With the Giant’s Causeway a short drive away and miles of golden coastline 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.
Pitching up at one of the best caravan parks in Northern Ireland will give you the ideal base for taking in the many delights of this wonderful country. For caravanners planning to explore Ballycastle, it’s only an hour’s drive from Belfast and is perfectly situated for exploring intriguing sites and mysterious landscapes across the county.
Where to stay in Ballycastle
A popular spot on the Causeway Coast and the pick of the best caravan sites in our 2024 Top 100 Sites Guide, Ballyness Caravan Park is a luxurious touring park that is a great base for exploring the area and offers plenty of on-site activities.
Alternatively, there is Causeway Coast Holiday Park, a seafront holiday park, within walking distance of Ballycastle’s centre, has scenic pitches and an indoor swimming pool.
What to do in Ballycastle on Day 1
9am – Rathlin Island
Head to Ballycastle Harbour and hop on 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 rocky island. Home to the Boathouse Visitor Centre, the island has an intriguing history and a thriving wildlife population. Check the website for sailing times.
12.30pm – Lunch break
After exploring the island, catch the noon ferry to the mainland for a spot of lunch. The popular café Our Dolly’s offers a warm welcome and a tempting menu. Choose from a selection of hot or cold lunch options, as well as homemade sweet treats.
1.30pm – On the beach
Take a 10-minute walk down the road to discover Ballycastle Seafront and its beautiful beach. Stroll on the sand, 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 back to 1500. The atmospheric remains, free to enter, provide a fascinating insight into the area’s history.
3pm – Loughside
No trip to Northern Ireland would be complete without visiting a lough, and there are two superb examples within easy reach of Ballycastle.
A 10-minute drive from the town is Fair Head, a clifftop overlooking 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. Park up at the local farm for a small fee.
6pm – Cellar attraction
After a busy day of exploring, enjoy a hearty meal at one of Ballycastle’s best dinner spots, The Cellar. Offering a varied menu including seafood, steak and pasta, the cosy restaurant blends tradition and comfort.
What to do on Day 2
9am – Over the bridge
Start the day off with a visit to the iconic Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, a 10-minute drive from Ballycastle. There is plenty to see at the site, as well as the 20m-long bridge that connects a rocky island to the mainland.
The 2km-long coastal trail is perfect for dolphin-spotting, or you could explore a century-old quarry, or a fisherman’s cottage dating back 400 years. Adult tickets £13.50, children £6.75.
11am – Capture the castle
Travelling west, Dunseverick Castle is another 10-minute drive along the coast and well worth a visit. Free to enter, the remains of the ancient fort seem to spring from the cliffs and although little remains of the structure, it is steeped in history and tells a fascinating story of the area’s past, from royal residents to Viking and Cromwellian invaders.
12.30pm – Refuelling stop
Three miles along the coast is the Giant’s Causeway, and next to the visitor centre you’ll find a charming lunch spot, The Nook. The rustic converted schoolhouse serves traditional food and homemade cakes.
2.30pm – One giant step
Once you’ve fuelled up, set off down the road to the gateway of the site. This UNESCO World Heritage Site of 40,000 basalt columns, the result of ancient volcanic activity, is one of the most stunning natural attractions. While away the afternoon exploring the rock formations and walking routes that trace the coastline.
The visitor experience ticket (adults £13.50, children £6.75) includes on-site parking, guided tours, audio guides and access to the Visitor Centre.
6pm – Dine out in style
Time to reward yourself with a satisfying dinner! A couple of miles down the road from the Giant’s Causeway lies the historic conservation village of Bushmills. In the heart of the village, Tartine at the Distillers Arms is a homely, welcoming restaurant, offering elegant, modern dishes to suit all tastes.
Thinking of heading to another part of the UK for a tour? Then see what you can do if you spend 48 hours in Dorchester.
Lead image: Getty
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