Tree tunnel
Interlaced branches.
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The Dark Hedges is an avenue of mature beech trees along Bregagh Road between Armoy and Stranocum in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, about 12 km southwest of Ballycastle in a straight line. It is one of Northern Ireland's most photographed sights. James Stuart planted more than 150 beech trees around 1775 along the carriage road to his new house to create an imposing approach. The trees are now around 250 years old, beyond the usual 150–200-year lifespan of beech, so they are in natural decline, and about 75 remain. The avenue became world famous after appearing in a popular American TV drama in 2011. The twisted beech branches meet overhead to form a tree tunnel 6 to 10 metres wide and about 150 metres long. The huge grey trunks tangle in strange shapes, and light filters through the branches, casting shadows across the road. The road has been permanently closed to cars since October 2017 to protect the roots, so visitors walk its length and take photos. Early morning and sunset are quieter and best for photos; midday is busy.
Interlaced branches.
Grey and twisted.
Through the branches.
Bregagh Road, between Armoy and Stranocum, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
No, it is closed to cars.
Early morning or sunset.