Looking for a family holiday with a difference? Why not try the coast of Antrim, Ireland? With spectacular views, fantastic visitor attractions and plenty for kids and families to do, it’s a brilliant holiday destination. Katherine shares her experience:
We travelled to the Antrim Coast as a family of three — Mum, Dad and our daughter, then aged three and a half. We drove up towards Ballymena and started our Antrim Coast journey at the lovely town of Carnlough. You could equally start from Belfast or Larne, depending on where you’re travelling from.
Carnlough
Carnlough is a small town with a very picturesque harbour, on the shores of Carnlough Bay and backed by the Antrim Mountains. There’s a lovely walk up to Hurry Head, the flat, raised area above Carnlough harbour where the quarry railway once ended. Around a hundred years ago, limestone was loaded onto boats here bound for Scotland. The Hurry itself was the gravity-based railway that ran down from Gortin Quarry, a mile or so up the hill.
From Carnlough we set off on the A2 — the Causeway Coastal Route — an incredibly scenic drive, often described as one of the world’s great road routes.
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Ballycastle
Ballycastle was a lovely town we stopped at — and returned to another day. There was a great buzz about the place, and a perfect spot for a bag of chips too. We meant to get across to Rathlin Island from here, but that was saved for next time.
The Causeway Coastal Route passes through the town, and a few miles out at Ballyvoy you have a choice of two roads: the main route over the mountain plateau, or the Torr Scenic Route, which passes the laneways to dramatic Fairhead and stunning Murlough Bay.
Here you’ll find one of the most spectacular walks in Northern Ireland, from Murlough to Fairhead. The road follows the coast past Torr Head, Altgore Cashel and O’Neill’s Cairn to the village of Cushendun. It was simply stunning — and a little nerve-wracking when we met a big bus coming the other way!
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White Park Bay
We eventually made our way to White Park Bay and stayed in the Whitepark Bay Hostel, where we had a private room. It’s set in a beautiful spot overlooking White Park Bay, a National Trust beach reached by a private road down from the hostel.
Hostelling is a great choice with children. We got to have the breakfast we’re used to at home, then made sandwiches and a picnic to bring with us — and it meant we didn’t feel too guilty eating out in the evenings. It’s a great value option for families too.
Places to See in Antrim
From White Park Bay we explored the whole area and picked up all the classic Northern Ireland experiences! From stepping out onto the famous rope bridge at Carrick-a-Rede for a wobbly, slightly nerve-jangling crossing, to a visit to the Giant’s Causeway itself.
- The Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre, run by the National Trust, is well worth building into your visit before or after exploring the stones themselves.
- The Bushmills Distillery makes for a fascinating stop too.
- Dunluce Castle is a now-ruined medieval castle, and an amazing place to explore — we thoroughly enjoyed wandering (and climbing!) all around it.
- Another lovely stop was Castlerock, between Coleraine and Derry, where we visited Hill Farm Riding Centre and had a great time with our horse-mad little girl.
Derry
On our way home, we came via Derry — a great city with plenty to do. It’s worth building in a night or two here as well if you have the time.
For older children, there’s a wealth of activities along the Antrim Coast, from water sports to adventure and activity centres. Nobody in the family should be bored on this trip.
Have you visited Antrim with kids? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Causeway Coastal Route?
The Causeway Coastal Route is the scenic A2 road that runs along the Antrim coast, taking in towns like Carnlough and Ballycastle, dramatic viewpoints such as Torr Head and Murlough Bay, and major attractions including the Giant’s Causeway. It’s regularly rated as one of the great road trips of the world.
Is the Antrim Coast suitable for young children?
Yes — this route works well for young families. There are gentle harbour walks, beaches, castles to explore, and plenty of stops to break up the driving, as well as hostel and family accommodation options along the way.
What are the main family attractions along the Antrim Coast?
Highlights include the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, the Giant’s Causeway and its visitor centre, Bushmills Distillery, Dunluce Castle, and horse riding at Castlerock. Coastal towns like Carnlough and Ballycastle are also great for a relaxed stop.
How long should we plan for a trip along the Antrim Coast?
It depends how much time you want to spend at each stop, but allowing a few days lets you enjoy the coastal drive without rushing, take in Derry on the way home, and stop properly at the main attractions rather than just passing through.
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