Overview
Bushfoot Strand, officially listed as Runkerry Beach, is a north‑west facing sand beach on County Antrim’s Causeway Coast. The 500 m long, 80 m wide stretch lies just east of the River Bush mouth, backed by rolling dunes that host the Giant’s Causeway‑Bushmills Railway. From the sand you enjoy uninterrupted Atlantic panoramas, sweeping views of Runkerry Headland and the iconic basalt cliffs of the Giant’s Causeway.
History & Background
Designated as an Area of Special Scientific Interest, the beach is a living laboratory of coastal dynamics. Winter storms strip away sand, exposing ancient river‑bed deposits, while spring and summer rebuild the shoreline – a textbook example of beach‑state change documented by the Habitas research network.
In the late 1800s the flat expanse hosted annual horse races that drew thousands of spectators, a tradition that faded as the beach’s shape became more unpredictable. The nearby waters have claimed several vessels – the Reliance (1847), Thomas Graham (1879) and Royal Standard (1887) – highlighting historic maritime hazards. Smuggling was also part of the local lore, with tea, illicit whiskey and other contraband transferred from larger ships to nimble craft before being hidden along the coast.
What to See & Do
- Surfing – Renowned as one of the best surf spots in the UK, wave heights range from a modest 2 ft in summer to a formidable 12 ft during Atlantic storms. Strong rip currents and shelving make it a playground for experienced surfers; beginners should stay clear of the water.
- Coastal Walks – A well‑maintained footpath starts at the Portballintrae car park, crosses the distinctive ‘Three‑Quarter’ footbridge and follows the old tramway along the dunes. Walkers are treated to sweeping Atlantic vistas, dolphin sightings off Runkerry Headland and striking basalt cliffs at Runkerry Point.
- Giant’s Causeway & Bushmills Railway – The heritage railway climbs over the dunes, crosses the River Bush and offers a 15‑minute scenic ride between Bushmills and the Giant’s Causeway. Trains run four times daily (11:00 am, 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm and 2:30 pm) on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, delivering aerial views of the beach and headland.
- Runkerry House – From the sand you can glimpse the sandstone mansion built in the 1860s for Sir Edward Macnaghten. Now private apartments, the house adds a historic silhouette to the horizon and can be admired from the coastal path.
- Wildlife & Photography – The beach’s position at the river mouth attracts dolphins, especially in summer, and a variety of seabirds. Winter brings a stark, rock‑strewn landscape that contrasts sharply with the golden sands of summer, providing endless photographic opportunities from sunrise to dramatic storm‑lit evenings.
Practical Information
- Access – A short footpath leads from the main village car park in Portballintrae, crossing the ‘Three‑Quarter’ footbridge onto the dunes.
- Parking – Free car parking is available adjacent to the beach, with disabled spaces provided.
- Facilities – Public toilets are located in the Portballintrae car park.
- Railway Details – The Giant’s Causeway‑Bushmills Railway operates a 15‑minute scenic service four times daily between 11:00 am and 2:30 pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets and timetables are available on the railway’s official website.
- Safety – Strong rip currents and shelving make swimming hazardous; surf only if experienced and heed local warnings.
- Opening Hours – The beach is free to access at any time; the railway and nearby visitor centre have their own operating hours.
Getting there
Bushfoot Strand is reached via the Portballintrae car park, which lies just off the A2 coastal road linking Belfast to the north‑west of Antrim. The car park provides free standard and disabled parking. For those travelling without a car, the Ulsterbus service between Ballycastle and Bushmills includes a stop in Portballintrae, making the beach accessible by public transport.
Nearby attractions
The area around Bushfoot Strand offers several other points of interest. A short drive north brings you to Ballycastle, a bustling seaside town with its own harbour, historic castle ruins and a lively promenade. To the south, the dramatic cliffs of Fair Head provide world‑class climbing and spectacular coastal walks. The world‑famous Giant’s Causeway is also within easy reach, either by foot or via the heritage railway.
Enjoy Bushfoot Strand’s ever‑changing sands, powerful surf and dramatic coastal scenery – a quintessential slice of Antrim’s wild Atlantic coast.