Fair Head and Murlough Bay
Dramatic basalt cliffs and a secluded bay offering breathtaking coastal walks with panoramic views of the Irish Sea.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunrise views are magical
Fair Head and Murlough Bay
Best Time
Sunrise views are magical
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic basalt cliffs and a secluded bay offering breathtaking coastal walks with panoramic views of the Irish Sea.
"Unbelievably beautiful corner of the world. Stunning cliff top walk."
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can be very mucky and uneven. Good hiking boots are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Honesty Box
A small donation (£3) is requested for parking at the farm. It's vital for access. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fair Head Cliffs
County Antrim Coast
Towering sea cliffs offering panoramic views of Rathlin Island and Scotland. A true natural wonder.
Murlough Bay
Beneath Fair Head
A secluded cove with a mix of sandy and rocky beaches, framed by cliffs and trees. A hidden gem.
Coastal Walking Trails
Fair Head and Murlough Bay
Spectacular cliff-top walks with incredible drop-offs and breathtaking scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Dramatic Coastal Walks
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can be very mucky and uneven. Good hiking boots are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Honesty Box
A small donation (£3) is requested for parking at the farm. It's vital for access. :moneybag:
Dress for the Wind
It can get very windy on the cliffs. Layers are your best friend! :cloud:
Pack a Picnic
There are no facilities nearby, so bring your own food and drinks. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can be very mucky and uneven. Good hiking boots are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Honesty Box
A small donation (£3) is requested for parking at the farm. It's vital for access. :moneybag:
Dress for the Wind
It can get very windy on the cliffs. Layers are your best friend! :cloud:
Pack a Picnic
There are no facilities nearby, so bring your own food and drinks. :sandwich:
Check Weather Forecast
Coastal weather can change rapidly. Safety first! :umbrella:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Fair Head and Murlough Bay for their absolutely stunning, breathtaking views and dramatic coastal scenery. The cliff-top walks are a major highlight, offering an exhilarating experience. The remote feel and natural beauty make it a highly recommended hidden gem, though visitors should be prepared for potentially muddy paths and strong winds.
"Amazing place. The views from all along the longer hike are incredibible. Breathtaking drop offs all along. The wind trying to pluck You from the face of the earth and hurl You out to sea. And all You need to pay is 3£ to park in the farmyard parking lot. Amazing. Dont forget to read the flip up boards on the trail markers. They tell story's."
Sal Cter
"Car park on the farmland has a £3 honesty box. Stunning views, especially at sunset - don’t miss this!"
Bianca Dagheti
"Good walk from farmyard where farmer asks for £3 donation to use it. Nice lochs one with a crannog. Spectacular cliffs and views...don't get too close!"
Julian Kennedy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access point is via a farmyard parking lot near Fair Head. From there, you can access walking trails. Driving the coastal route and stopping at Torr Head, Murlough Bay, and then Fair Head is a popular day trip.
Public transport options are limited for reaching this specific remote location. It's best accessed by car.
Many visitors recommend driving the scenic coastal route, incorporating Torr Head and Ballintoy Harbour before reaching Fair Head and Murlough Bay.
Yes, there's a path from the top parking area that leads towards Murlough Bay. Be aware that this path can be very muddy and parts may have eroded.
Fair Head and Murlough Bay are located on the Causeway Coast, which is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Belfast, depending on traffic and your specific route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no official entrance fee, but the farmyard parking lot requests a £3 donation via an honesty box.
As a natural landscape, there are no set opening hours. Access is generally available during daylight hours.
No, booking is not required as it's a natural attraction. However, accommodation in the area, especially during peak season, should be booked in advance.
There are very limited facilities. The farmyard parking may have basic amenities, but it's best to come prepared with everything you need.
Parking is not free; a £3 donation is requested at the farmyard parking lot.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Enjoy spectacular cliff-top walks, photography, and soaking in the dramatic coastal scenery. Murlough Bay offers a unique beach experience.
The cliff-top walk offers breathtaking views but can be challenging due to wind and uneven terrain. The path to Murlough Bay from the top can be very muddy.
Absolutely! The dramatic cliffs, sea views, and secluded bay provide endless stunning photo opportunities.
While the water looks inviting, be cautious of currents and weather conditions if considering paddling or swimming.
The area has a rich history, and you might find information boards along the trails detailing local stories and geology.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer magical light, especially during summer mornings. Overcast days can also create dramatic, moody shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant views of Rathlin Island or Scotland.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local guidelines and respect any signage regarding drone operation.
The edge of the Fair Head cliffs, the secluded Murlough Bay beach, and the winding coastal paths offer incredible photographic potential.
Include a person or a recognizable object in your shot to give a sense of the immense scale of the cliffs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Packing plenty of snacks and drinks is essential, as facilities are minimal. 🚶 Hikers and Climbers
📸 Photographers
Aim for sunrise or sunset for the most magical light, but even on overcast days, the moody atmosphere can be captured beautifully. Don't forget a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the landscape and be prepared for wind, which can add a dynamic element to your photos. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Causeway Coast
This coastline offers a wealth of natural beauty and historical significance. The drive itself is a major part of the experience, with winding roads offering stunning sea vistas at every turn. Many travelers recommend dedicating a full day or even two to fully explore the diverse landscapes and attractions along the Causeway Coast.
When planning your visit, consider the seasonal variations. Summer offers the best chance for good weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring. However, spring and autumn can provide equally dramatic scenery with fewer crowds. Always check local conditions and be prepared for changeable weather, especially on the exposed coast.
The Geology and Landscape
Murlough Bay, nestled beneath Fair Head, presents a contrasting yet complementary landscape. It's a beautiful stretch of coastline featuring a mix of sandy and rocky beaches, backed by cliffs and pockets of forest. This unique combination creates a picturesque and somewhat secluded atmosphere, making it feel like a true hidden gem.
+1The area also features several lochs (lakes) on the plateau, some of which contain crannogs (ancient artificial islands). These historical remnants add another layer of interest to the natural beauty of the region. The interplay of cliffs, sea, forests, and lochs makes Fair Head and Murlough Bay a geologically diverse and visually stunning destination.
Walking and Hiking
While the views are spectacular, it's important to be prepared. The paths can be muddy and uneven, especially after rainfall, and some sections may have experienced erosion. Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended.
The wind can be a significant factor, so dressing in layers and being mindful of your footing is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. For those seeking a more secluded experience, the path down to Murlough Bay offers a different perspective. While it can be challenging, the reward is a beautiful, often quiet, cove perfect for a moment of reflection or a picnic.
Remember to check the weather and tide times if you plan to explore the bay itself. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit