kinbane castle

CoastalBadger

Wow! We came here on a whim and were so glad we did. We were the only people around and we braved the looong flight of stairs and scrambled around the ruins and beach. Great place for a picnic. We loved the solitude of the castle.I would NOT suggest this for people who enjoy a formal tour. If you think the current Giant's Causeway with bright, new visitor center is fabulous, you might not enjoy schlepping down 40 flights of stairs and showing yourself an old castle.If you have young kids, you will want to keep a close watch on them. There are no rails and no barriers keeping you from going over edges.If you are hardy, have an imagination or love finding things on your own this is the place to go. Stop by Ballintoy Harbor if you forgot your lunch afterwards. Delicious.

RodgerB144

The walk down and back is daunting for those out of shape. The return to one's family roots, however, makes the trip into a reward.

staceyn65

We stumbled on the castle by accident. Yes, it's open. This was one of our favorite walks in North Ireland. We wandered out over the cliff in order to watch the sea below. The castle itself is an interesting ruin. Don't miss this if you're in the area.

ClamLakerWI

If you can make the 140 steep steps down and then back up, it is well worth the trip. To be able to get out to the point and just sit and look is priceless. We went mid-week the 3rd week of October and were the only ones there. Once near the castle grounds, the path is narrow, especially walking to the point. 2 of the adults with did not feel comfortable crossing that point (a very narrow path that dropped down both sides, cliffs into the ocean). Would not think a good idea with small children or adventurous immortal teens. There are toliet facilities at the carpark area before you head down. It would be a beautiful place to bring a blanket, picnic basket with wine and cheese and spend a couple of hours. Just remember you have to make it back.

westendted92

Fantastic views on the walk down and when you get to the castle but be warned the steps are pretty step and the walk back up will take it out of you! If it's a bit damp be careful as it can be a bit slippy so make sure you've got good footwear.

KateK272

This was something we stumbled upon and we were so glad we did. Absolutely stunning views. An amazing spot.

Nonie_454

Steep climb down on an excellent path with steps. Well worth the effort to get to the bottom then climb to the ruined castle. The views are fantastic and the place is always empty. Be warned the headland path is narrow and would be dangerous in high winds - not a place for small children

Bussetboy

This is a gorgeous place with stunning views of the coast and across the sea to Scotland. Be aware that the walk back up the steps to the carpark is strenuous but above all, be very careful on the path from the castle ruins to the point. There is a very narrow passage with steep and high drops on both sides. A trip or a slip here on the stones would be very unforgiving so take it easy. The owner of our B&B had some frightening stoires to tell about accidents on the cliffs....

Maevek6

Visited today 4/8/14 although sign says it's closed we were cheeky and ventured onwards. We seen another couple on the headland so presumed all was safe enough to proceed. A long a windy route brought us down the steep steps. It helped that the weather was beautiful and the castle seemed almost smaller when we got close. Spectacular views of Rathlin Island and the coastline. For the more adventurous there is a derelict ruin a short walk away just make sure you have the correct footwear as there's not a specific path to follow. Very glad we stopped by felt special and unbesmirched by the usual/ more famous historic sites. Highly recommend a visit- make sure you are fit for the walk back up though!

807alliem

Unfortunately this was closed today when we stopped by. The view to the side of it is beautiful but couldn't even see the castle at all.

nilad299

Great to go and see a very steap walk down. You have to be very fit to walk long steps down and up. Best time is in a very dry day. Wear good footwear.

DPM200

An amazing castle ruin on the coast. We were disappointed as the path down the cliff to the castle was closed off due to a landslide. However I feel it is still worth going as the area has some stunning coastal and cliff scenery also you can still see the castle from a distance. If you park your car in the car park you can walk on the path that's still open ..this offers some stunning views . I would say worthwhile if you are in the area :)

drfcok

The castle remains are on a promontory rising above the sea in a wonderful position to view the sea and the rugged coastline. Great photo opportunities.

dianem252

The path to the castle has been fenced off (for safety I suppose) but is not hard to get over the fence. It is well worth the effort as the ruins are great and you get a fantastic view of the coast. The bird life is amazing also. Once down there you feel like you are on an island.

OzeMa

It wasnt the nicest of days, so we weren't devastated that we couldnt walk out to the castle. It is much quieter than many of the other places along the coastal route. There is little left of the ruins, but interesting to look at.