The Glens of Antrim
Let Diamond Chauffeurs Ireland transport you to the famous Glens of Antrim, we will bring you along the coast road through Cushendall and Cushendun to Ballycastle and Rathlin Island (weather permitting) or sweep inland to Armoy (home of motorbike road racing) and the nearby Dark Hedges. There is no doubt this area of Northern Ireland contains some of the most beautiful and striking scenery in the North of Ireland. Contact us.
Cushendall is a conservation town and is known locally as “The Capital of the Glens” located on the coast at the foot of the Lurigethan Mountain. The Curfew Tower in the centre of the village was built by Francis Turnley and is still a prominent feature of the town since 1817. In the centre of the village, nature lovers enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the 10-acre Cottage Wood through a series of interesting walks, viewpoints, picnic areas and parks. While sitting in the tranquil parks you can enjoy the quiet atmosphere and take in the local wildlife both on land and offshore. If you enjoy forest walks then let us introduce you to Glenariff Forest Park, it is a beautiful scenic area based in one of the aforementioned Glens of Antrim. The unique Waterfall Walkway, opened 80 years ago, has been significantly upgraded along its 3-mile length, which passes through a National Nature Reserve. A small visitors exhibition centre with tea rooms and restaurant complements this “Gateway to the Glens”.
Cushendun Between Cushendall and Ballycastle is the pretty village of Cushendun, most notable for its unusual Cornish (area of south west England) style cottages.
More recently however, the Cushendun Red Caves have created a new exciting level of interest with one of the more infamous scenes of the cult series Game of Thrones. The local bar or public house Mary McBride’s is a major attraction as it contains one of the famous Game of Thrones Doors. There are delightful walks along Glendun River to Glendun viaduct, a most impressive structure by the world-renowned English architect, Sir Charles Lanyon, who also designed quite a few buildings in Belfast.
Ballycastle is a small seaside town where tradition and culture run parallel with modern living. The popular beach runs from the pier at Ballycastle Marina to Pans Rocks in the east. The town centre offers a Heritage Walking trial experience. The trial highlights significant points of interest linking the town centre to the seafront via the Tow River Path. The accredited Ballycastle Museum is housed in the town’s 18thcentury Courthouse. Visitors can explore the fascinating history of the Irish Home Industries Workshop and the important role it played in the Arts and Crafts Revival in Ulster.
On the outskirts of the town stands Bonamargy Friary, close to the mouth of the Carey and Shesk rivers. Built by Rory McQuillan it was claimed by the MacDonnell Clan, it contains a sealed burial vault, wherein lie the coffins of several Earls of Ulster and chieftains, Sorley Boy MacDonnell.
Rathlin Island is known as an iconic landmark of the North Antrim coastline and forms part of the panorama Causeway Coastal Route. The high sea cliffs lend an aura of mystery and a sense of wanting to explore what lies beyond but arguably its greatest asset is the breeding seabird colony. The breeding seabird colony is a crowd pleaser especially when everyone’s favourite, the Puffin makes an appearance, with May-July being the best time to view the birds.
Access is by ferry from Ballycastle, the Rathlin centre accommodates Rathlin Island’s famous “upside down lighthouse” a member of The Great Lighthouse of Ireland partnership.
Armoy Leaving Ballycastle on the Causeway Coastal Route there is an option to loop inland through Glenshesk and Glentaisie, skirting Knocklayde Mountain before arriving in the village of Armoy.
Armoy is famous in sporting terms for motorcycling road racing, true road racing, through the trees, hedges, pillars and bushes. The Armoy Armada was established in 1977 and consisted of Mervyn Robinson, Joey Dunlop a World Champion, Frank Kennedy and Jim Dunlop. The Heritage and now Legendary Status of the Armoy Armada covered only 3 seasons of racing from 1977 to 1979, during that time these men demonstrated acts of commitment, dedication, camaraderie and talent. Qualities that confirmed the Armoy Armada as legends in the sport of Road Racing. Sadly 3 of the 4 died due to accidents while enjoying the sport they loved, today they are celebrated with the annual Armoy Armada Road Races around the village. The Race of Legends amrrc.com
The Dark Hedges what an incredible draw “ The Dark Hedges” has been. The Stuart family planted this beautiful avenue of beech trees in the eighteenth century. This location appeared on screen for just 35 seconds but captured the hearts and entered the dreams of millions. Beware, escaping by way of the “Kings Road” has it’s own dangers.
The Glens of Antrim