The Gobbins Walkway

The Gobbins, is a spectacular coastal walk along the Causeway Coastal Route. A 2.5 hour fully guided walking tour offers visitors the opportunity to experience the abundance of nature weaving its way along the basalt cliffs of the famous Causeway Coast. You will walk suspension bridges, through a tunnel and along pathways and see the ever-changing flora and fauna along the cliff face, an abundance of wildlife is often visible.

Access to the cliff path will be by guided tour only, starting Saturday 15th February – 3rd November with tours operating every half hour. Please ensure you read all the terms and conditions on the website to ensure that this adventure is for you and your party.

Booking is available online at www.thegobbinscliffpath.com. Please ensure that you arrive 15 minutes before the tour on which you are booked otherwise you place may be reallocated.

Clothing/equipment – Wear outdoor clothing according to the weather i.e. windproof/waterproof jackets or trousers. Walking or hiking boots with ankle support and good treads are required. If you don’t have the appropriate footwear, there is an option to hire hiking boots and hard hats will be provided.

Fitness Level – A moderate level of fitness is required. This walk is not for everyone and restrictions apply. The Gobbins is a strenuous outdoor experience. All visitors are accompanied by a Guide and must comply with the Guide’s instructions at all times. If you have a medical condition, or are unsure of your fitness level, please check with a staff member at time of booking.

Other restrictions – Smoking, food, walking aids, dogs are not allowed on the walk. Bags are not permitted however the visitor centre provides lockers to put your belongings in a safe place.

Cameras – Only cameras on a strap and forward facing are permitted – no additional items i.e. camera bags, tripods or extra lenses. This also includes selfie sticks.

History

The original path at The Gobbins was opened in 1902, and immediately captivated visitors. But why was this unique attraction built in this dramatically beautiful but isolated location?

The path was part of the vision of Berkeley Deane Wise, Chief Engineer of the Belfast and Northern Counties Railway Company, to use the recently expanded railway line to attract visitors to this spectacular part of Ireland.

With the arrival of the steam train in the 19th century it became possible to move large amounts of people and goods in relatively short times. Not only did the railways turn cities like Belfast into industrial powerhouses, they opened up remote beauty spots to a new kind of industry – tourism.

The Gobbins path was Berkeley Deane Wise’s final contribution to the tourism offering of the area. It was also his crowning glory.