Top 10 best cliff walks in Northern Ireland, ranked

There is nothing like a walk out in nature, paired with amazing views, and these stunning cliff walks in Northern Ireland can offer you this and so much more.

Northern Ireland’s landscape captivates everyone who visits the region, and it might be because of its stunningly beautiful and wild landscapes, which draw you in and stay in your memories for years on.

In addition, there is a certain charm about Northern Ireland, with its pristine beaches, coastal walks, and hiking trails, all of which offer spectacular views and fantastic photo opportunities.

We have compiled a list of some of the most inspiring walks, suitable for a mix of skill levels and guaranteeing a perfect date with nature.

So, if you are looking for your next outdoor adventure, why not take on one of these best cliff walks in Northern Ireland, guaranteeing an exciting day.

10. Portballintrae Causeway Loop Walk, Co. Antrim (8.8 km / 5.5 miles) – a stunning walk to the Giant’s Causeway

Take on this fantastic cliff walk to experience hidden beaches, rock formations, and stunning views before ending up at the famous Giant’s Causeway. 

This is the perfect place to stop for a wander around before retracing your steps back to Portballintrae.

Address: Beach Rd, Bushmills, County Antrim

9. North Down Coastal Path, Co. Down (25 km / 16 miles) – a fantastic coastal path in County Down

The lengthy North Down Coastal Path can be broken up into sections or taken on all at once. Either way, you will experience all the beauty that County Down offers.

So, if it’s a clear day, keep your eyes peeled for amazing views out to the Scottish coast.

Address: Marine Gardens, Bangor, County Down

8. Downhill Demesne Walking Trail, Co. Derry (3.2 km / 2 miles) – for breathtaking coastal scenery

This is the route for you if you fancy a cliff walk paired with the stunning clifftop Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne.

Starting at Bishops Gate, you will be guided by signs leading you towards the walking trail, but be sure to stop and admire your surroundings; it is fascinating here.

Address: Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, Seacoast Rd, Coleraine

7. Blackhead Cliff Walk, Co. Antrim (5 km / 3.1 miles) – one of the most scenic walks in Northern Ireland

Starting in Whitehead, this trail takes you along the dramatic cliffs, leading you to Blackhead Lighthouse, making it one of the best cliff walks in Northern Ireland.

Take this short but scenic walk to witness panoramic views, and perhaps you will spot minke whales or dolphins en route.

Address: Old Castle Rd, Whitehead, Carrickfergus, County Antrim

6. The Fair Head Cliff Walk, Co. Antrim (5.4 km / 3.4 miles) – one of the best cliff walks in Northern Ireland

Beginning at Fair Head, near Ballycastle, this jaw-dropping cliff path offers views of Northern Ireland’s tallest cliff face, which rises 600 ft (183 m) above the roaring sea.

Not only is this an epic place to don your hiking boots and take off, but it is also a popular place amongst climbers looking to take one of the largest climbable rocks in the country.

Address: 28 Fair Head Rd, Ballycastle, County Antrim

5. North Antrim Cliff Path, Co. Antrim (7.7 km / 4.8 miles) – one of the island’s best cliff walks

As one of the most spectacular cliff walks on the island of Ireland, this is an excellent adventure.

If you are lured by the promise of witnessing dramatic views of the Giant’s Causeway and several stunning headlands, which will blow you away (not literally, of course), then this is for you.

Address: Bushmills, County Antrim

4. Kebble Cliff Walk, Co. Antrim (3 km / 1.9 miles) – hike along the cliffs of Rathlin Island

This is one of our favourite cliff walks in Northern Ireland, located just off the coast of Ballycastle on Rathlin Island, the country’s most northerly inhabited island.

Here, you will follow the cliff path, which stops off at Bull Point, the iconic spot where Sir Richard Branson crash-landed his hot air balloon in the 1980s.

Look out for seabirds and wildlife along the way before taking the ferry back to Ballycastle.

Address: Rathlin Island, Ballycastle, County Antrim

3. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Walk, Co. Antrim (2.6 km / 1.6 miles) – an iconic attraction with stunning views

As one of the most iconic attractions in the country, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a must-do when in Northern Ireland.

Having been first erected in 1755 by local fishermen, it has become a hot spot for those looking for a thrill and beautiful views overlooking the North Antrim coast.

Begin at the Weighbridge Tearoom and continue along the cliffs until you reach the bridge.

Address: Ballintoy, Ballycastle

2. The Causeway Coastal Route, Co. Antrim and Co. Derry (33 km / 20.5 miles) – a great reason to visit

As one of Northern Ireland’s most significant natural highlights, the Causeway Coast Route is a two-day hike that offers beautiful views and numerous points of interest, such as The Giant’s Causeway and Dunluce Castle.

This is the ideal cliff walk for picturesque scenery of the dramatic coastline and those looking for the challenge of a lifetime.

Address: The Causeway Coast, Ballintoy, Ballycastle

1. The Gobbins Cliff Path, Co. Antrim (3 km / 2 miles) – a dramatic cliff walk

There is no way we could have compiled a list of the best cliff walks in Northern Ireland without adding The Gobbins Cliff Walk, deemed the most dramatic cliff walk on the continent.

The Gobbins Cliff Path offers endless opportunities to walk through caves and cross overhanging bridges, tunnels, and elevated pathways, making it a cliff walk like no other.

Address: 66 Middle Rd, Ballystrudder, Islandmagee, Larne, County Antrim

Notable mentions

• Giant’s Causeway Red Trail: A stunning clifftop walk at an iconic location.
• Orlock Point Walk: Orlock Point is a fascinating and historical walk in County Down.
• Kearney Coastal Walk:A short but excellent walk through unspoiled nature.
• Murlough Nature Reserve Trail: Hike through impressive sand dunes, with incredible views of the high Mourne Mountains in the background.

FAQs about the best cliff walks in Northern Ireland

What is the longest trail in Northern Ireland?

The Ulster Way, which is 1,000 km (621 miles) long.

What can you see along The Gobbins?

Tunnels, overhanging bridges, the Man O’ War, and an open-air aquarium filled with impressive sea life.

Where is excellent for a walk in Northern Ireland?

The North Antrim Coast is a stunning region to take on a wide range of beautiful coastal walks.

Alas, we hope this has inspired you to pop your walking boots on, grab your camera, and take on one of the best cliff walks in Northern Ireland, a country steeped in natural beauty.