The County Antrim coastline close to the town of Portrush was the location for the 2020 release of the science fantasy adventure movie, “Artemis Fowl,” which stars Colin Farrell and Dame Judy Dench, among others.
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That’s not surprising given the beauty of the area and its use in other popular shows like the HBO series, “Game of Thrones.”
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The Disney movie is based on a series of children’s books, also called “Artemis Fowl,” by Wexford-born writer Eoin Colfer (pronounced “Owen”).
It has been named the public’s favorite Puffin Modern Classic of all time and has sold more than 25 million copies worldwide.
It has also been translated into 40 languages.
The movie, directed by Kenneth Branagh, is about the 12-year-old Artemis Fowl, a genius, who is the sole inheritor of his family’s massive fortune and criminal empire.
While some reviews are less than glowing, anyone who wants to catch a glimpse of the stunning Irish coast, especially visible around the expansive Fowl Manor, should watch the streaming movie.
Here are the places on the Antrim coastline where “Artemis Fowl” was filmed and a Google map so that you can get an idea of exactly where they are.
Dunluce Castle
While filming did not take place at Dunluce Castle (but very close to it), the attraction is a must-see if you’re in the Coastal Causeway area.
Built by the MacQuillan clan around 1500, the castle sits on a precarious clifftop location where views of the County Antrim coastline are outstanding.
During a violent storm in the 1600s, part of the castle fell into the sea and after that, its walls were reinforced to prevent further catastrophes.
A small merchant town grew up around the castle but most of it is long-buried, although some evidence remains thanks to archaeological digs in the area.
You can read more about the history of the atmospheric Dunluce Castle when you visit, but the dramatic scenery is the real reward.
Admission for adults is £6 and £4 for children ages 5-17. Children under 5 are admitted free.
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Magheracross Viewing Point
The viewpoint at Magheracross is located between the town of Portrush and the Bushmills Distillery.
Be sure to stop at this viewing point along the Antrim coast to appreciate the fabulous scenery.
This is also one of the places along Ireland’s coast where you’ll see the spectacular northern lights.
From Dublin: Giant's Causeway Tour and Whiskey Tasting
Whiterocks Beach
The 3-mile-long Whiterocks Beach is popular with locals and tourists. And it’s easy to see why.
What’s most striking about this Blue Flag beach is the unique limestone cliffs that form its backdrop.
Formed millions of years ago, the cliffs have eroded and created a group of spectacular caves and arches that are just waiting to be explored.
Shelagh’s Head, the Wishing Arch, Elephant Rock, and the Lion’s Paw are all headlands that dramatically rise out of the ocean along this beautiful stretch of County Antrim coastline.
From the coast road looking east, you can see the Giant’s Causeway and to the west, you can catch glimpses of Donegal.
The beach is popular with water enthusiasts, particularly surfers, as well as bodyboarders, water skiers, windsurfers, and kayakers. There is a surf rental nearby.
Horse riding is also a common sight, especially during the summer months.
Between May 1st and Sept. 30, horse riding is not permitted before 11 a.m. and after 7 p.m.
Lifeguards are on duty during July and August, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The beach is wheelchair accessible.
Portrush
Portrush is a small seaside resort that was built on a mile-long peninsula of the Antrim coast.
It is well-known for its three sandy beaches. They include the West Strand, the East Strand, and the Whiterocks Beach, mentioned above.
Outside of the town is the Royal Portrush Golf Club, which hosted The Open Championships last year.
There are two main coastal walks that begin in Portrush that will take you either east or west.
The walk toward the west is locally known as the Port Path.
Along the way, you’ll pass several coves, including Devil’s Port, Holywell Port, and Stoney Port. If you stay on this path, you’ll end up in neighboring Portstewart.
Other attractions along the County Antrim coastline include the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, as well as the Bushmills Distillery.