Highlight • Religious Site
Bonamargy Friary
Hiking
5.0
(2)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
Bonamargy Friary is a captivating historic Franciscan friary located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, just off the Cushendall Road on the approach to Ballycastle. Situated at the foot of the Margy River, where the Cary and Shesk Rivers converge, this religious building stands as a State Care Historic Monument. At an elevation of just 7 meters above sea level, it offers a tangible link to centuries of Irish history and spiritual life along the scenic North Antrim Coast. It is renowned for its well-preserved ruins, unique architectural features, and the fascinating stories embedded within its ancient stones.
Visitors are consistently drawn to Bonamargy Friary for its profound sense of history and the serene atmosphere that permeates the site. The blend of medieval and Gothic architectural styles, including the impressive traceried east window and the small two-story gatehouse, provides a compelling glimpse into the past. Many appreciate the opportunity to explore the ruins and reflect on the lives of the Franciscan friars who once resided here, making it a peaceful spot for contemplation and discovery. The friary's rich folklore, particularly the legend of "The Black Nun," adds a mystical dimension that captivates those who visit.
Before exploring Bonamargy Friary, it's helpful to know that the site is open daily and free to enter, making it an accessible historical site for all. The terrain around the ruins can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Parking for Bonamargy Friary is available nearby, and for those relying on public transport to Bonamargy Friary Ballycastle, local bus services connect to the area. Given its coastal location, weather conditions can change quickly, so dressing in layers is advisable to ensure a comfortable visit.
The friary can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a different perspective on its ancient beauty. Exploring the ruins, tracing the remnants of the altar in the church, and locating the distinctive Celtic cross marking the grave of Julia MacQuillen are popular activities. The site is also a starting point for various Bonamargy Friary walking trails and offers opportunities for family-friendly strolls around the grounds. Many visitors combine their trip with a visit to nearby Ballycastle beach or the surrounding golf course.
One popular way to experience the area is a gentle walk from Ballycastle to Bonamargy Friary, covering a distance of approximately 2 kilometers. This route typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace, and offers an easy, flat terrain suitable for all ages. It provides a pleasant introduction to the local landscape before delving into the friary's historical depths.
Among the most striking features are the sealed burial vaults, which hold the remains of significant historical figures like the celebrated chieftain Sorley Boy MacDonnell and several Earls of Antrim. The story of "The Black Nun," Julia MacQuillen, who wished to be buried at the chapel entrance as a token of humility, adds a poignant and memorable touch. Her worn Celtic cross, with a hole in the center, is a unique point of interest that sparks curiosity and conversation among visitors. The discovery of ancient manuscripts within the ruins in 1822 also highlights the friary's past as a center of learning.
Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply a peaceful walk, Bonamargy Friary offers a rewarding experience. You can discover a variety of Bonamargy Friary hiking trails nearby, including coastal walks that showcase the stunning North Antrim scenery. To plan your visit and explore routes that suit your interests, you can find numerous options on komoot, catering to different activity levels and preferences.
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November 1, 2025
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Informations
Elevation 10 m
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Tuesday 30 June
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13°C
94 %
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Max wind speed: 38.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bonamargy Friary accessible for visitors with mobility challenges or wheelchairs?
While the friary grounds are generally flat, the terrain around the ruins can be uneven, and there are well-worn steps leading to the dormitory in the gatehouse. Visitors with mobility challenges may find some areas difficult to navigate. The site is an ancient ruin, so paths are not always paved or smooth.
Are dogs allowed at Bonamargy Friary or on nearby trails?
Bonamargy Friary is generally dog-friendly, allowing well-behaved dogs on leads within the grounds. Many of the surrounding walking trails, including the coastal paths near Ballycastle, are also suitable for dogs. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the site's historical integrity and natural beauty.
What public transport options are available to reach Bonamargy Friary from Ballycastle?
Local bus services connect Ballycastle to the area near Bonamargy Friary. While specific schedules should be checked with local transport providers, it's a viable option for those without private vehicles. Alternatively, the friary is a pleasant walk of approximately 2 kilometers from Ballycastle, taking about 30 minutes to an hour.
How long should I plan to spend exploring Bonamargy Friary?
Most visitors find that 1 to 2 hours is sufficient to explore the main features of Bonamargy Friary, including the church ruins, gatehouse, burial vaults, and the grave of 'The Black Nun'. If you plan to combine your visit with a walk from Ballycastle or explore nearby coastal paths, allocate more time for your overall outing.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options close to Bonamargy Friary?
Bonamargy Friary is located just outside Ballycastle, where you'll find a good selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering local cuisine. There are also various accommodation options available in Ballycastle, ranging from guesthouses to hotels, making it a convenient base for exploring the North Antrim Coast.
What are the key historical figures buried at Bonamargy Friary?
The friary's sealed burial vaults hold the remains of significant historical figures. These include the celebrated chieftain Sorley Boy MacDonnell, his grandson Randall MacDonnell (the 1st Marquess of Antrim), and several other Earls of Antrim. The grave of the 17th-century prophet and recluse, Julia MacQuillen, known as 'The Black Nun', is also a notable point of interest, marked by a worn Celtic cross.
What kind of terrain can I expect on walking trails around Bonamargy Friary and the North Antrim Coast?
The immediate area around Bonamargy Friary is relatively flat, but the ground within the ruins can be uneven. Walking trails leading from Ballycastle to the friary are generally easy and flat. For coastal walks along the North Antrim Coast, you can expect varied terrain, including paved paths, grassy tracks, and potentially some inclines and declines, offering diverse experiences for hikers.
Are there any specific points of interest or 'hidden gems' within the friary ruins?
Beyond the main church and burial vaults, be sure to look for the small two-story gatehouse, which once served as a store, workroom, and dormitory. The impressive traceried east window, erected in 1621, is also a notable architectural feature. Don't miss the distinctive worn Celtic cross marking the grave of 'The Black Nun' at the west end of the main church, a site steeped in local legend.
What is the best time of year to visit Bonamargy Friary to avoid crowds?
While Bonamargy Friary can be enjoyed year-round, it tends to be less crowded during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) and on weekdays. Summer weekends, especially during good weather, can attract more visitors. Visiting earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon can also help you experience the site with fewer people.
What is the significance of 'The Black Nun' at Bonamargy Friary?
Julia MacQuillen, known as 'The Black Nun', was a 17th-century prophet and recluse associated with the friary. Legend says she wished to be buried at the entrance of the chapel so that people would walk over her grave as a token of her humility. Her grave is marked by a unique worn Celtic cross with a hole in the center. Folklore also suggests she haunts the site, with a local saying that 'those who do the black nun spy, on that very day will die'.
Are there any other historical sites similar to Bonamargy Friary nearby that are worth visiting?
The North Antrim Coast is rich in history. While Bonamargy Friary is unique as the only Franciscan foundation to survive in such tangible form in Northern Ireland, other historical sites in the region include Carrickfergus Castle, Dunluce Castle, and the Giant's Causeway, which, while a natural wonder, also has significant historical and mythological connections.