Bushmills is a quaint market town on the northernmost coast of County Antrim, Mecca for whiskey lovers and the gateway to the Giant's Causeway, it is the perfect place for a quiet country retreat. Flanked by countless wild green fields, clifftop castle ruins and full of quaint listed buildings, it is a beautiful historic village in the heart of gorgeous natural scenery. Our collection of the best places to stay in Bushmills are well positioned to enjoy these spectacular views.

The town itself feels old. The streets are lined with old whitewashed cottages, quaint oakwood bars and designer cafes; the market square, centred around the war memorial, is emblazoned with flags of the Union Jack, and many of the houses are listed-buildings. Indeed, Bushmills has the highest concentration of listed-buildings in the whole of the northeast - an impressive feat considering the small scale of the town. An old stone bridge stands across the River Bush, that runs south through the town, and it makes for a lovely spot to find some peace and quiet after a day of sightseeing.

If you're a whiskey-lover, then you've come to the right place. The Old Bushmills Distillery, a Mecca for whiskey lovers across the world, does excellent guided tours and is well worth seeing. If you're a history-lover, Bushmills is also the place for you. Dunluce Castle, nestling high on clifftops facing the stony grey sea, is an iconic 16th century castle complete with an abandoned town. Immerse yourself in its fascinating, albeit quirky history, like when in 1639, the entirety of the castle's kitchen was swallowed by the stormy sea.

Of course, the real charm of Bushmills lies in its near proximity to the Giant's Causeway. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a series of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns - the result of an ancient volcanic fissure - where the stones stand in the shape of thrones, boots and camels. As legend has it, it was built by the godlike giant Fionn Mac Cumhaill, who was challenged to a fight by a Scottish giant across the cold and heartless sea. During the summer, you can reach Bushmills via the charming little steam train that trundles on the 5km journey from the town to the coast.

What not to miss

• Walk around the historic centre of town and marvel at the many ancient buildings.
• Head out to Dunluce Castle, built in the early 16th century, and stand amazed at the haunting clifftop ruins and the abandoned town.
• Take a guided tour around the Old Bushmills Distillery.
• Go on the steam train to the Giant's Causeway and explore the fascinating natural wonder.
• Feeling brave? Walk along the Carrick Rope Bridge.
• If you're lucky enough to be in town during June, enjoy the Bushmills Live festival, full of whiskey and live music.

Why not browse through our collection of the best places to stay in Bushmills to start planning your trip?

The best places to stay in Bushmills

Rural retreat

• Bushmills Inn: the essence of Irish hospitality, this quaint country inn is the perfect starting point for exploring the town and it surroundings. With an award-winning restaurant and chic rooms, it makes for a snug and stylish stay.

For an apartment or cottage

• Our partner Booking.com has a wide range of cottages and apartments in the nearby area.

Travel information

• Fly to Belfast, get the train from Belfast to Coleraine and then a bus to Bushmills.
• If you want to rent a car, contact our partner Rentalcars.
• The best time to go is during the summer, when the temperature ranges between 10 and 18 degrees.

Still not sure?

• You could expand your search to include nearby Portstewert?
• Or to all of the best places to stay in County Antrim? or all the best places to stay in Northern Ireland?
• Or contact one of our Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Bushmills