Attractions and Places To See around Drains - Top 8
Best attractions and places to see around Drains, a region located in Northern Ireland, offer a diverse range of natural and historical sites. Situated near the scenic Antrim Coast, the area features impressive viewpoints, tranquil beaches, and lush forests. Visitors can explore significant natural monuments and historical landmarks, providing a comprehensive experience of the local landscape and heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Drains
- The most popular attractions is View of the Antrim Coast from Scawt Hill,…
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Black Hill
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Browns Bay Beach
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Ballyboley Forest
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View of the Antrim Coast from Scawt Hill
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Chaine Memorial Tower
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The tower is an exact replica of an Irish round tower and is 27 m high and 7.5 m wide at the base.
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The Chaine Memorial Tower, or "The Pencil" as it is known locally, is an impressive lighthouse made of Irish granite, built in 1887 as a memorial to James Chaine, the developer of Larne Harbour. The tower was converted into a lighthouse by the Commissioners of Irish Lights in March 1899.
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Browns Bay Beach is a popular sandy, safe beach at the northern tip of Islandmagee, nestling between Skenaghan Point and Barrs Point in a horse shoe shaped bay. It is 600m long with rocks and loose boulders around the edge. Access is via a set of steps at one end and a gentle ramp at the other. The view across the horizon is beautiful showing five headlands all the way up the Antrim coast. This beach is popular for swimming. A sizeable car park is on the other side of the road. There is a wide grassy area that is suitable for wheelchairs. There are also public toilets onsite and at Ballylumford Harbour. Skenaghan point, on the east of the bay, is a National Trust property and features a short walking route past the “rocking stone”. Looking to the north one gets a clear view of the “Maidens rocks” far out in the North Channel, and their two lighthouses, only one of which is now in operation.
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Ballyboley Forest provides a picturesque setting for an enjoyable jog. The forest features a whopping 70 different types of native tree species which tower high above the forest floor.
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Ballyboley Forest provides a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll through the southern end of the Antrim Coast & Glens Area of Natural Beauty. The forest features a whopping 70 different types of native tree species which tower high above the forest floor.
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Scawt Hill is a mountain summit and volcanic plug located in the Antrim Coast Area of Natural Beauty in Northern Ireland. From here, you can enjoy views up and down the incredible Antrim Coast and out to the Irish Sea toward
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Situated at an impressive height of 381m, Black Hill boasts a prominent position in the scenic county of Mid and East Antrim. Take in the remarkable beauty of the Irish coastline as you enjoy uninterrupted panoramic views in both the northern and southern directions, as well as of the surrounding countryside inland.
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Most phallic tombstone in Ireland according to the sign at the end of the path :D
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Drains?
The Drains area, located near the scenic Antrim Coast, offers a variety of natural attractions. You can visit View of the Antrim Coast from Scawt Hill, a volcanic plug offering expansive views of the coast and Irish Sea. Black Hill provides panoramic views of the Irish coastline and surrounding countryside. For a more tranquil experience, Ballyboley Forest is home to 70 different native tree species, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Are there any beaches suitable for families near Drains?
Yes, Browns Bay Beach is a popular sandy and safe beach located at the northern tip of Islandmagee. It's nestled in a horseshoe-shaped bay, offering great views and is known for being family-friendly. It has a sizeable car park, public toilets, and a wide grassy area.
What historical sites are there to visit in the Drains region?
You can visit the Chaine Memorial Tower, also known as 'The Pencil', an impressive lighthouse made of Irish granite. Built in 1887, it serves as a memorial to James Chaine, who developed Larne Harbour, and is an exact replica of an Irish round tower.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The Drains area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for road cycling, running, and general cycling. For example, there are challenging road cycling loops like the 'Larne Town to Waterfoot loop' and moderate running trails such as the 'Model Boat Pond loop'. You can explore more options on the Road Cycling Routes around Drains, Running Trails around Drains, and Cycling around Drains guide pages.
Are there any wheelchair accessible paths or attractions?
Yes, Browns Bay Beach offers wheelchair accessibility. It features a gentle ramp for access to the beach and a wide grassy area suitable for wheelchairs, along with public toilets onsite.
What do visitors enjoy most about the Drains area?
Visitors particularly enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the Irish coastline and the Antrim hills, as seen from viewpoints like Black Hill and View of the Antrim Coast from Scawt Hill. The safe, sandy expanse of Browns Bay Beach is also a favorite for its beauty and family-friendly atmosphere.
Can I find places for a leisurely walk or jog in a natural setting?
Absolutely. Ballyboley Forest provides a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll or an enjoyable jog. With its 70 different types of native tree species, it offers a beautiful natural environment for outdoor exercise.
Are there any challenging hikes or viewpoints in the area?
For those seeking more challenging experiences, View of the Antrim Coast from Scawt Hill is a mountain summit and volcanic plug that offers incredible views. Black Hill, at 381m, also provides prominent and extensive panoramic views, making both excellent choices for a more strenuous outing.
Where can I find parking when visiting attractions in Drains?
For attractions like Browns Bay Beach, there is a sizeable car park conveniently located on the other side of the road, making access easy for visitors.
What kind of geological features are prominent around Drains?
The Drains area is part of the Antrim Coast Area of Natural Beauty, known for its unique geology. A notable feature is Scawt Hill, which is a significant volcanic plug, offering insights into the region's volcanic past and providing dramatic coastal views.
Are there any specific places to enjoy coastal views?
The region is renowned for its coastal vistas. You can get exceptional views from View of the Antrim Coast from Scawt Hill, which looks up and down the incredible Antrim Coast and out to the Irish Sea. Black Hill also offers panoramic views of the Irish coastline in both northern and southern directions.
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