Attractions and Places To See around Shanes - Top 14
Best attractions and places to see around Shanes encompass a diverse range of natural and historical sites. The area features dramatic coastal landscapes, scenic summits, and unique natural monuments. Visitors can explore historical estates and charming coastal towns, offering varied outdoor experiences. This region provides opportunities for scenic drives, challenging climbs, and summit hikes.
Best attractions and places to see around Shanes
- The most popular attractions is The Dark Hedges, a natural monument featuring an impressive avenue of overโฆ
Last updated: July 1, 2026
The Dark Hedges
Highlight (Segment) โข Natural
Translated by Google โข
Tip by
Torr Head Coastal Road
Highlight (Segment) โข Cycleway
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Ballycastle Town Centre and Beach
Highlight โข Beach
Tip by
Gracehill House
Highlight โข Historical Site
Translated by Google โข
Tip by
Knocklayd Summit
Highlight โข Summit
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Shanes.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Absolutely overrated. Many trees have been broken or cut down. Completely overcrowded during normal daytime. You really don't have to go there...only if it's on your way.
1
0
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
0
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
0
Definitely one for the climbers this, as its known for being one of this part of Northern Ireland's steepest climbs, The vistas are well worth all the effort. You can see over to Scotland on a clear day, and the quiet narrow winding road that hugs the rugged coastline is really something quite special.
1
0
Famous beech trees from the film "Games of Thornes"
0
0
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
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Shanes?
The area around Shanes is rich in natural beauty. You can visit The Dark Hedges, an impressive avenue of over 300-year-old beech trees. For coastal views, the Torr Head Coastal Road offers stunning vistas towards Scotland on clear days. Additionally, Knocklayd Summit provides sensational panoramic views across the Causeway Coast and Antrim Coast & Glens.
Are there any historical sites to visit near Shanes?
Yes, Gracehill House is a notable historical site near Shanes. This stately home was built in 1775 by James Steward, who was also responsible for planting the original beech tree avenue that became The Dark Hedges.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Shanes?
Shanes offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the 'Knocklayd from Drumavoyle Road' or the 'Gracehill House โ The Dark Hedges loop'. For road cycling, challenging routes such as the 'Cushendun Village โ View of Torr Head loop' are available. There are also running trails, including the 'Ballycastle coastal path'. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for hiking, running, and road cycling around Shanes.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Shanes area?
Yes, The Dark Hedges is considered family-friendly, offering a unique natural monument to explore. Additionally, Ballycastle Town Centre and Beach is a charming coastal town with a beach, perfect for families.
What are the best viewpoints around Shanes?
For breathtaking views, Knocklayd Summit offers sensational panoramic views across the Causeway Coast, Antrim Coast & Glens, and even to Scotland on a clear day. The Torr Head Coastal Road also provides stunning coastal vistas.
Are there any easy walking trails near Shanes?
Yes, there are easy walking trails available. For instance, the 'Gracehill House โ The Dark Hedges loop from Bush' is an easy hiking route. You can explore more options in the hiking guide for Shanes.
What is the difficulty level of cycling the Torr Head Coastal Road?
The Torr Head Coastal Road is known for being a challenging cycle way. It features extremely steep climbs and descents, making it suitable for experienced cyclists. However, the effort is rewarded with beautiful views of Scotland and manageable traffic.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Shanes?
Visitors particularly enjoy the dramatic coastal landscapes, scenic summits, and unique natural monuments. The impressive avenue of 300-year-old beech trees at The Dark Hedges is a highlight, as are the panoramic views from Knocklayd Summit. The challenging climbs and stunning vistas of the Torr Head Coastal Road are also highly appreciated.
Can I find a beach or coastal town near Shanes?
Yes, Ballycastle Town Centre and Beach is a charming coastal town located nearby. It offers a beautiful beach and gorgeous coastal views out to Rathlin Island and the Irish Sea.
Are there any challenging hiking trails in the Shanes area?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the climb to Knocklayd Summit involves a 2 km ascent, with the last kilometer being very steep and muddy across sheep pasture. The 'Breen Forest loop from Croaghan' is also listed as a difficult hiking route. More challenging options can be found in the hiking guide.
What kind of trees are at The Dark Hedges?
The Dark Hedges is famous for its impressive avenue of over 300-year-old beech trees. These trees create a unique and atmospheric natural monument.
Most popular routes around Shanes
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight youโre looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
