16 Locales in the United Kingdom That Are Calling Your Name
The Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland
The Causeway Coast is home to multiple sights and attractions, though the most famous is Giant’s Causeway. It sits at the edge of the wild North Atlantic near the town of Bushmills, made up of some 40,000 basalt columns with a backdrop of dramatic cliffs.
Formed by a volcanic eruption around 60 million years ago, it’s sparked numerous scientific debates as well as myths and legends over the centuries. One legend says it was carved out by the mighty giant Finn McCool who left his ancient home behind to battle his foe, Benandonner, across the water in Scotland.
Nearby is Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, a heart-pounding suspension bridge that offers stunning views as well as the chance to spot dolphins and even the occasional basking shark.
Whitepark House, Ballintoy, Northern Ireland
Located between Giant’s Causeway and the Rope Bridge, Whitepark House offers one of the best B&B experiences in Northern Ireland. Built in 1730, the grand home overlooks White Park Bay with the North Sea beyond, and is lavishly decorated with antiques and other items from the owner’s exotic travels.
It also includes a beautifully landscaped garden and a conservatory, though the host is truly what makes it stand out. Bob Isle will welcome you with afternoon tea and biscuits as if you were a long-lost friend, providing lots of great tips to help you make the most of your time in the area, along with tasty breakfasts for fueling those activities.
The holidays never fail to make us feel warm and fuzzy inside. These 6 Christmas getaways for couples are perfect for reveling in the romance of the season.
The Dark Hedges, Stranocum, Northern Ireland
The Dark Hedges may sound like something from a storybook or a movie, and while it has been used as a filming location, most notably in HBO’s hit series “Game of Thrones,” the avenue of ancient beech trees is very real. One of Northern Ireland’s most photographed spots, it was planted by the Stuart family in the 18th century.
It was intended to provided a compelling landscape that would draw visitors in, impressing them as they approached the entrance to their Georgian mansion know as Gracehill House.
It’s been doing so for more than 250 years now, and is known as one of the most magical sights in Northern Ireland. Strolling down Bregagh Road, you may feel as if there is some kind of magical power drawing you in. Fans of “Game of Thrones” will recognize it from Season 2: Episode 1, in which Arya Stark escapes King’s Landing with the latest recruits heading for The Wall.
As this has become one of the region’s top attractions in recent years, in order to capture it without the crowds you’ll need to visit early in the morning, before the tour buses arrive.
