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Fair Head

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Cliffs

Walking, Photography, Wildlife Watching, Climbing

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Jonathan Wilkins via Geograph.org.uk

Gazing across the vast grey morning sea reveals the massive dolerite cliffs of Fair Head rising over Northern Ireland's wild, rugged Antrim coast. These vertical rock faces climb up to a hundred metres high, presenting an incredible wall of columnar basalt formations created by ancient volcanic for...

10

Parking nearby

1

Food Spots nearby

2

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

1 day, 9 overnight

The Diamond Bar – Broughshane

Fairhead Glamping Pods, Torr Lodge

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Fair Head?
Northern Ireland's wild Antrim coast hosts this massive headland rising high above the grey sea. Walkers often discover the location while exploring the coastal trails east of Ballycastle.

What type of place is Fair Head?
Fair Head is a massive dolerite cliff standing on the northeast coast of Northern Ireland.

When is the best time to visit Fair Head?
Spring through to autumn offers the most reliable weather for walking across the spongy peat and heather pathways. Clear summer days provide the best visibility for spotting distant Scottish islands floating on the horizon.

What can you do at Fair Head?
Walking along the coastal cliff path exposes your face to raw Atlantic gales and massive maritime views. Adventurous rock climbers also travel from far across the globe to test their skills against the sheer vertical basalt joints.

How long should I spend at Fair Head?
Allocating roughly half a day allows ample time to navigate the uneven dirt tracks and look out for buzzards soaring on the thermals. Serious hikers often spend much longer combining the headland paths into an extended coastal journey.

Where do I park at Fair Head?
Vehicles can use the ten spaces provided on-site, providing one day and nine overnight parking spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Fair Head?
The Diamond Bar - Broughshane provides one dining choice near the cliffs. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Fair Head?
Fairhead Glamping Pods and Torr Lodge offer two overnight options in the immediate area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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