Search Hotels Near Kinbane Castle, Ballycastle

How’s your head for heights? A narrow, swinging bridge, 20 metres long and suspended 100 feet above the rocks and sea below, links mainland Northern Ireland with a tiny outcropping of volcanic rock known as Carrick-a-Rede. Many years ago it was a much more precarious crossing, when salmon fishermen would use the bridge to check their nets, before the catch here dried up. Today the bridge is one of the country’s most beloved visitor attractions - around a quarter of a million people every year make the trip across and back, though every now and again some lose their nerve and have to be rescued from the island!

Crossing a bridge is not an obvious activity for thrill-seekers, but then Carrick-a-Rede is not like most bridges.

As if the undulating Irish countryside wasn’t magical enough, close to the town of Ballymoney you can treat yourself to a magical and mysterious moment with a visit to the Dark Hedges. This breathtaking avenue of gnarled beech trees lines the Bregagh Road close to the village of Armoy in County Antrim.

Created millions of years ago by volcanic activity, this dramatic rock formation is one of Northern Ireland’s top attractions.

Explore the great outdoors at Giants Causeway Visitors Centre, a lovely green space in Bushmills. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.