Attractions and Places To See around Cushendall - Top 17

The area around Cushendall, nestled within the Glens of Antrim, offers numerous walking opportunities. Inver River Waterfall, Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall, and Waterfall and Bridge on the Glenariff River are all located within Glenariff Forest Park, known as the "Queen of the Glens," which features trails ranging from easy strolls to longer hikes. You can find more detailed hiking routes in the area by visiting the Hiking around Cushendall guide.

Yes, several options are suitable for families. Cushendall Beach offers a compact 250-meter sandy stretch ideal for walks and picnics with beautiful views. Cottage Wood, on the outskirts of Cushendall, provides a network of paths within a broadleaved woodland, perfect for a relaxed stroll and spotting red squirrels. Glenariff Forest Park also has trails of varying difficulties, including shorter, family-friendly loops.

Cushendall is a great base for cyclists. The Torr Head Coastal Road is a challenging route known for its steep climbs and spectacular views across to Scotland on a clear day. For a broader range of options, including road cycling and touring bicycle routes, you can explore the Road Cycling Routes around Cushendall and Cycling around Cushendall guides.

Cushendall is strategically located at the meeting point of three of the Nine Glens of Antrim (Glenaan, Glenballyemon, and Glencorp), offering diverse landscapes from glacial valleys to mountains. Beyond the Glens themselves, the Cushendun Caves, a short drive away, are natural rock cavities famous as a *Game of Thrones* filming location. The Torr Head Scenic Route also provides breathtaking coastal vistas.

Cushendall and its surroundings are rich in history. The distinctive pink sandstone Curfew Tower, built in 1817, stands in the heart of the town. About 1.5 km north, you can find the atmospheric ruins of Layd Church and Churchyard, dating back to the 13th century. Further afield, the ruins of Red Bay Castle offer historical intrigue and beautiful views, while Oisin's Grave is an archaeologically significant megalithic court cairn near the Glenann River.

Cushendall is a designated Conservation Area, preserving its 19th-century charm and Irish Georgian buildings, which contribute to its unique character. The town hosts the annual Heart of the Glens Festival every August, offering nine days of events and activities. Additionally, many traditional pubs in Cushendall regularly feature live Irish music, providing an authentic experience of the Antrim Glens.

Families will enjoy exploring Glenariff Forest Park with its waterfalls and walking trails, many of which are suitable for various ages. Cushendall Beach is perfect for sandcastles and seaside strolls. Cottage Wood offers gentle paths and the chance to spot red squirrels. The Glens Great Grassland Trail (Agnew's Field) also provides a fun outing with its sculptural fairy ring and views.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most favorable weather for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, the Glens of Antrim offer beauty year-round, with autumn providing vibrant foliage and winter offering a stark, dramatic landscape, though some trails might be more challenging.

Absolutely. The Torr Head Coastal Road is renowned for its spectacular coastal views, where on a clear day, you can see across to Scotland. Within Glenariff Forest Park, various points along the trails, especially near the waterfalls like Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall, offer picturesque panoramas. Cushendall Beach also provides beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and Lurigethan Mountain.

Beyond the well-known spots, the Glens Great Grassland Trail (Agnew's Field) is a coastal meadow with spectacular views of Red Bay Castle and Glenariff, featuring a sculptural fairy ring and rich biodiversity. While not exactly hidden, the atmospheric ruins of Layd Church and Churchyard offer a serene and historically rich experience slightly off the main tourist path.

Yes, Cushendall town centre offers a selection of traditional pubs and cafes. These establishments provide opportunities to enjoy local hospitality, with some pubs regularly featuring live Irish music, making them a great spot to relax after a day of exploring the Glens.

Cushendall, often called the "Capital of the Glens," is special due to its unique blend of preserved 19th-century Irish Georgian architecture, its strategic location at the heart of the Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and its rich history. It serves as a perfect base to explore the diverse landscapes, ancient landmarks, and vibrant local culture of the Glens of Antrim.