Cushendun, County Antrim: Clough Williams-Ellis's Cornish Village & Things to Do

Cushendun is a small village on the north-east coast of County Antrim, where the River Dun meets the sea at the foot of the Glens of Antrim. Its whitewashed cottages, a bridge over the river and a sandy bay look across the narrow sea towards Scotland.

Why Cushendun Is Special

Cushendun is one of the most charming villages in Ireland, and a surprise: its square of cottages was designed in the style of a Cornish village by Clough Williams-Ellis, the architect of Portmeirion.

It is a peaceful place for a beach walk and a base for exploring the Glens and the Causeway Coast.

The History of Cushendun

The village was designed for Ronald McNeill, later Lord Cushendun, by the architect Clough Williams-Ellis, in the style of a Cornish village, a tribute to McNeill's Cornish wife.

The National Trust has owned and cared for most of the village and the parkland around Glenmona House since 1954.

In the early 21st century, the sea caves near Cushendun were used as a backdrop in the television series Game of Thrones.

Things to Do in Cushendun

Walk round the village square and the cottages, cross the bridge over the Dun and walk along the beach. Follow the path round the headland to the Cushendun caves.

Drive or walk the narrow coast road north to Torr Head for views across to Scotland, or south to Cushendall and Glenariff.

Gardens, Countryside & Antiques near Cushendun

The village lies in the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB; see our guide to the Glens of Antrim. The Causeway Coast is a short drive north; see the Giant's Causeway.

For gardens, Glenarm Castle Walled Garden is further down the coast; see our guide to Glenarm.

Cushendun Through the Seasons

Spring brings wild flowers to the glens. Summer is the season for the beach and coast walks. Autumn colours the glens, and winter brings wild seas and clear views to Scotland.

Getting to Cushendun

The nearest railway station is Ballymena, with buses along the Antrim coast in summer. There is parking by the beach.

Cushendun: Questions & Answers

Who designed Cushendun?

The architect Clough Williams-Ellis, who also built Portmeirion, designed the village in the style of a Cornish village.

Was Game of Thrones filmed at Cushendun?

Yes. The sea caves near the village were used as a backdrop in the series.

Our Advice

Our advice: Walk the beach and the caves in the morning, then drive the Torr Head road for the views across to Scotland.