Causeway Coastal Route
Glens of Antrim, a rope bridge, the Dark Hedges and the basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway.
- Distance
- 202 km (126 mi)
- Driving
- 2 h 47 min
- Suggested days
- 2
- Stops
- 6
- Countries
- United Kingdom
- Updated
- May 22, 2026
At a glance: 2-day road trip of about 202 km (126 mi) with 6 stops, from Belfast to Derry. About 2 h 47 min of driving in total.
More road trips in United Kingdom
Route description
From Belfast take the A2 north past Carrickfergus Castle and Larne, then follow the coast through the Glens of Antrim, where green valleys run down to villages such as Glenarm and Cushendall. The minor scenic road over Torr Head is steep and narrow and not suitable for large motorhomes.
Near Ballintoy, the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge crosses 30 m above the sea to a small island once used by salmon fishermen. Crossings are by timed ticket, so book ahead, and the bridge closes in strong winds.
Turn inland for the Dark Hedges, an avenue of twisted beech trees on a country road near Armoy; the lane itself is closed to traffic, so park nearby and walk, ideally at dawn. Back on the coast, the Giant’s Causeway has about 40,000 basalt columns stepping into the sea, with a visitor centre and paths along the cliffs.
Bushmills is home to a well-known whiskey distillery, and the ruins of Dunluce Castle stand on the cliffs just west of the town. The route ends in Derry, whose 17th-century city walls are complete and can be walked all the way round.
Stop-by-stop itinerary
In driving order. Distances are estimates between consecutive stops.
- 1Start
Belfast
United Kingdom - 295 km
Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge
ViewsBallintoy, United KingdomA rope bridge 30 m above the sea to a tiny island once used by salmon fishermen. Book a time slot.
- 315 km
The Dark Hedges
NatureArmoy, United KingdomAn avenue of twisted beech trees planted in the 18th century. Go at dawn to avoid crowds.
- 418 km
Giant's Causeway
NatureBushmills, United KingdomAbout 40,000 interlocking basalt columns stepping down into the sea on the Antrim coast.
- 55 km
Bushmills
United Kingdom - 669 km
Derry
United Kingdom
Suggested stages and overnight stops
2 days, split by driving time. Campsites from OpenStreetMap: check opening dates before you go.
- Day 1: Belfast → Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge · 95 km · 1 h 19 minOvernight nearby, for example: Craig House Campsite (7 km); Bush Caravan Park (17 km).
- Day 2: Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge → Derry · 107 km · 1 h 29 minOn the way: The Dark Hedges, Giant's Causeway, Bushmills.Overnight nearby, for example: Quigley's Point (16 km).
Best time to go
No month is ideal everywhere on this route; the most pleasant are usually May–September. July and August are the busiest months: book campsites early.
Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons
Practical notes for the road
- United Kingdom: Tolls on some roads, bridges or tunnels. Drive on the left. Some bridges and tunnels charge tolls.
Road rules and fees change. Check official sources before you travel.
FAQs
How long is Causeway Coastal Route?
2-day road trip of about 202 km (126 mi) with 6 stops, from Belfast to Derry. About 2 h 47 min of driving in total.
How many days do you need for Causeway Coastal Route?
We suggest 2 days: about 2 h 47 min of driving, which leaves time for the stops.
Where does Causeway Coastal Route start and end?
It starts in Belfast and ends in Derry.
Which countries does Causeway Coastal Route pass through?
United Kingdom.
Where can you camp along Causeway Coastal Route?
OpenStreetMap lists 38 campsites and motorhome stopovers within 20 km of the stops on this route. For example: Craig House Campsite, Bush Caravan Park and Rathlin Glamping Pods.
When is the best time for Causeway Coastal Route?
No month is ideal everywhere on this route; the most pleasant are usually May–September. July and August are the busiest months: book campsites early. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
.jpg){kind=link}