Overview
Cushendall (Irish: Cois Abhann Dalla, “foot of the River Dall”) sits on the A2 coastal road in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The village lies beneath the table‑topped Lurigethan Mountain and marks the meeting point of three of the famed Nine Glens – Glenaan, Glenballyeamon and Glencorp. A short walk north‑east of the village is Cushendall Beach, a 250‑metre ribbon of sand, shingle and pebble backed by a grassy promenade. From the beach the distant silhouette of Scotland’s Mull of Kintyre can be seen on clear days.
History / Background
The settlement grew on the north bank of the River Dall in the 17th century, originally known as Newtownglens. In 1817 landlord Francis Turnly erected the pink‑sandstone Curfew Tower to deter unrest; today it houses an artist‑in‑residence programme run by Bill Drummond. The village endured turbulent episodes during the 20th‑century Troubles, including the 23 June 1922 shooting of three civilians and the 1977 killing of RUC officer Joseph Campbell. Despite this, Cushendall was designated a Conservation Area in 1973, preserving its four Georgian streets and historic character. The annual Heart of the Glens festival, held each August since 1990, now celebrates music, dance and crafts, adding a vibrant cultural backdrop to the tranquil beach.
What to See & Do
| Attraction | Type | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Curfew Tower | Historic landmark | Pink sandstone turret, artist‑in‑residence programme |
| Oisín’s Grave | Megalithic court cairn | 5,000‑year‑old court tomb, legend of the Celtic poet Oisín |
| Layd Church & Churchyard | Ruins | 13th‑century Franciscan foundation, MacDonnell burial vaults |
| Red Bay Castle | Medieval ruin | 14th‑century Bisset family stronghold, sea‑view backdrop |
| Glenariff Forest Park | Outdoor – forest & waterfalls | 1,185 ha woodland, four marked trails (1–9 km), waterfalls, café |
| Cushendall Sailing & Boating Club | Water sport | Summer RYA learn‑to‑sail school, open to all ages |
| Cushendall Golf Club | Sport | Nine‑hole course winding through the River Dall valley, set behind the beach |
| Ruairí Óg GAC | Hurling | Ulster champions, club founded 1906 |
| Heart of the Glens Festival | Event (August) | Week‑long programme of concerts, workshops and traditional dance |
| Lurig Run | Running event (August) | 3.5‑mile race with a 1,500 ft ascent of Lurigethan |
Beach‑Centred Activities
- Scenic walks along the promenade offer uninterrupted sea views and lead to the cliff path that reaches Layd Old Church (≈0.66 mi).
- Beach pursuits such as gentle swimming, shell‑combing, kite‑flying and family picnics.
- Dog‑friendly strolls (seasonal restrictions 1 June–15 September to protect nesting birds).
- Photography – sunrise over the North Channel and sunset framed by Lurigethan make the beach a favourite spot for landscape shooters.
Exploring the Glens
Cushendall is the ideal launchpad for the Nine Glens of Antrim. Glenaan, Glenballyeamon and Glencorp each begin within a short drive, offering quiet valley walks, river crossings and dramatic coastal cliffs. The National Trust‑preserved village of Cushendun lies just 3.4 miles north and makes a rewarding half‑day excursion.
Transport & Access
By car – The village is accessed via the A2 coastal road. A dedicated car park sits adjacent to the beach entrance; parking is free for visitors, though occasional charges may apply during peak season (please confirm locally).
By bus – Regular Ulsterbus services run along the A2, stopping in Cushendall. Check the latest timetables for routes to Ballycastle, Ballymena and Belfast.
By train – The nearest railway station is Ballymena (approximately 30 km inland). From there, bus connections link to Cushendall. Verify current schedules and any required transfers.
Accessibility – The promenade and beach are level, offering limited wheelchair access to the shoreline. Detailed accessibility information should be confirmed with the local information office.
Practical Information
Getting there – Cushendall Beach is accessed from Shore Road, just off the A2 coastal route. A dedicated car park sits adjacent to the beach entrance.
Facilities
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Car park | Adjacent to beach entrance, free for visitors |
| Promenade | Grassed walkway with benches, picnic tables and a children’s play area |
| Toilets | Public facilities near the car park (seasonal opening) |
| Accessibility | Beach and promenade are level; limited wheelchair access to the immediate shoreline |
| Dog policy | Dogs allowed year‑round, but restricted from 1 June to 15 September to protect nesting birds |
Opening times – The beach is open year‑round; the promenade and car park are available daily. Seasonal facilities such as the play area operate from May to September.
Nearby services – Cafés, pubs and B&Bs line the village’s Georgian streets, and the village shop provides basic provisions.
Local Events
- Heart of the Glens Festival (August) – A week‑long celebration of traditional music, dance, crafts and food, attracting performers from across Ireland and beyond.
- Lurig Run (August) – A 3.5‑mile mountain race that climbs Lurigethan, popular with locals and visiting runners.
- Summer Sailing Sessions – The Cushendall Sailing & Boating Club runs regular learn‑to‑sail courses throughout the summer months.
Nearby Attractions
- Ballycastle – A bustling seaside town with a harbour, castle ruins and the famous Ballycastle Railway.
- Aghalee – Historic canal village offering a scenic broad water walk.
- Antrim Coast and Glens – The wider coastal route featuring dramatic cliffs and hidden coves.
- Ballylumford Dolmen – A prehistoric monument a short drive inland.
- Ballycastle Heritage Trail – A self‑guided walk exploring the town’s maritime history.
Cushendall offers a rare blend of historic intrigue, natural beauty and community spirit. Whether wandering ancient ruins, sailing on the North Channel, or simply soaking up the sea breeze on the shingle beach, visitors find a welcoming gateway to the heart of the Antrim Glens.