Autumn in the Causeway Coast and Glens is a truly magical time, perfect for scenic walks along the rugged coastline or through the serene forests and woodlands.

Discover secret beaches bathed in autumnal light and explore tracks and trails through the countryside and Areas Of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Replenish and warm up by a roaring fire with a bite of local fayre in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

There is so much to see and do this autumn; events like the Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival and Atlantic Sessions bring locals and visitors together to celebrate the region’s rich local heritage with food, drink, and a musical backdrop to the season, filling pubs and cafes with live performances by talented artists.

Meet our passionate locals on tours and experiences in the area, where you can marvel at the wonders of our landscapes while experiencing something new, like horseback riding, pottery sculpting, or even open water swimming.

Autumn is a time when the area’s natural beauty and cultural richness shine, offering you a unique and unforgettable experience. Ready to be inspired? Discover what makes this part of Northern Ireland perfect for autumn short breaks.

Things to do this Autumn in Northern Ireland

1. Take an autumnal drive along the Causeway Coastal Route

Pack up the car and embark upon the road trip of a lifetime along the Causeway Coastal Route this autumn. Experience 120 miles of pure magic on this epic journey! We recommend stopping often to truly experience the natural beauty, history, and wonderful people along the way.

One unmissable stop along the Causeway Coastal Route is not for the faint-hearted – the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge! Crossing the bridge is an exhilarating experience, where you will find yourself high above the water and open to the autumn elements. Sway with the wind as you cross to take in more stunning views along the Causeway Coast and of the clear turquoise waters below.

This iconic bridge, suspended nearly 100 feet above the rocky waters below, connects the mainland to the tiny island of Carrick-a-rede, where you can enjoy spotting wildlife or taking photos of the coastline before making your way back.

There are many other special places to visit along the route, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Mussenden Temple, the Old Bushmills Distillery, the Glens of Antrim and Rathlin Island. That’s before you head off the beaten track to discover hidden gems such as Dunseverick Falls, The Secret Beach at Ballintoy, Garvagh Pyramid and The Vanishing Lake at Loughareema!

2. Wrap up warm and take in the views

You will pass by Magheracross View Point on the Dunluce Road between Portrush and Bushmills as you make your way along the Causeway Coastal Route. Be sure to stop here and take in the breathtaking autumnal views of the Causeway Coast’s natural beauty and coastal headlands.

From Magheracross, you can see the iconic Dunluce Castle and the Skerries, as well as the expansive sandy dunes of Whiterocks Beach, one of the many Blue Flag awarded beaches in the Causeway Coast and Glens.

Head to the mountain range of Binevenagh, another Area of Outstanding Beauty in the Causeway Coast & Glens, to take in the views from Gortmore View Point. From here, you'll see as far as County Donegal and out to the west coast of Scotland.

While you're here, take a moment to appreciate the majestic sculpture of Celtic sea god Manannán mac Lir. Venture along the scenic Bishop’s Road and experience the rugged charm of the landscape before venturing on to explore nearby seaside towns and villages.

3. Experience our coastal coffee culture or warm up with a bite to eat

One of the best parts of exploring the Causeway Coastal Route this autumn is getting to sample the top-notch local foodie scene.

Whether you’re dreaming of a post-beach-walk dinner or moreish fish and chips al fresco, we have great food for you to savour, served up at some of the most scenic locations. Explore what awaits you; from passionate local producers to world-famous distilleries, quirky street food vans to tasting tours and experiences. 

The region is also home to six Économusée experiences, where you can visit talented producers in the kitchens and workshops, learning about the processes that have inspired them to create great, fresh, local food.

4. Embrace your Giant Spirit with a unique autumnal experience

Experience beautiful Downhill Beach on horseback this autumn against the backdrop of Mussenden Temple perched high on the cliffs above.

Behold panoramic views and soak up your surroundings at this delightful time of year, while being guided by the expert team from Crindle Stables as you trot along the water's edge, learning about the history and heritage of the area as you go. This place and this experience is as timeless as it is unique.

Alternatively, take an Irish Coffee Masterclass with North Coast Cocktails. Join Ashley Douglas at Kon Tiki Boat Bar in Portrush for a captivating cocktail-making workshop where you'll learn to craft exquisite cocktails using locally sourced ingredients from the Causeway Coast and Glens.

Enjoy Ashley’s engaging stories and lively banter while mastering the art of the perfect Irish Coffee with a bespoke local blend and Bushmills Whiskey. This mobile experience can be enjoyed at a range of unique venues or in the comfort of your holiday home. 

For the ultimate wellbeing experience, a trip to HotBox's new rural sessions at Drumagosker will introduce you to the benefits of hot and cold therapy at their relaxed countryside retreat.

The experience includes a guided yoga or meditation session, and you'll take turns dipping in and out of the bracing plunge pool after warming up in the soothing heat of their Finnish-style wood-fired sauna.

Hot and cold drinks, a locally produced picnic hamper, artisan hot chocolate and s’mores made over the fire pit can also be added to your experience. If you really want to go the extra mile, you can also add a Scandinavian wood-fired hot tub for the perfect outdoor bathing experience. Bookable throughout weekends over autumn.

5. Enjoy the autumnal colour palette whilst walking in the great outdoors

Discover one of the many waymarked walks and trails in the Causeway Coast and Glens to keep you on the right track this autumn.

Walking, hiking or simply strolling in our Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) is an inexpensive way to immerse yourself in the landscapes, culture, myths and legends of this stunning region.

Choose from forests and woodlands, coastal trails and mountainous paths; we have such a diverse range of walks and trails that you’ll be spoiled for choice. Pack an autumnal picnic or stop off for a bite to eat along the way before shuffling through the changing autumn leaves in all their golden glory.

6. Discover the magic of Rathlin Island

Embark on a wondrous adventure to Rathlin Island, just a scenic six-mile ferry ride from Ballycastle Harbour. Keep an eye out for playful dolphins and porpoises that often accompany the ferry! 

Once you arrive, take a leisurely stroll along the shore to Mill Bay, where you can spot the friendly resident seals basking in the sun or playing in the water. 

For a more active experience, bring your bike and pedal your way around the island. Rathlin offers a variety of family-friendly accommodation and a charming pub and restaurant, perfect for relaxing and recharging amidst stunning autumnal scenery. 

7. Get golf-ready before next summer's return of The Open

The Open returns to Royal Portrush Golf Club in July 2025. It’ll be the third time the epic championship will grace this club’s prestigious links course, and there are many other great golf courses to play in the Causeway Coast and Glens while you wait for the big event. 

Whether you prefer a links or parkland course, you can practice your swing at this region’s excellent clubs, most less than half an hour’s drive from the iconic Royal Portrush. There’s plenty of opportunities to enjoy a bite to eat near the course if you fancy venturing away from the clubhouse for a bit of our warm hospitality and some 19th-hole craic.

 

8. Follow the Causeway Craft Trail and unearth your inner artist

Whilst exploring the craggy cliffs and endless headlands of the Causeway Coast and Glens, immerse yourself in the fascinating Causeway Craft Trail that takes you off the beaten track and into some of the hidden gems of this beautiful region, visiting artists and craftspeople in the places that inspire them while observing them at work.  

Join expert potter Patricia Millar at her secluded studio in Lisnagunogue to learn the ancient art of barrel firing pottery. 

Patricia will guide you through the entire process, including cleaning and sealing your creations before you take home your own beautifully marked pottery. 

 

9. Spend the weekend at an exciting autumn event

You can’t miss the Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival, returning this autumn from 4th-6th October. Enjoy a fully-loaded schedule of food and drink samplings, cookery demonstrations, and foodie tours over the course of the three-day festival which celebrates two of our finest exports.

Take the self-guided Taste Trail to discover the hidden gems of this quaint village in Northern Ireland or spend the weekend revelling with the locals to live music. Shop the range of local produce and crafts showcased at the Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market, or even learn a new skill on a creative crafting workshop.

Immerse yourself in the sounds of Atlantic Sessions, an annual music festival that brings the Causeway Coast to life each autumn.

Set against the stunning backdrops of Portrush and Portstewart, this event showcases an eclectic mix of original music, from traditional folk to contemporary beats, and everything in between. Whether you're a fan of acoustic melodies or electrifying performances, there's something for every music lover to enjoy.

The festival is a celebration of both emerging talent and seasoned artists, offering a unique platform for musicians from Northern Ireland and beyond. With performances spread across various intimate venues, Atlantic Sessions creates a special atmosphere where you can discover new sounds while soaking in the beauty of the Causeway Coast. Takes place 14th-17th November.

10. Choose somewhere charming and cosy to bunk down

This Autumn, the Causeway Coast and Glens offers a delightful array of places to rest up after a long day of exploring, whatever your preference and budget.

Whether you’re with family, friends or a loved one, seeking a welcoming boutique hotel, a cosy guesthouse, a stylish bed and breakfast or a unique self-catering property, you’ll find something that suits your needs right here.

The Manse Ballycastle is a unique, luxurious property designed for families and groups of up to 14 people to come together in a large, stylish home with all you could want for the perfect break.

With 7 spacious bedrooms, two(!) hot tubs, an outdoor sauna, and a relaxing patio and mature gardens for all to enjoy, it’s perfect for spending some quality time together this autumn.

Alternatively, Peatlands - which is situated just outside Ballymoney - offers 4-star guest accommodation within a peaceful and private natural setting.

Tucked away in three acres of private grounds are two self-contained, luxury shepherd’s huts, each secluded in their own ample space and natural landscape, with private boardwalk and deck.

Full of character, charm and comfort, they boast cosy wood-burning stoves and great self-catering facilities, making them the perfect getaway all year round for couples or solo travellers, whether to rest and unwind or as a work-from-hut retreat. 

Explore everything the Causeway Coast and Glens has to offer this autumn. Stop by our Visitor Information Centres during your visit, and our friendly team will gladly provide you with details on hidden gems and help you book a range of unique experiences.

Contact them at visitorinformation@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk or stop by on your travels for more information.