Red Bay Castle: A Coastal Sentinel
Explore the historic ruins of Red Bay Castle on the Causeway Coastal Route, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Northern Ireland's past.
Red Bay Castle, also known as McQuillan's Fort, is a historic ruin perched on a headland overlooking the sea near Cushendall, Northern Ireland. Built in the 13th century, it has witnessed centuries of conflict and changing ownership, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's turbulent past and stunning coastal views.
A brief summary to Red Bay Castle
- A2, Ballymena, BT44 0SH, GB
Local tips
- Visit during sunset for breathtaking views of the coastline and a magical atmosphere.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the surrounding trails and rocky terrain.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and the castle's architecture.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the castle grounds while soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Getting There
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Driving
If driving from Belfast, follow the A2 towards Ballymena and then continue along the Causeway Coastal Route. Red Bay Castle is located on a headland north of Glenariff and south of Cushendall, easily visible from the A2. Parking is available nearby, but be mindful of any parking regulations.
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Public Transport
To reach Red Bay Castle via public transport, take a train or bus from Belfast to Ballymena. From Ballymena, you can take a local bus or a taxi to Red Bay Castle. Translink operates bus services in the area. A taxi from Ballymena town center will cost approximately £10-£15.
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Walking
If you are in Cushendall, you can walk to Red Bay Castle. Follow the A2 north towards Red Bay. The walk takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Be aware that the road can be busy, so exercise caution.
Discover more about Red Bay Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Whitebay
13.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Whitebay, a tranquil tourist attraction in Ballymena perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Whitepark Bay viewpoint
28.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Whitepark Bay viewpoint, a scenic gem along the Northern Irish coastline offering stunning views and tranquility.
National Trust - White Park Bay
28.7 km
Experience the unspoiled beauty of White Park Bay, where dramatic landscapes meet serene beaches in Northern Ireland's breathtaking coastline.
Dunseverick Castle
31.4 km
Discover the enchanting ruins of Dunseverick Castle, a historical landmark on Northern Ireland's stunning Antrim Coast, perfect for hiking and exploration.
North Antrim Cliff Path Hike
31.4 km
Explore the stunning North Antrim Cliff Path Hike, a breathtaking journey along Ireland's rugged coastline with enchanting views and rich history.
National Trust - Glenoe
33.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Glenoe Waterfall, where nature's tranquility meets captivating landscapes in the heart of Northern Ireland.
Giants Causeway Carpark
34.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Giants Causeway Carpark, the gateway to Northern Ireland's iconic natural wonder and captivating myths.
Shepherd's Steps
34.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Shepherd's Steps, a natural preserve leading to the iconic Giant's Causeway with stunning coastal views and unique geological formations.
Giant's Causeway - Blue Trail
34.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and geological wonders of Giant's Causeway - a must-visit hiking area in Northern Ireland.
Giant's Causeway & Bushmills Railway
34.6 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and geological marvels of Giant's Causeway, paired with a charming journey on the historic Bushmills Railway.
Amphitheatre Viewpoint - End of the cliffwalk
34.6 km
Discover the breathtaking panoramas at Amphitheatre Viewpoint in Bushmills, an iconic coastal destination showcasing Northern Ireland's stunning landscapes.
National Trust - Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre
34.6 km
Explore the stunning Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre, the gateway to Northern Ireland's iconic natural wonder with rich history and breathtaking views.
Giant's Causeway Viewpoint
34.7 km
Experience the stunning vistas of the Giant's Causeway Viewpoint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Northern Ireland's natural beauty.
Giant's Causeway
34.8 km
Explore the stunning Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing unique basalt columns and breathtaking coastal scenery in Northern Ireland.
Bay of the Cow
34.9 km
Explore the stunning Bay of the Cow, a tranquil coastal gem near the Giant's Causeway, rich in natural beauty and history.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Glens Of Antrim Historical Society
1.5 km
Discover the captivating history of Northern Ireland at The Glens Of Antrim Historical Society, a must-visit museum in Cushendall.
The Glens of Antrim
1.6 km
Explore the Glens of Antrim, a breathtaking natural wonder in Northern Ireland, where lush landscapes, rich folklore, and charming villages await.
Cushendall Beach
1.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Cushendall Beach, a serene coastal haven in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, perfect for relaxation and scenic adventures.
Antrim Coast and Glens National Landscape
6.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Antrim Coast and Glens National Landscape, a haven of natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor adventures in Northern Ireland.
Cushendun Caves
6.4 km
Discover the breathtaking Cushendun Caves, a geological marvel on Northern Ireland's Antrim coast, ideal for exploration and photography.
Glenariff Forest Park
6.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Glenariff Forest Park, a national treasure in Northern Ireland, featuring stunning trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Glenariff Forest
6.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Glenariff Forest in Ballymena, where serene trails and stunning landscapes await nature lovers and adventurers.
Glenmona House
6.8 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of Glenmona House in Cushendun, an iconic manor house surrounded by stunning gardens.
Cranny Falls
8.2 km
Discover Cranny Falls: A gentle coastal walk to a hidden waterfall with historical trails and scenic views in County Antrim.
Carnlough Harbour
9.3 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Carnlough Harbour, Northern Ireland's hidden gem along the Antrim Coast, perfect for boating and relaxation.
Carnlough Beach
10.6 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Carnlough Beach, a stunning coastal gem on the Antrim Coast, perfect for relaxation and scenic exploration.
Glenarm Walled Garden
12.7 km
Explore the enchanting Glenarm Walled Garden, a historic paradise of vibrant flora and serene landscapes in Northern Ireland.
Glenarm Castle
12.9 km
Explore the enchanting Glenarm Castle, where stunning architecture meets breathtaking gardens in a rich tapestry of Irish history.
Glenarm Forest
13.4 km
Explore the serene beauty of Glenarm Forest, a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Northern Ireland's breathtaking landscape.
Torr Head
14.3 km
Discover the stunning views and rich history of Torr Head, a hidden gem along Northern Ireland's beautiful Antrim Coast.
Essential places to dine
Harrys Cushendall
1.6 km
Discover Harry's Cushendall: A seafood haven on Northern Ireland's stunning Causeway Coast with diverse dishes for every palate.
Laragh Lodge Restaurant
6.1 km
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Frances Anne and Tapestry Restaurant
9.3 km
Experience exquisite British cuisine with stunning harbor views at Frances Anne and Tapestry Restaurant in Carnlough.
The Scenic Inn
19.1 km
Experience local flavors and breathtaking views at The Scenic Inn - your perfect dining spot in Armoy.
The Cellar
19.3 km
Experience the best of local seafood at The Cellar in Ballycastle - where fresh meets flavor in a charming seaside setting.
Carrick-A-Rede Bar and Restaurant
26.9 km
Experience the best of Northern Irish cuisine at Carrick-A-Rede Bar and Restaurant—where delicious food meets stunning coastal views.
The Fullerton Arms
26.9 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Fullerton Arms in Ballintoy - where comfort meets breathtaking coastal views.
Roark's Kitchen
28.0 km
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Bothy White Park Bay
29.4 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and exquisite coffee at Bothy White Park Bay, nestled on Northern Ireland's scenic coastline.
Millside Restaurant
29.4 km
Discover delightful European flavors at Millside Restaurant in Gracehill - where every meal is a celebration of local culinary traditions.
Causeway Tavern B & B
31.3 km
Discover comfort and charm at Causeway Tavern B & B in Dunseverick - your perfect base for exploring Northern Ireland's natural wonders.
Tartine at the Distillers Arms
33.4 km
Experience exquisite modern European cuisine at Tartine at the Distillers Arms in Bushmills, where local flavors meet culinary innovation.
The Bush House Bar
33.5 km
Discover The Bush House Bar - A Cozy Pub Experience in Bushmills Offering Local Brews and Hearty Irish Fare.
Flash In The Pan
33.5 km
Experience authentic British cuisine at Flash In The Pan in Bushmills – home of delicious fish and chips and warm hospitality.
Market Square
33.5 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Market Square in Bushmills - where delicious food meets vibrant culture.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
EBB&FLOW Crafts and Gifts Carnlough
9.3 km
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That Witch
19.3 km
Discover unique, handcrafted jewelry at That Witch in Ballycastle, where every piece reflects the beauty of the region.
Home Made Beautiful
19.3 km
Explore the charm of Ballycastle at Home Made Beautiful, your go-to gift shop for unique handmade treasures and local artisan crafts.
Cobwebs
19.4 km
Explore Cobwebs, Ballycastle's antique store, where history and charm come together in a treasure hunt for unique collectibles and vintage finds.
The Original Factory Shop (Ballycastle)
19.6 km
Experience the best in shopping at The Original Factory Shop in Ballycastle, where quality meets affordability for every traveler.
Someplace in Time
19.9 km
Explore the enchanting furniture store Someplace in Time in Ballycastle, where unique vintage and contemporary pieces await every discerning shopper.
Logans Fashions
20.6 km
Discover a charming blend of fashion and café culture at Logans Fashions in Cloughmills, Ballymena, where style meets comfort.
The Nest Broughshane
21.7 km
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The Woodpile Provisions
25.0 km
Explore unique handmade home goods at The Woodpile Provisions in Ballycastle, where local craftsmanship meets cozy charm for the perfect souvenir.
Fairhill Shopping Centre
26.1 km
Discover a shopping paradise at Fairhill Shopping Centre, Ballymena, where fashion meets flavor and community spirit thrives.
The wee shop
26.9 km
Experience local charm at The Wee Shop in Ballycastle, your go-to convenience store for essentials and unique souvenirs in Northern Ireland.
North Coast Coffee
26.9 km
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Emerald Bears
29.1 km
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Be Unique By Emma
29.3 km
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Pets At The Causeway
32.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Glen Bar
15.6 km
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Hunters Bar
16.9 km
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The Armada Inn
18.6 km
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The Diamond Bar
19.3 km
Experience authentic Irish pub culture at The Diamond Bar in Ballycastle, offering a warm atmosphere and a wide selection of local beverages.
House of McDonnell
19.3 km
Discover the heart of Ballycastle at the House of McDonnell, where traditional Irish cuisine meets vibrant local culture in a cozy pub setting.
Harbour Bar
19.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and local charm at Harbour Bar, Ballycastle's premier destination for drinks and entertainment.
The Boyd Arms
19.3 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Boyd Arms in Ballycastle, where great food and local brews await in a cozy pub atmosphere.
O'Connor's Bar
19.3 km
Discover the heart of Ballycastle at O'Connor's Bar, where traditional Irish hospitality meets a vibrant local atmosphere.
Glenshesk Bar
19.4 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Glenshesk Bar, Ballycastle's favorite spot for local brews and live music.
Nellie Rua's, Ballycastle
19.4 km
Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Nellie Rua's in Ballycastle, where local flavors meet a welcoming atmosphere in a stunning beer garden.
Anglers Arms
19.4 km
Experience the warm Irish hospitality at Anglers Arms Pub in Ballycastle, offering delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere to enjoy with friends.
ANZAC BAR, RESTAURANT & OFF SALES
19.5 km
Discover the heart of Irish culture at ANZAC Bar, Restaurant & Off Sales in Ballycastle, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
The Coast Inn
19.9 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Coast Inn, Ballycastle's cherished pub offering local cuisine and craft beverages.
The Blackstone Bar & Off Sales
26.2 km
Discover the lively spirit of The Blackstone Bar & Off Sales in Ballymena, where great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await you.
McCuaig's Bar
26.4 km
Discover the heart of Rathlin Island at McCuaig's Bar, where traditional Irish hospitality meets stunning coastal views and vibrant live music.
