🎬 What Was Filmed in Cushendun: A Guide to the Causeway Coast's Cinematic Gem

From Westeros to Viking Villages: Step into the Screen in Cushendun

Nestled perfectly at the mouth of the Glendun River, the picturesque village of Cushendun, United Kingdom, offers more than just stunning coastal beauty. It's a land etched with cinematic history, having played host to major productions, drawing film buffs and explorers alike to its dramatic shores and ancient caves.

Cushendun, a charming conservation village on Northern Ireland's Causeway Coastal Route, has become an unmissable stop for enthusiasts tracing the footsteps of their favourite on-screen heroes. Its rugged landscape, quaint structures, and unique geological features provide the perfect natural backdrop for the epic tales told in HBO's globally acclaimed series Game of Thrones and Robert Eggers' Viking saga, The Northman (2022). Prepare to be transported to another realm as you explore the very spots where cinematic magic unfolded.

✨ Why Visit This Cinematic Location?

Cushendun stands out as a unique film tourism destination due to its incredible natural beauty combined with its authentic village charm. It’s a place that truly allows you to immerse yourself in the world of your beloved films and shows, offering a tangible connection to the stories.

🎥 Film & TV Legacy: Where Fantasy Meets Reality

The most famous filming location here is undoubtedly the Cushendun Caves, reportedly used in Game of Thrones. Fans will instantly recognise these ancient formations as the ominous spot in the Stormlands where Melisandre gave birth to the shadow baby in Season 2. Stepping into the caves evokes an eerie, powerful atmosphere, making it a truly immersive experience for fans. Beyond Westeros, the broader Cushendun area was reportedly transformed into a Viking village for scenes in The Northman (2022), starring Alexander Skarsgård and Nicole Kidman, capitalising on the raw, untamed beauty of the coastline and estuary for its historical setting.

📸 Visual Appeal & Photography Opportunities

From the dramatic, wave-sculpted caves to the charming, Cornish-style cottages, Cushendun is a photographer's dream. The village boasts a unique architectural style, distinct from other parts of Northern Ireland, with its cluster of whitewashed, slate-roofed homes built by Clough Williams-Ellis, the architect behind Portmeirion. The pristine sandy beach and estuary, where the River Dun meets the sea, provide breathtaking vistas, especially during sunrise or sunset.

♿ Accessibility & Tourist Infrastructure

Cushendun is part of the renowned Causeway Coastal Route, making it easily accessible by car. While a small village, it has essential amenities including a pub, café, and public restrooms. The caves are a short walk from the village centre, and the beach is easily reachable. Many Game of Thrones guided tours also include Cushendun, providing convenient transport and expert insights.

📍 Top Must-Visit Filming Locations

Cushendun offers a compact yet incredibly impactful set of filming locations, allowing visitors to relive iconic movie moments with ease.

1. 🐉 Cushendun Caves – Game of Thrones' Shadow Baby Birth Site

What You'll See: These ancient, naturally formed sea caves are dark, atmospheric, and incredibly dramatic. They are carved out of 400-million-year-old Slate and Schist rock by extreme weather conditions. The Scene: Fans will immediately recognize the caves as the treacherous spot on the Stormlands coast where Davos Seaworth (Liam Cunningham) was reluctantly forced to bring Melisandre (Carice van Houten) ashore, witnessing her give birth to the terrifying shadow baby in Season 2, Episode 4, "Garden of Bones," from Game of Thrones. Photography Tips: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the cave mouths. Low-light conditions inside the caves mean a tripod or good camera stabilisation is beneficial. Try a long exposure for a dramatic effect if you can. Best visited at low tide for easier access and exploration. Access & Guidelines: The caves are freely accessible and are a short, signposted walk from the main village car park, across a small footbridge. Access may be difficult or impossible at high tide, so check tide times locally. Wear non-slip footwear as the rocks can be wet.

2. 🪓 Cushendun Beach & Estuary – The Northman's Viking Village

What You'll See: A stunning sandy beach where the River Dun meets the sea, backed by rolling green hills. This area provides a wide, open expanse with a natural, ancient feel. The Scene: The picturesque Cushendun area, including its coastal stretches and potentially the beach and estuary, was reportedly transformed into a raw, authentic Viking village for key scenes in the epic historical thriller The Northman (2022). Its rugged, elemental beauty perfectly suited the film's gritty aesthetic. While specific sets are no longer present, the landscape itself evokes the film's powerful atmosphere. Photography Tips: Capture the sweeping views of the bay and the river's mouth. Early morning or late afternoon light casts a beautiful glow over the hills and water. Focus on the natural lines of the beach and the distant views for powerful landscape shots. Access & Guidelines: The beach and estuary are easily accessible from the village. There is ample parking nearby, and a short walk takes you directly onto the sand. This is a public area perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

3. 🏡 Maud’s Cottages & Village Charm

What You'll See: The distinctive Cornish-style whitewashed cottages that define Cushendun's unique character. These National Trust owned properties add immense charm to the village. The Scene: While not explicitly a filming location for Game of Thrones or The Northman, the overall aesthetic of Cushendun village, particularly these charming cottages, contributes to the 'storybook' feel that makes it an attractive setting for productions. The village streets and surrounding areas were likely surveyed and used for wider shots providing context for The Northman's "Viking village" setting, showcasing the raw, untouched beauty of the region. Photography Tips: Capture the quaintness of the cottages against the green hills. Focus on architectural details or charming streetscapes. The stone bridge over the River Dun also offers lovely photo opportunities. Access & Guidelines: The cottages are residential, so please respect local privacy. They can be admired from the public pathways and streets. The stone bridge is publicly accessible.

🗺️ Planning Your Visit

Cushendun’s compact nature makes it easy to explore on various timescales.

Half-Day Explorer (3-4 hours)

Arrive in Cushendun and explore the Maud Cottages and village centre.

Walk to the Cushendun Caves (allow 1-1.5 hours for exploration and photos). Remember to check tide times.

Enjoy a refreshment at Mary McBride's pub or a local café.

Stroll along Cushendun Beach and Estuary for views of where The Northman filmed.

Cost: Primarily travel expenses and refreshments (budget £10-25 per person).

Full-Day Cinematic Immersion (6-8 hours)

Follow the half-day itinerary.

Add a scenic drive along the Causeway Coastal Route, exploring the dramatic landscapes that captivated filmmakers.

Consider a picnic on Cushendun Beach, soaking in the atmosphere.

Spend more time photographing different perspectives of the village, caves, and coastline.

Cost: Travel, refreshments, and potentially lunch/early dinner (budget £30-60 per person).

Weekend Film Fan Getaway

Base yourself in Cushendun or a nearby larger town like Ballycastle.

Day 1: Explore Cushendun’s filming locations thoroughly. Enjoy a leisurely evening.

Day 2: Extend your exploration to other iconic Northern Ireland filming locations (e.g., Dark Hedges, Ballintoy Harbour for Game of Thrones or explore the Glens of Antrim for their diverse landscapes).

Cost: Accommodation, food, transport for two days (variable, see 'Where to Stay' for estimates).

🚗 Getting There

Cushendun is best accessed by car, as it allows flexibility to explore the stunning Causeway Coastal Route.

From Belfast:

- By Car: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (80 km / 50 miles) via the A2 coastal road, offering scenic views. - By Bus: Regular bus services from Belfast Europa Bus Centre to Ballymena, then connecting to Cushendun. Journey time can be significantly longer (2-3 hours) and connections may be infrequent. A Translink Day Ticket for bus could cost around £10-£15.

From Dublin:

- By Car: Approximately 3 hours (200 km / 125 miles) via the M1 and then A2. - Public Transport: Train from Dublin Connolly to Belfast Lanyon Place, then connect as above. This is a lengthy journey, typically 4-5 hours+.

Parking: Free car park available in Cushendun village, close to the caves and beach access.

☀️ When to Visit

Choosing the right time to visit Cushendun can enhance your film tourism experience.

Peak Season (June - August):

- Pros: Warmest and driest weather, longest daylight hours (perfect for photography), all attractions and services fully open. - Cons: Can be busier, especially on weekends and during school holidays. Accommodation and tours might be pricier.

Shoulder Season (April - May, September - October):

- Pros: Milder weather, fewer crowds, beautiful autumn colours or spring blooms, better deals on accommodation. Excellent for photography with dramatic skies. - Cons: Weather can be unpredictable, some attractions might have reduced hours.

Off-Season (November - March):

- Pros: Very few crowds, potentially lower prices, atmospheric and wild coastal scenery. - Cons: Colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, higher chance of rain or strong winds. Some smaller businesses may close for the winter. The caves can be particularly challenging in very wet or stormy conditions.

🏨 Where to Stay

While Cushendun itself is small with limited accommodation, several excellent options exist locally and in nearby towns.

In Cushendun:

- Guest Houses/B&Bs: A few charming, independently run guest houses offer comfortable stays. Expect rates from £80-£120 per night. Booking in advance is highly recommended due to limited availability.

Nearby Villages (e.g., Cushendall, Ballycastle - 15-30 min drive):

- Mid-Range Hotels: Options like the Ballycastle Harbour or traditional hotels. Rates typically £90-£150. - Self-Catering Cottages: Ideal for longer stays, offering flexibility and privacy, often with coastal views.

Luxury Options: A few boutique hotels and larger country houses are available within a 30-40 minute drive, offering more amenities.

🍽️ Dining Guide

Cushendun offers a taste of local charm, with Mary McBride's pub being a must-visit for its character.

Mary McBride's - The Little Black Door:

- Specialty: Traditional pub fare, local ales. Reputedly one of Ireland's smallest public houses, it's packed with character and history. - Atmosphere: Cosy, authentic, and often lively, especially on weekends. A great spot to chat with locals. - Cost: Reasonable pub prices (£10-£20 for a main meal). - Insider Tip: This pub has a rich history, having served as a post office and a shop over the centuries. Don't leave without having a pint and soaking up the unique atmosphere.

The Old Post Office: A charming café in the village centre, perfect for a coffee, light lunch, or sweet treat, often with homemade delights.

Nearby Glens: In villages like Cushendall and Waterfoot, you'll find more restaurants offering a wider range of options, from Italian to contemporary Irish cuisine.

📸 Photography Tips

Capture the dramatic beauty and cinematic essence of Cushendun.

Best Shots:

- Cushendun Caves: The entrance from the outside during low tide, highlighting the rock formations. Inside, capture the dark, moody atmosphere with long exposures. - Cushendun Beach & Estuary: Wide panoramic shots showing the river entering the sea with the hills in the background. Early morning mist or sunset glow adds magic. - Maud Cottages: Frame the white cottages against the green hills or with the vibrant floral displays in front.

Equipment:

- Wide-angle lens: Essential for capturing the scale of the caves and panoramic coastal views. - Tripod: Crucial for low-light shots inside the caves and for sharper photos in general. - Rain protection: Be prepared for sudden showers, even on sunny days.

Timing & Lighting:

- Golden Hour (sunrise/sunset): Offers the most dramatic light for the beach and village. - Blue Hour (just before sunrise/after sunset): Adds an eerie quality to the caves. - Low Tide: Check tide times for optimal access and photography within the Cushendun Caves.

Respectful Photography: Be mindful of local residents in the village, especially around the cottages, which are private homes.

🌟 Nearby Attractions

Extend your visit to Cushendun by exploring other gems along the Causeway Coastal Route.

Giant's Causeway: A UNESCO World Heritage site (approx. 45-minute drive). Its unique basalt columns are a natural wonder and have featured in various documentaries and films.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: A thrilling rope bridge connecting the mainland to a small island (approx. 30-minute drive). Offers stunning coastal views.

Dark Hedges: Famous Game of Thrones filming location (King's Road), an iconic avenue of intertwined beech trees (approx. 30-minute drive).

Glenariff Forest Park: Known as the 'Queen of the Glens,' it's a beautiful area for walks, waterfalls, and stunning scenery.

🗓️ Local Events

While Cushendun itself is quiet, the wider Glens of Antrim and Causeway Coast host various events.

Glens of Antrim Dalriada Festival (July): Held in nearby Glenariff, this festival celebrates local heritage, music, and sports, offering a broader cultural experience.

Causeway Coast & Glens Food & Drink Festival (various dates): Showcases local produce and culinary talent across the region. Check local tourism websites for specific dates.

💡 Insider Tips

Make the most of your cinematic adventure with these local insights.

Money-Saving: Pack a picnic to enjoy on Cushendun Beach, saving on restaurant costs. Many smaller gift shops in nearby villages offer unique, local souvenirs.

Safety: Always be aware of tide times when visiting the caves. Wear appropriate footwear for uneven terrain. The coastal weather can change rapidly, so dress in layers and carry waterproofs.

Local Etiquette: The locals are incredibly friendly. Strike up a conversation in Mary McBride's; you might hear a fascinating story about the area or even the filming!

Hidden Gems: Explore the small pathways around the village beyond the main road; they often lead to charming views or quiet spots by the river.

📞 Contact Information

For further assistance and planning, reach out to local tourism experts.

Causeway Coast and Glens Visitor Information Centres:

- The closest main centre is in Ballycastle or Portrush. - Ballycastle VIC: Sheskburn House, 7 Mary Street, Ballycastle, BT54 6QH. Phone: +44 (0)28 2076 2024. - Official Tourism Website: Visit Causeway Coast and Glens (visitcausewaycoastandglens.com) provides comprehensive information on the area.

Emergency Services (United Kingdom): Dial 999 for Police, Fire, or Ambulance.

Cushendun offers a truly unique film tourism experience, where the wild beauty of Northern Ireland meets the epic tales of Westeros and ancient Viking sagas. Plan your visit to this enchanting location and create your own cinematic memories!