Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Bushmills

Bushmills is a village on the north coast of in . It had a population of 1,247 at the 2021 census. Located approximately 60 miles (97 km) north of , 9 miles (14 km) northeast of , and 11 miles (18 km) southwest of Ballycastle, the village lies along the River Bush and serves as a gateway to the , a about 2 miles (3.2 km) to the north. The name Bushmills derives from the River Bush and a constructed there in the early . The village is best known for the , the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery, established in 1784, which is a major economic and tourist draw. Bushmills also features the Giant's Causeway and Bushmills Railway, a heritage narrow-gauge line connecting the village to the Causeway.

Geography

Location and Setting

Bushmills is a village situated on the north coast of in , approximately 60 miles (97 km) north of and at the mouth of the River Bush. The village lies within the Borough, with geographic coordinates of approximately 55°12′12″N 6°31′38″W. Its elevation is low, ranging from 10 to 20 meters above , reflecting its coastal positioning. The topography of Bushmills features a flat that gradually transitions to rugged cliffs, shaped by the proximity to Ocean and ancient volcanic activity in the region. This landscape contributes to the area's dramatic coastal setting, with the ocean's influence evident in the eroded cliffs and undulating terrain extending inland. Key natural features include the River Bush, a significant waterway that flows through the village and supports local ecology, as well as historical milling. The surrounding area is designated as part of the Causeway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, encompassing diverse habitats from river valleys to coastal dunes.

Climate and Environment

Bushmills experiences a temperate classified as Köppen Cfb, characterized by mild temperatures, high humidity, and consistent precipitation influenced by the nearby . Average annual rainfall totals approximately 1,000 mm, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year with the wettest months from to . Frequent westerly winds, often reaching 15-20 mph, prevail due to the region's exposure to Atlantic weather systems, contributing to a frequently overcast sky with cloud cover averaging 60-70% throughout the year. The moderates extremes, resulting in rare occurrences of frost or heatwaves; summer highs (June-August) average 15-18°C, while winter highs (December-February) range from 6-8°C. The local environment features dynamic coastal processes, including significant erosion risks along the North Antrim shoreline, where wave action and storm surges threaten cliffs and beaches. Biodiversity thrives in areas like the River Bush estuary, which serves as a key for populations and supports a range of and riparian species. exacerbates these conditions, with rising sea levels and increased storm intensity projected to accelerate of iconic formations near Bushmills, such as those at , potentially impacting coastal stability and associated tourism ecosystems. Conservation efforts in Bushmills are bolstered by its inclusion in the Causeway Coast (AONB), designated in to protect the region's unique landscapes and wildlife. This status safeguards diverse , including wildflowers and rare orchids that bloom along coastal paths in spring and summer, as well as fauna such as seabirds like fulmars, black guillemots, and peregrine falcons nesting on cliffs. Management plans under the AONB emphasize habitat restoration and public education to mitigate environmental pressures while preserving the area's ecological integrity.

History

Early Settlement

The area surrounding Bushmills exhibits evidence of prehistoric human habitation dating back to the period, with archaeological remains of settlements recorded in the sand dunes at Dooey, approximately 2 km east of the village, indicating seasonal or semi-permanent occupation up to 9,000 years ago. activity is further attested by megalithic structures, including the Ballymarlagh dual court tomb (SMR ANT 038:002), a site located about 8 km southeast near , which links to the broader pattern of court tombs and flint scatters across North Antrim's coastal archaeology, though no major permanent settlements have been identified directly at Bushmills itself. These findings suggest intermittent use of the landscape for ritual, , and resource exploitation, integrated with regional prehistoric networks along the Antrim coast. During the Norman era in the 12th century, the settlement known as Portcaman—a name derived from the Gaelic "Port Camáin," meaning "Camán's landing place" or harbor—developed as a modest cluster of dwellings centered on a shallow ford crossing the River Bush, serving as a key point for local movement and early trade routes. This location capitalized on the river's strategic role in connecting inland areas to the coast, fostering initial habitation under Norman administrative structures that divided the region into deaneries and parishes. Norman knights, exemplified by figures like Sir Robert Savage of the Ards (c. 1293–1360), who held significant estates in Ulster following the Anglo-Norman conquest, contributed to land consolidation and fortification in northern counties, though direct ties to Portcaman remain part of local tradition rather than documented records. In the medieval period, Portcaman's river ford enhanced its importance for regional exchange of goods, such as agricultural produce and coastal resources, supporting a small but stable community within the broader that later merged with Dunluce. Folklore attributes early practices to Sir Robert Savage around 1276, recounting how he supplied his troops with () before battle to bolster their resolve, an unverified anecdote that underscores the area's nascent ties to spirit production amid military campaigns. By the early 1600s, the settlement transitioned from the Portcaman designation, increasingly referred to as Bushmills in reflection of emerging milling interests along the river, marking the evolution from a ford-based outpost to a proto-village foundation.

Industrial Development

The village of Bushmills derived its name from the River Bush and a large watermill constructed along its banks in the early , primarily for processing corn and . This , built during a period of early modern development in the region, marked the beginning of the area's industrial orientation around the river's . In 1608, I issued a royal license to Sir , granting permission to distill whiskey in the vicinity of Bushmills, though the itself was not established on its current site until 1784. Prior to this formal authorization, unlicensed had already been practiced in the locality, reflecting the region's longstanding tradition of spirit production powered by local resources. This early licensing laid a foundational role in the area's emerging industrial landscape. From the 18th to the 19th centuries, Bushmills experienced notable infrastructural and economic expansion, driven by the River Bush's water power. Industries included a manufactory producing spades, shovels, scythes, and sickles; extensive paper mills established by local entrepreneur F. D. ; and multiple corn mills for flour production. Complementing these developments, a court-house was constructed in 1834 by the Macnaghten family to handle local governance and petty sessions, underscoring the village's growing administrative needs amid industrialization. This industrial progress was intrinsically linked to the influence of the Macnaghten family, whose estate centered on Bushmills House, significantly extended in the . The availability of jobs in milling, , and related trades drew workers to the area, fostering and transforming Bushmills from a modest settlement into a hub of early industrial activity in .

Modern Era

In the early 20th century, Bushmills experienced economic challenges following , with local industries such as the facing temporary closures due to wartime restrictions and postwar market disruptions. The distillery halted production during the war and struggled in the interwar years amid broader declines in output. During , the village played a strategic role when a Consol station was established nearby to guide Atlantic convoys, aiding Allied shipping efforts against threats; the station's signals provided long-range positioning for vessels crossing the ocean. The distillery again ceased operations from 1939 to 1945 due to resource shortages and bombing risks. The period of from the late 1960s to the 1990s brought indirect effects to Bushmills, a predominantly Protestant village with minimal incidents of direct violence compared to urban centers like or Derry. Regional tensions, including heightened security measures and economic stagnation, impacted daily life and tourism, though the area's rural setting and unionist leanings insulated it from major sectarian clashes. The 1998 marked a turning point, fostering stability and enabling gradual recovery through peace initiatives that reduced cross-border hostilities and promoted reconciliation across . Following the agreement, Bushmills was reinforced as a protected heritage site when its central area, including historic buildings around the market square, was designated a Conservation Area in 1992, with ongoing preservation efforts in the 2000s emphasizing architectural integrity amid growth. In , the 2024 announcement of Causeway Academy represented a significant merger of three local secondary schools, including Dunluce School in Bushmills, to form an integrated institution opening in 2026 and promoting inclusivity in a post-conflict context. However, challenges persisted, as evidenced by racially motivated hate crimes in 2025 targeting a local , where windows were smashed with sledgehammers in June and again in September, prompting police appeals and highlighting ongoing issues with in rural communities. Recent developments include the ongoing twinning partnership with , established in 2008 to celebrate shared whiskey heritage, which has fostered cultural exchanges and limited-edition releases like the 2021 American Oak edition. The distillery's enduring operations have contributed to local resilience by sustaining employment during turbulent times. Bushmills' has stabilized at around 1,250 residents as of the 2021 Census, supported by a boom driven by the nearby , which attracts millions annually and bolsters the village economy without significant demographic shifts.

Demographics and Society

Population Trends

Bushmills experienced modest during the amid its industrial development, with records indicating approximately 507 inhabitants in 1831. By the early , the population had increased to around 1,072 residents, reflecting expansion tied to local industries. The population continued to rise through the mid-20th century but peaked at 1,295 according to the 2011 conducted by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA). This figure declined to 1,247 in the 2021 , a drop of about 3.7% over the decade, consistent with broader patterns of rural depopulation in where smaller settlements lost residents to urban areas. In the 2021 Census, Bushmills' population breakdown showed 46% (574 individuals) and 54% (673 individuals), highlighting a slight female majority typical of aging rural communities. Age distribution revealed 20% under 15 years (approximately 249 people), indicating a relatively low youth proportion, while 25% were aged 65 and over (about 312 individuals), underscoring an elderly demographic. Household statistics from the same census reported an average size of 2.3 persons per household, lower than the average of 2.4, reflecting smaller family units in the village. Prior to the 2000s, population trends in Bushmills were influenced by out-migration, as younger residents sought employment opportunities in larger urban centers like and Derry, contributing to a net loss in rural areas across . Post-2010, the village has experienced a modest decline, though increased has helped support local retention and mitigate further depopulation. As of 2025, no official data exists, but projections based on regional patterns estimate Bushmills' at 1,200 to 1,250 residents, anticipating stability or continued modest decline amid ongoing rural challenges.

Community Composition

Bushmills exhibits a predominantly Protestant religious composition, reflecting its historical roots in 's unionist communities. According to the 2021 Census conducted by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA), 89.1% of residents identified with a Protestant or other Christian background, including significant affiliations with , the , and the Free Presbyterian Church. In contrast, only 2.7% identified as Catholic, while 8.2% reported other religions or no religious affiliation. The town's ethnic makeup is largely homogeneous, with 98% of the population identifying as , underscoring minimal . further highlights a strong orientation, as 75% of residents identified as in the 2021 Census, alongside 34.5% claiming a Northern identity; identification was notably lower at around 3.8%. These patterns indicate a community closely tied to broader affiliations. Community institutions play a central role in fostering social cohesion, particularly through religious and educational outlets aligned with the Protestant majority. The town hosts churches representing five main denominations: Bushmills Presbyterian Church (established 1646), Dunluce Presbyterian Church, Bushmills Free Presbyterian Church, Bushmills Gospel Hall (associated with Plymouth Brethren), and Dunluce St. John the Baptist Church of Ireland. Educational facilities include Bushmills Primary School, a controlled integrated primary serving local children, and Dunluce School, which provides primary education with an emphasis on community values. Additional venues like the Gospel Hall and local community centers support gatherings, youth programs, and social events. Social dynamics in Bushmills are shaped by its strong Protestant heritage, which has historically influenced local identity and remains evident in the overwhelming religious majority and unionist leanings. Low levels of immigration contribute to the stable, insular community structure, though recent trends show a modest influx of retirees from the mainland, attracted by the area's scenic coastal location and quieter pace of life. This composition persisted amid the impacts of , a period of sectarian conflict that briefly disrupted but did not fundamentally alter the town's Protestant-dominated fabric.

Economy

Whiskey Production

The , granted a license to distill whiskey in 1608 by I to local landowner , holds the distinction of being the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery. Although operations trace back to that , the current facility was established in 1784 by Hugh Anderson. Ownership has changed hands multiple times, with acquiring the distillery from in 2014 for approximately $390 million as part of a swap involving . This transition marked a shift toward expanded production capacity under Proximo, a of Becle S.A.B. de C.V. Bushmills whiskey production emphasizes traditional Irish methods, beginning with a combination of malted for pot still single malts and unmalted for grain whiskey components in blends. The malted is mashed using pure spring water sourced from the River Bush and its tributaries, such as Columb's , which contributes to the spirit's soft mineral profile. The is then triple in copper pot stills for the malt whiskey—yielding a lighter, smoother spirit at around 80% ABV after the third run—while grain whiskey undergoes continuous column . Following , the new make spirit is aged in a mix of ex-bourbon and ex- casks, with single malts typically maturing for 10 to 21 years to develop flavors of vanilla, fruit, and spice; for instance, the 10-year single malt spends most of its time in ex-bourbon barrels with a portion in casks. The distillery's core products include Bushmills Original, a blended whiskey combining triple-distilled malt and grain for a light, approachable profile suitable for mixing. Black Bush is a premium blend finished in Oloroso sherry casks, imparting rich and nutty notes from at least seven to 11 years of aging. The 1608 special release commemorates the original license with a non-chill-filtered blend of single malt, single grain, and single pot still whiskeys, bottled at 46% ABV for a complex, full-bodied taste. In 2025, Bushmills launched a new core range 12-year-old single malt at 40% ABV, matured primarily in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks and finished in casks, positioning it as an accessible entry to their single malt lineup and available in major retailers across and the . As Bushmills' primary industry, whiskey production faced challenges in 2024, with new accounts showing a 43% drop in the value of new make spirit placed in casks, from £47 million to £26.9 million, amid global market shifts and an industry-wide slowdown in demand. The distillery scaled back production levels to align with these trends, returning cask fillings to 2021 volumes, though total stock valuation rose 6% to £206 million due to maturing . Employment stood at approximately 126 staff in 2023, with production workers slightly reduced to 79 in , underscoring the operation's role in sustaining local despite fluctuations.

Tourism and Local Businesses

Tourism plays a pivotal role in Bushmills' economy, driven primarily by the village's proximity to renowned natural and heritage sites along the Causeway Coast. The Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located nearby, attracted nearly 1 million visitors in 2019, though numbers declined post-pandemic to around 684,000 in 2024, still supporting influxes to the surrounding area. In 2024, the broader Causeway Coast and Glens borough recorded 1,073,736 overnight trips and 3,244,229 visitor nights, underscoring the scale of tourism activity in the region. This visitor traffic generates substantial economic benefits, with tourism related to the Giant's Causeway alone contributing nearly £500 million to Northern Ireland's economy in 2018. Local businesses thrive on this tourism base, including , , and accommodations. The Bushmills Inn, a historic dating to the , expanded significantly in 2009 with the addition of 19 bedrooms, a courtyard garden, and upgrades to four-star status, now offering 41 rooms to accommodate guests. The village supports a variety of shops, cafes, and bed-and-breakfast options, such as those on local farms like Spring Farm, which blend agricultural roots with visitor stays. Small-scale , including production, and coastal fishing activities—highlighted by the annual salmon harvest—complement these services, providing local produce and experiences for tourists. Employment in and services constitutes about 12% of jobs across the borough, with many positions seasonal and peaking during summer when visitor volumes surge. Post-COVID has been mixed, with Northern Ireland's overall tourist visits surpassing pre-pandemic levels by but experiencing a 13% decline in overnight trips to 4.7 million in 2024 amid economic pressures. Growth opportunities, such as the 2025 Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival from October 3 to 5, drew thousands of attendees and boosted local spending despite challenging weather. The rural setting limits broader economic diversification, keeping as the core driver while the anchors related visitor flows with around 120,000 annual guests.

Culture and Tourism

Key Attractions

The , established under a royal license granted in , stands as the world's oldest continuously licensed whiskey distillery and offers visitors guided tours that explore its over 400-year history of production. These daily tours, priced at £10 for adults, guide participants through the traditional processes of milling grains, in copper pot stills, and maturation in oak casks, culminating in a visitor center featuring whiskey tastings and heritage exhibits on the site's evolution from water-powered mills to modern operations. Just two miles north of Bushmills lies the , a designated in 1986 for its unique geological formations. Comprising approximately 40,000 interlocking columns formed by volcanic activity around 60 million years ago during the epoch, the site features dramatic hexagonal pillars emerging from the sea, accessible via well-maintained trails that allow exploration on foot. The adjacent , managed by the , provides interpretive displays on the area's natural and cultural significance, enhancing the appeal of this iconic natural wonder. Among other notable sites, Dundarave House, a 19th-century Italianate estate built in the by architect Sir Charles Lanyon for the Macnaghten family, offers exterior views of its grand and surrounding gardens, though it remains a residence not open for interior tours. Complementing these, the Bushmills Heritage Trail provides a self-guided walking route through the village, marked by fingerpost signs, QR-coded plaques at 19 key locations, and information panels that highlight historic mills, the , market square, and traditional dating back to the area's industrial origins. For convenient access to the , the seasonal narrow-gauge Giant's Causeway and Bushmills Railway operates from April to September, covering the two-mile coastal route in about 20 minutes with steam or diesel locomotives, departing multiple times daily from a station just outside .

Festivals and Traditions

The Bushmills and Whiskey Festival is an annual event that celebrates the village's longstanding traditions in and whiskey production, drawing on the natural resources of the River Bush and the historic . Established in 2012, the festival has become a key highlight of the local calendar, typically spanning three days in early with a program of whiskey tastings, demonstrations, live music, cookery demonstrations, and artisan markets featuring regional produce. The 2025 edition, held from October 3 to 5, incorporated special pre-booked tours of the Inland Fisheries Station on and , offering visitors insights into the river's and efforts. Supported by the Borough Council, the festival fosters strong involvement through volunteer-led activities and collaborations with local traders, attracting thousands of visitors annually and boosting by emphasizing locally sourced food, drink, and crafts. This event not only engages residents but also promotes cultural exchange, with family-friendly elements like children's activities and street entertainment enhancing its appeal as a gathering. Beyond the main , Bushmills maintains traditions rooted in its Ulster-Scots heritage, where performances and sessions often feature during local events, reflecting the area's Scottish settler influences from the onward. Summer fairs and whiskey-related days further enliven the village, with informal gatherings showcasing traditional tunes, , and distillery history walks that tie into the broader cultural fabric. These modern celebrations echo 19th-century customs centered on the village's milling and distilling industries, where community harvests and river-based activities formed the basis of social life.

Infrastructure

Transport Connections

Bushmills is primarily accessed via road, with the village situated along the A2 coastal route, a scenic highway that connects it to nearby towns and facilitates travel along Northern Ireland's north coast. The A2 provides direct links to approximately 8 miles (13 km) to the east and about 5 miles (8 km) to the west, offering convenient access for both residents and visitors. For longer journeys, the village connects to the motorway via the A29 southbound from Coleraine, enabling efficient travel to and beyond. Public rail services do not extend directly to Bushmills; the nearest mainline station is in , served by Translink's Northern Ireland Railways on the to line, with frequent trains operating throughout the day. From station, bus connections provide onward travel to the village. route 402 operates between Buscentre and Ballycastle via Bushmills, with services running approximately every 30 minutes during peak times, ensuring reliable hourly or better connectivity for commuters and tourists. Historically, Bushmills had its own railway station as part of the and Bushmills Tramway, a narrow-gauge line that opened in to support and local , including the distillery's operations during the industrial era. This innovative electric (later steam-powered) tramway connected to the and , operating seasonally until its closure in 1949 due to declining passenger numbers post-World War II. Today, a heritage version of the tramway continues to run seasonally between Bushmills and the , preserving this legacy as a rather than a primary transport link. Looking ahead, discussions around enhancements to rail infrastructure along the Causeway Coast, including potential improvements to connectivity from Coleraine, have been part of broader north-west transport planning initiatives in 2024 and 2025, though specific projects remain in early stages.

Local Amenities

Bushmills provides essential educational facilities for its residents, primarily through Bushmills Primary School and Nursery Unit, which serves children aged 4 to 11. The school enrolls local pupils in a controlled, co-educational setting focused on community integration and Christian values. For post-primary education, Dunluce School in Bushmills offers secondary-level instruction and is part of a planned amalgamation into the Causeway Academy, an integrated school set to open across multiple sites in September 2026 following delays in site selection. Healthcare services in Bushmills are supported by the local Bushmills Medical Centre, a surgery providing , online appointments, and repeat prescriptions. A pharmacy, Gordons Chemists, offers dispensing services and health advice to residents and visitors. The town lacks a hospital, with the nearest facility being Causeway Hospital in , approximately 10 miles away, which handles acute and emergency care. The Bushmills serves as a hub for local events, hosting community gatherings, sports activities, and indoor programs in its large hall. Recreational amenities include the Millennium Riverside Park, a scenic green space along the River Bush featuring walking paths, woodlands, and picnic areas suitable for leisure and family outings. The town supports community sports through facilities at the Bushmills Community Centre, which accommodates activities such as indoor , while local groups participate in (GAA) games and , reflecting broader regional interests in these sports. Essential services like the on handle postal and banking needs, operating weekdays for public convenience. access is provided via the Mobile service, which visits scheduled stops in Bushmills to offer books, resources, and digital services to the community. Housing in Bushmills consists of a blend of traditional period cottages, often featuring historic stone and thatched elements from the 18th and 19th centuries, alongside more recent modern builds that adhere to contemporary standards. The village's designation as a conservation area since 1992 imposes strict guidelines on development, preserving architectural character and limiting new constructions to maintain the historic market square and surrounding listed buildings. Utilities are reliably provided through regional networks, supporting the area's residential needs amid controlled growth.

References

  1. [1]
    About the Distillery – Bushmills Irish Whiskey
    Granted a license to distil in 1608, Bushmills is the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world.History · FAQ · CocktailsMissing: history | Show results with:history
  2. [2]
    Legacy - Bushmills® Irish Whiskey
    In 1885, a disastrous fire destroyed nearly all The Old Bushmills® Distillery. On the doorstep of destruction, we did what the people of Bushmills always do. We ...
  3. [3]
    Bushmills owner Proximo unveils £60 million distillery
    Apr 20, 2023 · Proximo today unveiled its new £37 million Causeway Distillery, part of the company's £60 million investment in Bushmills.
  4. [4]
    Bushmills Distillery - Whisky.com
    It was officially founded in 1784 by Hugh Anderson in the Northern Irish town of Bushmills. Since then, Bushmills has been synonymous with traditionally triple- ...Missing: facts | Show results with:facts
  5. [5]
    Distillery - Bushmills® Irish Whiskey
    The world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery · County Antrim, Ireland · Meet the people that represent centuries of knowledge · EXPERIENCE OUR CRAFT FIRSTHAND.
  6. [6]
    The Guide to Bushmills Town | Visit Portrush
    Nov 28, 2024 · Bushmills is a small village on the North Coast of County Antrim, Northern Ireland. Bushmills gets its name from the River Bush, which runs through the village.
  7. [7]
    [PDF] Village Plan - Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council
    Bushmills is a rural village located on the North Coast of. County Antrim nine miles from Coleraine and twelve miles from Ballycastle. The village dates back ...
  8. [8]
    Bushmills (GPS Coordinates, Nearby Cities & Power Plants)
    Bushmills is a city in Northern Ireland, inUnited Kingdom. Bushmills is located on the latitude of 55.20493 and longitude of -6.51918.Missing: geographical elevation topography natural features
  9. [9]
    Bushmills elevation
    Bushmills (Northern Ireland, Causeway Coast and Glens), United Kingdom elevation is 12 meters and Bushmills elevation in feet is 39 ft above sea level.
  10. [10]
    Bushmills Google Maps, Location, Satellite, and Topographic Maps
    The place's GPS coordinates are: latitude 55.203701019287 and longitude -6.5232000350952. Bushmills: A Geographical Overview Bushmills is a quaint village ...
  11. [11]
    Basalt cliffs and columns along Nothern Ireland's Causeway Coast ...
    Jul 1, 2014 · This tiny, L-shaped chunk of rock, only 6 kilometers long and 4 kilometers wide, is home to about 100 people and tens of thousands of seabirds, ...
  12. [12]
    Bushmills - Causeway Coast Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty
    The distillery is a tourist attraction, with around 110,000 visitors per year, and is now owned by Diageo. History. The area has a long tradition with ...
  13. [13]
    Bushmills - County Antrim - Causeway Coastal Route
    History of Bushmills, heritage of the mills and the present gateway to the Giants Causeway located on the Causeway Coastal Route.
  14. [14]
    Bushmills, Northern Ireland Weather Forecast | WhatWeather.today
    The UK's climate is classed as temperate maritime (Cfb in the Köppen climate classification). That means moderate temperatures, regular rainfall spread ...
  15. [15]
    GIANT'S CAUSEWAY AND CAUSEWAY COAST
    The climate is dominated by mild damp westerly winds which bring an average annual rainfall of 1,016mm. The average December temperature is 4.4°C, the average ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  16. [16]
    Bushmills Climate, Weather By Month, Average Temperature ...
    ... elevation change of 331 feet and an average elevation above sea level of 156 feet. Within 10 miles contains only modest variations in elevation (741 feet).
  17. [17]
    [PDF] Northern Ireland: climate - Met Office
    Oct 10, 2016 · The mean annual temperature at low altitudes in Northern Ireland varies from about 8.5 °C to 10.0 °C, with the higher values occurring around or ...Missing: Bushmills | Show results with:Bushmills
  18. [18]
    Coastal Erosion - EPA Climate Ireland
    Currently, approximately 20% of Ireland's coast is at risk of coastal erosion. The coasts most susceptible to coastal erosion are those composed of ...
  19. [19]
    River Bush Salmon Station - Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute
    AFBI Bushmills, based at the River Bush Salmon Station, undertakes long-term research into the ecology and population dynamics of Atlantic salmon.Missing: estuary | Show results with:estuary
  20. [20]
    Giant's Causeway and Causeway Coast - World Heritage Outlook
    Other potential threats include climate change, which needs to be studied further as the cumulative effects could significantly affect the coastal stability and ...
  21. [21]
    Causeway Coast AONB - Daera
    Cultural Heritage of Causeway AONB. Catching fish and shellfish along parts of the north coast has provided food and a way of life since Mesolithic times.
  22. [22]
    Natural Heritage - Causeway Coast Area Of Outstanding Natural ...
    Flora and Fauna, including Marine Life​​ The Causeway Coast AONB supports a wide biodiversity including many rare plants and flowers. In spring and summer wild ...
  23. [23]
    [PDF] Causeway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management ...
    The Causeway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural. Beauty (AONB) recognises the quality of Northern. Ireland's Causeway Coast landscape. The AONB covers. 4,200ha ...
  24. [24]
    [PDF] ULSTER ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY - Queen's University Belfast
    The north coast of County Antrim is an area rich in archaeological monuments from every period of human occupation since the Mesolithic. Sand dune sites have ...
  25. [25]
    [PDF] Condition and Management Survey of the Archaeological Resource ...
    Condition and Management Survey of the Archaeological Resource in Northern ireland (CAMSAR).
  26. [26]
    Bushmills History & Heritage - The Historical Marker Database
    Bushmills was originally known as Portcaman, a parish name dating back to the Norman period. ... Portcaman and Dunluce became one parish, with a church at Dunluce ...
  27. [27]
    Savage, Sir Robert | Dictionary of Irish Biography
    Savage, Sir Robert (c.1293–1360), landowner and seneschal of Ulster, was the son and heir of Henry Savage (d. c.1305), lord of the Savages of the Ards, Co.Missing: Portcaman settlement Bushmills Norman 1276
  28. [28]
    CHAPTER 1: Whisky's Historical Development - Books
    Oct 29, 2020 · Later, Sir Robert Savage of Bushmills is said to have given his men “a mighty draught of uisce beathe” as they went into battle in 1276.
  29. [29]
    Bushmills - Wikishire
    Nov 1, 2017 · The village owes its name to the River Bush and to a large watermill that was built there in the early 17th century. ... October 1949.
  30. [30]
    The Old Bushmills Distillery Co. Ltd - Difford's Guide
    In 1608 King James I granted a royal licence to distil 'uisce beatha', (whiskey) to Sir Thomas Phillips in 'the territory of the Rowte' in Co. Antrim, the area ...
  31. [31]
    Bushmills Distillery: A Journey Through 400 Years Of Irish Whiskey ...
    Mar 7, 2025 · The story of Bushmills Distillery begins in 1608 when King James I granted the official license to distil whiskey in the area. This royal decree ...
  32. [32]
    BUSHMILLS, a market and post-town - Library Ireland
    BUSHMILLS, a market and post-town. Samuel Lewis. A Topographical Dictionary of Ireland. 1837. BUSHMILLS, a market and post-town, in that part of the parish of ...
  33. [33]
    The Courthouse Bushmills
    A former Courthouse in the centre of Bushmills, dating back to 1834, has been sensitively restored as a modern creative shared space for local crafters.Missing: 19th | Show results with:19th
  34. [34]
    Irish manor house near Bushmills - British Country Homes
    Aug 16, 2022 · At Bushmills, he significantly extended Bushmills House, probably between about 1820 and 1830. However, his son, Sir Edmund Macnaghten clearly ...Missing: date | Show results with:date
  35. [35]
    Bushmills Irish Whiskey history - Bay Bottles
    Jan 2, 2025 · As you might expect World War II resulted in another shut down of the distillery however, as early as 1945, a January 8th story in the “ ...
  36. [36]
    Bushmills Distillery - Whisky For Everyone
    ... World War II, which saw the distillery cease production between 1939 and 1945. Bushmills and Irish whiskey struggled in the following decades. The ...
  37. [37]
    Consol - Jerry Proc
    That station, according to what I was told, was bombed and subsequently rebuilt in its original configuration and useful to both sides! The story that the RAF ...
  38. [38]
    OLD BUSHMILLS DISTILLERY 21 25 30 YEARS OLD
    She also told me that according to oral histories, it was as early as 1276 that a colonist named Sir Robert Savage of Ards fortified his troops with “a powerful ...
  39. [39]
    In Northern Ireland, Getting Past the Troubles
    During the Troubles, this was an IRA stronghold, where highly trained local cells carried out relentless bombings and ambushes of British troops. "We were first ...
  40. [40]
    What You Need to Know About The Troubles | Imperial War Museums
    Despite ongoing violence, by the early 1990s negotiations had begun between political parties in Northern Ireland and between the British and Irish governments.
  41. [41]
    Conservation Area Guide - Bushmills - Department for Infrastructure
    Jun 26, 1992 · The design guide generally provides information on the planning context, historical development, description or character appraisal of the area.Missing: 2000s | Show results with:2000s
  42. [42]
    North Coast: Amalgamated school to open in September 2026 - BBC
    Jun 12, 2024 · Three secondary schools will merge to create the new Causeway Academy but the site is not confirmed.
  43. [43]
    Bushmills: Pizzeria targeted for second time in race hate crime - BBC
    Sep 29, 2025 · The front window and door of a pizzeria have been smashed in what police are treating as a racially-motivated hate crime in County Antrim.
  44. [44]
    BBC NEWS | Northern Ireland | Louisville tastes victory in twin search
    Apr 15, 2008 · Louisville, Kentucky, has emerged the winner in the search for a twin for Bushmills in County Antrim. In addition to the title, Louisville ...Missing: twinning | Show results with:twinning
  45. [45]
    The Resurgence of Bushmills - Irish Whiskey USA
    Dec 30, 2022 · Bushmills survived a century that most Irish distilleries did not, and by the 1960s only a pair of production facilities remained: New Midleton ...
  46. [46]
    2011 Census - Population Tables
    Sep 25, 2014 · This document provides the usually resident population by single year of age and sex for Northern Ireland, and a number of geographical levels ...Missing: Bushmills | Show results with:Bushmills
  47. [47]
    Census 2021 person and household estimates for settlements
    Dec 18, 2023 · Census 2021 estimates that classify usual residents and households for settlements in Northern Ireland.Missing: Bushmills | Show results with:Bushmills
  48. [48]
    Census 2021 main statistics for settlements and wards in Northern ...
    Nov 30, 2023 · This release contains Census 2021 data for settlement and electoral ward geographies for selected main statistics tables.
  49. [49]
    National Population Projections | Northern Ireland Statistics and ...
    2022-based Population Projections for Northern Ireland Statistical Bulletin Charts. Published 28 January 2025 · 2022-based Population Projections for Northern ...Missing: Bushmills | Show results with:Bushmills
  50. [50]
    Census 2021 main statistics religion tables
    Sep 22, 2022 · Download the main statistics religion tables from the 2021 Census in Northern Ireland. This theme provides estimates for a number of census topics.Missing: Bushmills | Show results with:Bushmills
  51. [51]
    Census 2021 main statistics ethnicity tables
    Sep 22, 2022 · Download the main statistics ethnicity tables from the 2021 Census in Northern Ireland. This theme provides estimates for ethnic group.Missing: Bushmills | Show results with:Bushmills
  52. [52]
    Census 2021 main statistics identity tables
    Sep 22, 2022 · This theme provides estimates for national identity at various levels of detail including basic, intermediate, and full detail.Missing: Bushmills | Show results with:Bushmills
  53. [53]
    Bushmills Presbyterian Church
    Founded in 1646, our historic church in the heart of Bushmills offers a blend of traditional and contemporary worship.Announcements · Groups & Ministries · Sunday Services · Who we are
  54. [54]
    Dunluce St John The Baptist (Bushmills) - Church of Ireland
    17 priestland road Bushmills BT57 8QP Co Antrim Churches & Chaplaincies Use the map below to view the churches in the parish of Dunluce St John The Baptist ( ...
  55. [55]
    Bushmills Primary School & Nursery | PS
    Bushmills Primary is community-focused, with a dedicated staff, a vision of 'Building a Causeway to Success', and a vibrant, forward-thinking environment.Staff · Contact Us · Holiday List · Galleries
  56. [56]
    Dunluce School
    Welcome to Dunluce School Bushmills. At the heart of the school's ethos lies the premise that intelligence and ability are not fixed qualities.
  57. [57]
    The Jameson Catholic Bushmills Protestant Irish whiskey divide
    Mar 16, 2025 · The new Catholic immigrants were viewed negatively by the existing American population, and Protestant Irish felt that their arrival was ...Missing: community dynamics
  58. [58]
    [PDF] case study of the Giant's Causeway
    In 2019, the Giant's Causeway received more than 998,000 visitors, a slight decrease from the more than 1 million visitors who arrived on-site the year before.
  59. [59]
    [PDF] nisra-local-government-district-infographic-2024.pdf - Tourism NI
    Causeway Coast & Glens. Trips: 1,073,736. 23%. Nights: 3,244,229. 22%. Spend ... *Figures relate to overnight trips only (ie exclude day trips). Overnight ...Missing: visitor | Show results with:visitor
  60. [60]
    [PDF] Developing a Sustainable Giant at the Causeway Introduction ...
    Close to £500 million was generated for the NI economy by tourism related to the Giant's. Causeway in 2018, with the National Trust employing 75 full-time staff ...
  61. [61]
    History and Heritage - The Bushmills Inn
    In 2009, a further expansion brought the hotel to its present stature: 41 spacious bedrooms and suites, a peaceful courtyard garden, modern conference ...
  62. [62]
    Historic Bushmills Inn to get £2.7m upgrade - Construction News
    Jul 22, 2008 · The hotel - which has a 200-year history - will be extended to include an extra 19 bedrooms and refurbished to a four-star status.
  63. [63]
    Where to Eat in Bushmills: Restaurants, Cafés, Coffee Stops, Food ...
    Sep 23, 2025 · Whether you're after refined dining, a relaxed coffee, or fish and chips after a day's exploring, here's where to eat your way around Bushmills.Missing: dairy | Show results with:dairy
  64. [64]
    B&B on a dairy farm - Review of Spring Farm Bed and Breakfast ...
    Rating 5.0 · Review by Member0708Aug 2, 2008 · We stayed one night on our trip around the Antrim coast, hospitality was excellent, location was perfect set amongst the farmland.Missing: local shops fishing
  65. [65]
    Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival 2025 - Causeway Coast & Glens
    This year, the ever-popular festival will run from Friday 3rd October through to Sunday 5th October, continuing to embrace local heritage, while underlining the ...
  66. [66]
    [PDF] Local Development Plan 2030
    7.1 The Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) publishes a range of tourism related reports including an annual Northern Ireland tourism ...
  67. [67]
    Tourist visits to NI back to pre-pandemic levels, figures suggest - BBC
    Aug 30, 2024 · Tourist visits to Northern Ireland recovered to surpass pre-pandemic levels in 2023, official figures suggest.
  68. [68]
    Northern Ireland sees fall in tourism numbers and spend in 2024
    May 30, 2025 · There were 4.7 million overnight trips to NI in 2024, which was a 13% decrease on the 2023 figure of 5.4 million. The number of nights fell too, ...
  69. [69]
    Thousands enjoy weekend of local food and entertainment at the ...
    Oct 6, 2025 · Thousands enjoy weekend of local food and entertainment at the 2025 Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival. Mon, 6th October 2025. The much-loved ...
  70. [70]
    [PDF] Causeway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management ...
    Bushmills is home to the world famous Bushmills Distillery, reportedly the oldest licensed distillery in the world which attracts over 110,000 visitors per ...
  71. [71]
    Old Bushmills Distillery - Discover Northern Ireland
    Bushmills is home to the oldest licenced whiskey distillery in the world. Over 400 years later, they're still making whiskey in Bushmills.Missing: facts | Show results with:facts
  72. [72]
    Old Bushmills Distillery: Tour + History (2025 Guide)
    Mar 9, 2012 · 1608 was when Sir Thomas Phillips, a local landowner, was given a royal license to distil whiskey in Bushmills. Hugh Anderson and 1784. It was ...
  73. [73]
    Old Bushmills Distillery | Ireland.com
    Guided tours are perfect for uncovering the stages involved in distillation, from the milling of grains to maturation. You can also enjoy a tour and tasting ...Missing: visitor | Show results with:visitor
  74. [74]
    Giant's Causeway and Causeway Coast
    It is made up of some 40,000 massive black basalt columns sticking out of the sea. The dramatic sight has inspired legends of giants striding over the sea to ...Gallery · Documents · Maps · Indicators
  75. [75]
    Giant's Causeway's history | County Antrim - National Trust
    The Giant's Causeway is almost 60 million years in the making and counting. Find out how the world-famous hexagonal basalt stones were formed.Missing: UNESCO | Show results with:UNESCO
  76. [76]
    Guide to Bushmills - Causeway Coastal Route
    The village has a self-guide heritage trail with finger signages, QR coded plaques at nineteen locations and several information/village map panels. There ...
  77. [77]
    WordPress on Azure - About Dundarave Estate
    Dundarave was designed by the eminent architect Sir Charles Lanyon and built in the 1840s for Sir Edmund Macnaghten (2nd baronet) to replace Bushmills House, an ...
  78. [78]
    Giants Causeway and Bushmills Railway
    The Giants Causeway and Bushmills Railway leaves from just outside Bushmills Village on its 20 minute journey of 2 miles to and from the Giants Causeway.
  79. [79]
    A Guide to Visit Giant's Causeway and Bushmills Railway
    Apr 26, 2024 · The Giant's Causeway and Bushmills Railway runs on Friday through Sunday in September and October and four times daily throughout the summer.
  80. [80]
    Bushmills Salmon and Whiskey Festival - NorthernIrelandWorld
    Sep 17, 2014 · The Bushmills Salmon and Whiskey Festival will return to the town for the third year this September and preparations are well underway for ...
  81. [81]
    Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival - Discover Northern Ireland
    The village will host the festival on the weekend of 3rd – 5th October, with lots to look forward to. The programme includes a wide variety of activities and ...
  82. [82]
    Smithsonian Folklife Festival Features Northern Ireland ~ June 27
    Jun 27, 2025 · The Smithsonian Folklife Festival is an international exposition of living cultural heritage annually produced outdoors on the National Mall of the United ...
  83. [83]
    The Bushmills Salmon and Whiskey Festival is a Celebration of ...
    May 28, 2018 · The Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival returns on the 9th - 10th June. The event will showcase the area's best produce alongside live music ...Missing: fair | Show results with:fair<|control11|><|separator|>
  84. [84]
    Things to Do in Bushmills, Co. Antrim - Irish Landmark Trust
    Discover the charming village of Bushmills, nestled in the heart of County Antrim, Northern Ireland. This picturesque destination is home to the Kiln Wing ...
  85. [85]
    Bushmills to Portrush - 3 ways to travel via line 402 bus, taxi, and car
    How far is it from Bushmills to Portrush? The distance between Bushmills and Portrush is 6 miles. The road distance is 6.5 miles. Get driving directions. How ...
  86. [86]
    Coleraine - Bushmills driving directions - journey, distance, time and ...
    Coleraine Bushmills driving directions. Distance, cost (tolls, fuel, cost per passenger) and journey time, based on traffic conditions.
  87. [87]
    A29 (Northern Ireland) - Roader's Digest: The SABRE Wiki
    May 3, 2023 · The A29 is a major north-south route across Northern Ireland, starting at Portrush on the north coast and finishing on the border at Tullydonnell, east of ...
  88. [88]
    Timetables - Translink
    Download the latest timetables for bus and rail services across Northern Ireland.
  89. [89]
    GUIDE | Translink Ulsterbus 402 Causeway Rambler to the Giant's ...
    Feb 13, 2025 · The Ulsterbus 402 runs scheduled half-hourly departures, and covers a total of 12 stops in each direction. The first departure from Coleraine is ...
  90. [90]
    Giant's Causeway and Bushmills Railway - Atlas Obscura
    Sep 18, 2019 · Departing from the historic town of Bushmills, this train takes visitors on a two-mile journey along the windswept Northern Irish coast before dropping them ...
  91. [91]
    Giant's Causeway and Bushmills Railway Historical Marker
    The Tramway, which was called the first long electric tramway in the world, ran for 65 years before finally closing down in 1949. The Giant's Causeway railway ...
  92. [92]
    North-west Transport: 4 Mar 2025 - TheyWorkForYou
    Mar 4, 2025 · The north-west transport plan will cover local transport issues, such as active travel, public transport, local road networks and parking, and ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  93. [93]
    Bushmills PS | Education Authority Northern Ireland
    School type: Primary. School Management Type: Controlled. Find out more about School Management types. Gender: Boys and Girls. Age Range: 4-11. Other provision ...
  94. [94]
    https://www.thomsonlocal.com/search/hospitals/bushmills-county-antrim
  95. [95]
    Bushmills Medical Centre | nidirect
    6 Priestland Road Bushmills BT57 8QP United Kingdom Phone: 028 2073 1233 Online appointments and repeat prescriptionsMissing: pharmacy | Show results with:pharmacy
  96. [96]
    Gordons Chemists | Bushmills - Facebook
    Gordons Chemists, Bushmills. 86 likes · 7 were here. Pharmacy / Drugstore.
  97. [97]
    Hospitals in Bushmills, County Antrim - Thomson Local
    Hospitals in Bushmills, County Antrim ; Causeway Hospital · 028 7032 7032 · 4 Newbridge Road · Coleraine · BT521HS ; Northern Trust Causeway Hospital · 028 ...
  98. [98]
    Bushmills Community Centre
    Bushmills is a great rural community centre offering a large hall for community, sporting activties and indoor football.
  99. [99]
    Millennium Riverside Park - OutmoreNI
    This is a pleasant park located on the banks of the River Bush. The park can be accessed on foot from either Bridge Street or the main A2 road.
  100. [100]
    Camogie Stars.. Bushmills Dunes.. Good for Business
    Feb 22, 2012 · The Camogie Association is currently seeking sponsorship for the All Ireland Championships. The sport has over 100,000 loyal members and 550 ...
  101. [101]
    Bushmills Post Office® | County Antrim | BT57 8QA
    Bushmills Post Office, 56 Main Street, Bushmills, BT57 8QA. Get directions, available services, accessibility facilities.Missing: library | Show results with:library
  102. [102]
    Causeway Mobile - Libraries NI
    Causeway Mobile ; TUESDAY - Week 2 ; 12:15pm – 12:45pm, Post Office/Shop, Finvoy, BT53 7JP ; 1:45pm – 2:40pm, The Crossroads, Bendooragh, BT53 7ND ; 2:55pm – 3:25pm ...
  103. [103]
    Bushmills Old School Restoration: Community Invited To Share ...
    Sep 23, 2025 · Although he envisioned ambitious redevelopment plans, these were constrained by the village's conservation status. In 2016, The Bushmills Trust— ...Missing: period | Show results with:period
  104. [104]
    Conservation Areas | Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council
    Bushmills Conservation Area – Designated as a CA in 1992, the central Market Square of the village includes a large grouping of Listed Buildings within the CA ...Missing: 2000s | Show results with:2000s
  105. [105]
    [PDF] Housing Market Analysis of the Causeway Housing Market Area
    projection is most likely based on the older population composition within. Causeway HMA. Natural population increases are therefore hampered as more of the ...<|control11|><|separator|>