How’s your head for heights? A narrow, swinging bridge, 20 metres long and suspended 100 feet above the rocks and sea below, links mainland Northern Ireland with a tiny outcropping of volcanic rock known as Carrick-a-Rede. Many years ago it was a much more precarious crossing, when salmon fishermen would use the bridge to check their nets, before the catch here dried up. Today the bridge is one of the country’s most beloved visitor attractions - around a quarter of a million people every year make the trip across and back, though every now and again some lose their nerve and have to be rescued from the island!
Drive to Northern Ireland’s wild coastline and enjoy the contrast between the bright blue of the Irish Sea and the dazzling green of the surrounding countryside.
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Whitepark Bay might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Ballycastle. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply enjoy its bars.
Explore the great outdoors at Murlough Bay, a lovely green space in Ballycastle. Stroll along the seaside or discover the countryside in this quaint area.
"Can’t get a drink apparently even tho we were hotel guests we’d to wait until 5 until restaurant opened. You get added hair with you mash then get accused of planting the hair by kitchen staff because it wasn’t mixed in the mash even tho you’d to remove it from you mouth so you set it on top of mash as proof…im ginger and the hair was pure black. Told they have a private car park at back of hotel so thinking your car will be safe you wake only to find both your window wipers up and someone tried...
"The property was adorable, comfortable, and convenient to everything you could need. The hosts even added extra touches like fresh flowers and pastries from the neighboring bakery."
"The Quad room had plenty of space, and the king bed was very comfortable. Also, we enjoyed the openness of the shared kitchen and living room. There was even fresh bread, teas and coffees available as part of the stay the next morning."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Ballycastle is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering a range of activities such as golf and access to scenic recreational areas. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor experiences, from activity holidays to day trips, all set against stunning backdrops. For those looking to relax, there are also charming outdoor seating options available throughout the town.
Shopping
Ballycastle offers charming shopping experiences with Castlecroft Square, a vibrant market 22.5km away. If you're up for a drive, explore Causeway Speciality Market, 27.4km away, and Braidwater Retail Park, 38.6km away, both offering a variety of family and business vibes for unique gifts and souvenirs.
Recreation
Experience a round of golf at the Royal Portrush Golf Club, just 24.1km from Ballycastle, where stunning coastal views and challenging fairways await. Alternatively, enjoy the serene landscapes at Glenariff Forest Park, 22.5km away, perfect for relaxation and reconnecting with nature.
Adventure
At Waterworld, a thrilling waterpark 25.7km from Ballycastle, experience exhilarating slides and family-friendly attractions. For a change of pace, embark on the Millennium Riverside Walk, a scenic hiking trail 37.0km away, where you can immerse yourself in stunning outdoor vistas and adventurous exploration.
Nightlife
Ballycastle offers a charming nightlife with cosy pubs and stunning coastal views. Enjoy traditional Irish music at venues like The Marine Hotel and The Central Bar, where locals gather for lively conversation and a pint. The welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for a relaxed evening out.
Find the best attractions in and around Ballycastle
Ballycastle is a delightful destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking stunning scenery. Explore the beautiful Ballycastle Beach, the charming seafront, and the picturesque Ballycastle Bay and Harbour. For an added touch of adventure, don't miss the nearby Ballintoy Harbour. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Ballycastle offers a perfect blend of beach life and exploration for every traveller.
Giant's Causeway: Marvel at the unique hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy breathtaking coastal views, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike, just 16.1km from Ballycastle.
The Dark Hedges: Stroll through this enchanting avenue lined with ancient beech trees, creating a magical tunnel effect. Located 11.3km away, it's a favourite spot for both locals and visitors, offering a peaceful atmosphere and friendly vibes.
Kinbane Castle: Explore the romantic ruins of this 16th-century castle perched on a cliff, providing stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Situated within Ballycastle, it’s steeped in history and culture, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely visit.
Best time to go to Ballycastle
The best time to visit Ballycastle can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Ballycastle falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Ballycastle falls in January and February. February has average visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.
Tips to save on your trip to Ballycastle
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling to Ballycastle during the low season (January to February and November) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Ballycastle holiday package cost?
You can grab a holiday package to this popular destination on Expedia. However, how much your holiday to Ballycastle costs will depend on factors like the season, length of stay and hotel choice.
What are the cheapest months to go to Ballycastle?
February, November and December are great times to look for cheap Ballycastle holiday packages. Opting to travel in less busy months means you can typically find lower prices on hotels and flights.
How many days is enough for Ballycastle?
With a well-organised schedule, you can easily visit the top Ballycastle sights in a few days. But if you want to discover hidden spots or go on day tours, consider booking your Ballycastle holiday for longer.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Ballycastle?
Whether you want to explore top sights like Marconi Memorial and Ballycastle Museum on your Ballycastle holiday, or coming for its great golfing, camping and fishing, there's something for everyone here. With so many things to see and do, you'll soon learn why so many visitors think Ballycastle is a good holiday destination.
How to find the best Ballycastle package deals?
Use Expedia's filter tool to find some unbeatable Ballycastle package deals. When you start your search, just set your maximum budget and then sort the results by "Price: low to high." If you want to save, plan your trip for midweek, or browse for Ballycastle package deals in the off-season. Switch up your travel dates and you may score even better discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's usually best to book your holiday package well in advance.
Is it cheaper to book a Ballycastle holiday as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your Ballycastle break by booking a personalised holiday package. Check the "Package" heading, then enter your destination and travel dates to browse some great airfares and hotel prices. Bundle everything into a neat package and you can save hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a car rental and you may land a better deal.
When to book a holiday package to Ballycastle?
Enjoy incredible discounts by reserving your flights in advance with Expedia. If being spontaneous is more your thing, take advantage of our last-minute deals for a spur-of-the-moment Ballycastle break.
How to plan a trip to Ballycastle?
Choose your dates: What you'd like to do in Ballycastle and your preferred season will help you decide when to go.
Work out your budget: Ensure you have enough money to pay for everything from food and transportation to flights and experiences. Your hotel will likely be the biggest expense during your trip to Ballycastle.
Work out your trip length: Consider how long you'd like to spend discovering Ballycastle. Plan your itinerary so you can get to all the experiences and attractions you're interested in at a comfortable pace.
Combine your airfare and accommodation: Once you've nailed down your dates and duration, lock in the perfect Ballycastle holiday package for you.