Many people know this small village locally, but it’s wider appeal might be set to take off.
Situated in the heart of the Antrim Coast, this little known Antrim town has got lots to offer. Some people might simply bypass it on the way to Ballycastle, or just make a short pitstop along the way.
However, this small village deserves as much attention as its more well-known neighbours around Antrim. Let’s take a look.
Cushendun, Co. Antrim – the next big thing
Cushendun might just be a stop for many on the way to Ballycastle or the Giant’s Causeway, but it’s deserving of more attention than that.
This scenic Glens of Antrim village boasts a beautiful beach, exciting silver screen caves, and plenty of cosy bars and restaurants to relax in after a long day exploring the village and surrounding area.
The houses that sit along the water in Cushendun are picturesque. The village features a unique collection of Cornish-style whitewashed houses designed by architect Clough Williams-Ellis for the 1st Baron Cushendun in the 1920s.
When you get nice weather, nothing could be better than meandering the beach and small village and soaking the beautiful coastal views around you.
What to do in Cushendun – well worth a visit
Cushendun might be small, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have an excellent holiday here. Cushendun Beach is one of the loveliest things to check out in the area.
If you have a dog, this stretch of sand is dog-friendly year-round. Nearby, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Cregagh Wood, which is home to red squirrels. If you fancy a pint or a bite to eat in one of Ireland’s smallest but cosiest pubs, check out Mary McBride’s Bar.
As seen on Game of Thrones, no visit to Cushendun is complete with checking out the Cushendun Caves. In the show, the caves acted as the place where Melisandre, aka the Red Witch, gives birth to the shadow assassin in Season 2.
Later, in Season 8, the caves are used as the location beneath the cliffs of King’s Landing, where Jaime Lannister washes ashore and fights Euron Greyjoy. This is one of the must-visit spots on any tours of the Antrim Coast.
See and do nearby – an excellent base to explore some of Northern Ireland’s top spots
As we previously mentioned, people usually stop in Cushendun on their way further up the Antrim Coast or nearby Cushendall.
The great thing about choosing Cushendun as your base means you have all of this a short distance away. Cushendall and its beautiful beach and Glenariff Forest Park, are only around ten to 20 minutes away from Cushendun.
You can also reach Ballycastle in around 20 minutes by car. Here, you can explore the local shops and restaurants, the beautiful beach, and even catch a ferry to Rathlin Island.
You can just keep carrying on around the coast to Ballintoy, and eventually the world-renowned Giant’s Causeway.
