The Gobbins cliff path welcomes back visitors as restrictions ease

East Antrim's top tourist attraction has welcomed its first visitors as lockdown restrictions begin to ease across the country.
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Tours at The Gobbins, a spectacular rugged coastal walk in Islandmagee, resumed from Monday, April 26.

It comes as outdoor attractions across Northern Ireland were given the green light to reopen from Friday, April 23.

Among the safety features in place at the path are hand sanitising stations, one-way systems and numbers limited for tours.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Cllr Peter Johnston welcomes visitors back to The Gobbins.Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Cllr Peter Johnston welcomes visitors back to The Gobbins.
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Cllr Peter Johnston welcomes visitors back to The Gobbins.

A new website also means it’s easier than ever to book tickets, while the path itself will be open seven days a week.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Cllr Peter Johnston said: “It’s so exciting to see this fantastic attraction back open for business. It’s 'Good to Go' accreditation will hopefully reassure visitors that not only will they get to experience a walk that wows but also keeps them as safe as possible as we all begin to adventure outdoors again.

“Part of our upcoming plans to help inject a bit of love into our much valued tourism industry here in Mid and East Antrim is to help those who wouldn’t usually explore closer to home, to rediscover what’s right on their doorstep.

“We will continue to work with tourism bodies to help push that messaging out there and really get momentum behind what amazing assets we have to offer here. If you’re coming down we would love to see your photos on social media tagged #RediscoverMEA so we can get them shared and shout about what world class attractions we have here to explore.

“The unique appeal of The Gobbins is the exposure to nature and the elements in all their glory - something much needed after the majority of a year spent in closed spaces.”

Weaving its way along the basalt cliffs of the famous Causeway Coast, The Gobbins takes visitors across a suspension bridge, tunnels and along pathways in an up close and personal experience of the spectacular coastline.

As they travel along the path, walkers have the chance to discover the area’s varied geology, marvel at the engineering triumphs and even spot puffins, dolphins and seals.

The 1.2 mile-long cliff walk is one of the most ambitious engineering projects ever seen in Northern Ireland and was originally built in the early 20th century.

The centre remains open to check in and visitors are reminded that face coverings are to be worn, unless exempt, in the visitor centre, on the bus and path.

For more information, to keep up to date or book tickets, you can go to www.thegobbinscliffpath.com