4.7
(70)
460
hikers
22
hikes
Hiking around Barnish offers a variety of trails across coastal landscapes and inland hills. The region features routes that traverse the Antrim Coast & Glens, providing views of the sea and Rathlin Island. Elevated paths lead to hills like Knocklayd, while other trails explore areas around lochs. The terrain includes both gentle coastal walks and more challenging ascents.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.7
(25)
150
hikers
7.76km
02:10
150m
150m
Embark on the Fairhead Loch Na Crannรณige Walk, a moderate hike spanning 4.8 miles (7.8 km) with an elevation gain of 507 feet (155 metres), typically completed in 2 hoursโฆ
5.0
(2)
20
hikers
14.0km
03:56
510m
510m
Embark on the Ballycastle to Knocklayd hike, a moderate 8.7-mile (14.0 km) route that typically takes around 3 hours and 55 minutes to complete. This trail offers a challenging ascentโฆ

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11
hikers
4.48km
01:17
330m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(10)
66
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(11)
29
hikers
19.5km
05:19
280m
280m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Barnish
There is a parking lot right next to the church.
3
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Two menhirs (standing stones) in the cemetery of the church built in 1831. One of them is almost 3 meters tall, the other 1.6 meters.
4
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A very nice little place. The free car park is very central and spacious. The entrance height is stated as 1.95m. In our case, the height bar was set aside and therefore open.
1
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A 2 km climb (the last kilometer is very steep and muddy across the sheep pasture) and over and under fences. The effort is only worth it in good weather, because the view is magnificent. Far inland and towards the coast over Rathlin Island to Scotland.
0
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One of the real classic seacliff climbing areas with decades of histors and the tradiitonal climbing meet-up on the first weekend in June.
1
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Close to Northern Ireland's most northerly point, Fair Head has brilliant views of Scotland and Rathlin Island. Stunning on a clear day, fearsome when the weather sets in!
2
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Knocklayd is a gem of a spot located on the north coast of Country Antrim. From the 514m summit, you can enjoy sensational panoramic views across the Causeway Coast, Antrim Coast & Glens and, on a clear day, all the way over to Scotland.
2
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Ballycastle is a charming coastal town located in Northern Ireland. The colourful town is a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history and displays some gorgeous coastal views out to Rathlin Island and Irish Sea.
3
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There are over 20 hiking trails around Barnish, offering a diverse range of experiences from gentle coastal walks to more challenging ascents. The komoot community has explored these routes over 400 times.
Yes, Barnish offers 10 easy hiking trails perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed walk. An example is the View of Ballycastle โ View of Rathlin Island loop from Cross, which is an easy 3.5 km loop offering views of Rathlin Island.
Hikes in Barnish vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter walks like the Knocklayd from Drumavoyle Road โ Antrim Coast & Glens, which is about 4.5 km and takes around 1 hour 17 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the View of Ballycastle โ View of Rathlin Island loop from Ballycastle, can extend to nearly 20 km and take over 5 hours.
Many of the easy trails in Barnish are suitable for families. The coastal paths often provide flat terrain and scenic views. Consider routes that are shorter in distance and have minimal elevation gain for a pleasant family outing.
Hiking around Barnish offers a mix of stunning coastal landscapes and inland hills. You'll encounter dramatic sea views, often including Rathlin Island, and paths that traverse the Antrim Coast & Glens. Elevated routes lead to hills like Knocklayd, providing panoramic vistas, while others explore areas around tranquil lochs.
Yes, Barnish features several circular walking routes. For instance, the View of Ballycastle โ View of Rathlin Island loop from Cross is an easy circular trail, and the more challenging View of Ballycastle โ View of Rathlin Island loop from Ballycastle also offers a full loop experience.
Around Barnish, you can discover several notable landmarks and attractions. These include the historic Kinbane Castle, the scenic Torr Head Coastal Road, and the Ballycastle Town Centre and Beach. You can also find viewpoints like Fair Head Climbing Area and spots offering views of Rathlin Island from Portaneevy Viewpoint.
The hiking routes in Barnish are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 60 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from coastal paths with sea views to challenging hill climbs offering panoramic vistas, and the overall natural beauty of the Antrim Coast & Glens.
While Barnish offers year-round hiking opportunities, winter conditions can vary. Coastal paths may be exposed to strong winds, and higher elevations like Knocklayd could experience colder temperatures and potentially icy conditions. Always check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out in winter.
Yes, several hikes in Barnish provide excellent views of Rathlin Island. The View of Ballycastle โ View of Rathlin Island loop from Cross is an easy option, and the more extensive View of Ballycastle โ View of Rathlin Island loop from Ballycastle also features these iconic island views.
The terrain around Barnish is quite varied. You'll find relatively flat coastal paths, particularly along the Antrim Coast, as well as more rugged and steep ascents when climbing hills like Knocklayd. Some trails may involve varied ground on the slopes, combining grassy tracks with rocky sections.
Yes, the Fairhead Loch Na Crannรณige Walk โ Antrim Coast & Glens is a moderate route that offers views of both the coastline and a tranquil loch, providing a beautiful natural setting.


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