Kinbane Castle Walk
This walk takes you to Kinbane Castle on the County Antrim coast. The castle is located in a fine spot on a headland between Ballycastle and Ballintoy on the Causeway Coast.
There is a parking area south of the castle where you can start your walk. From here follow the footpaths north to the castle and the headland.
Kinbane Castle, meaning "white head" in Irish, is named for the limestone headland it sits upon, which juts dramatically into the Atlantic Ocean. The castle was originally constructed in the mid-16th century by Colla MacDonnell, a member of the powerful MacDonnell clan. Although now in ruins, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's turbulent past and the strategic importance of this coastal location.
The walk to the castle provides striking views of the rugged coastline, with its dramatic cliffs and rocky outcrops. On clear days, you can see Rathlin Island and even the Mull of Kintyre across the sea in Scotland. The natural surroundings feature a variety of wildflowers, especially in spring and summer, including thrift, sea campion, and wild thyme, which thrive on the cliffside and add splashes of colour to the landscape.
To continue your walking in the area head west to visit the popular Carrick-a-Rede.
Kinbane Castle Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Kinbane Castle Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Kinbane Castle. The area is rich in birdlife, with seabirds such as fulmars, razorbills, and guillemots nesting on the cliffs. You may also spot kestrels and peregrine falcons hunting along the headlands. Marine life is another highlight; seals can sometimes be seen basking on the rocks below, and porpoises or dolphins are occasional visitors to the waters offshore.
Kinbane Castle from Kinbane Head. The steep path to the castle winds down from the car park, offering a more intimate perspective of the coastline as you descend. Care should be taken on the return journey due to the incline and uneven ground. Beyond the historical and scenic appeal, the headland also provides a sense of tranquillity, with the sound of waves crashing against the rocks below creating a peaceful ambiance.