Overview
Nestled on the banks of the River Main, Cullybackey is a vibrant village of just over 2,600 residents in the Mid and East Antrim district. Only three miles north‑west of Ballymena, the settlement blends a rich archaeological past with a lively present, offering visitors a compact yet rewarding slice of Northern Irish life. The village’s layout centres around a main street lined with local shops, a railway station, and a series of historic churches that punctuate the landscape. Whether you are tracing ancient crannogs, admiring 19th‑century architecture, or simply strolling along the Cullybackey Millennium Riverwalk, the village provides a relaxed base for exploring County Antrim’s cultural heritage.
History
Cullybackey’s story stretches back to the ancient kingdom of Dál nAraidi, a Gaelic polity that dominated much of Ulster in the early medieval period. Archaeological surveys have uncovered crannogs (artificial islands) and souterrains, testifying to a long‑standing human presence in the fertile river valley. In the early Christian era, missionary Mackevet established a monastery that served as a centre of learning for centuries, a legacy hinted at by the village’s later ecclesiastical architecture.
The 18th‑century saw the rise of local gentry such as John Dickey of Cullybackey House, who raised the Cullybackey Volunteers in 1778 – a militia unit that reflected the community’s involvement in the wider political currents of the time. By 1847 the village comprised roughly 50 houses and a population of 235, a modest settlement that would grow steadily through the railway boom of the mid‑19th century.
What to See & Do
Arthur Cottage
Just outside the village on the B62 road lies Arthur Cottage, the ancestral home of William Arthur, father of Chester A. Arthur, the 21st President of the United States. Restored to its 18th‑century appearance, the thatched farmhouse opens to the public during the spring and summer months, offering a glimpse into the rural life that shaped a future American leader.
Churches and Spiritual Heritage
Cullybackey boasts an impressive collection of churches, each reflecting a different strand of the village’s religious history:
- Old Methodist Church – Opened in 1839 as the Original Secession Church, it later became part of the United Free Church of Scotland before joining the Methodist denomination in 1923.
- Cuningham Memorial Presbyterian Church – A modest yet dignified building serving the local Presbyterian community.
- Craigs Church of Ireland – Designed by Sir Charles Lanyon and erected in 1840, this stone‑faced church is accompanied by a historic graveyard that includes the “Strangers Plot,” where famine victims were interred.
- Reformed Presbyterian Church (Covenanter) – Reflects the Covenanter tradition that has deep roots in Ulster.
Craigdun Castle
A mile from the village centre, Craigdun Castle is a striking example of 19th‑century Scottish baronial architecture, also attributed to Charles Lanyon. After serving as a home for multiple‑sclerosis patients under the NHS, the castle was sold in the 1990s and has since been extensively renovated. Its gardens and restored interiors were finalists in the BBC Northern Ireland House of the Year competition in 2011, making it a worthwhile stop for architecture enthusiasts.
Cullybackey Millennium Riverwalk
The Riverwalk follows the gentle curve of the River Main, providing a scenic promenade that links the village’s historic core with its natural surroundings. Benches, interpretive panels, and well‑maintained pathways make it ideal for a leisurely walk or a quiet moment of reflection.
Sports and Community
Local sport is embodied by the Cullybackey Blues Football Club, which fields teams across age groups. The village’s community spirit is also evident in its schools – Cullybackey College, Buick Memorial Primary School, and The Diamond Primary School – which often host cultural events open to visitors.
Transport
Cullybackey is exceptionally well‑connected for a rural settlement. The Belfast‑Derry railway line, opened in 1855, stops at Cullybackey station almost hourly, providing direct links to Belfast, Ballymena and Portrush. Bus services operate from stops at both ends and the centre of Main Street, ensuring easy access to surrounding townlands and the wider Antrim region.
| Mode | Service | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Train | Belfast ↔ Portrush (via Cullybackey) | Approx. hourly throughout the day |
| Bus | Local routes serving Main Street and surrounding townlands | Regular throughout the day |
Practical Information
Getting There – Arrive by train on the Belfast‑Derry line; the station is a short walk from the village centre. If you prefer the road, the A26 passes close by, linking the village to Ballymena and the Antrim coast.
Opening Times – Arthur Cottage welcomes visitors during the spring and summer months; exact hours vary, so check local notices upon arrival. The churches are generally open for worship and may be visited outside service times. The Riverwalk is accessible year‑round.
Parking – Free on‑street parking is available along Main Street and near the railway station. Limited car‑park spaces exist adjacent to Craigdun Castle for visitors.
Accessibility – The Riverwalk and main thoroughfares are level and wheelchair‑friendly. Some historic churches have steps at the entrance; contact the individual congregation for assistance if needed.
Nearby Attractions – The village’s central location makes it a convenient base for day trips to the Antrim Coast, the Giant’s Causeway (≈30 km north) and the historic town of Ballymena.
Useful Links – For the most up‑to‑date transport timetables, visit the Translink website. More detailed information about Arthur Cottage can be found on the village’s heritage pages and on Wikipedia.
Nearby Attractions
While staying in Cullybackey, consider short drives to these notable sites:
- Ballymena Castle – A 17th‑century tower house set in pleasant parkland, just a few minutes south of the village. Ballymena Castle
- Antrim Coast and Glens – Designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering dramatic cliffs, beaches and coastal walks. Antrim Coast and Glens
- Ballycastle – A historic seaside town with a lively harbour, craft shops and the nearby Ballycastle Museum.
- Fair Head – Spectacular sea cliffs popular with climbers and walkers, located north‑west of Cullybackey. Fair Head at sunset, Ballycastle Co Antrim
These destinations are easily reachable by car or public transport, making Cullybackey an ideal base for exploring the wider region.
Walking & Cycling
Beyond the Millennium Riverwalk, the surrounding countryside offers several marked routes suitable for walkers and cyclists:
- River Main Loop – A 5 km circular walk that follows the riverbank, passes the interpretative centre at Arthur Cottage and offers views of historic crannog sites.
- Ballymena to Cullybackey Greenway – A traffic‑free, paved path linking the two towns, ideal for families and cyclists of all abilities.
- Antrim Heritage Trail – A longer, signposted route that connects Cullybackey with nearby historic villages such as Ahoghill and Glenarm, showcasing ancient sites and 19th‑century architecture.
All routes are well‑marked, largely flat and provide opportunities to spot local wildlife, especially kingfishers and otters along the River Main.
Cullybackey may be modest in size, but its blend of ancient history, well‑preserved architecture, and welcoming community makes it a rewarding stop for any traveller exploring County Antrim.