History & Heritage

Bonamargy Friary

A Franciscan friary founded in 1485, on the edge of Ballycastle Golf Course — burial place of Sorley Boy MacDonnell and the Earls of Antrim.

Crannogs

Artificial lake islands built from the Neolithic period into the 17th century — a fine example survives at Lough-na-Cranagh, Fair Head.

Dunaneeny Castle

The MacDonnell stronghold where Sorley Boy was born and died — overlooking Port Brittas, the old name for Ballycastle harbour.

Further Reading

Books on Ballycastle, Rathlin Island, and the North Antrim coast, for anyone who wants to go deeper than a visitor guide can.

The Legend of Finn McCool

The giant warrior of Irish mythology turns up across this coast — from the Giant's Causeway to Fair Head, where he's said to have kept watch.

The MacDonnells

Sorley Boy MacDonnell, born near Ballycastle around 1505, built the clan's hold on the Antrim coast and is buried at Bonamargy Friary.

Tracing Your Ballycastle & Antrim Ancestry

Where to start researching Antrim family history — PRONI, GRONI, and the Glens of Antrim Historical Society.