The Dark Hedges: a Unique Beech Avenue in Ireland
The Dark Hedges is an avenue of old beech trees on Bregagh Road in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The intertwined branches form a natural tunnel over the road that looks mysterious in any season and especially in fog.
The avenue is about an hour's drive from Belfast and 20 minutes from the Giant's Causeway, so it is usually visited on the same trip as the Antrim coast.
The easiest way to see the avenue is on a guided trip: choose the tour from Dublin to the Giant's Causeway, the Dark Hedges and Belfast or message a manager to check the dates.
History of the avenue
In 1775 James Stuart built a house here and named it Gracehill House after his wife Grace Lynd. To make the approach to the house impress visitors, about 150 beech trees were planted along the road.
Over two and a half centuries some of the trees have been lost to age and storms. The Dark Hedges Preservation Trust was set up to protect the avenue, and since 2017 cars have been banned from it, so today it can only be explored on foot.
A local legend tells of the Grey Lady, a ghostly woman in grey said to appear among the trees at dusk.
Why the Dark Hedges are so popular
The avenue became world famous thanks to Game of Thrones: it was used as the Kingsroad, along which Arya Stark escapes King's Landing. Since the series aired, the Dark Hedges have become one of the most photographed places in Ireland.
The best time for photos is early morning or evening, when there are fewer visitors and the light is softer.
Frequently asked questions
Where are the Dark Hedges?
In County Antrim, Northern Ireland, on Bregagh Road, about an hour's drive from Belfast.
Is there an entrance fee?
No, the avenue is free to visit.
Can you drive through the avenue?
No, traffic has been banned since 2017, and cars are left in the car park nearby.
The Dark Hedges combine easily with the Giant's Causeway and Belfast in one trip, and a Fly&Joy manager will help you choose a tour.