Cushendun Caves | Antrim

The Cushendun Caves, located in the quaint coastal village of Cushendun in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, are a unique natural attraction along the Causeway Coastal Route. Formed over 400 million years by coastal erosion, these mysterious caves are known for their striking, rugged appearance and eerie beauty. Their otherworldly look has also earned them a place in popular culture, most notably as a filming location in the HBO series Game of Thrones.

1. Location and Accessibility

• Location: The caves are situated in Cushendun, a charming village on the Antrim Coast. The village itself is picturesque, with whitewashed cottages and stunning sea views, making it a popular stop along the Causeway Coastal Route between Belfast and Derry.
• Access: The Cushendun Caves are easily accessible by a short walk from the Cushendun village harbor. The path leading to the caves is scenic, taking visitors along the shoreline and through rocky areas.

2. Geological Formation

• Origins: The caves are part of an ancient geological formation that dates back approximately 400 million years, formed by the relentless forces of coastal erosion. The rocks themselves are part of the Caledonian Orogeny, a series of mountain-building events that shaped much of Northern Ireland’s landscape.
• Cave Features: Cushendun’s coastal positioning and the powerful Atlantic waves have slowly worn away the cliffside, creating these cavernous openings in the rock. The result is a series of tunnels and caverns with unique textures, shapes, and colors, making the caves feel almost like a natural sculpture.

3. Natural Beauty and Scenic Surroundings

• Eerie Atmosphere: The caves have a natural, slightly haunting quality due to their dark, shadowy interiors and rugged textures. When the light filters through the cave openings, it casts dramatic shadows and illuminates the rocks, creating an ethereal atmosphere.
• Coastal Views: Beyond the caves, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Antrim coastline, with the North Channel stretching out towards the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland, visible on a clear day. The location is popular with photographers for its unique juxtaposition of dramatic coastal cliffs, calm waters, and distant horizons.

4. Game of Thrones Connection

• The Cushendun Caves gained international fame as a filming location in the popular TV series Game of Thrones. In Season 2, the caves served as the backdrop for one of the show's most memorable scenes: Melisandre, the Red Priestess, gives birth to a shadowy creature in a mystical ritual. This association has turned the caves into a point of interest for Game of Thrones fans from around the world, who come to explore the real-world location that brought the scene to life.
• Filming Tourism: Due to their role in Game of Thrones, the Cushendun Caves have become part of Northern Ireland's Game of Thrones tourism trail, attracting visitors interested in exploring locations used throughout the series.

5. Nearby Attractions

• Cushendun Village: Designed by architect Clough Williams-Ellis in the early 20th century, Cushendun Village has a distinctive architectural style. The village has a timeless charm with its Cornish-style cottages and heritage buildings, providing a scenic backdrop to the caves and enhancing the area's appeal.
• Mary McBride’s Pub: One of Northern Ireland’s smallest pubs, Mary McBride’s is a popular spot in the village. It also features a Game of Thrones door, part of a series of doors created from wood from the Dark Hedges to commemorate the show.
• Glenmona House: Close to the village, Glenmona House and its surrounding parkland are worth a visit. Originally a 19th-century mansion, the house’s grounds provide a lovely space for a quiet stroll or picnic near the caves.

6. Activities and Tips for Visiting

• Photography: The Cushendun Caves are a haven for photographers. The caves' natural lighting, combined with the scenic coastal views, make it ideal for unique landscape photography. The dramatic rock formations and shadows add an element of mystery to photographs.
• Exploration and Adventure: The caves are open to the public, and visitors can explore freely. Some areas may be dark and slippery, so it’s recommended to wear sturdy shoes and take caution, especially after rain.
• Seasonal Visits: The caves can be visited year-round. However, the caves' appearance changes with the tides and lighting, so for the best experience, try visiting during lower tide or when sunlight is coming in at an angle, as this will cast interesting shadows inside the cave.

7. How to Get There

• By Car: Cushendun is accessible by car, located along the Causeway Coastal Route. The village has parking facilities, and from there, the caves are just a short walk away.
• Public Transport: Although the area is best accessed by car, buses from larger towns like Ballycastle or Ballymena can take visitors close to Cushendun. Local taxis or bike rentals are available for the last leg of the journey if needed.

8. Conclusion

The Cushendun Caves offer a fascinating blend of natural beauty, geological history, and popular culture, set in the charming and scenic surroundings of Cushendun Village. Ideal for anyone seeking an outdoor adventure, a photo opportunity, or a piece of Game of Thrones lore, the caves are a memorable stop on Northern Ireland’s iconic coastline.