Dunluce Castle
Medieval Castle Ruins
About Dunluce Castle
Dunluce Castle is a now-ruined medieval castle in Northern Ireland, perched dramatically on the edge of a basalt outcropping along the Causeway Coast. The castle is surrounded by extremely steep drops on either side, making it one of the most picturesque and dramatically situated castles in Ireland.
Built initially by the MacQuillan family around 1500, the castle was later captured and expanded by the MacDonnell clan. The castle reached its peak in the early 17th century when it was the seat of the Earl of Antrim. However, maintaining such a remote cliff-top location proved challenging and expensive.
The castle was abandoned after part of the kitchen fell into the sea during a storm in 1639, taking several servants with it. Today, these atmospheric ruins offer spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Scottish islands of Islay and Jura on clear days.
Essential Information
Location
87 Dunluce Rd, Bushmills BT57 8UY
Opening Hours
Daily: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
(Seasonal variations apply)
Admission
Adults: £6.00
Children (5-17): £4.50
Under 5: Free
Family (up to 5): £18.00
Duration
Allow 1-2 hours for exploration
Things to Do
Explore the Ruins
Wander through the atmospheric castle ruins and discover the great hall, kitchen areas, and defensive walls that once protected this clifftop stronghold.
Visitor Centre
Learn about the castle's turbulent history through interactive displays and exhibitions featuring archaeological finds and historical artifacts.
Coastal Views
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Giant's Causeway, and Scotland's islands from the castle's dramatic clifftop location.
Practical Tips
Getting There
Free parking available. Located on the Causeway Coastal Route. 3km from Bushmills, 1km from Giant's Causeway.
What to Wear
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip. Waterproof clothing recommended. It can be very windy on the cliffs.
Best Time to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon for better lighting. Clear days offer the best views of Scotland. Less crowded in off-season.
Photography
Spectacular photo opportunities from multiple angles. Golden hour provides the best lighting. Drone photography is restricted.
Safety
Stay on designated paths. The cliffs are dangerous with loose rocks. Supervise children closely. High winds can be hazardous.
History
The castle has inspired legends and featured in Game of Thrones as House Greyjoy's seat. Audio guides available for deeper historical context.
Photo Credits
Dunluce Castle: By Iain Irwin - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0