Overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean, Portstewart is a seaside resort town where you’ll find a charismatic harbour and waterfront promenade alongside an idyllic stretch of beach. The peaceful region around Portstewart reveals a ruined fortress, Romanesque temple and golf course, while the town centre has numerous waterfront restaurants and bars.
Things to do in Portstewart
Stroll along The Promenade, which runs along the western part of Portstewart while hugging the rugged coastline. Along this strip you’ll discover a wealth of boutiques and dining establishments. Grab some classic fish and chips at The Prom Chippy, before enjoying fresh coffee at Bob & Berts Coffee House. Shop for rings and necklaces at Cunningham Jewellers or purchase sweets from Sheila's Confectionery.
Keep following the coastline and you’ll eventually reach Portstewart Strand, a long stretch of sandy beach backed by windswept dunes. It’s popular with water sports enthusiasts, particularly surfers, while the nearby Downhill Strand is better for swimming and sunbathing.
The Downhill Strand is also home to the 18th-century Mussenden Temple, which was modelled after Rome’s Temple of Vesta. It’s perched on a cliff high above the North Atlantic Ocean and is a short stroll from the late-18th-century Downhill House. Don’t miss seeing the ruined remains of Dunluce Castle, which showcase medieval ingenuity.
Are you a keen golfer? Head to the renowned Portstewart Golf Club, where you can choose from three 18-hole golf courses, including the championship Strand Course. Afterwards, visit the Anchor Complex, Portstewart’s centre of nightlife, where you can dance the night away at Aura Nightclub or Havana Night Club.
Getting around Portstewart
Portstewart is connected to neighbouring cities via Northern Ireland Railways, which has trains stopping at Portrush and Coleraine nearby. You can also drive to Portstewart in just over one hour from Belfast International Airport. Use local buses to get around or walk around the main parts of town.