The Skull Rock: A Coastal Sentinel
Discover the breathtaking Skull Rock in Ballycastle, a unique natural formation with picturesque coastal views along the Causeway Coastal Route.
The Skull Rock, near Ballycastle in Northern Ireland, is a distinctive rock formation resembling a human skull. It offers stunning coastal views and a peaceful atmosphere for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
A brief summary to The Skull Rock
- 6JVC+37, Ballycastle, GB
- 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
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting conditions for photography.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain around Skull Rock can be uneven and slippery.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy while taking in the incredible views of the coastline.
- Check local weather forecasts before visiting, as conditions can change rapidly.
Getting There
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Walking
If you're already in Ballycastle, a scenic walk to Skull Rock is a great option. Start at the Ballycastle seafront and follow the coastal path west. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles (30-40 minutes) and offers stunning coastal views. Look for signs pointing towards Skull Rock or use smartphone navigation to coordinates 55.2427064, -6.3792817. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Public Transport
To reach Skull Rock via public transport, take a bus from Belfast or Derry to Ballycastle. Translink operates regular services on this route. From Ballycastle, you can walk for about 30 minutes or take a local taxi to the location. The coordinates for Skull Rock are 55.2427064, -6.3792817. A taxi from the Ballycastle town center will cost approximately £7-£10. A bus from Belfast to Ballycastle is around £10-£15.
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Car
If traveling by car, start from Belfast or Derry and take the A2 road towards the Causeway Coastal Route. From Belfast, it's about a 1.5-hour drive. Use GPS to navigate to the coordinates 55.2427064, -6.3792817, near Ballycastle. Free parking is available nearby. Note that during peak tourist season, parking may be limited.
Discover more about The Skull Rock
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Whitepark Bay viewpoint
1.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Whitepark Bay viewpoint, a scenic gem along the Northern Irish coastline offering stunning views and tranquility.
Giants Causeway Carpark
8.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Giants Causeway Carpark, the gateway to Northern Ireland's iconic natural wonder and captivating myths.
National Trust - Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre
8.8 km
Explore the stunning Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre, the gateway to Northern Ireland's iconic natural wonder with rich history and breathtaking views.
Bay of the Cow
8.9 km
Explore the stunning Bay of the Cow, a tranquil coastal gem near the Giant's Causeway, rich in natural beauty and history.
Giant's Causeway & Bushmills Railway
8.9 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and geological marvels of Giant's Causeway, paired with a charming journey on the historic Bushmills Railway.
Portcoon Jetty
9.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Portcoon Jetty, a breathtaking coastal escape in Northern Ireland, perfect for photography and nature lovers alike.
The Dark Hedges
12.0 km
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Dunluce Castle
13.2 km
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National Trust Barmouth Bird Hide
25.7 km
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National Trust - Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne
28.7 km
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Merrick Stone
33.0 km
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American Monument
38.8 km
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Whitebay
42.1 km
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Moville Shore Path Walk, Inishowen
42.3 km
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Carraig Fhada Lighthouse
43.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Elephant Rock
0.2 km
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Ballintoy Harbour
0.7 km
Explore the enchanting Ballintoy Harbour, a must-see destination on the Northern Ireland coast, known for its stunning views and rich maritime history.
Ballintoy point
0.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Ballintoy Point, a scenic coastal spot in Northern Ireland perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Black and White Bay
0.9 km
Explore the stunning beauty and tranquility of Black and White Bay, a coastal gem in Ballycastle, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
The Element Rock
1.5 km
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Ballintoy boat tours
1.5 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Northern Ireland's coastline with unforgettable boat tours in Ballintoy, showcasing rugged cliffs and vibrant marine life.
Causeway Coastal Route
1.5 km
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Whitepark Bay Beach
2.0 km
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Dunseverick coastal walk
2.2 km
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National Trust - White Park Bay
2.3 km
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Portbradden Harbour
2.4 km
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Portbraddan Cottage
2.5 km
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Beach and caves
2.9 km
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Rope bridge quarry (GOT)
3.0 km
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National Trust - Carrick-a-Rede
3.0 km
Experience the thrill of crossing Carrick-a-Rede Bridge, a stunning coastal attraction in Northern Ireland with breathtaking views and rich history.
Essential places to dine
Roark's Kitchen
0.6 km
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The Fullerton Arms
1.5 km
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Carrick-A-Rede Bar and Restaurant
1.6 km
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Bothy White Park Bay
2.9 km
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Causeway Tavern B & B
5.9 km
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Hungry Giant Causeway
8.7 km
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Finn McCool's Giants Causeway Hostel
8.7 km
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The Nook
8.7 km
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National trust cafe
8.8 km
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The Causeway Hotel
8.8 km
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The Cellar
9.4 km
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Market Square
10.0 km
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The Bushmills Inn Restaurant and Bar
10.0 km
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The Bushmills Inn Hotel
10.0 km
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Bushmills Townhouse
10.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
North Coast Coffee
1.5 km
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The wee shop
1.6 km
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The Woodpile Provisions
5.0 km
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Express Snack Hub & Hot Drinks
8.8 km
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Someplace in Time
9.0 km
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The Original Factory Shop (Ballycastle)
9.1 km
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Cobwebs
9.4 km
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Home Made Beautiful
9.5 km
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That Witch
9.6 km
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Old Bushmills Distillery Gift Shop
10.0 km
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CentraBushmills
10.0 km
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Co-op Food - Bushmills
10.0 km
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Lilly's
10.0 km
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Therapy:Sole
10.0 km
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Therapy Style Studio
10.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
McBrides Bar
5.9 km
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The Coast Inn
9.2 km
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ANZAC BAR, RESTAURANT & OFF SALES
9.3 km
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Glenshesk Bar
9.4 km
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House of McDonnell
9.4 km
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The Boyd Arms
9.4 km
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Nellie Rua's, Ballycastle
9.4 km
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O'Connor's Bar
9.4 km
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The Diamond Bar
9.4 km
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Anglers Arms
9.7 km
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Harbour Bar
9.7 km
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The Scotch House Bar
10.0 km
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Chonga Castlecatt
10.8 km
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The Armada Inn
12.8 km
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McCuaig's Bar
13.1 km
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