Dunluce Castle Walk
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Dunluce Castle Walk
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The Dunluce Castle Walk is a short, but beautifully scenic walking route in Northern Ireland with stunning seaside views and historical sites. While out walking the trail, you will explore the grounds and ruins of Dunluce Castle that sits atop the cliffside and dates back to the 13th Century. Walkers should take note that here is an admission fee to access this site.
Getting there
The trailhead for the Dunluce Castle Walk can be found on Ballytober Road, just 1.5mi southwest of Portballintrae.
About
| Backcountry Campground | No |
| When to do | Year-Round |
| Pets allowed | No |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | High |
| Route Type | Lollipop |
Dunluce Castle Walk
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Dunluce Castle Walk Description
While the Dunluce Castle Walk is a fantastic walking route with beautifully scenic views along the coast, its only real downfall is the short overall distance. Additionally, this route can be very busy with visitors and parking can be limited. Be sure to arrive early to secure a space in the car park. Remember also that there is an entrance fee to explore the castle.
Even with the above mentioned downsides to walking this trail, the scenic views and fascinating history of this cliffside castle dating back to the 13th Century certainly make it a worthwhile experience. From the dramatic coastal landscape to the eerie castle ruins and majestic sea as a backdrop, there is no denying that the Dunluce Castle Walk is a great outdoor experience.
Setting out from the car park, you will make your way to the west along the path in order to reach the entry point for the castle. From here, you will pass through the ruins of some historic buildings that make up Dunluce Town, as you make your way north to the bridge that will take you to Dunluce Castle. The stunning seaside location of the castle offers breathtaking views along the rugged coast and stretching out across the water.
After exploring the ruins of the castle, turn back along the trail and cross over the bridge, keeping left to loop around the grounds and pass the small detour to the Mermaid Cave. Continue along the path as it climbs gently up the hillside on the return to the car park where you began the Dunluce Castle Walk.
Trail Highlights
Dunluce Castle
Located along a dramatic cliffside in the County Antrim, Dunluce Castle was once the seat of the Clan McDonnell and has its origins in the 13th Century. The castle is only accessible by a bridge and features steep drop offs along the rugged coastal cliffs, making for an impressive sight that was utilized as a filming location for the HBO series Game of Thrones. Nearby to the castle are the ruins of Dunluce Town that was destroyed in the uprising of 1641.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you go inside Dunluce Castle?
Yes. After paying your admission fee, you are able to explore the ruins of the castle.
Do you need to pay to enter Dunluce Castle?
Yes. There is an admission fee of £5.25 for adults and £3.50 for children to enter the castle.
Insider Hints
Dunclue Castle is on the list of things to visit on the ultimate Northern Ireland travel itinerary.
Admission fees for the site are £5.25 for adults and £3.50 for children.
The last admission is 30 minutes prior to close.
Dogs are not permitted on the site.
Make sure to download the Dunluce Castle app to learn more about the site.
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