Ballycastle Town – Coastal Gateway to Rathlin Island

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Ballycastle is a welcoming coastal town in County Antrim, known for its harbour, sandy beach, and relaxed atmosphere. It serves as the main departure point for ferries to Rathlin Island and is a convenient base for exploring the north coast.

What to See & Do

  • 🏖️ Walk along **Ballycastle Beach** and the modern promenade with views of Fair Head ⛰️
  • 🛍️ Explore local **artisan shops, traditional pubs**, and seafood restaurants in the town centre 🍴
  • ⚓ Visit the **harbour and ferry terminal**, the gateway to the rugged Rathlin Island 🚢
  • 📍 Use the town as a **perfect base** for trips to the Dark Hedges, Carrick-a-Rede, and the Glens 🌿

How to Get There

  • 🚗 By Car: Easily accessible via the **A44** (from Ballymoney) or the scenic **A2 Coast Road** 🏁
  • 🚌 By Bus: Regular 🚍 **Goldline and local services** connect the town to **Coleraine** and **Ballymoney** 🚏
  • 🚆 By Train: Travel to 🚉 **Ballymoney station**, then take a direct 🚍 bus connection to Ballycastle 🚌
  • 🚢 By Sea: Seasonal ferry services link Ballycastle to **Campbeltown** in Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

Travel Tips

  • 🎟️ **Rathlin Ferry:** If you plan to visit the island, 📅 **book your tickets in advance**, especially during the summer 🚢
  • 🌦️ **Sea Conditions:** Check the 🌊 **marine forecast** if you are planning a boat trip or ferry crossing 💨
  • 🌅 **Early Starts:** Explore the **Diamond (town square)** in the early morning for the best local atmosphere 📸
  • 🥾 **Footwear:** Bring comfortable shoes for the 👣 **1.2km beach walk** which offers great views of Rathlin 🐚

Suggested Itinerary

  • 🕘 09:00 AM – Arrive in **Ballycastle town** and grab a coffee near the Diamond ☕
  • 🕤 09:30 AM – Take a refreshing walk along the **beach and promenade** toward Fair Head 🚶
  • 🕚 11:30 AM – Visit the **harbour** to watch the boats and explore the maritime museum ⚓
  • 🕐 01:00 PM – Enjoy a traditional lunch at a 🍴 **local gastro-pub** like *The Central* or *Marconi’s* 🐟

Opening Hours & Entry

Open:

Town accessible year-round

Entry Fee:

Free to explore public areas

Best Time to Visit:

Late spring to early autumn

Location

📌Ballycastle Town, County Antrim, Northern Ireland

👉 View on Google Maps

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