Along Bregagh Road in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, lies the Dark Hedges – an avenue of beech trees famous for the dramatic, spooky tunnel formed by their interlocking branches. Planted back in the 18th century by the Stuart family to create an impressive entrance to their home, Gracehill House, these trees have become a powerful symbol of the area's natural beauty and history. Many people know them as the Kingsroad from Game of Thrones, where Arya Stark made her escape. This mix of real history and fantasy fame has made the Dark Hedges one of Northern Ireland's most photographed spots.
The trees themselves are around 350 years old. There used to be over 150, but storms and age have reduced their number to about 90. They frame a road that's been closed to cars since 2017 to protect their delicate roots. When you walk beneath them, you enter a world of twisted trunks and shifting light, made even more atmospheric by local tales of a ghostly "Grey Lady" who haunts the path. For the best experience (and fewer crowds), try visiting in spring or autumn. Misty mornings or the golden light around sunrise or sunset make the place feel truly magical any time of year. Photographers often use zoom lenses to make the tunnel effect stronger, but the reality is just as impressive.
Despite its popularity, the Dark Hedges is facing serious challenges. Several trees have fallen in storms since 2016, and recent checks found more are in poor condition. A preservation trust is working to save them, but experts warn that the constant stream of visitors walking near the roots, combined with natural ageing, means the trees might not last much longer. It's crucial for visitors to stick to the path and be mindful of this fragile natural wonder. More than just a film location, the Dark Hedges is a living piece of history, a beautiful reminder of nature's power and fragility.
Getting There
Nearest Airports and Major Cities
- Belfast International Airport (BFS): Approximately 50 miles (1 hour drive) southwest of the Dark Hedges.
- Dublin Airport (DUB): Around 150 miles (3-hour drive) south of the site.
- Portrush: Just 20 minutes' drive away, making it a convenient base for exploring the Causeway Coast.
Driving Directions
- From Belfast: Take the A2 (Causeway Coastal Route) north toward Coleraine, then follow signs onto the B147/Bregagh Road. The journey takes about 1 hour.
- From Dublin: Follow the M1 motorway to the M4, then take the A4 toward Armagh and onto the A6/A2 to the Causeway Coastal Route.
- From Portrush: Head south on the A26 toward Coleraine, following brown tourist signs for the Dark Hedges.
Public Transportation
- By Train:
- From Belfast Central Station, take the Translink train to Ballymoney (1-1.5 hours). From there, a 10-minute taxi ride or the 178 bus connects to Clintyfinnan, near the Dark Hedges.
- Alternatively, travel to Coleraine and transfer to the 171 or 178 bus toward Moss Side or Ballymoney.
- By Bus:
- Belfast: The Translink Goldline 218 service runs to Coleraine (1.5-2 hours), with a transfer to the 178 bus.
- Portrush: Take a bus to Coleraine, then switch to the 171 bus toward Moss Side. The 178 bus from Coleraine also stops at Clintyfinnan (a 20-minute walk from the southern end).
Local Transport Options
- Bus Route 178: Runs between Ballycastle and Coleraine, stopping at Clintyfinnan (20-minute walk to the Dark Hedges' southern end).
- Taxi: Recommended from Ballymoney or Coleraine for direct access to the Hedges Hotel car park.
Guided Tours
Day tours from Belfast and Dublin are available through providers like GetYourGuide and Viator, offering hassle-free travel to the Dark Hedges and nearby attractions such as the Giant's Causeway and Dunluce Castle.
Ensure you park at the free visitor car park beside The Hedges Hotel on Ballinlea Road (BT53 8PX), a 2-4 minute walk from the northern end of the avenue. Walking the full 0.6-mile (1km) length of the Dark Hedges is the only way to experience its atmospheric tree-lined path.
Parking
Dark Hedges offers parking options designed to balance visitor access with conservation efforts. The primary and most recommended parking is at The Hedges Hotel (139A Ballinlea Road, Ballymoney BT53 8PX), which provides a large, free car park. This lot is a 2-4 minute walk to the north end of the avenue along a marked path. GPS coordinates (55°08'17.9"³N 6°23'01.4"³W) can help navigation.
Parking Fees and Payment:
Most sources confirm free parking at the Hedges Hotel, though occasional reports suggest a small fee (up to £5 for cars, £25 for coaches) may apply. Payment methods vary; some visitors note contactless or cash options, but it's advisable to check upon arrival.
Important Restrictions:
- Parking directly along Bregagh Road is prohibited, as the road is closed to traffic to protect tree roots and preserve the site. Violators risk fines up to £1,000.
- A small lay-by at the south end of Bregagh Road is now closed except for local residents and emergency vehicles.
Accessibility:
While not explicitly stated, the Hedges Hotel's parking likely includes accessibility provisions typical of hotels. Always confirm directly with the property.
Peak Time Tips:
- Parking fills quickly, especially in summer and holidays. Arrive early (before 9 AM) to secure a spot.
- If the Hedges Hotel lot is full, consider Gracehill House (141 Ballinlea Road), which offers parking but may require a fee (cash only).
Alternative Parking Notes:
- Avoid roadside parking, as it damages roots and obstructs photos.
- Coach parking and toilets are available at the Hedges Hotel, with dedicated spaces for larger vehicles.
Pricing
While there are no fees for entry, some nearby parking options may incur charges. The Dark Hedges Estate and The Hedges Hotel both offer parking, though specific rates are not publicly listed.
Nearby Attractions
Bushmills Distillery
In the village of Bushmills on Northern Ireland's rugged north coast sits the Old Bushmills Distillery. It's famous for being the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery, getting its permit from Ki...
Distance: 11.6 km
Dunluce Castle
Dunluce Castle, perched dramatically on a basalt outcrop along Northern Ireland's rugged Causeway Coast, is a testament to centuries of conflict, ambition, and legend. Its jagged cliffs plunge 100 fee...
Distance: 16.7 km
Crindle Stables
Set against the stunning backdrop of Northern Ireland's Causeway Coastal Route, Crindle Stables is a welcoming, family-run horse riding centre based on a working farm. Located near Limavady, its posit...
Distance: 28.4 km