The charming village is a haven for peace and tranquillity, with its idyllic surroundings and rich history, but what makes it so distinctive is its unique building designs
The village is steeped in character with scenic views (Image: Getty Images)
Nestled peacefully at the mouth of the River Dun, this delightful village brims with charm and tales aplenty, encircled by stunning natural beauty.
Cushendun boasts both a scenic harbour and a serene shoreline, courtesy of its prime position along the Northern Irish coast whilst being embraced by undulating agricultural hills. It creates the perfect retreat from life’s chaos, allowing visitors to lose themselves in nature’s splendour.
Indeed, one of its natural caverns proved so captivating it served as a filming venue for the HBO hit series, Game of Thrones. These crimson caves took shape over 400 million years ago but gained fame during series two of the show when they provided the setting for the notorious shadow assassin’s emergence.
After exploring the cave, one visitor noted in their review: “The area around the caves is absolutely beautiful. I found the caves to be fascinating. The walls were made up of giant round rocks and solid dirt. Make sure you wear shoes to walk to the caves.”
Throughout the village, guests will notice the idyllic cottages that lend it such serenity. Ronald John McNeill crafted the surrounding area in 1912, commissioned by Ronald John McNeill, Baron Cushendun, aiming to replicate a Cornish settlement.
Constructed in 18th century fashion, a neo-Georgian dwelling joined the collection and Cushendun evolved to appear as though it had been transplanted directly from Cornwall’s coastline.
Combined with its tranquil coastal setting, this enabled the town to achieve Conservation Area status in 1980. Today, the area remains largely under the stewardship of the National Trust, which has protected it since 1954.
The village’s distinctive Cornish character was crafted as a tribute to the Baron’s wife, who hailed from Penzance, Cornwall.
This devotion persisted beyond her death, when Ellis commissioned a terrace of whitewashed cottages specifically in her honour – now known as Maud’s Cottages.
One recent visitor declared it their new “favourite spot”. They posted on TripAdvisor: “I would live there in a heartbeat. It’s a special place in every way. The beach is beautiful and safe. The little houses are cute, and the village is filled with flowers and hanging baskets. We’ll be back.”
Another added: “Cushendun is probably the nicest small town/village on the coastal drive. It is set in a conservation area managed by the National Trust at the mouth of the Glendun river and attracts many visitors annually. Anyone travelling the Antrim Coast road northwards should make a point of reaching here for a break to enjoy the tranquillity.”
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