Overview
Murlough Bay sits on the far north-eastern edge of County Antrim, sheltered between the dramatic headlands of Fair Head and Torr Head. Facing directly into the Atlantic, the inlet offers some of the most uninterrupted sea views on the Causeway Coast and Glens route. On clear days, the outline of Rathlin Island is prominent, with the Scottish coast and the Mull of Kintyre visible across the water. The bay’s relative isolation means it rarely feels crowded; visitors typically arrive to find wide stretches of sand, wind-swept dunes, and the constant rhythm of the tide.
The coastline here is a textbook example of Antrim’s volcanic geology. Ancient basalt caps rest atop older sandstone and limestone layers, creating a rugged, multi-hued cliff face. Scattered along the lower slopes are the weathered remains of historic lime kilns, silent markers of an industry that once thrived here before the area returned to its wilder state.
History & The Casement Memorial
The name Murlough derives from the Old Irish Muir-bolc (later Murlach), simply translating to “sea inlet”. The bay’s historical significance stretches back to the early medieval period. According to the 11th-century poem Amra Coluim Cille, Saint Columba landed here in 595 AD after sailing from Iona, using the bay as a natural harbour before travelling inland to the Synod of Drumceat.
Murlough Bay carries a more modern, and deeply poignant, political legacy. Sir Roger Casement, the Irish nationalist and diplomat executed by the British government in 1916, famously requested to be buried on its shores. Though his remains were eventually interred in Glasnevin Cemetery, Dublin, the bay remains a site of quiet remembrance. A simple stone plinth stands near the cliff edge, marking where a commemorative cross once stood. Each August, a small memorial service is held here, drawing those who wish to reflect on Casement’s life and the turbulent era he helped shape.
Landscape, Flora & Wildlife
The area surrounding the bay is protected as the Murlough National Nature Reserve, one of Northern Ireland’s most important coastal habitats. The reserve encompasses a dynamic mix of active sand dunes, salt marshes, and coastal grasslands that shift with the seasons. This mosaic of habitats supports an impressive variety of wildlife.
Birdwatchers consider the reserve a priority site. Over 200 species have been recorded, including redshank, curlew, eider ducks, and fulmars. The cliffs and headlands provide nesting grounds for peregrine falcons, while the waters are frequently visited by grey seals and bottlenose dolphins, particularly in the calm conditions of early morning. The dunes also host rare flora and invertebrates, including several specialist butterfly species that rely on the specific coastal grasses.
Walking the Coast
Murlough Bay is best explored on foot. The primary route is a roughly 4.5 km loop that begins at the main car park on Murlough Road. The path follows a quiet lane toward Knockbrack Viewpoint, offering the first proper glimpse of the bay, before descending via a steep, rocky track to the beach. The return journey follows the same route, so visitors should be prepared for a sustained climb back to the car park. Most people complete the walk in 60 to 90 minutes, depending on how much time is spent exploring the shoreline.
For those seeking a longer challenge, the coastal path can be extended westward toward Fair Head or eastward toward Torr Head. These stretches are less formalised and require good navigation skills, but they reward determined walkers with constant Atlantic panoramas and a sense of true coastal wilderness. The ground is uneven in places, and the coastal path can become slick in wet weather, so sturdy footwear is essential.
Practical Information
Getting There
The most reliable way to reach Murlough Bay is by car. From Ballycastle, follow the A2 east toward the coast, then take the turn for Torr Road. Continue onto Fairhead Road, where you will find the National Trust car park. A smaller, local car park sits slightly closer to the bay entrance. The final approach road is narrow and winding, with limited passing places, so drivers should proceed carefully.
Public transport options are limited. A bus service runs to Ballycastle, but there is no direct route to the bay. Visitors relying on public transport will need to walk approximately 2.5 km from the town centre, which is a manageable but exposed coastal walk.
Parking & Fees
Access to Murlough Bay itself is completely free. Parking is available at the Fairhead National Trust car park (£2 per car) or at the smaller local layby near the bay entrance, which is free but subject to availability. Charges for the National Trust car park are subject to change, so it is worth checking current rates before your visit.
Accessibility
The main car park and the initial stretch of the coastal path are relatively level and can be managed by visitors with moderate mobility. However, the route to the beach involves steep, uneven terrain and rocky steps that are not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. The coastal environment is exposed and lacks sheltered facilities, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Visitor Tips
- Check the tide: The beach is fully accessible at low tide but can be completely submerged at high tide. Always consult a local tide table before heading down to the sand.
- Dress for the coast: The Atlantic weather shifts quickly. Even on sunny days, a waterproof layer and windproof jacket are advisable.
- Dogs: Leashed dogs are welcome on the coastal path. Please keep them under control near the cliff edges and away from nesting birds, especially between March and July.
- Facilities: There are no toilets, shops, or cafés at the bay. Plan to use facilities in Ballycastle before or after your visit.
- Swimming: The waters are cold and currents can be strong. Swimming is not recommended unless you are an experienced open-water swimmer familiar with the local conditions.
Nearby Attractions
Murlough Bay sits on the southern edge of the Causeway Coastal Route, making it an easy stop between major landmarks:
- Fair Head: A dramatic headland featuring Northern Ireland’s highest sea cliffs and a popular route for climbers and walkers.
- Rathlin Island: Accessible by a short ferry crossing from Ballycastle, the island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its seabird colonies and tranquil landscapes.
- Glens of Antrim: A series of scenic river valleys just inland, offering waterfalls, historic sites, and charming villages like Cushendun.
- Ballycastle: The nearest town, providing a range of cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options, as well as the Ballycastle Museum for local history.
Murlough Bay rewards visitors who come prepared for its wild, unspoiled character. Arrive at low tide, bring a packed lunch to enjoy on the dunes, and allow extra time to follow the shoreline to Knockbrack Viewpoint for the best panoramic shots of the Atlantic coast.