Ballycastle, Northern Ireland Tourist Attractions
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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.
Ballycastle Museum
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.
Carrick-a-rede Island (Rope Bridge)
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.
Fleadh Amhran agus Rince Festival
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.
Old Lammas Fair
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.
Bonamargy Friary
Half a mile east of Ballycastle is the Bonamargy Friary. Here visitors can see the remains of a Franciscan Friary founded in 1500 by Rory MacQuillan.
Watertop Farm
Watertop Open Farm offers tours, sheep-shearing (July-August), game birds, a museum, pony trekking, barbecues, boating, fishing and camping.
Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland
Rathlin Island bird sanctuary is located in the Kebble National Nature Reserve, near West Lighthouse. It is home to breeding colonies of kittiwakes, razorbills and puffins.
