Overview
The Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) was designated in 1988 and protects a spectacular stretch of County Antrim’s coastline and inland glens. Extending from the port town of Larne in the east to Ballycastle in the west, the AONB also includes Rathlin Island, the only inhabited offshore island in Ireland. Over 150 km of rugged shoreline, soaring headlands such as Fair Head, and a patchwork of farmland, moorland and forested valleys make this region one of the most diverse landscapes on the island.
History & Cultural Heritage
The geology of the area tells a story that begins 300 million years ago with ancient schist formations in the north‑west, later overlaid by igneous and sedimentary rocks. The last glaciation, ending around 17 000 years ago, carved the deep glens that give the region its name. Human history is equally layered. The ancient kingdom of Dalriada linked north‑eastern Ireland with western Scotland, and its legacy survives in the shared language and folklore of the glens. Glenarm Castle, the seat of the McDonnell (or MacDonnell) clan for four centuries, remains a living historic house and garden, crowned Historic Houses 2023 Garden of the Year.
Geology & Landscape
The Antrim Plateau is a basalt‑capped highland that rises to over 500 m at Trostan, the highest point in the AONB. Beneath the basalt lie older sedimentary layers of sandstone, limestone and shale, while the north‑west exposes 300‑million‑year‑old silvery schists. Glacial erosion during the last Ice Age deepened the valleys, creating the nine classic glens. Along the coast, wave action has produced sea stacks such as the White Lady near Garron Point, raised beaches at Southbay and dramatic sea caves in the red sandstone at Red Bay. These contrasting rock types give the shoreline its striking colour palette – red, grey, black and white.
What to See & Do
The Nine Glens
Each of the nine glens has its own character. Glenariff, often called the “Queen of the Glens”, boasts the spectacular Mare’s Tail waterfall and a 1,000‑acre forest park with riverside walks. Glencloy (the Valley of the Sword) reveals ancient flint‑working sites, while Glenballyemon offers a derelict railway line that hints at the area’s mining past. Glenesk is home to the 15th‑century Friary of Bonmargie, and Glenaan is linked to the legend of Oisín, son of the giant Fionn mac Cumhaill.
Coastal Highlights
The coastline is a photographer’s dream. From the dramatic cliffs of Fair Head, where Scotland’s Mull of Kintyre can be glimpsed on clear days, to the sweeping sands of Ballycastle Beach, the sea frames every view. Rathlin Island is a world‑renowned seabird colony; each breeding season up to 250 000 birds, including puffins, razorbills and kittiwakes, nest on its cliffs. The narrow headland at Torr Head offers a 12‑mile crossing point to Scotland and a superb viewpoint for spotting the Ailsa Craig and the islands of Arran, Islay and Jura.
Walks & Trails
The region is criss‑crossed by waymarked routes. The Moyle Way is a challenging 26‑mile trek that traverses five of the nine glens, ideal for a two‑day adventure. For a shorter immersion, the Glenariff Forest Park offers gentle riverside loops that lead to Mare’s Tail. The Glenariff Nature Reserve Waterfalls Walk showcases a series of cascades set against ancient woodland. The long‑distance Ulster Way also passes through several glens, linking the AONB to the wider network of Irish trails. Guided walks are organised by Glenarm Tourism on the third Sunday of each month, providing local insight into flora, fauna and folklore.
Cycling & Water Sports
The Causeway Coastal Route provides a spectacular, low‑traffic cycling corridor with dedicated pull‑outs for photography. Several sections, notably between Ballycastle and Cushendall, are suitable for road cyclists of all abilities. For paddlers, the sheltered bays of Murlough Bay and Cushendun offer calm waters for kayaking and stand‑up paddle‑boarding, while the open Atlantic off Rathlin Island attracts experienced sea‑kayakers and occasional dolphin‑watching tours.
Heritage Sites
Beyond Glenarm Castle, the area contains numerous historic monuments: the Glenariff viaduct, the Friary of Bonmargie, and the Glencloy flint workshops. The Glenarm Visitor Information Point offers maps, exhibition panels and details on the archaeological sites scattered across the AONB. Nearby, the Ballycastle Heritage Trail (see internal link) guides visitors past the 17th‑century Ballycastle Museum, the restored Ballycastle Railway narrow‑gauge line and the historic harbour.
Wildlife & Natural History
The Antrim Plateau’s blanket bog supports ground‑nesting birds such as red grouse and the rare hen harrier. Coastal waters are frequented by seals, otters and occasional cetaceans. In the woodlands, the insectivorous butterwort and a variety of wildflowers add botanical interest. Rathlin Island’s seabird colonies are a highlight for birdwatchers, while the surrounding seas host occasional dolphin sightings. Dogs are welcome on most glen trails and beaches, provided they are kept on a lead near nesting sites.
Practical Information
The Antrim Coast and Glens AONB is freely accessible; there is no admission fee for the landscape itself. Parking is available at most glen car parks, at Glenariff Forest Park and at the visitor centre in Glenarm. Public transport links include the A2 road, the Belfast‑Larne railway line, and the Belfast‑Derry railway line, making the area reachable from Belfast in under an hour. For those driving, the scenic Causeway Coastal Route follows the coastline and provides numerous pull‑outs for photography.
Getting There
- By Car: From Belfast, take the A2 north‑east to Larne, then follow the coastal road through the glens to Ballycastle.
- By Train: Regular services run from Belfast to Larne and to Ballymena; from there, local buses connect to Glenarm and the glens.
- By Ferry: Rathlin Island is served by a seasonal ferry from Ballycastle, operating several times daily during the summer months (check the latest timetable).
Visitor Facilities
- Glenarm Castle & Gardens – open seasonally; check the official website for opening dates and ticket prices.
- Glenariff Forest Park Visitor Centre – provides maps, restrooms and a café.
- Ballycastle Beach – free public beach with lifeguard patrols in summer.
- Guided Walks – registration required at Glenarm Visitor Centre (2 pm) or at the walk’s start point.
- Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust – contact point for conservation information and volunteer opportunities (website linked above).
Seasonal Highlights
Spring brings the tulip festival at Glenarm Castle and a burst of wildflowers across the glens. Summer is prime for seabird watching on Rathlin Island and for exploring the coastal paths. Autumn colours illuminate the forested valleys, while winter offers dramatic storm‑wrought seascapes.
Events & Festivals
- Glenarm Tulip Festival (April) – a celebration of spring with garden tours, craft stalls and live music.
- Ballycastle Folk & Food Festival (July) – showcases local musicians, traditional food vendors and maritime heritage.
- Rathlin Island Birdwatching Weekend (May) – organised by the Rathlin Bird Observatory, ideal for ornithologists.
Nearby Attractions
- Ballycastle Heritage Trail – a self‑guided walk linking the town’s historic sites, harbour and museum.
- Ballycastle Museum – displays artefacts from the glens, the fishing industry and the famous Giant’s Causeway.
- Ballycastle Railway – a preserved narrow‑gauge line offering scenic rides along the coast.
- Giant’s Causeway and Carrick‑a‑Rède Rope Bridge – located a short drive north of the AONB, these iconic attractions complement a day‑trip itinerary.
Conservation & Sustainability
The AONB is managed jointly by local authorities and community groups, with a focus on protecting the unique geology, habitats and cultural sites. Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked paths, respect wildlife nesting areas (especially on Rathlin Island), and support local businesses that practice sustainable tourism.
Explore the Antrim Coast and Glens – a landscape where ancient stone, roaring Atlantic waves and verdant valleys converge, offering a truly unforgettable Irish experience.