Cushendall, village in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, UK
Cushendall is a small village on the coast of County Antrim, situated between green valleys and the sea. It is dominated by the flat-topped Lurigethan Mountain and consists of old stone buildings with whitewashed walls lining four main streets, preserving a quiet, timeless appearance.
The village was founded in the 17th century and grew significantly when Francis Turnly purchased land in 1809 and built many of the houses and the coastal road still visible today. In the 20th century, the village was affected by conflict during the Troubles, notably in 1922 when soldiers fired on a crowd, killing three men.
The name comes from the Irish 'Cois Abhann Dala', meaning 'foot of the river Dall', which flows down through the valley into the sea. The village is shaped by its whitewashed Georgian houses from the 19th century that line the streets, creating a sense of continuity with how people have lived here for generations.
The village sits along the Antrim Coast Road and is easy to explore on foot, with most shops and restaurants along the four main streets. The nearby beach is small and quiet, while Glenariff Forest Park with walking trails of varying lengths is just a short drive away.
On clear days, visitors can see Scotland from the village shores, including the Mull of Kintyre and Sanda Island across the water. The village became a Conservation Area in 1973, one of the first in Northern Ireland, which has helped preserve its historic character over the decades.
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