Giants Causeway, Rope Bridge, Carrickfergus Castle and Dark Hedges Tour

This full-day guided tour from Belfast offers an efficient way to experience some of Northern Ireland’s most iconic sights for just $33.13 per person. With a duration of approximately 8 hours, the tour covers seven key stops, including the UNESCO-listed Giants Causeway, Carrickfergus Castle, Dark Hedges, and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. The tour features a luxury coach with live commentary and is suitable for travelers looking for a comprehensive, yet manageable, exploration of the coast and historic sites.

While the itinerary is packed with highlights, some reviews point out the pace can feel rushed at certain stops, especially at the Dark Hedges and Dunluce Castle. The cost-effective price makes it appealing, but it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included, and the lunch stop may involve a quick meal at a local pub. This tour suits those eager to see multiple landmarks in a single day with the guidance of knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $33.13 offers great value for a full-day tour.
• Visits to seven major attractions including the Giants Causeway, Carrickfergus Castle, Dark Hedges, and Dunluce Castle.
• Scenic drive along the Antrim Coastal Road, showcasing stunning views of the Irish Sea and Glens of Antrim.
• Stops at popular filming locations from Game of Thrones, like the Dark Hedges and Dunluce Castle.
• Included: Live commentary, luxury air-conditioned coach, and professional guide.
• Excluded: Food, drinks, and admission tickets for the Giants Causeway and other attractions.
• Duration: around 8 hours, with a start time of 9:30 am.
• Booking is typically made 28 days in advance, indicating high demand.

Exploring Carrickfergus Castle and Its Historic Charm

The tour begins with a quick stop at Carrickfergus Castle, a Norman fortress situated on the northern shore of Belfast Lough. Visitors spend about 20 minutes here, with free admission. This site provides a glimpse into medieval history and offers excellent photo opportunities of the castle’s battlements and the lough.

The name “Carrickfergus” derives from Irish, meaning “cairn of Fergus,” emphasizing its historic roots. The castle’s location makes it a perfect first stop, setting a tone of historic exploration early in the day.

Journey Along the Antrim Coastal Road

The scenic drive along the Antrim Coastal Road is a highlight in itself. The coach takes travelers past spectacular views of the Irish Sea on one side and the Glen of Antrim on the other. This route offers picture-perfect landscapes and a relaxing ride, with commentary explaining the area’s geography and history.

This drive offers a relaxing way to appreciate the coast’s natural beauty while traveling efficiently between stops. The smooth, air-conditioned coach ensures comfort during this scenic segment.

Passing the Glens of Antrim and Crossing Glen Dun Bridge

As the coach winds through the Glens of Antrim, the landscape reveals lush greenery and rugged cliffs. The tour includes a crossing of Glen Dun Bridge before climbing into Ballycastle. This section is quick but provides ample views of the rolling hills and vibrant countryside.

The Glen Dun crossing adds a touch of adventure, and the short drive delivers a sense of the local terrain’s rugged charm. Observing the Glen Dun area is especially appealing for photography and nature lovers.

Viewing the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge from a Distance

While the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a major attraction, the tour stops at Portaneevy View Point to see the bridge from afar. The National Trust currently does not staff this area for group visits, so no crossing is offered during this tour.

The viewpoint provides a perfect photo opportunity of the bridge spanning between cliffs, offering a sense of its impressive height and structure. Travelers should prepare for a 15-minute stop, and note that admission tickets are not included if they wish to cross later independently.

Walking Among the Dark Hedges: The King’s Road

The Dark Hedges stand out as a highlight, recognized globally as the King’s Road in the Game of Thrones series. The one-hour stop allows visitors to walk among the famous intertwined beech trees, creating a mysterious and atmospheric setting perfect for photos.

Most reviews mention that the stop feels rushed, especially considering the iconic nature of the site. However, the breathtaking scenery and the connection to pop culture make this stop well worth it.

Lunch Break at a Traditional Irish Pub

Following the Dark Hedges, the tour includes a lunch stop at a local pub. While costs are not included, the stop provides an opportunity for a quick meal, with some reviews noting the food quality and prices may vary. Travelers can expect a relaxed atmosphere and a chance to enjoy authentic Irish fare.

Timing-wise, this is a convenient break in the day, allowing some rest before continuing to the next attractions.

Visiting Bushmills Distillery: Irish Whiskey’s Birthplace

A 30-minute visit to the Bushmills Distillery offers the chance to purchase Irish whiskey directly at its historic birthplace. The distillery is renowned for its famous whiskey brands, and the stop provides an interesting glimpse into the distillation process.

While tasting isn’t included, many visitors appreciate the opportunity to buy souvenirs and learn about Ireland’s whiskey tradition. The short duration keeps the tour moving but allows enough time for browsing and photos.

Walking on the Giants Causeway’s Unique Basalt Columns

The main highlight, the Giants Causeway, receives 1 hour 30 minutes for exploration. Visitors can walk across the paved stones, famously formed by volcanic activity, creating the iconic hexagonal basalt columns.

Tickets for the Visitors Centre are not included, but the walk on the stones is accessible and offers spectacular views of the rugged coast. The time allotment generally provides enough opportunity to explore at a leisurely pace, take photos, and appreciate the natural wonder.

Some reviews mention that the walk back up can be done via the tram for just £1, which is a helpful tip for those less inclined to hike uphill.

Dunluce Castle: Clifftop Views and Game of Thrones Fame

The tour concludes with a quick 5-minute stop at Dunluce Castle, perched dramatically atop a cliff. The site is a famous Game of Thrones filming location and historically served as the home of the MacDonnell Clan.

While the stop is brief, it offers impressive clifftop views and photo opportunities of the castle’s ruins against the crashing waves below. The limited time means visitors should focus on taking photos rather than entering the castle.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour departs from Belfast at 9:30 am and ends back at the same meeting point. The luxury coach is air-conditioned and equipped with live commentary, ensuring an informative experience. The group size caps at 200 travelers, maintaining a comfortable environment.

No hotel pickup or drop-off is included, and food and drinks are not covered, so bringing snacks or planning meals accordingly is advised. The tour operates rain or shine, so dressing appropriately for weather is recommended. Travelers should have moderate physical fitness to comfortably walk around sites like the Giants Causeway and Dunluce Castle.

Final Thoughts on the Giants Causeway, Rope Bridge, and Castles Tour

This well-priced tour offers a wide array of Northern Ireland’s top sights in just a day, making it suitable for visitors with limited time who want a rundown. The scenic coastal drive combined with iconic landmarks makes for a visually stunning experience.

However, the fast pace at some stops and the lack of crossing the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge may disappoint those seeking a more leisurely or in-depth experience. The guides receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness, and the value for money is consistently highlighted.

This tour provides a solid introduction to the region’s natural beauty and historic sites, especially for those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural landmarks, and filming locations. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a busy schedule and want to see as much as possible in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include entrance tickets to the Giants Causeway?
No, tickets for the Visitors Centre at the Giants Causeway are not included, but the walk on the stones is accessible without additional cost.

Can I cross the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge during this tour?
No, the viewpoint at Portaneevy allows a photo opportunity of the bridge from a distance, but no crossing is available as staff are not present for group crossings.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 200 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group environment.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, with a lunch stop at a pub providing an option for quick dining.

What should I wear?
Since the tour operates rain or shine, it’s advisable to dress appropriately for weather conditions, especially if planning to walk around outdoor sites like the Giants Causeway or Dunluce Castle.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness, as walking around sites like the Giants Causeway and Dunluce Castle may involve some physical activity.

This 8-hour day trip from Belfast balances natural wonders, historic sites, and film locations into an accessible, value-packed experience. It’s ideal for those wanting a broad view of Northern Ireland with an experienced guide leading the way.