Islandmagee, County Antrim's windswept peninsula, hugs Northern Ireland's east coast like a hidden chapter of the Irish Sea. Just half an hour from Belfast, this sunlit stretch of cliffs and countryside feels worlds away, where ancient stones whisper secrets older than time. At Ballylumford Dolmen - a 6,000-year-old megalithic tomb - you can stand beneath its massive capstone, marveling at how Neolithic hands shaped this sacred space. Nearby, the Rocking Stone defies gravity with a mere touch, a geological enigma steeped in folklore. History here isn't just preserved; it's visceral. In 1711, Islandmagee became Ireland's witchcraft courtroom when eight women were jailed for allegedly tormenting a girl through spectral possession - a haunting echo of its past.
For adventure, the Gobbins Cliff Path threads along jagged sea stacks, offering vertiginous views where gannets plunge-dive into turquoise waves. Wander Browns Bay's sheltered sands, then refuel on ice cream at The Rinkha, where family-made flavors like rhubarb and custard hit the spot as seals bob in the bay. Whether you're paddling a stand-up board along calm coves or tracing Blackhead Lighthouse's coastal trails, Islandmagee blends wild beauty with quirky charm - a place where every corner tells a story without ever shouting it. Come for the cliffs; stay to unravel its mysteries.
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Things to See and Do
Ballylumford Dolmen
A megalithic monument dating back to around 4000 BC, consisting of upright stones supporting a large capstone. This ancient Neolithic site offers insights into early human history and is a hidden gem for archaeology enthusiasts.
Sallagh Braes (Game of Thrones Filming Location)
Recognizable as the Riverlands from Game of Thrones, this wild landscape offers stunning views of the Antrim Coast and is a top spot for fans of the series.
Carrickfergus Castle
One of Northern Ireland's best-preserved medieval castles offering guided tours that highlight over 800 years of history. Strategically located near the coast, it's a must-see for history buffs.
Gobbins Cliff Path
A dramatic coastal walkway offering breathtaking views of the Antrim Coast. Known for its thrilling cliff-edge paths and stand-up paddleboarding opportunities with Islandmagee SUP, it's a must for adventure seekers.
Carnlough's Historic Harbour & Boat Tours
A vibrant Game of Thrones filming location (Arya Stark scenes), featuring colorful boats, shops like Ebb & Flow and Twilight Bunkhouse Coffee Shop. Enjoy boat tours exploring the harbor with marine life spotting opportunities.
Portmuck Harbour
A picturesque harbor featuring old 11th-century castle ruins and stunning views of the coast. Popular for seal watching and photography, it combines historical charm with natural beauty.
Glenoe Waterfall
A secluded waterfall nestled in a forest and protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers seeking tranquil surroundings.
Whitehead Heritage (Museum & Tea House)
The Whitehead Railway Museum showcases vintage steam engines and railway history, paired with visits to the nearby Victorian Tea House, perfect for nostalgia seekers.
Blackhead Lighthouse
Located in nearby Whitehead, this historic lighthouse guides ships and offers stunning coastal views. Visitors can explore its grounds or stay for an immersive experience.
The Rocking Stone
A unique rocking stone formation that can be moved with gentle force. Located on the Islandmagee peninsula, it's an unusual natural attraction showcasing local geology and folklore.
Madman's Window
A natural rock formation creating a window-like gap overlooking the Irish Sea, located on the Glenarm Coastal Path with local folklore about its origins.
Brown's Bay
A sheltered horseshoe-shaped bay with golden sands, perfect for peaceful strolls along the northern tip of Islandmagee. Enjoy a coffee at nearby spots while taking in serene coastal views.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Islandmagee SUP is a stand up paddle school based in Portmuck, Islandmagee. They offer 2-hour group sessions, family sessions, 4-week beginner's courses and guided SUP tours, from age 12+.
Whitehead & Blackhead E-Bike Tours
Explore scenic coastal paths like Blackhead and Whitehead Promenade via e-bike. Enjoy guided tours for a relaxed yet exhilarating way to take in the views.
Getting There
Air
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The nearest airport is Belfast International Airport (BFS), which is about an hour's drive from Islandmagee.
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George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD) is also an option, with a similar drive time to Islandmagee.
Rail
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The nearest train station is in Larne, which is connected to Belfast by train.
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From Larne, you can take a taxi or bus to Islandmagee.
Bus
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You can take a bus from Larne or Belfast to Islandmagee.
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The journey takes around 30-40 minutes from Larne and approximately 1 hour from Belfast.
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Public transportation options are available from Belfast to Islandmagee, including bus routes that pass through Carrickfergus.
Car
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Islandmagee is located near Larne, County Antrim, Northern Ireland.
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Take the A2 road from Larne towards Whitehead, and then follow signs for Islandmagee.
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The journey from Belfast City takes approximately 40 minutes along the Antrim coastal route, passing through Carrickfergus.
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Driving from Larne to Islandmagee takes around 20-30 minutes.
Local Transportation
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Once you arrive in Islandmagee, you can explore the area by car or on foot.
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Local transportation options are available, such as taxis and bike rentals.
Events & Festivals 2025
There are currently no events listed. If you would like to add an event, please contact us.
History
Islandmagee's history stretches back to the mesolithic period, with evidence of hunter-gatherer cultures and more sophisticated ways of life. The peninsula was later inhabited by Neolithic farmers, who built homes and monuments like the Ballylumford Dolmen, also known as the "Druid's Altar", which dates back to around 2500 BC or possibly earlier to 4000 BC.
In the early medieval period, Islandmagee was part of the petty-kingdom of Semne within Ulaid, and later took its name from the prominent Irish family Mac Aodha (Magee). The Bissett family held the tenancy of the peninsula during Elizabeth I's reign, paying rent in goshawks that bred on the nearby cliffs.
The 17th century was marked by violence and bloodshed. In November 1641, Catholic civilians were killed by troops from Carrickfergus, with estimates suggesting around two dozen deaths, although some claims put the figure much higher. This massacre is believed to be the first of the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and the War of the Three Kingdoms.
Decades later, in 1711, Islandmagee was the site of the last witch trial in Ireland, where eight women were convicted and sentenced to imprisonment. The trial's verdict was likely influenced by the concept of witchcraft brought to Ireland by English and Scottish settlers.
The 19th century saw significant discoveries on the peninsula, including the first fossilised dinosaur bones found in Ireland. These finds, along with the excavation of Neolithic houses at Ballyharry, have shed light on Islandmagee's ancient past. The area's complex history is still evident today, with its megalithic monuments and historic sites waiting to be explored. Dinosaur remains were also found in the 20th century, building on the earlier discoveries that marked a significant milestone in Ireland's paleontological history.