NI Connections

Locals, golf fans and anyone with a soft spot for our North Coast are counting down the days to The 153rd Open being held in Portrush once again.

An area of picturesque landscapes, warm welcomes and world-class golfing facilities… it can’t get much better than that.

Or can it?

The beauty of this area might start at Portrush, but it doesn’t end there, with legendary local landmarks only a car journey away.

From quiet country lanes and quaint villages to the locations of iconic Hollywood film and TV sets, to folklore-filled heritage sites and more – all with a breathtaking coastal backdrop.

Fancy swapping out the golf cart for the car? The fairway for the motorway? The golf clubs for a North Coast road trip? 

Here are some things to do on the North Coast to make your experience unforgettable.

What to do in Portrush

When you want to stretch your legs between rounds, there’s no shortage of Portrush tourist attractions that are just a 10-minute scoot in the car.

Whiterocks Beach

This Blue Flag-awarded beach sits right next to Royal Portrush Golf Club and is the perfect spot whether you’re looking for a paddle or a picnic.

It’s also home to huge white limestone cliffs that give the area its name, giving you all the drama of the Antrim Coast with no long drive required. Simply ideal.

Magheracross Viewpoint

With stunning coastal views of Dunluce Castle and the Causeway Coast, this one is great for short stopovers and snapping a photo or two (or three, or four…).

Dunluce Castle

Roll up, enjoy the cliffside views, explore medieval castle ruins and live out your childhood fantasies.

This mystical spot is hailed as the inspiration behind Cair Paravel in CS Lewis’ ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’, and it’s featured as the House of Greyjoy in Game of Thrones (with the help of some very expensive CGI!) 

But the show-biz industry doesn’t stop there. Read about other big and small screen productions in NI here...Big screen or small, Northern Ireland has it all! | NI Connections

Road Trip to Derry

If you’ve got a free afternoon, someone willing to drive, and a desire to escape to the city, Derry’s just over an hour away from Portrush.

Mussenden Temple

A must-stop location along the way, this National Trust landmark combines beautiful walking trails with historical significance and a stunning landscape.

With other sights to see including Downhill Demesne and the Black Glen viewpoint, you’re definitely getting bang for your buck (except it’s free, so that’s even better!)

City of Derry

Did you know Derry is the only completely walled city left on the island of Ireland?

Dotted along with 24 restored cannons dating back to the 17th century, the 400+ year-old walls make for a great historical walk if you fancy stretching your legs after a long drive.

You can also visit the museum of Free Derry for a powerful look at recent history that shaped the city, or explore the symbolic Peace Bridge.

And of course, no visit to Derry is complete without a stop by the iconic Derry Girl’s mural.

Coastal Route Road Trip

We already talked about cycling the Causeway Coastal Route (read about it here… Sport in Northern Ireland: Community, culture and craic) but if that’s not for you, the car will do the job just as well.

If you’ve only got a few hours and want to see the best of the Antrim Coast, these stops are less than a 30-minute drive from Portrush.

Giant’s Causeway

Northern Ireland’s first and only UNESCO World Heritage Site, a world-famous geological wonder, an award-winning visitor centre, mythical giant-filled lore…

… and one of the most Instagrammable spots in Ireland. 

Start your engines!

Ballintoy Harbour

Nestled in the picturesque village of Ballintoy, this little gem used to be a fishing village and is accessed by the narrow, bendy roads typical of an Irish road trip. 

You can spend as much time as you like here, taking in the harbour views, exploring rock pools and small caves, or staying for brunch or dinner.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Originally built to allow fishermen to cross from the mainland to Carrick-a-Rede Island, the bridge has become a world-famous tourist attraction, with people showing up from all over to cross the 20-metre chasm.

Thankfully it’s been reconstructed since then and rest-assured is super safe, but it’s also a brilliant way to explore the island and the breathtaking views.

Kinbane Head

A less visited but no-less spectacular stop on your Antrim Coast road trip, Kinbane Head is a hidden treasure.

Only accessible on foot via a steep staircase, the historical ruins of Kinbane Castle are backdropped by the stunning sea views and are well worth a visit.

Dark Hedges

What Northern Ireland road trip would be complete without a visit to the mystical Dark Hedges?

Made famous by TV shows like Game of Thrones, the 250-year-old beech trees stand tall, creating a tunnel effect over the road that has to be seen in person to truly appreciate.

If you’re coming home for the golf or watching from afar, tag us in your road trip snaps, tales of the North Coast, or even tell us about the best chippy you’ve had in Portrush. We love to see what our Northern Irish diaspora are up to, whether you’re just down the road or on the far side of the world.

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn or X and let us know where in the world you find yourself. 

Disclaimer: This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by The R&A or The Open. “The Open” is a registered trademark of The R&A.