Layd Church

About

The walk is a coastal cliff path walk beginning at Shore Street, Cushendall at the entrance to the golf club and following the laneway northwards for approximately 200m before turning right onto the cliff path. Continue along the cliff path passing Salmon Rock and Port Vinegar taking you to the ruins of Layd Church a a 13th century Franciscan foundation. Chief burial place of the MacDonnell's after Bonamargy which has been built at least three times and served as a parish church from 1306 to the end of the 18th century. Fine stones in the graveyard include a cross in memory of Doctor James MacDonnell, pioneer in the use of chloroform for surgical operations. Open access all year round.

A 13th century Franciscan foundation. Chief burial place of the MacDonnell's after Bonamargy which has been built at least three times and served as a parish church from 1306 to the end of the 18th century. Fine stones in the graveyard include a cross in memory of Doctor James MacDonnell, pioneer in the use of chloroform for surgical operations. Open access all year round.

Please note: Following an inspection, the Cushendall Cliff Path has been closed until repair works can be carried out to the wooden decking structures. The Council will look at carrying out this work in the New Year.

Start Point:
D245289

Finish Point:
D245289

Route:
In the Village of Cushendall take the Shore Road and park in the layby (toilets are located at the layby). Follow the laneway northwards for approx. 200m, turn right onto the cliff path and follow the path along the coast to Layd Church.

Distance:
0.5 miles

Terrain:
Hard core and grass path

Point of interest:
Layd Church, coastal views

Facilities:
Toilet and car parking facilities are available at the layby at the start of the walk. There are a number of restaurants, bars, cafes and shops situated in the village of Cushendall.

Publication:
None

Nearest town:
Cushendall

OS map:
Sheet 5

Accessible terrain:
Unsurfaced track, fairly steep