Bellaghy
Seamus Heaney Homeplace Centre
Seamus Heaney HomePlace is located in the village of Bellaghy, situated just 45 minutes from both Belfast and Derry City and is just off the main road which links the two cities. Situated between Heaney’s two childhood homes at Mossbawn and The Wood, and only a few hundred yards from St Mary’s Church, Bellaghy, which he chose as his final resting place, HomePlace is at the heart of the area that inspired so much of the poet’s work. Located a 15 minute drive from An Teach Glas.
Portrush
Whiterocks Beach
Situated just off the Causeway Coastal Route, 45 minute drive from An Teach Glas, Whiterocks Coastal Park enjoys a stunning natural location, with limestone cliffs stretching from Curran Strand to Dunluce Castle. A seasonal on site surf outlet provides equipment for hire.
The beach is also very popular with walkers to and from Portrush along the continuous stretch of sand from East Strand to Whiterocks. Enjoy the new section cliff path, part of the Ulster Way / Causeway Coast Way, which offers stunning views both east and west.
Portstewart
Portstewart Strand
Sweeping along the edge of the North Coast, and situated a 45 minute drive from our accommodation, this two-mile stretch of golden sand is one of Northern Ireland’s finest beaches and affords views of Inishowen headland and Mussenden Temple perched on the cliffs above. It is an ideal place for lazy picnics, surfing and long walks into the sand dunes, where wild pansy flowers dance in the breeze and common blue and dark green fritillary butterflies abound.
Its precious habitat is an important nature conservation site with way-marked trails. Nearby, the Bann Estuary is a sanctuary for waterfowl and wading birds like curlew and redshank. Exploring the hide on the west side of the River Bann also provides endless opportunity to witness the spectacle of birds.
Benone
Benone Strand
Benone Strand, multiple recipient of the European Blue Flag Award, most recently in 2020, is a must-see when visiting the area. With seven miles of golden sand and a magnificent back drop of mountain and cliff scenery and stunning views across to Donegal, this is an attractive sightseeing environment along with the usual seaside activities including watersports, walking, picnic spots and fishing.
Located 45 minute drive from An Teach Glas
Castlerock
Castlerock Beach
Castlerock is a 1km (0.7 mile) long stretch of beach between the sea cliffs of Downhill to the west and the Lower River Bann estuary known as the Barmouth to the east. The beach was awarded the Seaside Award in 2020.
Castlerock beach backs on to the tranquil resort of Castlerock. The dunes to the east of the entrance are home to Castlerock Golf Club.
