From the Giant's Causeway the coast road continues by way of Ballintoy (13mi/21km) and Cushendun, in the middle of attractive heathland, to Ballycastle (pop. 3,000), a picturesque little harbor town surrounded by wooded country. From here a boat can be taken to the island of Rathlin, 6.5mi/10km offshore, which was once a Viking stronghold.
The Ballycastle Museum presents the town's social and folk history in an 18th C. courthouse. Displays include the Glen Taisie banner and a Cromwellian soldier's helmet.
For those not scared of heights there is a rope bridge spanning a 60ft-wide chasm between Carrick-a-rede island and the mainland. A salmon fishery is accessible from spring to mid-September.
People on a Rope Bridge at Carrik.
Rope Bridge at Carrick-a-Rede.
Address: Carrick-a-rede Island / Rope Bridge and Larrybane Visitors Center, Carrick-a-rede , Northern Ireland
Hours:
January 1 to February 27: 10:30am-3:30pm
February 28 to May 26: 10am-6pm
May 27 to August 31: 10am-7pm
September 1 to October 31: 10am-6pm
November 1 to December 31: 10:30am-3:30pm
Always closed on: Day after Christmas, St Stephen's Day, Boxing Day (December 26), Christmas - Christian (December 25)
Tips: Hours and admission apply to rope bridge. Last entry to rope bridge 45 minutes before closing.
Note: maximum of eight people on bridge at once. Suitable clothing and footwear recommended.
Parking: Pay
Disability Access: Partial facilities for persons with disabilities.
This annual weekend festival takes place in late June, focusing on traditional Irish song and dance. Concerts and high-stepping performances are held throughout the weekend by performers who travel from throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Address: Ballycastle Tourist Office, Sheskburn House 7 Mary Street, Ballycastle BT54 6QH, Northern Ireland
The Old Lammas Fair at Ballycastle is held on the last Monday and Tuesday every August and is one of Ireland's oldest fairs. "Dulse" (dried seaweed) and "Yellow Man" (local confectionery) are available to sample.
Address: Ballycastle Tourist Office, Sheskburn House 7 Mary Street, Ballycastle BT54 6QH, Northern Ireland
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Carrick-a-rede Island / Rope Bridge, Ballycastle
Carrick-a-rede Island / Rope Bridge, Ballycastle
Ballycastle, Antrim
