Cushendun Caves
Explore the unique sea caves of Cushendun, a natural wonder and Game of Thrones filming location on Northern Ireland's stunning Causeway Coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best access to caves
Cushendun Caves
Best Time
Best access to caves
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the unique sea caves of Cushendun, a natural wonder and Game of Thrones filming location on Northern Ireland's stunning Causeway Coast.
"A must-see hidden cave on the way to the Giant's Causeway!"
Check Tide Times First
Access to the caves is tide-dependent. Always check local tide times before your visit! :clock1:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The ground inside and around the caves can be uneven and slippery. Good grip is essential. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Caves Themselves
Cushendun Beach
Explore the unique geological formations of these sea caves, carved by the elements over time.
Pebble Beach
Cushendun Beach
Walk along the shore dotted with smooth, colorful pebbles, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Scenic Coastal Views
Cushendun Village
Enjoy picturesque views of the Antrim coast and the charming village of Cushendun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Caves
Game of Thrones Connection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Times First
Access to the caves is tide-dependent. Always check local tide times before your visit! :clock1:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The ground inside and around the caves can be uneven and slippery. Good grip is essential. :athletic_shoe:
Game of Thrones Spotting
Recognize this as a filming location for Game of Thrones! A must-see for fans. :tv:
Free Parking Available
There's free parking nearby, just a short walk to the caves. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Times First
Access to the caves is tide-dependent. Always check local tide times before your visit! :clock1:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The ground inside and around the caves can be uneven and slippery. Good grip is essential. :athletic_shoe:
Game of Thrones Spotting
Recognize this as a filming location for Game of Thrones! A must-see for fans. :tv:
Free Parking Available
There's free parking nearby, just a short walk to the caves. :car:
Combine with Causeway
Perfect stop on the way to or from the Giant's Causeway. :round_pushpin:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Cushendun Caves to be a charming natural attraction, particularly for its unique geological formations and its role as a Game of Thrones filming location. While some find it a bit of a letdown if they travel a long distance, others appreciate the scenic beauty and the opportunity for unique photos. Access is tide-dependent and the terrain can be slippery, so planning and appropriate footwear are recommended.
"There is free parking nearby which is a 3-5min walk to the caves. Be careful on the uneven and slippery walk. Part of the caves are currently closed as works are underway. Worth checking out if you are a Game of Thrones fan and are in the area."
Feizal Mowlabocus
"Although it says it’s closed , there is limited access . See pictures attached .
Soft stones to walk on , so take ur time as you walk through openings . Really interesting the views from within . You won’t spend too much time but worth it for pictures ."
Tony Dunne
"One of the post flood wonders. Mostly rounded stones of all sizes embedded in hardened sandstone ie a conglomerate rock made during the worldwide flood of Noah."
Julian Kennedy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cushendun Caves are located in the village of Cushendun on the Antrim Coast. If driving, it's accessible via the scenic Causeway Coastal Route. Free parking is available nearby, a short walk from the caves. Many visitors combine a trip here with other attractions along the coast like the Giant's Causeway.
Yes, Cushendun Caves are a beautiful stop along the famous Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland.
Public transport options to Cushendun are limited. It's best to visit by car to fully explore the Causeway Coast and its attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to Cushendun Caves is free. It's a natural attraction on the beach.
The caves are accessible during daylight hours, but their availability is dependent on the tide. Always check tide times before visiting.
There is no entrance fee for Cushendun Caves. It's a natural wonder that can be explored freely.
Some reviews mention limited access or temporary closures due to works. It's advisable to check for any recent updates or be prepared for potential partial closures.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The best way to explore is by walking through them during low tide. Be mindful of the slippery and uneven surfaces.
You won't spend a lot of time here, typically around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much you want to explore and take photos.
Children can enjoy exploring the caves, but adult supervision is essential due to the slippery and uneven terrain.
The terrain consists of soft stones and hardened sandstone, which can be uneven and slippery.
Yes, the caves offer unique photographic opportunities, especially with the interesting rock formations and coastal light.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots are inside the caves themselves, capturing the unique rock formations and the light filtering through. The pebble beach also offers scenic shots.
A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the caves. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the sea and rocks.
Yes, cloudy days can provide diffused light, which can be excellent for capturing details and avoiding harsh shadows within the caves.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Make sure everyone wears sturdy, non-slip shoes. The short duration of the visit means it's manageable even for younger children, and the novelty of exploring a 'secret' cave can be very engaging. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as facilities directly at the caves are minimal. The nearby village of Cushendun offers a pleasant spot for a break. Combining the caves with a visit to the Giant's Causeway, which has more open space for kids to run around, can make for a well-rounded family day trip along the coast.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
+1 Its location makes it a perfect addition to a day trip that includes the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and the Dark Hedges. The free parking and relatively short visit time mean it won't significantly disrupt your itinerary. Plan your visit around low tide to maximize your exploration time. The scenic drive to Cushendun is a highlight in itself, so take your time and enjoy the coastal views.
🎬 Game of Thrones Fans
You can almost feel the dramatic energy of that scene as you explore the cave's nooks and crannies. While the caves are a natural attraction, their fame as a filming location adds a significant layer of appeal. It's a chance to step into the world of Westeros and see a piece of television history firsthand.
Remember to capture some photos to commemorate your visit to this iconic spot. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Geology and Formation
Visitors often remark on the soft stones and the uneven, slippery surfaces within the caves, highlighting the natural and untamed character of the site. The visual appeal is enhanced by the way the light plays within the cave openings, creating dramatic contrasts and highlighting the textures of the rock.
While the caves are a natural wonder, it's worth noting that some areas may experience temporary closures for maintenance or conservation efforts. Always check for any advisories before your visit to ensure you can experience the caves to their fullest.
Game of Thrones Filming Location
The dramatic and somewhat mystical atmosphere of the caves made them a perfect backdrop for these pivotal scenes.Many visitors are drawn to Cushendun specifically because of its connection to the show, seeking to recreate iconic moments or simply to stand in a place where fantasy became reality. The natural beauty of the caves, combined with their role in a globally popular series, makes them a unique destination.
Even if you're not a Game of Thrones aficionado, the caves offer a captivating experience. Their natural beauty and the intriguing geological formations are impressive on their own, with the added pop culture relevance providing an extra layer of interest for many travelers.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
The Causeway Coastal Route is renowned for its stunning landscapes, and Cushendun is a key part of this scenic drive. Visitors often combine a stop at the caves with other iconic Northern Ireland attractions such as the Giant's Causeway, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and the Dark Hedges.
+1 The drive from Torr Head to Cushendun is particularly recommended on a sunny day for its breathtaking views. For those seeking a more active experience, paddleboarding around the caves offers a unique perspective of the coastline and the Glens of Antrim.
The calm waters on certain evenings can make for a truly peaceful and memorable adventure. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit