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Viewpoint · Ballycastle, Northern Ireland
Fairhead
Cliff of about 200 meters east of Ballycastle, formed by large dolerite columns. Waymarked trails run along the top, with views of Rathlin and, on clear days, Scotland.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Fairhead
Fair Head, in Irish An Bhinn Mhór, is a cliff about 200 meters high on the northeast corner of County Antrim, around 7 km from Ballycastle. The cliff face is formed of giant dolerite columns, volcanic rock about 60 million years old, and it stretches for several kilometres above the sea.
The highlands are mostly private farms, and visitor access is via waymarked trails opened with the cooperation of landowners. There are routes of varying lengths from the National Trust car park that run along the cliff edge, past small lakes and archaeological remains, such as an ancient artificial island in one of them.
From the top you can see Ballycastle, Rathlin Island and Murlough Bay, and on clear days the coast of Scotland. The cliff is also one of the best known climbing venues in the British Isles.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to three hours, depending on the trail chosen.
Best time
On dry, clear days, for the view. With strong wind, rain, or fog the cliff edge becomes dangerous; in those cases, leave it for another day.
How to get there
Leave Ballycastle via the A2 road toward Cushendall, turn onto Torr Road and then Fairhead Road, to the National Trust car park, about 7 km.
Tip
Wear boots: the terrain is grass, peat and farm tracks, often wet. Keep away from the edge and respect gates and livestock.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Fairhead
What is the height of Fair Head?
About 200 meters above sea level, on a face of dolerite columns that stretches for several kilometres.
How to get to Fair Head?
By car from Ballycastle via the A2, Torr Road and Fairhead Road to the National Trust car park. There are waymarked trails from there.
Is the Fair Head trail difficult?
There are routes of different lengths, on uneven and often wet ground. The most demanding descends toward Murlough Bay. In strong wind or fog, avoid the edge.