Northern Highlights Full-Day Guided Tour in Northern Ireland

The Northern Highlights Full-Day Guided Tour in Northern Ireland offers a comprehensive way to see some of the most iconic sights in the region without the hassle of navigation. Priced at $374.55 per person, this 6 to 8-hour journey departs from Belfast and includes round-trip transport, making it ideal for visitors with limited time. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who shares fun facts and historical insights, adding depth to the experience.

This private tour is highly rated with a 5.0/5 rating based on 169 reviews, and 96% of participants recommend it. The tour operates with mobile tickets and offers pickup from hotels or the port, providing a stress-free way to explore the scenic coastline and attractions of Northern Ireland. While the itinerary is packed, it’s especially suited for travelers who want a curated experience and dislike navigating on their own.

Key Points

• All-inclusive round-trip transport from Belfast or the port
• Visits to popular sites like Giants Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede, and Dunluce Castle
• Expert guide providing historical context, fun facts, and tailored stops
• Flexible schedule, including optional stops at Glenarm Castle and Carnlough Harbour
• Priority access to certain sites to avoid crowds
• Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and steep areas may be involved

Pick-up and Drop-off at Belfast City Hall

The tour begins at Belfast City Hall, positioned conveniently near public transportation. If you opt for the Belfast pick-up, the guide will meet you there at 11:00 am. The tour concludes back at the same location, ensuring easy access to nearby amenities or transportation links.

This setup makes it simple for visitors staying in Belfast to join without extra arrangements. Note that Derry or other locations are not included for pickup, so plan your start point accordingly.

Exploring Belfast’s Highlights with a Guide

The initial part of the tour offers a quick tour of Belfast’s most notable sites, including the City Hall, Stormont Estate, University Quarter, and the Titanic Quarter. This introduction provides context and background for the region’s history and maritime significance. The guide’s storytelling makes these stops more engaging, setting the tone for the day ahead.

Visiting Carrickfergus Castle and Glenarm Castle

The tour features stops at Carrickfergus Castle, Ireland’s oldest Norman castle, dating back to 1177. This site is free of charge, and visitors get to admire the impressive structure from outside. Notably, this stop is not offered on bookings departing from Derry.

A visit to Glenarm Castle offers a glimpse of a privately owned Irish castle still inhabited by the same family for generations. While the interior remains private, the tour takes you to spectacular vantage points for photos, including the Grand Entrance at The Barbican. This spot offers a beautiful view of the Gothic architecture, making it a favorite for photography.

Coastal Stops at Carnlough Harbour and Kinbane Castle

Carnlough Harbour provides stunning views of a limestone harbor, with sights of railway bridges, the historic hotel once owned by the Churchill family, and the tour’s first Game of Thrones filming location. Visitors can relax here with a coffee or snack at a nearby shop.

Kinbane Castle is a ruined fortress on a narrow limestone headland, overlooking the Straits of Moyle. The location offers dramatic vistas of sea caves and waterfalls, providing excellent photo opportunities. Access depends on time and weather, with clear views being the highlight.

Scenic Drives and Nature at Glenariff Forest Park

The Glenariff Forest Park is a significant highlight, depending on season and weather. Known as the Queen of the Nine Glens, it features waterfalls, ancient woodlands, and inspiration from Narnia in CS Lewis’s novels. The tour spends around 30 minutes here, allowing visitors to enjoy the forest’s natural beauty.

The guide may also take you to Agnew’s Field, where you’ll see the ruins of Redbay Castle and the Curfew Tower in Cushendall. A comfort stop is available, adding a chance to stretch and enjoy local scenery.

Torr Head and the Antrim Coast’s Dramatic Cliffs

A highlight for many is the Torr Head Scenic Route, weather permitting, which winds along cliffs of the Antrim Coast. This stretch offers spectacular views of deep green inlets, rock formations, and the Scottish coast just 12 miles away. The trip lasts about 50 minutes and includes stops at Murlough Bay, an area with legendary links to Irish history.

Murlough Bay and Fair Head are accessed via a narrow road, revealing battered rock formations and limestone cliffs that served as the Stormlands in Game of Thrones. The scenery here is rugged and captivating, perfect for landscape photography.

Lunch and Kinbane Castle Ruins

The Seafront Marina in Ballycastle is a popular stop for a lunch or dinner at an award-winning local restaurant, renowned for its seafood dishes and famous chowder. This stop typically lasts around an hour. Visitors can also learn about Ballycastle’s historic role in wireless communication, being the first place to send and receive radio signals using Marconi’s technology.

Kinbane Castle sits on a limestone headland, offering spectacular views of the sea caves and waterfalls below. Access depends on time and weather, but the ruins and nearby coastline make for striking scenery.

Viewing Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge from a Distance

While the tour does not include crossing the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, you will visit the Portaneevy Lookout Point to view the bridge. This vantage point offers panoramic views across the coastline and toward Scotland on clear days. The stop lasts approximately 10 minutes and is free of charge.

The Mighty Giants Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is the tour’s central highlight, recognized as Ireland’s most visited natural attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Comprising over 40,000 basalt columns, it provides astonishing geological formations along the Coast. The tour aims to arrive during quieter times to avoid the crowds, and participants are encouraged to advise in advance if mobility issues are present.

Expect about 45 minutes exploring the Causeway, during which you can walk among the striking formations, take photos, and enjoy the sea views. The site can be busy at peak times, but the guide’s planning helps maximize your experience.

Dunluce Castle and Its Picturesque Ruins

Depending on weather and time, the tour stops at Dunluce Castle, perched on a clifftop with impressive ruins. Construction began nearly 250 years ago, and its dramatic setting has attracted many artists and photographers. The castle remains are ideal for photography and sightseeing, with the entrance fee not included.

The Sum Up: An Ideal Tour for Scenic and Cultural Enthusiasts

This Northern Ireland day tour offers a well-curated experience of the region’s most iconic sights, led by an expert guide who shares insightful stories and local knowledge. With round-trip transport, it provides a convenient way to see diverse landscapes—from rugged coastlines and waterfalls to historic castles and geological wonders.

The tour’s flexibility allows for optional stops and timing adjustments based on weather and crowd levels, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. It’s especially suited for visitors who prefer guided tours over self-driving, valuing expert narration and priority access at popular sites.

While it packs in many stops, the pace remains manageable, making it a great option for those with moderate physical fitness. Keep in mind that some stops are weather-dependent and may involve walking on uneven terrain. The private tour format ensures a personalized experience, which many travelers find adds to the overall value.

In short, this tour delivers a comprehensive introduction to Northern Ireland’s stunning coast and historic sites, making it a highly recommended choice for a full-day adventure in this captivating region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The $374.55 per person includes transportation, a guide with commentary, and entry to sites where applicable. Food and drinks are not included unless specified.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the physical activity level is moderate, so it’s suitable for most children with good mobility.

Can I customize the stops?
As a private tour, the guide can tailor the stops based on your preferences, weather, and timing considerations.

Are there any site entrance fees?
Most stops, such as Carrickfergus Castle and the Giant’s Causeway, are free of charge. The castle ruins at Dunluce do not require an entrance fee, but some sites may charge if interior visits are desired.

What should I wear?
Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, dressing in layers and bringing rain gear is recommended.

Is pickup offered from Derry?
No, pickup is only available from Belfast or the port at Belfast. Stops in Derry are not included in this tour.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts 6 to 8 hours, depending on stops and weather conditions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Is this tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
Participants should have moderate physical fitness, as some sites involve walking on uneven terrain or steep areas. Please advise beforehand if mobility is limited.

What makes this tour stand out?
It combines scenic drives, iconic sights, and personalized commentary in a private, flexible format, making it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed day in Northern Ireland.