top of page

Red Bay Castle

Castle

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Cliffs, Farmland

Walking, Photography

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Eric Jones via Geograph.org.uk

Red Bay Castle is a ruined coastal castle on a red sandstone knoll between Waterfoot and Cushendall, above the red-sand bay that gives it its name, on the Antrim coast. Fragments of its walls cling to the steep mound beside the coast road. It was first built by the Bissett family in the thirteenth c...

8

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

2

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

4 day, 4 overnight

Johnny Joe’s (McCollam’s) – Cushendall, Harrys Cushendall, Lurig Bar – Cushendall

Glens Glamping, The Shepherds Rests

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Red Bay Castle?
Northern Ireland's spectacular Antrim coast holds this old landmark on a red sandstone headland. Hikers spot the remains easily while exploring the coastal roads near the villages.

What type of place is Red Bay Castle?
Red Bay Castle is a castle ruin on a headland in Northern Ireland.

When is the best time to visit Red Bay Castle?
Spring to autumn offers the most reliable weather for viewing the masonry from public paths. Clear morning hours bring out the best colours across the water.

What can you do at Red Bay Castle?
Looking up from the road below gives a great view of the lone red wall framing the headland. Photography fans can capture brilliant angles from the roadside during the daytime.

How long should I spend at Red Bay Castle?
Sparing about thirty minutes lets you admire the structure and read up on the regional history. A longer stay works well if you want to pair the stop with a scenic coastal drive.

Where do I park at Red Bay Castle?
Vehicles can use eight available spaces nearby, offering four day and four overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Red Bay Castle?
Johnny Joe’s (McCollam’s) – Cushendall, Harrys Cushendall, and Lurig Bar – Cushendall provide three spots to get food nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Red Bay Castle?
Glens Glamping and The Shepherds Rests provide two choices for accommodation in the local area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Free UK Travel Guides

Planning a UK adventure? Download our free itinerary guides and hidden gem collections, completely free.

Last Updated:

02 July 2026

Logo RGB_White_Stacked.png

Download the app

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to get all the latest updates regarding hidden gems and staycations plus much more!

Thanks for subscribing!

Cookie Policy

Connect with us

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Youtube
  • TikTok
bottom of page
UK Hidden Gems
UK Hidden GemsUncover the UK's best secrets on our app