9 Things to See Near Royal Portrush

What to See and Where to Eat Between Rounds

Whitney Hedrick

June 12, 2025

6 Minute Read

Over the past several years, Royal Portrush has become one of the hottest tickets in golf travel. And while a round on the Dunluce Links is the highlight of many Ireland golf tours, your time away from the course can be every bit as rewarding.

Whether you're attending The Open Championship or counting down to a Northern Ireland golf trip, here are the must-see sights near Royal Portrush.

The Giant's Causeway

The most popular attraction near Royal Portrush, the Giant’s Causeway is a collection of over 40,000 stone columns that form hexagonal steps leading from the cliffs to the sea.

Irish legend claims that the causeway was built by a giant so he could cross the sea to Scotland and settle a long running feud. Geologists offer the more plausible explanation that the Causeway was created during volcanic activity some 60 million years ago.

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for your visit, as it’s a two mile circular walk from the entrance, past the towering stone columns, and onward the edge of the Causeway.

Bonus Tip: If you're up for the challenge, hike up to the Amphitheater for one of the great views in Ireland.

Dunluce Castle

Perched on a 100 foot-high sheer cliff, the ruins of Dunluce Castle loom over the Royal Portrush links of the same name.

The castle dates from around the 10th century and was extended many times in the centuries that followed. The ruin was the 16th century stronghold of the MacDonnell’s, a Scottish clan, but was heavily damaged in 1584. Legend has it that the MacDonnell’s were only able to repair their fortress after a Spanish Armada treasure ship was wrecked nearby in 1588.

The castle remains the property of MacDonnell descendants, and is a popular photo opportunity for our Members visiting Royal Portrush.

Bonus Tip: As seen below, the best spot for photos is from a viewpoint just to the west of the castle.

Golfers visiting Dunluce Castle while in Portrush

Dave Thompson, PGA and the Members of Aspen Glen Club take in the view of Dunluce Castle.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Just a few minutes from the Giant’s Causeway, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a thrill-seekers delight.

For more than 300 years, the rope bridge has provided the only access to Carrick-a-rede Island for the local fishermen. Today, the bridge is much more heavily used by the thousands of visitors who come to traverse it each year.

Suspended nearly 100 feet above the chasm below, the bridge is not for the fainthearted or those fearful of heights. It sways and wobbles underfoot and is even closed from time to time due to high winds. Be sure to bring your camera and maybe pack a lunch to enjoy alongside the incredible views.

Bonus Tip: The Carrick-a-Rede and Giant's Causeway require a great deal of walking. We'd suggest visiting them on separate days.

Carrick a Rede Rope Bridge near Portrush Ireland

Bushmills Distillery

Located just 15 minutes from Royal Portrush and two miles from the Giant’s Causeway, the Bushmills distillery was granted its license by King James I in April 1608. And so, for over 400 years, the village of Bushmills has been home to the oldest licensed distillery in the world.

Today, Bushmills runs one of the most interesting distillery tours of any production facility in Scotland and Ireland, capped with a tasting of its famous export. Those looking for the full Bushmills experience should pop into the nearby Bushmills Inn, where the full range of whiskey can be enjoyed in the famous Gas Bar or alfresco on their beautiful patio.

Bonus Tip: The Bushmills distillery is a very popular stop for visitors. Pre-booking your tour is strongly recommended in the summer months.

Golfers visiting the Bushmills Distillery during golf trip to Ireland

Ian Dalzell, PGA and the Members of Huntingdon Valley Country Club enjoy a visit to the Bushmills Distillery.

Mussenden Temple

If your itinerary includes a round at Castlerock, Mussenden Temple is just a short detour away. Originally built as a library in the 18th century, the small circular structure sits dramatically on a cliff’s edge, overlooking Downhill Beach and the Atlantic beyond. The temple itself is stunning, but the panoramic views are the real star of the visit.

Bonus Tip: The Rock Cafe just around the corner from Castlerock Golf Club is a great stop for coffee and a pastry.

The Harbour Bar

In the heart of Portrush near the town’s picturesque harbour lies one of the best 19th holes in golf. It doesn’t matter that it's nearly 2 miles from the nearest putting green, The Harbour Bar is where everyone who's anyone goes for a post-round pint after their round at Royal Portrush.

Longtime barman, Willie Gregg, is a legend, and by the time your visit is over you’re likely to be fast friends. Put simply, The Harbour Bar is the kind of place where “just one pint” turns into three or four, possibly leading to a few stories that’ll be retold amongst your group for years to come.

Bonus Tip: Spend a few minutes surveying the golf memorabilia on the walls and ceiling. Willie's personally curated collection is one of the best around.

Nick Haudek, PGA and the Members of Evansville Country Club raise a glass at The Harbour Bar.

The Dark Hedges

Roughly 45 minutes east of Portrush lies one of Northern Ireland’s most photographed attractions. Known to many as the "King's Road" from Game of Thrones, the Dark Hedges is a quick but memorable stop. The beech trees, planted in the 18th century, form a natural archway over the narrow lane, creating an otherworldly scene.

Bonus Tip: Early mornings offer the best chance to photograph it without crowds.

Belfast Day Trip

Roughly an hour and a half from Portrush, Belfast makes for an excellent day away from the course.

At Titanic Belfast, you’ll find an extraordinary museum built on the very slipways where the famous ship first launched. Beyond the Titanic Quarter, a Black Cab Tour offers a personal and insightful look into Belfast’s layered political history, with drivers who lived much of it themselves. The Cathedral Quarter comes alive with its traditional pubs and vibrant atmosphere, while St. George’s Market—if you're visiting on a weekend—delivers an excellent mix of local food, artistry, and live music.

Paired with Belfast’s growing reputation for great dining, it’s a city well worth exploring between rounds.

Bonus Tip: Titanic Belfast often requires more time than visitors expect. It's best explored when you have a full day in Belfast at your disposal.

Dining Around Royal Portrush

Of course, all this sightseeing builds an appetite, and the area delivers:

The Bushmills Inn — A long-time favorite for H&B travelers. Whether it’s the Gas Bar or the cozy dining room, their famous sticky toffee pudding is not to be missed.

The Quays — A classic option for casual pub fare in the heart of Portrush.

Ramore Restaurants — An ensemble of restaurants offering everything from steaks to seafood, all under one roof just steps from the harbor.

Tom Tom's Bakery — A favorite for travelers with a sweet tooth. The pastries and desserts are worth a dedicated visit.

The golf at Royal Portrush may be what draws you to this corner of Northern Ireland, but it’s only part of the story. The sights, history, and hospitality that surround the links will add as much to your overall experience as your time on the course.