Pint of Guinness, peat fire, rustic local food. Whilst sat in a room hundred of years old that drips history and stories from the walls.
Northern Ireland is steeped in history and whilst you’re over for the Portrush Open we’d encourage you to have as many authentic heritage experiences as possible. In this guide we’ll show you the top 3 authentic Northern Irish Eating Experiences on the Causeway Coast. Enjoy and please share your photos and stories with the world using #causewaycoast.
The Bushmills Inn | Bushmills
It doesn’t get much older and authentic on the Causeway Coast that at The Bushmills Inn in Bushmills, less than 15 minutes from Portrush. Dating back to the early 1600s, the Coaching Inn was a favourite stop off for saddle sore visitors en route to the Giant’s Causeway. Stepping through the doors is like stepping back in time where you’ll experience the quaint, atmospheric ambience of the Inn’s bygone days. Exceptional food, their award winning ‘Taste of Ulster’ Restaurant takes in the original 17th-century stables and wine cellar. Blending classical with modern Irish cuisine each dish is crafted from traditional roots with menus inspired by local produce. After dinner a sample of the world famous Bushmills whiskey from the Inn’s private cask, in the traditional Gas Bar where live Irish music can also be enjoyed is a must-do!
The Causeway Hotel | Giants Causeway
Located at the site of the world famous Giants Causeway, this early 1800’s Causeway Hotel is both iconic and historic as one of the earliest tourism businesses in Northern Ireland. As interest and intrigue grew in the remarkable rock formations, early tourists started to come to the area. The Causeway Hotel was THE place to stay. Another place where you can truly step back in time, the bar (Parlour) houses original antiques, pictures and photos that chart the history of the hotel through the years. Given that it’s the only hotel and bar on the Giants Causeway site itself, it is often busy, so plan your trip well (an early or late lunch might help you get a seat). A pint of Guinness and their garlic spuds are recommended, as is the rest of their menu.
The Smugglers Inn | Giants Causeway
The Smugglers Inn is also a stones throw from the Giants Causeway. One cold winter’s night we stayed there and whilst in the bar a local Cèilidh band unpacked instruments and started to play. It was an unforgettable and extremely enjoyable night. The Smugglers Inn is a charming venue with good local food. Well worth a visit.
Other useful portushopen2019.com / Causeway Coast Guides
- Top 5 ‘Must do’ before you go home
- Top 10 things to do on the Causeway Coast
- Guide to Northern Irish slang at The Portrush Open 2019
- Top 10 Causeway Coast Seaview Eateries
- Top 3 Best Fish & Chip shops on the Causeway Coast
- Causeway Coast beach guide
- Causeway Coast surf guide
- Top 10 Golf Links courses in Northern Ireland
- How safe is Northern Ireland and The Portrush Open?
- How to get around Northern Ireland during The Portrush Open
- Guide to the local foods of Northern Ireland
- Currency of Northern Ireland explained
- Portrush Open 2019 | Northern Ireland Weather Guide
- How to trace your Irish ancestry whilst you’re here