Kinbane Head

Kinbane Head sits about three miles west of Ballycastle, visible in the distance from the road. The car park alone gives magnificent views along the coast, but it’s worth the walk out to the point itself — a steep path down to the headland, with the sea a hundred feet below, seabirds close overhead, and waves breaking against Carrickamanon Rock just offshore. Look out for buzzards on the way down, and keep an eye on the road — it’s narrow.

Kinbane Castle

The ruin at the point is Kinbane Castle, built by a MacDonnell in 1547. In 1551, English troops reduced it to its current state with cannon fire, though Colla MacDonnell held the position through the attack — he died here in 1558, and is believed to be buried at Bonamargy Friary along with many of his family.

Getting there

Take the B15 coast road toward Ballintoy; about 1.5 miles from Ballycastle, a signposted road on the right leads to a car park with toilets and a picnic area.