DISTANCE

2.2 miles

ROUTE TYPE

Linear

TRAIL GRADE

Moderate

Blackhead Path

Antrim

This seaside walk goes from Whitehead Boat Club to and around Blackhead. The path runs northeast from Whitehead and is lined by interesting wildlife habitats including grassland, woodland (known locally as the ‘Magic Forest’) and a rocky shoreline. The Lough itself is an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) famed for its bird population. TEMPORARY CLOSURE DEC 2021 Blackhead Path is temporarily closed due to damage from railings falling in to the sea, to fallen rocks and debris. This is likely to take a few weeks. We will update again when the path opens up in the new year.

DISTANCE

2.2 miles

ROUTE TYPE

Linear

OS MAP

15

GRID REFERENCE

J478923

COUNTY

Antrim

NEAREST TOWN

Whitehead

LANDSCAPE

Beach, Coastal, Woodland

LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY

Moderate

TERRAIN

Level surfaced path, steep steps

ON/OFF PUBLIC ROAD

null

DIFFICULTY

null

TRAIL INFORMATION

This walk starts at Whitehead Yacht Club and leads along a coastal path and up some steep steps to Blackhead Lighthouse. From here walkers descend some more steep steps back to the coastal path and back to the car park.

At present, the section of path around Blackhead itself is currently closed. This is due to damage to the path and to the handrails which have collapsed in places. There is a programme of maintenance works underway, and we will update the website when these works have been completed.

 

TRAIL INFORMATION

This walk starts at Whitehead Yacht Club and leads along a coastal path and up some steep steps to Blackhead Lighthouse. From here walkers descend some more steep steps back to the coastal path and back to the car park.

At present, the section of path around Blackhead itself is currently closed. This is due to damage to the path and to the handrails which have collapsed in places. There is a programme of maintenance works underway, and we will update the website when these works have been completed.

 

GETTING TO THE START

By car take the A2 from Carrickfergus or Larne. Car parking is available at the start of Blackhead Path.
  • Point of Interest
    The Blackhead Lighthouse
  • Facilities
    Car park, toilets - 10p. There are also several shelters along the walk.Whitehead has a number of cafe facilities and public toilets.Whitehead can be reached by car, bus and train. For further information on public transport options visit www.translink.co.uk. The following facilities are available for users with limited mobility: – Disabled toilets.
  • Accessibility Information
    Accessibility Grade: Grade 5
    Terrain: Level surfaced path, steep steps
    Toilet Facility: No
    Signage: No
  • Getting to the Start
    By car take the A2 from Carrickfergus or Larne. Car parking is available at the start of Blackhead Path.
  • Public Transport
  • Level of Difficulty
    Moderate TRAIL GRADE DISCLAIMER

    The trail grades shown on OutmoreNI.com and WalkNI.com are based on desk-based assessments of available trail information. The categories—Easy, Moderate, Strenuous, and Very Strenuous—follow the Sustainable Trails Development Guide grading system.

    These grades are provided as a general guide to help users choose trails that may be suitable for them. They are not a substitute for official, on-site grading or safety information provided by the relevant land manager, which may differ from the information on these websites.

    Outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including the risk of injury, death, property damage, and other hazards. By using information from OutmoreNI.com and WalkNI.com, you acknowledge that you do so at your own risk. OutmoreNI.com and WalkNI.com accept no responsibility or liability for any loss, injury, or damage arising from the use of this information.

    Conditions on trails can change, and the actual environment may differ from what is described online. Users should always exercise their own judgment, take appropriate precautions, and remain responsible for their own safety and conduct at all times.

    All information provided on OutmoreNI.com and WalkNI.com is intended as a guide only and should be used alongside your own experience, awareness, and careful decision-making.

    Moderately challenging trails of varying widths with some short, steep climbs and descents. The surface may vary throughout, be slippery and uneven in places. Expect there to be obstacles like exposed roots, narrow gates, stiles and long sets of steps.

    Outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended.

GALLERY

DOWNLOADS & PUBLICATIONS


Subscribe to our Newsletter

Subscribe and be the first to hear about new outdoor trails and places or find inspiration to help you plan days out.

No spam. Easy unsubscribe links are provided in every email.

Keep in touch with us

This website has been produced by

Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy | Disclaimer

© 2026 | Outmore NI. All rights reserved. Website designed & developed by SugarProjects