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It’s time to rediscover Blackhead Path with its stunning location and iconic lighthouse! Visitors can once again enjoy this bracing walk by the sea. Look out for seals, seabirds, pods of dolphin and porpoises and even the odd minke whale!
The walk includes a coastal path and country road finishing along a footpath on the B150 road. From the car park follow the coastal path north-eastwards to Blackhead, an ancient volcanic plug.
Marine traffic from Belfast sails within a few hundred metres off the shore and if the fast ferries to Scotland pass you here, it will probably have arrived before you finish your walk. The most dramatic part of the walk is around the catwalk at the base of the headland, where the sea has gouged magnificent sea caves.
The route next climbs steep flights of steps to reach the lighthouse owned by the Commissioner for Irish Lights. The views from the walkway around the lighthouse are stunning. Across the mouth of Belfast Lough, the Copeland Islands off Donaghadee can be seen, while inland, Scrabo Tower, built by the Londonderry family can be easily identified beyond Bangor.
Far to the south-east, the Cumbrian coast, south of Solway Firth can be seen when visibility is clear. Closer at hand the view inland down Belfast Lough takes in the whole village of Whitehead.
From the lighthouse the route follows the country road westwards, contouring the slopes of Muldersleigh Hill. Look out for the World War II fortifications just west of the lighthouse. The looking post on the summit of the hill dates from the Great War. The road splits Whitehead Golf Club in two, before descending steeply into the B150 road. From the road there are fine views of the southern end of Larne Lough below the rolling fields of Carnbrock. On reaching the B150 road, walk back into Whitehead and make sure to enjoy a well deserved treat in one of the many delightful cafes.
Vehicular access to the Lighthouse is restricted to residents only as this is a private road.
Route:Blackhead Car Park - Coastal Path - Lighthouse - Country Road - Golf Club - B150
Distance: 5km (3.1 miles)
Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Points of interest: Blackhead Lighthouse, Victorian town of Whitehead, wildlife
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- Free (parking charges may apply)
