Attractions and Places To See around Cloghy East - Top 16
Best attractions and places to see around Cloghy East include a variety of natural features and historic sites located on the Ards Peninsula in County Down, Northern Ireland. The area is characterized by its coastal setting, featuring sandy beaches and significant natural habitats. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from designated scientific interest areas to historic landmarks. This region offers opportunities for outdoor activities and appreciating local heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Cloghy East
- The most popular attractions…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
Inver River Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
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Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall
Highlight • Gorge
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Waterfall and Bridge on the Glenariff River
Highlight • Bridge
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Torr Head Coastal Road
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Cushendun Caves
Highlight • Natural Monument
And the fact that they are …
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Tips from the Community
Very beautiful waterfalls along the way and very well developed.
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Glenariff Forest Park is a beautiful park located in County Antrim in Northern Ireland. The park covers over 1,185 hectares and has a number of scenic trails that run past some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Northern Ireland. We spent a day hiking around this beautiful waterfall.
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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.
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Many walks start out from the information centre near the parking. It costs £5 (2023) to park at the visitor centre. Entry on foot is free. The waterfall walk takes you down into the gorge where you can walk along paths and wooden walkways to admire the waterfalls.
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Better to walk the path counterclockwise
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A dream place to watch and swim. Is easy to reach via a hiking trail. Not far from there is a restaurant with a beautiful outdoor terrace.
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Glenariff Forest Park – the “Queen of the Nine Glens of Antrim” – with raging waterfalls, ancient forests past “Ossians Grave. The unique Waterfall Walk way leads along forest paths and along the river banks through a national nature reserve and offers photographers a varied backdrop with its three waterfalls and picturesque panoramic landscapes.
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The one-of-a-kind Waterfall Walkway winds through the National Conservation Area on forest trails and along the riverbank, offering a varied backdrop for photographers with its three waterfalls and scenic panoramas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Cloghy East?
Cloghy East is rich in natural beauty. You can explore the magnificent expanse of Cloughey Beach, known for its sandy shores and unique flora and fauna. The diverse sand dunes at Cloughey are a Designated Area of Special Scientific Interest, as is The Warren, which boasts a great display of wildflowers and orchids in early summer. Additionally, the Cloghy Rocks Nature Reserve offers opportunities to see seals and shorebirds.
Where can I go birdwatching or see seals near Cloghy East?
The south end of Cloughey Beach is an excellent spot for birdwatching, especially in winter when wading birds migrate. For seal spotting, visit the Cloghy Rocks Nature Reserve at low tide in Strangford Lough, where both Common and Grey seals can be viewed resting. Common seals also use this site for breeding in July.
Are there any historical sites to visit near Cloghy East?
Yes, Kirkistown Castle is a significant historical landmark nearby. This impressive tower house, built in 1622, was remodeled around 1800 and is sometimes open to the public on selected weekends during the summer. Parts of its bawn wall and flanker towers are still visible.
What kind of walking trails are available around Cloghy East?
You can enjoy walks along the 2km-long Cloughey Beach, which is easily accessible with boardwalks. The sand dunes and The Warren also offer unique walking environments. For more structured routes, you can find easy hikes around the area, such as the Cushendun Harbour & Cushendun Caves loop, which is part of the easy hikes around Cloghy East guide.
Are there easy walking trails suitable for everyone near Cloghy East?
Yes, Cloughey Beach offers an easy and accessible walk with boardwalks at both ends. For other easy options, consider routes like the Cushendun Harbour & Cushendun Caves loop or the Cushendall Beach Promenade loop, which are featured in the easy hikes around Cloghy East guide.
What water sports can I do at Cloughey Beach?
Cloughey Beach is a popular spot for windsurfing and kite-surfing. It's also used by year-round swimmers, thanks to its excellent water quality.
Are there cycling routes in the area?
Yes, the Torr Head Coastal Road offers a challenging but rewarding cycling experience with stunning views towards Scotland. For a wider range of options, you can explore various routes in the cycling around Cloghy East guide, which includes routes like the Cushendun to The Dark Hedges Loop.
Are there family-friendly activities around Cloghy East?
Beyond the beach, families can enjoy the outdoor carpet tennis courts and a bowls complex in Cloughey village. The nearby Inver River Waterfall, Ess-na-Laragh Waterfall, and Waterfall and Bridge on the Glenariff River are also considered family-friendly attractions, offering picturesque settings for walks.
Is there parking available at Cloughy Beach?
Yes, Cloughey Beach is easily accessible, and parking is generally available, making it convenient for visitors to enjoy the beach and its surroundings.
What is the best time of year to visit Cloghy East?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. Early summer is ideal for seeing wildflowers and orchids in The Warren. Winter is excellent for birdwatching at Cloughey Beach, while summer offers the best conditions for water sports and general outdoor activities.
Are there places to eat or drink in Cloughey village?
Cloughey village, with its traditional seaside getaway feel, offers local amenities. While specific establishments are not detailed, the village is known to have pubs and restaurants to cater to visitors and locals.
Are there any unique natural areas or hidden gems to discover?
Beyond the main beach, the sand dunes at Cloughey are a Designated Area of Special Scientific Interest, offering a unique and sensitive environment. The Warren, another area of scientific interest, is a hidden gem for its spectacular display of wildflowers and orchids in early summer. The Cloghy Rocks Nature Reserve is also a special place to observe seals and shorebirds.
What are some of the most scenic viewpoints or drives in the area?
The Torr Head Coastal Road is renowned for its stunning vistas, offering views over to Scotland on a clear day. The quiet, narrow, winding road hugs the rugged coastline, providing a truly special scenic drive. The Glenariff River area, with highlights like Inver River Waterfall and Waterfall and Bridge on the Glenariff River, also offers picturesque settings.
Most popular routes around Cloghy East
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