Overview
Giant's Causeway is Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage Site, a spectacular stretch of some 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns rising from the sea along County Antrim's coast. The formations formed 60 million years ago when lava cooled and contracted into geometric columns, creating stepping-stone shapes that local legend attributes to Finn McCool building a causeway to Scotland.
Day Trips · History · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Access
Site free to enter 24/7 year-round; parking costs £18 adults/£9 children (2026), pre-book recommended. Shuttle bus £1. National Trust members park free.
Crowds
Million visitors annually; weekends packed. Weekday off-season visits dramatically improve experience.
Facilities
Toilets in Visitor Centre (with ticket) and Causeway Hotel side (free, 8AM-3:45PM). The Nook Cafe allows toilet use with purchase.
Money
No ATM on site; nearest in Bushmills 3 miles south. Card accepted at Visitor Centre and most nearby establishments.
Transport
Goldline Bus 221 from Belfast takes 90 min; train to Coleraine then Bus 402/172 also works. Parking on nearby roads risks towing.
Weather
Always wet and slippery; wear hiking boots with grip. Wind can be fierce on clifftops. Check forecast and dress in layers.