Cushendun Caves | Antrim

Cushendun Caves are a series of sea caves formed over 400 million years ago, located on the coastline of Cushendun, County Antrim. They are situated just past the eastern edge of Cushendun village on the shores of the North Channel.

Visual Characteristics

The caves are composed of conglomerate rock, consisting of large rounded pebbles and stones embedded in a sandy matrix. The interior surfaces are rough and uneven, with high arched openings facing the sea. The surrounding cliffs are deep red and brown in color, contrasting with the grey shingle beach at the cave mouths. The immediate area features steep coastal rock faces and sparse maritime vegetation.

Location & Access Logistics

The caves are accessed via a short pedestrian path starting from Cushendun village, specifically near the Glendun River mouth. Cushendun is reached via the A2 Antrim Coast Road, approximately 85km north of Belfast. There is a free public parking lot located in the center of the village near the harbor. Access is on foot and involves walking over uneven gravel and rock surfaces; there is no vehicular access directly to the cave entrances.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The caves were formed by extreme weather conditions and coastal erosion over a period of 400 million years. Geologically, the conglomerate rock is part of the Old Red Sandstone sequence. The site is a designated Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) due to its unique geological composition. Historically, the caves provided natural shelter for travelers and fishermen along the Antrim coast.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exploring the interior of the caves is the primary activity. The site gained international prominence as a filming location for the television series Game of Thrones, representing the Stormlands. Photography is a major draw, particularly capturing the silhouette of the cave arches against the sea. The adjacent rocky shoreline is used for coastal walking and tide pooling.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There are no facilities, lighting, or restrooms inside the caves or at the immediate entrance. Public restrooms, cafes, and shops are located within Cushendun village, approximately a 5-minute walk away. The caves provide natural overhead shelter from rain but are damp and prone to puddles. 4G/5G cellular signal is available but may be obstructed deep within the cave chambers.

Best Time to Visit

The caves are accessible at all times, but visiting at low tide provides the safest and most extensive access to the cave floors. Morning light is best for photographing the cave interiors. The site is an open natural landmark with no entry fees. Summer months bring high pedestrian traffic; early morning or late evening visits are recommended for solitary exploration.

Facts & Legends

The village of Cushendun was designed in the style of a Cornish village by architect Clough Williams-Ellis at the request of Ronald McNeill, 1st Baron Cushendun. A local curiosity is the "Johann the Goat" statue near the harbor, a tribute to a real goat that lived in the village and was the last animal culled during the 2001 foot-and-mouth outbreak.

Nearby Landmarks

Cushendun Harbour – 0.3km West

Glenmona House – 0.6km Northwest

Torr Head – 8.5km North

Murlough Bay – 12km North

Layde Church Ruins – 7.5km South