushmills Distillery to The Dark Hedges and more (see above).

giant's causeway tourism

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 34 years and has spent most of the last 10 years creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Joan Mulvey

Thursday 14th of July 2022

Are you able to take dogs on the causeway?

Saturday 7th of January 2023

The Causeway Coast Way Car Park is now £10

Monday 3rd of October 2022

@Keith O'Hara, Thanks for this Keith. Very helpful.

Keith O'Hara

Saturday 16th of July 2022

Hi Joan - according to this article it's fully dog friendly: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/giants-causeway/news/we-are-now-fully-dog-friendly

Wednesday 27th of April 2022

Great guide however due to the long summer evenings, just arrive after 6pm when the visitor center is closed, there are no crowds and park at the centre for free, you can even watch the sunset from the Causeway. This is what I did 👍

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Giant’s Causeway – tickets, prices, timings, what to expect

Giants Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is a fascinating natural wonder located on the northeastern coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland. 

It is renowned for its unique geological formations consisting of approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, which have captivated visitors for centuries. 

This great site stretches along the rugged shoreline for about three kilometers and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Causeway’s formation is believed to have occurred around 50-60 million years ago during intense volcanic activity. 

As molten lava rapidly cooled and contracted, these remarkable hexagonal columns resemble a giant puzzle or a massive causeway, hence the name.

The site offers breathtaking coastal views and scenic walking trails, where visitors can learn more about the geology, history, and folklore surrounding this extraordinary place. 

This article covers everything you should know before booking tickets for Giant’s Causeway – tickets, timings, directions, and much more!

Top Giant’s Causeway Tickets

# From Dublin: Full-Day Giant’s Causeway with Fast-Track Entry # From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway Fully Guided Day Trip # From Belfast: Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

Table of contents

What to expect, where to book tickets, how do online tickets work, giant’s causeway ticket prices, giant’s causeway tickets – fast-track entry , giant’s causeway fully guided day trip, giant’s causeway and game of thrones day tour, giants causeway, dark hedges, dunluce & belfast tour, giant’s causeway, dark hedges & titanic guided tour, how to reach , best time to visit, how long does the tour take, faqs about giant’s causeway.

When visiting the Giant’s Causeway, you can expect a unique and awe-inspiring experience.

The highlight of the Giant’s Causeway is the incredible basalt columns. The geometric precision and natural beauty of the formations are truly remarkable.

As you explore the site, you’ll be amazed by the sight of thousands of interlocking hexagonal columns formed by volcanic activity.

The Causeway is situated along a rugged and picturesque coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. 

You can admire breathtaking ocean views, cliffs, and surroundings. The powerful waves and striking cliffs contribute to the charm of the location.

You can walk along the shoreline, climb the columns, and get up close to the natural formations. Be prepared for uneven terrain. The queues can be slippery when wet.

The site has a modern visitor center where you can learn about the geological processes through informative exhibits, displays, and audiovisual presentations. 

The center also provides restrooms, a café, and a souvenir shop.

You can embark on scenic hikes, such as the Causeway Coast Way, and enjoy stunning views of cliffs, beaches, and other natural wonders.

The Causeway is also home to diverse flora and fauna. While exploring the site, you may spot seabirds, including fulmars and razorbills, and other wildlife, such as seals. 

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The Giant’s Causeway tickets can be purchased online or at the attraction.

To save time and money, we suggest buying your tickets online. 

Online tickets are cheaper than the ones you buy at the attraction’s ticket counter.

Booking online is much simpler than purchasing tickets at the attraction.

You can avoid long queues at the venue by making a reservation online.

Additionally, booking online prevents delays and last-minute disappointment.

Visit the Giant’s Causeway booking page , select a date, and purchase your desired number of tickets.

After making the purchase, you will receive the tickets in your email. 

There is no need to carry a printout. 

You can enter by showing your smartphone ticket.

Tickets for Dublin: Full-Day Giant’s Causeway with Fast-Track Entry costs €80 for visitors above 13 years. 

For visitors of age 12 and younger, the tickets cost €59.

For visitors above 65 years and students, these tickets cost €74.

Tickets for Belfast: Giant’s Causeway Fully Guided Day Trip costs €35 for visitors above 13 years.

For visitors of age 12 and younger, these tickets cost €23.

Tickets for Belfast: Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour costs €32 for visitors aged 17 to 64. 

For visitors of age 4 to 16, the tickets cost €21.

For seniors above 65 years and students, these tour tickets cost €26. The same rates apply to Military personnel with ID.

Dublin: Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce & Belfast Tour ticket costs €88 per person.

Dublin: Giant’s Causeway, Dark Hedges & Titanic Guided Tour ticket costs €80 per person.

Giant's Causeway tickets - Fast-Track Entry

Enjoy a full-day panoramic tour of the basalt rocks of the Giant’s Causeway. 

After leaving Dublin, go through the windswept path of County Antrim to experience stunning views of the Mull of Kintyre and Rathlin Island. 

Enjoy the views of Whitepark Bay and Portbradden as you continue down the coastal road. Then, explore the Giant’s Causeway’s 37,000 basalt “stepping stone” columns. 

Pass through Bushmills, which is famous for its delightful whisky. 

Conclude this tour by walking through Belfast’s city center, which includes City Hall, Victoria Square, and the renowned Titanic Dry Dock, where the legendary ocean liner was built.

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (13+ years): €80 Child Ticket ( up to 12 years): €59 Senior Ticket (65+ years): €74 Student Ticket: €74

Giant's Causeway Fully Guided Day Trip

Take a beautiful journey from Belfast to Northern Ireland’s most prominent locations, The Giant’s Causeway, Cushendun Caves, Carnlough Harbour, and the Dark Hedges.

Take some shots at the stunning Carrickfergus Castle as your first stop.

Then, move along the coast, stopping at the Caves of Cushendun and Carnlough Harbour—both made famous by the smash TV show Game of Thrones.

Following the Giant’s Causeway, make a brief stop at the old ruins of Dunluce Castle before continuing to the World Famous Dark Hedges.

Adult Ticket (13+ years): €35 Child Ticket ( 2 to 12 years): €23

Infant Ticket (up to 1 year): Free

Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

After departing Belfast in the morning, take a short drive to the first site of the day, the Carrickfergus stronghold, a 12th-century Norman stronghold. 

Pass Carnlough Harbour, the Waterfoot Caves, and the Cushendun Curfew House on your way through Glenarm. 

Travel up via Glencorp and Glendunn, past the seaside village of Ballycastle, to the Portaneevy View Point, where you may see the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge. 

Stop to take in the views from the rope bridge, which overlooks the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland and Rathlin Island.

Listen to the stories behind these places before proceeding to the Dark Hedges, also known as the Kingsroad in the HBO series Game of Thrones.

Adult Ticket (13+ years): €31 Child Ticket ( below 12 years): €21 Senior Ticket (65+ years): €26 Student Ticket: €26

Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce & Belfast Tour

Take a trip along Northern Ireland’s coastline on a day trip from Dublin on a comfortable bus.

Visit notable sites such as the Giant’s Causeway, the Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle, and Belfast with your guide.

Then, proceed to the Giant’s Causeway, which comprises approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns. 

Spend at least two hours at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, getting up close and personal with the hexagonal columns known as the Eighth Wonder of the World.

Ticket Price : €88

Giant's Causeway, Dark Hedges & Titanic Guided Tour

With an early start in Dublin, this tour is designed to get you to the top spots in Northern Ireland to make the most of your limited time.

The Giant’s Causeway is the first stop of the day. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is incredibly breathtaking. 

During your trip through the Glens of Antrim, you’ll visit the Dark Hedges. You’ll have the opportunity to stroll down the Beech tree-lined avenue, which gained fame as the King’s Road in the popular TV series “Game of Thrones.”

Standard Ticket (for all ages): €80

Save time and money! This Dublin All-Inclusive Pass allows you to visit over 40 sights and locations, including the Guinness Storehouse, Chester Beatty Library, and Christchurch Cathedral. Visit as many attractions as you like with a 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5-days Dublin Pass. You need to show your QR-coded digital pass on your phone to get entry.

The world-famous Giant’s Causeway resides on the northern coast of County Antrim.

Address: Bushmills BT57 8SU, United Kingdom. Get Directions

The Giant’s Causeway is a 16-minute walk from The Nook bus stop .

Buses: 172, 221, 402, 402a

If you’re traveling by car, turn on Google Maps and begin your journey.

The Giant’s Causeway in Ireland is open all year round, except for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day.

Generally, the visitor center stays open from 9 am to 5 pm. 

The best time to visit Giant’s Causeway Northern Ireland is at 9 am when the attraction opens.

You may consider going early in the day when the visitors are minimum. 

Avoid weekends and holidays if you prefer a less crowded experience.

How long does the Giant's Causeway tour take

Walking through the Giant’s Causeway formations can take one to three hours. 

The time you spend touring the Giant’s Causeway can vary depending on your interests and how much you wish to explore.

However, if you spend more time at the Visitor Center, take a guided tour, or explore the surrounding area, you may need to allocate a half-day or even a full day.

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland.

The Giant’s Causeway is located on the northeastern coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland, near Bushmills.

The Causeway is easily accessible by car, and a dedicated car park is available.  Alternatively, you can take a bus or join a guided tour from nearby towns and cities such as Belfast or Londonderry.

Yes, there is an admission fee to access the Giant’s Causeway. Visit Giant’s Causeway tickets for more information about the admission fee.

The Giant’s Causeway is open year-round except Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day, but operating hours may vary depending on the season. 

At the Giant’s Causeway, you can join guided tours led by knowledgeable guides who will provide insights into the site’s geology, history, and folklore. Depending on your personal preferences, various guided tour options are available, such as group tours or private tours.

You can walk on the basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway.  The site features designated paths and walkways that allow visitors to explore and experience the columns up close. However, being cautious is important as the columns can be slippery, especially in wet weather.

There are some required facilities available at the site.  The Giant’s Causeway Visitor Center offers restrooms, a café, a souvenir shop, and exhibits providing information about the site’s geology and history. Additionally, picnic areas and a shuttle bus service help visitors navigate the site.

Photography is allowed and encouraged at the Giant’s Causeway.  The stunning natural formations and coastal scenery make for fantastic photo opportunities. 

The Causeway Coast is home to several other attractions worth exploring.  These include the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, the Dark Hedges, and various beautiful beaches along the coastline.

Sources # Britannica.com # unesco.org # Wikipedia.org # Tripadvisor.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

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Venkata Viswanadh

Venkata Viswanadh is an adventurous wordsmith on a mission to uncover hidden tales and share captivating stories from around the world. He embarks on thrilling journeys through time and space, weaving captivating tales of history, culture, and conquering mountain peaks. Favourite Cities: Barcelona, Paris, New York

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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GIANT’S CAUSEWAY & CAUSEWAY COAST WORLD HERITAGE SITE

Extending for 30km along the North Antrim Coast the Causeway Coast AONB has a wide variety of different landscapes including the Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast World Heritage Site. The western part of the AONB is characterised by an extensive dune system at East Strand. It also includes a dramatic stretch of alternating white chalk and black basalt cliffs.

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Erin go braugh at rangos giant cinema.

PITTSBURGH — Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, the black and gold city will transform into green, white and orange as the lights dim for “Ireland,” a visually-appealing and insightful movie currently showing in The Rangos Giant Cinema at Carnegie Science Center.

Thursdays through Sundays through March 31, viewers can paint the Steel City green as they embark on a giant screen adventure through Ireland, narrated by internationally-acclaimed actor Liam Neeson.

Fans of the Emerald Isle will soar over Ireland’s stunning, natural landmarks such as the giant Cliffs of Moher, the volcanic wonder of Giant’s Causeway and the rugged Skellig Islands. Irish eyes will smile seeing the world’s most-famous illuminated manuscript, the Book of Kells, in Trinity College Library, and get close enough to practically kiss the Blarney Stone.

“Ireland has long captivated the world’s imagination with its rich history and picturesque landscapes, and with this film we hope to share with audiences all the wonder and cultural diversity that makes the island of Ireland so unique and special,” said director and two-time Academy Award-nominated filmmaker, Greg MacGillivray. “Our story intertwines Ireland’s ancient past with its vibrant future, and I hope the film ignites a new appreciation for the vast, natural beauty and fascinating, cultural traditions of this magical place.”

“Ireland” is led by Irish writer Manch’n Magan, violinist Patricia Treacy and four Irish teens on a cross-country adventure exploring the island of Ireland’s fascinating history and wild, natural beauty, and reconnect with their Irish heritage.

“Ireland” is a MacGillivray Freeman film presented by Tourism Ireland. It is family-friendly and has a run time of 40 minutes.

Tickets are $10 per person or $8 per Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh member.

Purchase tickets and learn more at CarnegieScienceCenter.org.

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1. Park of Culture and Leisure

Gratitude for life: Friendship and 'blue space' replenish the soul | Candace McKibben

Several years ago, my dear seminary friends were planning to come to Florida to tour National Parks here that they had not yet visited. They wanted to come during the winter months when our heat is more tolerable for my friends who love the cold so much they just returned from a trip to Antarctica.

They were able to make the trip to Florida this year and graciously invited my husband and me to join them for part of the journey.

We selected the beginning of their trip, involving meeting up in Miami at an RV park, touring the Biscayne National Park which is 95% water, followed by the Dry Tortugas National Park (99% water), located about 70 miles west of Key West and encompassing Fort Jefferson and seven keys, collectively known as the Dry Tortugas. The Florida Keys stretch from Biscayne Bay to Dry Tortugas National Park, with over 800 keys spanning 180 miles.

It was joyful to be with these dear friends from Richmond, Virginia, and to catch up on our lives. While there is not a lot of research on “friendships,” what those who study it have found is that friends are especially important in adolescence and as we age.

Friendships can survive neglect, and often do, but I am learning that they grow dearer and more meaningful with a little attention. Several times last week during our visit, I found myself hugging one or the other of these longtime friends, just grateful to be in their company.

Playing tourist at home Florida

I am also grateful that these proud Virginians were introducing me and my husband to our home state of Florida. Though both of us are native Floridians, living in the state for the better part of our lives, neither of us had ever been to those particular locations and what we experienced was grand.

We enjoyed a boat trip to the Biscayne National Park, arranged through the Biscayne National Park Institute, a nonprofit tour company authorized by the park. We had a pleasant and competent captain from California who had done her homework on the history of this unusual state park. From Captain Mo I learned the difference between an island and a key, that the first true Florida key is Soldier Key, not Key Largo as I assumed, and about Stiltsville, a group of brightly painted wooden houses on stilts a mile offshore in Biscayne Bay.

Saving Stiltsville

The first such house was built in the early 1930s, and while there were as many as 27 stilt house buildings throughout the years, after Hurricanes Besty (1965) and Andrew (1992), only seven remained. By 1999 there was consideration of dismantling the remaining buildings.

In response, those who knew of and appreciated the quirky offshore village formed a petition to save Stiltsville. With 75,000 people supporting saving the buildings, the National Park Service reversed its decision and the nonprofit Stiltsville Trust formed to rehabilitate and protect the remaining structures, allowing the occasional short-term rental of some of the houses.

Depicted in films, games, literature, and television, Stiltsville is the way many people first learn of Biscayne National Park. In defense of keeping the buildings, Dr. Paul George, historian for the Historical Museum of Southern Florida, said "It really is an only-in-Miami kind of thing. It had an aura, a rascally mischievous past. But it was also just a place people could go to enjoy getting away. It would be a terrible loss."

More Florida history at Elliot Key

From Stiltsville, we went to Elliot Key where Captain Mo taught us the rich history of transient communities of pioneers who have lived on the island for nearly 10,000 years, including the Tequesta Indians and their ancestors, the Sweety family, an English-Bahamian family of farmers, pirates, and others.

Through the years these people groups engaged in pineapple and key lime farming, sponging, sea turtle and manatee harvesting, wrecking, and other pursuits. In the 1950s there was a debate over building a causeway connecting Elliot Key and Key Largo to Biscayne Key and creating a luxury getaway for the wealthy.

The developers got so far as paving a highway the length of the key, now called the “Spite Road hike.” The conservationist won, and in 1968 President Johnson signed the bill to protect "a rare combination of terrestrial, marine and amphibious life in a tropical setting of great natural beauty," protecting Elliot Key and the rest of Biscayne Bay as a National Monument. In 1980, it was authorized as a National Park.

Two snorkeling sites with colorful marine life and an hour-long visit of Key Boca Chita with its beautiful lighthouse and chapel as well as gorgeous shorelines, made for a perfect day and a great night’s rest.

Key West and the Dry Tortugas

The next day we drove to Key West and enjoyed sightseeing and rest for the following day’s adventure to the Dry Tortugas National Park. In contrast to the six passengers on the Wednesday tour, 200 of us sailed out of downtown Key West early Friday morning.

The ride was pleasant, the tour-guide informative, the ship and the crew accommodating, and the ocean stunningly beautiful. Standing on the front bow, I recalled a fascinating program on NPR about the healing value of being around large bodies of water.

Immersed in 'blue space'

“Blue space” researcher and wellness practitioner, Catherine Kelly, says “The sea has a meditative quality – whether it is crashing or still, or you are in the water or observing from the shore, you can immerse yourself in it.” And that is exactly what we did, both metaphorically on the three-hour boat ride to get to the Dry Tortugas, and, literally, as we snorkeled around the seawalls of Fort Jefferson.

The fort was an unbelievable accomplishment, taking up the full 16 acres of Garden Key upon which it is built. Construction began in1846 and continued for the next nearly 30 years, though it was never fully completed or manned.

We learned that the various colors of the 16 million bricks used tell the story of where the bricks were from, including: Florida (primarily), Alabama, Louisiana, and after the Civil War, the dark red bricks of Maine. We learned that the structure itself was so formidable that it served as a giant billboard to would-be challengers to not mess with the United States.

The ride back to Key West across the aquamarine waters shimmering in the sunlight against a setting sun was almost too much beauty to absorb. It felt healing, soothing, comforting, and days later I still feel profoundly grateful for friends, for exploring new and unique places in my home state, for the beauty of the earth, and for a home and community to which we can return.

With all that is unsettled in the world and in our hearts, it is good to create the time to be connected to those we love, to creation, and to self-care, doing that which replenishes our souls. As spring unfolds in all its’ Tallahassee glory around us, may we find the time to immerse ourselves in that which heals us.

The Rev. Candace McKibben is an ordained minister and pastor of Tallahassee Fellowship

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Moscow metro to be more tourist-friendly

A new floor sign system at the Moscow metro's Pushkinskaya station. Source: Vladimir Pesnya / RIA Novosti

A new floor sign system at the Moscow metro's Pushkinskaya station. Source: Vladimir Pesnya / RIA Novosti

For many years now, Moscow has lagged behind St. Petersburg when it comes to making life easy for tourists, especially where getting around the city is concerned. Whereas the northern capital installed English-language maps, signs and information points throughout its subway system in the late 2000s, the Russian capital’s metro remained a serious challenge for foreign visitors to navigate.

Recent visitors to Moscow may have noticed some signs that change is afoot, however. In many stations of the Moscow subway, signs have appeared on the floor – with large lettering in Russian and English – indicating the direction to follow in order to change lines. Previously, foreign visitors using the Moscow metro had to rely solely upon deciphering the Russian-language signs hanging from the ceilings.

Student volunteers help tourists find their way in Moscow

However, this new solution has a significant drawback. “The floor navigation is visible only to a small stream of people – fewer than three people per meter. During peak hours, this navigation will simply not be noticed,” said Konstantin Trofimenko, Director of the Center for Urban Transportation Studies.

One of the biggest problems for tourists in the Russian capital remains the absence of English translations of the names of subway stations in the station vestibules and on platforms. The Department of Transportation in Moscow has not commented yet as to when this problem will be solved. However, Latin transliterations of station names can already be found in the subway cars themselves.

Finding the right exit

At four of the central stations – Okhotny Ryad, Teatralnaya, Ploshchad Revolyutsii, Lubyanka and Kuznetsky Most – the city authorities have now installed colorful stands at the exits with schematic diagrams of the station’s concourse and surrounding area, which provide information about the main attractions and infrastructural facilities.

The schematic diagrams are the work of British specialists from the City ID and Billings Jackson Design firms, who have already implemented successful projects in New York and London.

According to Alexei Novichkov, expert at the Design Laboratory at the Higher School of Economics, the design of these information booths raises no objections: The color solutions, font, layout and icons are consistent with international standards.

Kudankulam

However, the stands do have some shortcomings. “Many questions are raised about the fact that the developers of these maps did not apply orientation to the north, and have provided layouts of the surrounding areas with respect to the exits,” says Novichkov. “A system like that is used for road navigators, but most of the ‘paper’ guides and maps are oriented strictly to north. The subway map is also oriented to north, so people may become confused.”

Muscovites and foreign visitors are generally positive about these navigation elements, with most of them citing the numbered exits from the subway as the most useful feature.

The fact is that many Moscow subway stations have several exits. One of the busiest central stations of the Moscow subway in particular, Kitay-Gorod, has more than a dozen exits. Previously, these exits were differentiated from each other only with signs in Russian referring to the names of streets and places of interest to which they led – making it easy for tourists and those with poor navigation skills to get confused.

Now, when making an appointment to meet a friend, instead of struggling to find the right spot when they tell you: “I'll meet you at the exit to Solyanka Street,” you can just propose to meet under a specific exit number.

“I’ve lived in Moscow for seven years,” says Angelika, a designer from Voronezh, “but I still don’t always know where to go to find the place I need, so the new schematic diagrams will be very useful. Previously, some subway stations had maps, but not with so much detail.”

Teething problems

Foreigners, meanwhile, focus their attention on other elements. “It is good that the new information boards have QR-codes, which can be ‘read’ by smartphones,” says Florentina, a writer from Vienna. But there are also shortcomings. “The English font of the information on posters and in the captions to theaters and museums is too small – you have to come very close to see it well,” she says.

Pleasant encounters on the streets of Moscow

Florentina was also dissatisfied with the fact that such posters are not provided at all subway stations: “When I was trying to find Tsaritsyno Park (a museum and reserve in the south of Moscow) at a subway station with the same name, it turned out to be quite difficult,” she says.

“There are no maps with landmarks for other areas, such as those already in the city center. There were no clear pointers in the English language, and the passers-by I met did not speak in English, so they could not help me,” she adds.

Officials say that the navigation system is gradually being redeveloped and improved. According to Darya Chuvasheva, a press representative for the Department of Transport of Moscow, the introduction of a unified navigation system will take place in stages.

“By the end of 2014, the system will first appear on the first subway stations on the Circle Line. By the end of 2015, we plan to install the system at all major stopping points, subway stations and transport interchange hubs,” says Chuvasheva.

All rights reserved by Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

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IMAGES

  1. Giant's Causeway: The Complete Guide

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  2. Giant's Causeway: 10 Ultimate things you need to know

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  3. Giant's Causeway Tours From Belfast

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  4. Giant's Causeway

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  5. GIANT'S CAUSEWAY

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  6. The legends of Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s fairytale site

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VIDEO

  1. Giant's Causeway Northern Ireland 360 2

  2. Giant’s Causeway

COMMENTS

  1. Giant's Causeway

    The Giant's Causeway and Visitor Centre is located on the B147 Causeway road. It is 2 miles from Bushmills village, 11 miles from Coleraine and 13 miles from Ballycastle. Parking: Parking in the vicinity of the Giant's Causeway is limited. The main car park, adjacent to the Visitor Centre, is reserved for members and Visitor Experience ticket ...

  2. Giant's Causeway

    The craggy castle ruins of Dunluce Castle, the pale cream sands of Whiterocks Beach or the stunning views of the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge are just some of the fine attractions. But as you weave along this great driving route, one sight jumps out as truly spectacular: the Giant's Causeway. Stand on the hills that gently arc this unique place and you'll look down on thousands of basalt ...

  3. Visitor Center

    An interactive exhibition exploring the Giant's Causeway. Outdoor audio guide available, providing information in nine languages. Audio guide for visually impaired visitors also available. Grab-and-go coffee shop. Local and unique gifts for sale in the shop. Tourist Information Centre.

  4. Home

    The Giant's Causeway. The coastline of County Antrim in Northern Ireland is renowned for its scenic beauty, possibly the world's best-driving route, the Causeway Coast Route, clinging to its edge.The Giant's Causeway, sitting at the northern end, takes the centerpiece as the crown's unique jewel, known as the 8th Wonder of the World to many here in Ireland and beyond.

  5. Visiting Giant's Causeway

    Six must-see sites at the Giant's Causeway. Here are 6 not-to-be-missed highlights on a visit to the world-famous Giant's Causeway: Grand Causeway: The Grand Causeway is the largest of three rock outcrops which make up the Giant's Causeway.These collections of curious columns contributed to the causeway being designated Northern Ireland's only World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986.

  6. How to Visit the Giant's Causeway (+ Photos & Helpful Tips)

    This is the quickest and easiest way to get to the causeway by foot. It is a ½ mile downhill walk from the car park to the causeway. Allow 10 to 15 minutes walking time one way. Red Trail. The red trail snakes along the upper cliffs, giving you a view down onto the coastline. It is a 2 mile hike, one way.

  7. Giant's Causeway: The Ultimate Guide

    Giant's Causeway is one of the top tourist sites in Northern Ireland (and on the whole island). It won't come as a surprise that the site is often incredibly crowded, especially during the peak season and weekends. If you want to see Giant's Causeway without crowds, you need to time your visit carefully.

  8. Visitor Information

    The Visit Causeway Coast and Glens and Discover NI websites contain useful information for visitors, including information on accommodation and local events. Giant's Causeway Visitors' Centre 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, Co Antrim, BT57 8SU T: 028 2073 1855 F: 028 2073 2537 E: [email protected]

  9. Giant's Causeway and Causeway Coast

    The Giant's Causeway and Causeway Coast is a spectacular area of global geological importance on the sea coast at the edge of the Antrim plateau in Northern Ireland. The most characteristic and unique feature of the site is the exposure of some 40,000 large, regularly shaped polygonal columns of basalt in perfect horizontal sections, forming ...

  10. How To Visit the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland

    The best time to visit the Giant's Causeway during the day is at sunrise or sunset. The Visitor Centre is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, but you can visit outside of opening hours. To truly appreciate its splendor without the crowds, aim to visit either early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

  11. Giant's Causeway

    The Giant's Causeway (Irish: Clochán an Aifir) is an area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption. ... Causeway Coast and Glens Tourism - Official Tourist Board visitor information for the Causeway and surrounding area;

  12. Giants Causeway

    The Giant's Causeway is an area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. today is owned and managed by the National Trust and it is the most popular tourist attraction in Northern Ireland.

  13. A Visitors Guide to the Giant's Causeway

    Brief overview of the Giant's Causeway. The Giant's Causeway is a geological marvel located on the northeastern coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. The Causeway consists of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, formed as a result ...

  14. Giant's Causeway: How to Visit for free (2024 Guide)

    I've a love/hate relationship with the Giant's Causeway, mainly due to the ridiculous parking charges.. You can visit the Giant's Causeway free if you're walking/cycling, but if you're driving and you want to park near by, you really do pay for the privilege…. Now, there are ways of visiting the Giant's Causeway for free, and you'll find them below, but if you drive up with 3 ...

  15. Giant's Causeway

    Tickets for Belfast: Giant's Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour costs €32 for visitors aged 17 to 64. For visitors of age 4 to 16, the tickets cost €21. For seniors above 65 years and students, these tour tickets cost €26. The same rates apply to Military personnel with ID.

  16. The Giant's Causeway: Must-see tourist attraction inspired by the

    The Giant's Causeway has been one of Ireland's top tourist attractions for many years, where tourists revel at the remarkable landscape at the very top point of Ireland. Visitor numbers are creeping back up to pre-pandemic levels, showing almost a million people every year taking a trip to rural Co Antrim to enjoy the magical story and the ...

  17. Giant's Causeway

    Flanked by the wild North Atlantic Ocean and a landscape of dramatic cliffs, the Giant's Causeway is a geological wonder and home to a wealth of history and legend. The 40,000 basalt stone columns left by volcanic eruptions 60 million years ago, has captured the imagination of all who see it.

  18. Giant's Causeway World Heritage Site, Northern Ireland

    CONTACT US (028) 2075 2100; [email protected]; Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust The Old Bank 27 Main Street Armoy Ballymoney County Antrim BT53 8SL Mon - Thurs: 9am - 5pm

  19. The Giant's Causeway Tour

    T. he Giant's Causeway was formed 50 million years ago, yet still captures the imagination of people around the world today.. Made up of over 40,000 basalt columns, the Causeway truly is a sight to behold and continues to be the only UNESCO heritage site in Ireland. Having inspired storytellers of all kinds over the years, our Giant's Causeway Tour will talk you through the richly detailed ...

  20. Erin Go Braugh at Rangos Giant Cinema

    PITTSBURGH — Just in time for St. Patrick's Day, the black and gold city will transform into green, white and orange as the lights dim for "Ireland," a visually-appealing and insightful movie currently showing in The Rangos Giant Cinema at Carnegie Science Center. Thursdays through Sundays through March 31, viewers can paint the Steel ...

  21. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Elektrostal

    1. Electrostal History and Art Museum. 2. Statue of Lenin. 3. Park of Culture and Leisure. 4. Museum and Exhibition Center. 5.

  22. Electrostal History and Art Museum

    Tortuga Island Anhinga Trail Le Bois de Boulogne TRM - Thika Road Mall Hungarian State Opera House (Magyar Allami Operahaz) Museu de la Xocolata Trenitalia Frecciarossa Alligator Alley Old Arcade Small-group Milan Highlights e-Bike Tour SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown Walking Tour in New York Sri Lanka Tour, Kandy to Ella by Tuk-tuk and Train Nordnes Walking Tour: Bergen's History & Charming ...

  23. THE BEST Elektrostal Parks & Nature Attractions

    Top Elektrostal Parks & Nature Attractions: See reviews and photos of parks, gardens & other nature attractions in Elektrostal, Russia on Tripadvisor.

  24. Gratitude for life: Friends and 'blue space' replenish soul

    Playing tourist at home Florida ... In the 1950s there was a debate over building a causeway connecting Elliot Key and Key Largo to Biscayne Key and creating a luxury getaway for the wealthy ...

  25. Moscow metro to be more tourist-friendly

    Student volunteers help tourists find their way in Moscow. However, this new solution has a significant drawback. "The floor navigation is visible only to a small stream of people - fewer than ...