With the Giant’s Causeway a short drive away and miles of golden shores stretching out alongside, County Antrim is a paradise for nature lovers, beach bums and history buffs.
The ancient Causeway Coast is studded with historic towns, including Ballycastle, brimming with character and offering unique experiences.
Only an hour’s drive from Belfast, the pretty coastal town also makes the perfect base for visitors planning to explore the wealth of intriguing sites and mysterious landscapes found across the county.
DAY 1
9am Rathlin Island Head to Ballycastle Harbour and hop on board the 10am ferry to Rathlin Island. During the 40-minute journey you can take in the tranquil beauty of the northern Causeway Coast, before alighting on the island. Home to the Boathouse Visitor Centre, Rathlin has an intriguing history and a thriving wildlife population. Check the website for sailing times.
rathlin-ferry.com
12.30pm Lunch break After exploring the island, catch the noon ferry back to the mainland to enjoy a spot of lunch. The popular café, Our Dolly’s, offers a warm welcome and provides a tempting menu. Choose from a selection of hot or cold lunch options, as well as delicious homemade sweet treats. Tel 028 2024 8020
1.30pm On the beach Take a 10-minute walk down the road to discover Ballycastle Seafront and its beautiful beach. Stroll along the sands, enjoying the views of Fair Head cliffs to the east. From the beach, it’s just a short walk to Bonamargy Friary ruins, which date all the way back to 1500. These atmospheric remains, which are free to enter, provide a fascinating insight into the area’s turbulent history.
visitcauseway coastandglens.com
3pm Loughside No trip to Northern Ireland would be complete without visiting a lough, and there are two fine examples within easy reach of Ballycastle.
A 10-minute drive from the town takes you to Fair Head, a clifftop overlooking the sweep of Ballycastle Bay.
Loughs Doo and na Cranagh are tucked away from the edge, and there are several walking routes that offer stunning views and loughside trails. You can park up at the local farm for a small fee.
explorefairhead.com
6pm Cellar attraction After a busy day of exploring, it’s time for a hearty meal at one of Ballycastle’s best dinner spots, The Cellar. Offering a varied menu including seafood, steak and pasta, it combines tradition with comfort.
cellarballycastle
