Exploring Coleraine: A Hidden Gem in Northern Ireland’s Crown
Seen as the informal capital of the Causeway Coast on the northern coast of Northern Ireland, Coleraine has great historical significance and provides all the modern amenities you may need. Coleraine is located near County Antrim on the island of Ireland, making it a key town in the region. The town is busy all year round and is thriving as it is a favourite destination of many International and National visitors who visit the Causeway Coast. Coleraine’s population continues to grow, reflecting its appeal as a vibrant community. Coleraine is also very close to many of the world’s most impressive pristine beaches, natural attractions, and coastal views. The nearby Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from around the world. The area enjoys a maritime climate with cool summers and mild winters.
What Does The Name “Coleraine” Mean?
Cúil Raithin or Coleraine means “Nook of Ferns” and St Patrick gave the town its name. It is home to 25,000 inhabitants and the peaceful town lies on the longest river in , the River Bann.
Coleraine Town Centre – The Diamond Centre
The official town centre is known as ‘The Diamond Centre’ and this area is usually bustling with people. The impressive sandstone Town Hall was built in 1859. Also known as ‘Tidy Town,’ Coleraine has won several awards and there are numerous of places to sit and watch the world go by among the dazzling floral displays.
Shopping in Coleraine
Shopping in Coleraine is pleasurable and safe due to the town centre only being open to pedestrians. Several high street chain stores have shops in Coleraine and this is supplemented by many cafes, independent local businesses, pubs, and restaurants. The locals love the two independent department stores, Dixons and Moores, as these provide great all round shopping for everyone. They each have a restaurant and have been part of the local scenery for many years.
Culture and Leisure
Coleraine Football Stadium – Photo by on Unsplash
There are many opportunities for both outdoor and indoor leisure pursuits. There is a leisure centre in town that is open 7 days per week and offers a gym, pools, sports hall, café, and health suite.
In Coleraine, you can indulge in many forms of outdoor activities, including swimming, soccer, gliding, cycling, fishing, water sports, archery, sky diving, rugby, climbing, snorkelling, tennis, clay pigeon shooting, athletics, surfing, diving, bowling, putting, golf, boating, orienteering, and pony trekking.
A choice of three main local parks may be visited, and each offers something different for visitors. There are also many coastal, inland, parkland, and forest walking trails around Coleraine. Some local heritage trails are available in Ulster Scots, reflecting the area’s cultural diversity.
Phoenix Peace Fountain
In Anderson Park the Phoenix Peace Fountain can be found for public enjoyment. Originally a gift from the USA, each symbol on Phoenix Peace Fountain has a specific meaning. To be able to read the full dedication on its six base platforms, you’ll have to walk completely around the fountain. The world famous Giant’s Causeway ancient rocks’ hexagonal shapes can be recognized easily.
The modern commercial harbour and Marina is a mile from town, in the direction of Portstewart and slightly off the main road. It offers excellent facilities that include powered moorings for sailing of all kinds as well as fishing, water skiing and canoeing. There are also 7 championship golf courses within a few miles of Coleraine.
The Arts and Entertainment
The North Coast’s Premier Entertainment Centre, Jet Centre is a hugely popular local attraction. It is situated over the new bridge, on the road to Londonderry and just off the roundabout. This indoor complex offers entertainment for children and adults alike. The centre features ten-pin bowling, multiple cinemas, a pool hall, a diner, and an amusement arcade.
Jet Centre is also home to ‘Alley Cats,’ a massive indoor climbing play park with nets, ropes, balls, and slides, offering endless thrill possibilities for children. You will also be able to enjoy a cuppa and relax whilst being right next to the action.
One of Northern Ireland’s oldest professional theatres, Coleraine’s Riverside Theatre, is well-loved and known. It offers world-class entertainment as well as Outreach, an excellent youth drama programme.
The theatre is operated jointly by the Borough Council and Ulster University, specifically on the university campus in Coleraine. The campus, established in the 1960s as the new Ulster University, played a significant role in the town’s development by attracting students and revitalizing the local community. Several excellent, well-known actors have at some stage performed there. These include one such local hero, James Nesbitt. In 1978 he gave an exceptional performance in Oliver as Fagin, and his international career continues to go from strength to strength.
Respect and Understanding
Coleraine paired up with a European partner, La Roche sur Yon, becoming the first town in Northern Ireland to do so. The aim of this connection was to ‘Develop and foster mutual respect and understanding’ and to ‘support and encourage exchange between group associations and individuals’.
Coleraine residents spend time in La Roche with their French Swap friends and they, in turn, host them in their home in Coleraine. It is generally viewed as a very good experience and the aims of the connection are definitely met.
Tempestuous History
Coleraine and the surrounding area have significant historical value as it is the first known settlement of humans in Ireland in about 5935 BC. At the start of the 17th century, it also became the first town in the ‘Plantation of Ulster’. As you explore the area, you will find plenty of evidence of this uncommon heritage.
Coleraine’s pre-plantation history is turbulent. At the time, Ireland was divided into kingdoms which were each governed by a Chieftain. Due to the clashes of Coleraine’s clans, the town was settled many times over the years
During the Troubles, Coleraine experienced several violent incidents, including car bomb attacks that caused significant damage and loss of life. One notable tragedy was the murder of Danny Cassidy, a Sinn Féin electoral worker, who was killed in Coleraine as a result of paramilitary violence.
In 1607, King James 1 colonised Ulster after the Flight of the Earls in what was known as ‘The Plantation of Ulster.’ The Honourable Irish Society’ was then formed to fund the building of a new fortified town. They were enticed by promises of timber and salmon fishing.
Coleraine Borough Council played a key role in local governance and municipal activities until it was replaced by the Causeway Coast and Glens District Council in 2015.
Coleraine Potted History
Mountsandel is an ancient site and the oldest site of human settlement in Ireland, dated from about 5935 BC. Archaeological excavations at Mountsandel have uncovered wooden houses dating back to around 7000 BC, providing some of the earliest evidence of human settlement and ancient construction methods in Ireland. Saint Patrick named the town after he was offered a piece of ground covered by ferns to build a church. A potted history of Coleraine can be found by visiting Coleraine Potted History
State Care Historic Monument
The remains of Mountsandel Fort can be found in the middle of the magnificent Mountsandel Forest. Mountsandel Fort is located on the east side of Coleraine, near the Coleraine Courthouse, which serves as a local landmark. Now declared a State Care Historic Monument, the Fort dates back to 7000BC and the early Iron and Mesolithic Ages. It is located at the edge of a steep river bluff that drops into the River Bann on the side of the river opposite to the town.
Mountsandel Fort
Mountsandel Fort can be reached via a 2-mile walking trail. As the trial is circular, either the upper or lower or path can be taken along the banks of the River Bann and through the forest.
Coleraine has been frequented in the past by Neolithic and Mesolithic man, Saints, Vikings, Norsemen, Chieftains, Barons, Earls, heroes and Rebels. Man has known for thousands of years that Coleraine is a stunning place to live!
Getting Here
Coleraine’s prime location on the Causeway Coast makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Northern Ireland’s north and east. The town is conveniently situated about 55 miles northwest of Belfast and is easily reached by car via the A26 and A37, with plenty of parking available in the town centre. For those preferring public transport, Coleraine town centre boasts a well-connected railway station, offering regular train services to Belfast, Derry, and other nearby towns. The bus station, located adjacent to the railway, provides frequent routes linking Coleraine to major cities and charming towns across Northern Ireland. Whether you arrive by train, bus, or car, you’ll find yourself right in the heart of Coleraine town, ready to explore the vibrant centre and the stunning landscapes of the Causeway Coast.
Mussenden Temple
Just a few miles south of Coleraine, perched dramatically on the edge of the Downhill Demesne, lies the iconic Mussenden Temple. This National Trust treasure is renowned for its breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean and the sweeping coastline below. Built in 1785 as a summer library for Frederick Augustus Hervey, the Bishop of Derry, Mussenden Temple is surrounded by beautiful parkland and gardens, making it a perfect spot for a scenic stroll. The temple’s unique circular design and cliff-edge location offer unforgettable photo opportunities, while the nearby beach invites visitors to relax and soak in the beautiful surroundings. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Mussenden Temple is a must-see highlight just miles from Coleraine.
Coleraine Today
Photo of Coleraine Diamond & Old Town Hall
Coleraine is nowadays an affluent large town that is accessed easily by bus, train, and car. As the town utilises a one-way system everywhere, the traffic moves smoothly and there are ample parking opportunities.
The Coleraine Borough Council headquarters served as the administrative center of the area before the 2015 local government reform, playing a significant role in local governance and identity.
Coleraine has abundant walking trails, both in the town itself and in the surrounding parks, beaches, forests, rivers, and rocks. The world-class cycling tracks include the National Cycle Network, which opened in May 2001 and crosses the Millennium Bridge.
As the Atlantic Ocean and the River Bann are easily accessible, many types of water recreational pursuits are possible. Coleraine is a big town and is ready for City Status. It is also near Portstewart, Portrush, Castlerock, Bushmills, Ballycastle, and Portballintrae and within a few minutes drive to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Giant’s Causeway, the Mussenden Temple, and Dunluce Castle. The Giant’s Causeway is located just a few miles north of Coleraine, making it easily accessible for visitors.
Castlerock is a small village and a picturesque village near Coleraine, known for its scenic beaches and coastal charm.
Food and Drink
Coleraine town is a haven for food lovers, offering a vibrant mix of restaurants, cosy cafes, and traditional Irish pubs. The local dining scene celebrates the best of Ulster and Irish cuisine, with menus featuring hearty Irish stew, creamy seafood chowder, and the ever-popular Ulster fry. Many restaurants in the town pride themselves on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including artisan cheeses, home-baked breads, and the finest seafood from the nearby coast. For those with a taste for something special, a visit to the nearby Bushmills Distillery is a must—here, you can tour the historic site and sample world-famous whiskey. Whether you’re after a relaxed meal with friends or a memorable night out, Coleraine’s food and drink offerings capture the true flavour of Northern Ireland.
Game of Thrones
Fans of Game of Thrones will find themselves in the heart of Westeros when visiting the Causeway Coast, with Coleraine as the perfect base for exploring the show’s legendary filming locations. The region’s dramatic coastline, ancient woodlands, and rugged beaches provided the backdrop for many iconic scenes. Just a short drive from Coleraine, you can walk beneath the hauntingly beautiful Dark Hedges, known in the series as the King’s Road, or visit Ballintoy Harbour, transformed into the Iron Islands. Guided tours departing from Coleraine town centre offer a fascinating look behind the scenes, taking you to key locations and sharing stories from the set. The Lodge Hotel in Coleraine even offers special Game of Thrones packages, making it easy for fans to immerse themselves in the magic of the show while enjoying the stunning landscapes of the Causeway Coast.
The North West 200
The Causeway Coast plays host to one of the fastest road races, in the world, the ‘North West 200‘ every May. The public roads between Portstewart, Portrush, and Coleraine get turned into high-speed (up to 200 miles per hour) tracks, and it is one of the last of its kind in Europe.
The race is unbelievably thrilling to watch, and standing next to the roads presents the best views of the powerful bikes speeding by. The event makes for a busy time at the Causeway Coast, as an additional 150,000 people come to watch Ireland’s biggest outdoor sporting event every year.
