Set against Northern Ireland’s world-famous Causeway Coastline, Coleraine offers access to a baffling basalt landscape that’s inspired legends of giants striding over the Irish Sea. Tour the region’s whiskey distilleries, browse local markets and explore historic castle ruins.

Things to do

Tour Old Bushmills, the world’s oldest whiskey distillery. Retrace a rich history dating back to 1608 before tasting their beautifully smooth batches of golden liquor. Afterward, take the narrow-gauge steam train to the world-famous Giant’s Causeway and marvel at the 40,000 firmly-packed black basalt columns rising mysteriously out of the sea.

Meet local farmers and talented artisans at the Causeway Speciality Market, held every second Saturday in the shadow of the beautiful Coleraine Town Hall. Try Linda’s original handmade sausage rolls and sample Quinn’s mouth-watering fudge. Along with delicious food and live entertainment, you can find authentic Irish wool jumpers, handcrafted soaps and Celtic jewelry.

Visit the weathered ruins of Dunluce Castle, which titters dramatically on the edge of a coastal outcrop in County Antrim. The iconic medieval castle is only accessible from the mainland by a bridge. Discover the castle's rich history and explore the archaeological finds surrounding the original keep, including the cobbled streets and a merchant’s house.

Enjoy the glorious golden sand and perfect rolling waves of Portstewart Strand, one of North Ireland’s most beautiful beaches. Ride horseback along the three-kilometer shoreline or follow the circular Sand Dune and Estuary Walk, which meanders through 6,000-year-old dunes and wildflowers.

Getting around

Trains arrive from Belfast within two hours and buses arrive within one hour from the City of Derry Airport. Everything in Coleraine is within walking distance, while regular buses, trains and taxis are available for exploring the coastal towns.