Background

Cranny Falls: A Coastal Waterfall Walk

Discover Cranny Falls: A gentle coastal walk to a hidden waterfall with historical trails and scenic views in County Antrim.

4.7

Cranny Falls, a scenic waterfall near Carnlough, County Antrim, offers a gentle 3-mile walk along a former limestone railway. The trail leads to a charming waterfall within a steep-sided, wooded ravine, known for its unique plantlife.

A brief summary to Cranny Falls

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for off-road walking, as the path can be partly rough.
  • Keep dogs under control, as sheep may be grazing in the surrounding fields.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, and dress accordingly, as the area can be exposed.
  • Take time to explore Gortin Quarry for views of Carnlough Bay.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Carnlough's Harbour Road, begin by walking up the steps beside the 'Harbour Lights' building. This will lead you to Herbert Street, and across a bridge over the main road (A2). Continue along the track, passing a car park, and gradually ascend to Gortin Quarry. From there, follow the path to the left towards Cranny Falls. The walk from Carnlough village to Cranny Falls is approximately 1.2 miles.

  • Public Transport

    The 252 or 152 bus services operate along the A2 Antrim Coast Road. Alight in Carnlough village and follow the walking directions from there. A single fare for a short trip within the Mid and East Antrim zone typically costs around £3.00.

  • Parking

    Parking is available in Carnlough village, including a car park near the community centre off Croft Road. Limited parking spaces are available closer to the falls for disabled access via Waterfall Road, though this is a private road. Parking is free. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak season.

Unlock the Best of Cranny Falls

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Cranny Falls

Cranny Falls, nestled near the coastal village of Carnlough in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, presents a delightful natural experience. The main attraction is the picturesque waterfall, cascading down rocks within a narrow, steep-sided wooded ravine. The surrounding environment creates a tranquil and serene atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing retreat. The journey to Cranny Falls is as rewarding as the destination itself. The 3-mile round trip follows the path of an old mineral railway, built in 1854 to transport limestone to the Carnlough harbor. This route offers a gentle incline, making it an easy walk suitable for most fitness levels. Along the way, information panels share the history of the area, providing context to the landscape. Before reaching the falls, the trail passes Gortin Quarry, a disused quarry offering panoramic views of Carnlough Bay. The quarry's mini-landscapes now host species-rich limestone grasslands. Cranny Falls itself is an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) due to the presence of Wood Barley, a scarce perennial grass and the only known location of this species in Ireland. The cool, humid environment of the ravine also supports a diverse range of ferns, mosses, and liverworts.

Popular Experiences near Cranny Falls

Popular Hotels near Cranny Falls

Select Currency