Month: November 2016

Scotland Office Minister, George Foulkes announced the recognition by the Transport Service of the European Commission of the need for a Public Service Obligation (PSO) for the ferry service. This means that the Government is now free to proceed with moves to ressurect the link between Ballycastle and Campbeltown. The Minister congratulated the Ferry Action Group and Northern Irish and Scottish Departments involved on their commitment, hard work and unity of purpose on taking this matter forward. He noted however that there is still a way to go before the ferry shall finally dock! 

Weekend Walks in the Glens

As popularity ever increases amongst locals and visitors alike to walk around the Glens of Antrim, the Heart of the Glens Festival committee have decided to hold a themed weekend from 20^th to 22^nd July. There shall be walks of varying standards from 8-9 hours down to 1-2 hours allowing people of all abilities to join in. There will also be cultural events in the evenings based on Scottish and Irish themes.
Plans are also being made for the Heart of the Glens Festival to be held this year from Friday 10^th to Sunday 19^th August.

Sheskburn Fitness Suite Re-opens

The newly refurbished Fitness Suite was re-opened on February 6th and it now includes state-of-the-art cardiovascular and resistance machines designed to promote ultimate fitness and encourage involvement amongst females and teenagers.

Glens to host Fleadh Cheoil 2001

The Glens branch of Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann has secured the privilege of hosting the County Antrim Fleadh Cheoil 2001 – the 50th anniversary year of Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann the national organisation for promotion of Irish traditional music. The event shall be held will be staged in Cushendun from 18th to 20th May with musicians from all around taking part in competitions.

The National Trust is the new owner of the Causeway Hotel at the Giant’s Causeway. The formal transfer of ownership to the conservation charity took place last Friday. The Trust are delighted that Mr. Stanley Armstrong, the former owner, has agreed to manage the facility during 2002 to ensure business as usual. Ruth Laird, the Trust’s director for Northern Ireland, said “This is an exciting opportunity to significantly improve visitor facilities at the gateway to the World heritage site. It is a vital part of the National Trust’s efforts to ensure that the unique landscape of the Giant’s Causeway is not irreparably damaged by over-development. The Trust’s investment in the hotel will secure the jobs and contribute to the North Coast economy, supplementing the three quarters of a million pounds we spend each year in protecting and mainting our North Coast properties and the £5 million which the Trust invests throughout Northern Ireland annually.” The Trusts is at present in discussion with a number of large hotel groups in a bid to secure the long-term future of the hotel.

The plan by Moyle Council to reinstate the access path to Kenbane Castle, long a popular tourist attraction in the district, looks set to progress. Recently the local authority, Tourism Development and Recreation Manager, Mr. Kevin McGarry, revealed Environment and Heritage Service had confirmed they would provide half the funding for works to the path and signage if Council would re-submit their application to them. The remaining half of the funding for the scheme, Mr. McGarry added, would be provided by Built Heritage. This news was warmly received by councilors who agreed a proposal by Cllr. Madeline Black, that Council should now liaise with EHS’s Regional Operation Unit to prepare costing and submit an application for funding.

Happy days – finally I can go a decent walk without having to climb over the stupid barrier!!!

Glens historians launch CD Rom

The Glens of Antrim Historical Society took the history of their area into the 21st Century recently when they launched a CD detailing the colourful history of the glorious Nine Glens of Antrim. The CD launched recently at the Londonderry Arms Hotel features text, video and photographs of local sites of historical interest with local musicians ‘Comhaltas’ proving some excellent background music. The CD also includes interviews with Glens folk recalling the past. It will will be distributed free to local schools, libraries, tourist centres and development offices to ensure public access.

Ardclinis access to be improved

Mr. McGarry, Tourism Development and Recreation Manager, has also revealed that a planning application is being prepared for a lay-by and access path to improve the access at one of the Glens most historic sites – Ardclinis Graveyard.

The Ballycastle-Campbeltown ferry could be up and running next year and creating 200 new jobs, thanks to the determination of a think-tank that is committed to the re-establishment of the route. The group have agreed on a five point plan that should lead to the tenders for the service being advertised in January 2001. The group have also applied to the Department of Environment to gain Public Service Obligation status for the service, which would result in financial support from the government. The group – which includes representatives from Moyle District Council, Argyll and Bute Council, Argyll and the Islands Enterprise, the Scottish Executive and the Scotland Office – believe that the case has been strengthened by a report that has highlighted the social and economic benefits of the service.

Apart from showing the obvious benefits of 200 extra jobs, encouraging tourism and inward investment, promoting historical and cultural links, the report also highlighted that the existing economic conditions in Kintyre and Antrim are likely to worsen without the significant intervention that projects such as the ferry represent.

Giant’s Causeway for sale!!!

The Giant’s Causeway will indeed be up for sale in the very near future thanks to the development of a new Ulster edition of Monopoly by Winning Moves. Also up for grabs will be locations such as Botanic Avenue, Donegal Place, Great Victoria Street, Central Station and City Hall!
There are already similar editions for Wales and Scotland also available that have proved very popular with all ages and it is hoped that the Northern Ireland edition will do well also.

Glenariff well and truly on the map

Glenariff Forest Park is among 28 new sites being developed by the Northern Ireland Orienteering Association (NIOA). It is hoped that the £150,000 project that is already underway will be completed by December 2001. Thereafter it will be maintained by orienteering clubs so that anyone can turn up and take part at anytime.

Moyle B&B’s of a high standard

Colliers Hall on the Cushendall road, Ballycastle came runner-up in the ‘Farmhouse ‘ category of the AIB & Irish Farmers’ Journal Rural Tourism Awards 2000. Maureen and Gerard McCarry were presented with the award by Kevin McGarry, Moyle Council’s Recreation and Tourism Development Manager. The accommodation is in an ideal location on the main coast and hence has proved very popular with tourist over the years. An extension, converting the adjoining farm buildings, due to be finished for the 2001 season shall see the facilities offering 14 bed places in double en-suite rooms, a kitchen and lounge area.

Schools light up the Marina 

In a unique event for Northern Ireland nine schools took part in designing and making 16 lights that are now brightening up Ballycastle Marina over the Christmas season. Participants from the winning schools and groups went along to the workshop session in Corrymeela to help build the lights that where switched on on Saturday 2nd December 2000.

Craft Connections based at 45 Ann Street are setting the foundations for the coming of age of this community craft business. Craft Connections gathered together £17,000 by fundraising  and the other 50% shall be provided by support from the Arts Lottery Fund, Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the International Fund for Ireland and LEDCOM.
It is proposed that the community arts and craft centre will incorporate community, arts, crafts, meeting, training rooms and exhibition facilities as well attracting a wide range of events and social activities. While the renovations take place Craft Connections shall rellocate to Unit 9, Moyle Enterprise Centre, Leyland Road, a full programme of classes for January to Easter will be available shortly. For further information telephone 028 2076 8716.

Rathlin Hares to be Protected

Moyle District Council recently secured a concession from Environment Minister Sam Foster to bring the practice of trapping hares to an end on Rathlin Island. It is hoped that this move shall reduce the decline in numbers of the current hare population and the decision was welcomed by local council who brought the situatino to light after requests from locals.

On 1st – 3rd January a promotion is taking place organised by two tourist assistants, Hazel Porter and Vanessa Kane. In an effort to encourage greater awareness of the visitor services and facilities available at the center since fire destroyed the old premises the team are hoping to lure more local day trippers to visit. There are free prize draws daily and also in attendance shall be former National Trust Head Warden, Philip Watson who is signing copies of his new book…

Local Books

Philip Watson has launched his new book “The Giant’s Causeway and the North Antrim Coast” that I have found to be quite interesting and very useful when adding info to my site. It’s a factual history of the Causeway and surrounding coastline with a few myths thrown in for good measure and several excellent representations as well as dated photographs of day gone by. Bibliography giving more information sources. All together a bargain at £7 sterling ($10US). More Info

I happened upon another book this time by Maureen Donnelly entitled “The Nine Glens” and as I discovered this is a revised edition of an earlier book. Again I believe this to be a very useful book when adding to my site. This book not only details the history, folklore and traditions of the Glens but also the surrounding countryside in an enjoyable and warm hearted manner with numerous poems, photographs and a wealth of the authors personal experiences and knowledge about the area. More Info

In a letter to local newspapers the Senior Press Officer for Sustrans, Kevin Saunders, wrote…
Sir – I would like to take this opportunity to inform your readers of an exciting new facility on our website providing detailed maps of the National Cycle Network as well as a virtual online tour. It can be viewed on the internet at www.sustrans.co.uk  The Networks offers many miles of cycle routes, much of which is along safe, peaceful, traffic-free paths. It offers attractive opportunities for families to enjoy the countryside and towns as well as alternative fume-free routes for commuters and young people traveling to school. By 2005 we will have completed 10,000 miles of the Network and over half the population will be within a couple of miles of access. The National Cycle Network is a Millennium Commission project supported by £43.5m of National Lottery Funds.

Sustrans, the sustainable transport charity, has been able to provide this unique and informative facility with the generous Sponsorship of Halfords.

US Lammas Fair

Are you aware there was another Lammas Fair this year? In New Orleans, of all places. And they even tried making yellowman. With a little bit of dulse from home on the side. You see, 20 years ago lawyer May McGrath went home to New Orleans enthusing about the Ballycastle original and met up eventually with teachers Clare Neeson from Belfast, her Mexican husband Horatio Zavalza and their children Lara and Erin at the New Orleans School of Irish Dancing, of which May is director. And one thing led to another, with the new friends reminiscing about Ballycastle and the upshot was the first Lammas Fair USA-style in O’Flagherty’s pub in Toulouse Street in the French quarter of New Orleans last month.

Folk from Baton Rouge and Louisiana state joined in the singing and the barbeque and sampled the dulse and yellowman made by chef Kevin Marron. “It turned out dark and muddy like the Mississippi,” he admits, “because I used brown sugar.”

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	Details	Facilities	Open
Bed&Breakfast’s
Verified Mar2012	Ammiroy House Mrs. M Crawford 24 Quay Road Ballycastle, BT54 6BH Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 2621 Website Email	NITB Near Seafront. Across the road from town play park. Convenient to Ulster Way. 1 Double, 1 Double+Single
Verified Mar2012	Ardaghmore B&B Ms Jenny McLernon 35 North Street Ballycastle, BT54 6BP Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 3329 Website Email	Victorian sea-front home with wonderful views of Rathlin Island, Mull of Kintyre and Fairhead. Two minutes walk from beach, tennis courts, and golf course. Lounge. 2 Double, 1 Twin Room NITB Own key means no closing time.
Verified Mar2012	Beechwood B&B Mr Chris McAuley 9 Beechwood Avenue Ballycastle BT54 6BL Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 3631 Website Email	Located on a quiet side street close to the seafront. Pack lunches available
Updated:07/03/2002	Broughanlea House Mrs. Anna Hill 59 Cushendall Road Ballycastle, BT54 6QR Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 2842 Email	Modern country house. Scenic location close to all local amenities. 1 mile east of Ballycastle on the A2. Rural Setting, Near Sea, River, Golf booked by manager owner,  Game shooting arranged, Convenient to Ulster Way. Lounge, Ensuite all rooms, NITB Rooms: 2 Double Ensuite, 1 Twin Ensuite
Updated:07/03/2002	Broughgammon House Ms Fiona Chambers 56 Straid Road Ballycastle, BT54 6NP Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 3260	NITB Modern farm bungalow. Peaceful rural setting. Convenient to Causeway Coast attractions. Warm homely atmosphere. Tea on arrival. Situated 3 miles from Ballycastle, 4 miles from Bushmills. Baby Sitting Arranged/Available, Country House Rooms: 2 Double 1Twin	All year
Updated:30/03/2012	Carneatly Lodge Mrs. Z McPherson 51 Moyarget Road Ballycastle , BT54 6HL Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 8626 Website Email	Building of Interest Nearby, Near Sea Lake River Mountain,  Golf booked by manager owner, Convenient to Ulster Way.
	Carnsaggart House 88 Whitepark Road Ballycastle, BT54 6LP Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 3237
Verified Apr2012	Clare House B&B Mrs. P Black 33 Clare Road Ballycastle BT54 6LL Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 3889 Website	NITB Comfortable family run house set in beautiful surroundings. Ideally situated for touring Causeway Coast and Glens of Antrim. Convenient to shops, beach, tennis courts etc. A warm welcome awaits you. Sea view,  Pack lunches, Baby sitting. Rooms: 5 Family (3 Ensuite)
Updated:08/07/2002	Clarewood House Bernadette  The Everglades 81  Moyle Road Ballycastle BT54 6LG Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 2157	NITB  Friendly run newly built Bed & Breakfast situated on a quiet coastal road with sea views at front, and mountain views at rear. Close to all amenities – golf, fishing, bowling green, tennis courts, marina, ferry port, harbour, beach, restaurants, bars, churches, country club. Cosy, warm, central heating, hot showers. Tea/Coffee on arrival. Choice of breakfasts Rooms: 3 Double Ensuite, 1Twin Ensuite	All year
Updated:07/03/2002	Colliers Hall Maureen McGarry 50 Cushendall Road Ballycastle, BT54 6QR Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 2531  Website	An 18th century farmhouse with traditional farmyard and outbuildings. On A2, 1 mile from Ballycastle. Situated alongside 18 hole golf course, reduction in golf fees for guests. Recommended in ‘Le Guide de Retour’ and ‘B&B Ireland’. Building of Interest, Rural, Golf arranged Rooms: 2 Double, 1Twin Ensuite	April – September
Updated 28/08/04	Corratavey Claire White 40 Quay Road Ballycastle, BT54 6BH Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 2845 Fax : +44 (0)28 2076 8828 Website Email	NITB, Ensuite Available, The owners are fluent in Polish and have a good working knowledge of German, French and a number of other European Languages.
Updated 22/02/02	Cuchulain House B&B Ms Marie McMahon 56 Quay Road Ballycastle BT54 6BH Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 2252 Email	Elegant Victorian house adjacent to all amenities, shopping, beach, leisure facilities, restaurants, pubs, tennis, golf course, bowling green, angling and ferry. Family run home personally supervised. NITB Rooms: 1 Double, 1 Twin, 1 Single (2 Ensuite, 1 Hot/Cold Water)
	Daybreak Mrs. Joy Day 57a Drumavoley Rd Ballycastle Tel : +44 (0)28 2076	Comfortable and welcoming accommodation in quiet location near Ballycastle Forest, panoramic views overlooking Fairhead, Glenshesk and Rathlin Island. Ideal base to explore the Glens of Antrim and Causeway Coast. Rural Setting, Near Sea Lake River Mountain,  , Golf booked by manager owner,  Sea view.
Updated:07/03/2002	Drumawillan House Mr. & Mrs. Todd 1 Whitepark Rd Ballycastle BT54 6HH Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 2539	17th century former Charter School, situated on the edge of Ballycastle, enjoying breath taking views of Fairhead and the Mull of Kintyre. Ideal base for exploring the Glens of Antrim and Giant’s Causeway. A welcoming and comfortable home awaits you. Building of Interest Nearby, Rural Setting, Near Sea Lake River Mountain,  Golf booked by manager owner,  Game shooting arranged, Water Skiing arranged, Convenient to Ulster Way.
Updated: 07/03/2002	Fairhead View B&B Mrs. Kathleen Delargy 26 North Street Ballycastle BT54 6BW Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 2822	A warm welcome awaits you at Fair Head View. A family run comfortable home situated on the sea front. All rooms h/c. room and babysitting. Gateway to the Glens of Antrim and Giant’s Causeway. Baby Sitting Service, Golf booked by manager owner,  Convenient to Ulster Way. Rooms: 2 Double, 1 Twin (All rooms Hot/Cold Water)
Updated: 11/03/2002	Fragrens B&B 34 Quay Road Ballycastle, BT54 6BH Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 2168 Tel2:  +44 (0)28 2076 2181Website Valerie Greene	Sure Stay NITB Rooms: 3 double, 1 Twin & 4 Family rooms (4 Ensuite, 3 Hot/Cold Water, 1 Toilet & Hot/Cold Water)	February – October
	Glenhaven B&B Mrs. A Gormley 10 Beechwood Avenue Ballycastle Tel : +44 (0)28 2076	Family run Bed and Breakfast close to beach, golf course, tennis courts, Rathlin ferry, hotels and restaurants. Warm welcome with full traditional breakfast. Baby Sitting Service, Golf booked by manager owner,  Water Skiing arranged, Convenient to Ulster Way.
More Info Updated:14/07/2003	Kinbane Farmhouse B&B Mrs. Nan Wilkinson 85 Whitepark  Road Ballycastle Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 9947 Fax : +44 (0)28 2076 9947 Mob: +44 (0)77 5350 8669 Website Nan Wilkinson	NITB Certified Newly built family home. Sitting room with open turf fire.   Quiet rural location, panoramic views of Rathlin Island Close to building of interest. Views of Rathlin Island, Fairhead, Coast & Mull of Kintyre. Reduced rates for stay longer then 1 night, Children under 5 free	All year
Updated:07/03/2002	Kenmara B&B Mr. E Shannon 45 North Street Ballycastle, BT54 6BP Tel : +44 (0) 28 2076 2600	A comfortable and friendly Victorian House on the cliff overlooking Rathlin Sound and the Mull of Kintyre, mature gardens. golf, tennis and pony trekking available.   Building of Interest Nearby, Near Sea Lake River Mountain,  Golf booked by manager owner,  Convenient to Ulster Way NITB Rooms: 1 Double, 1 Twin, 1 Single (2 Ensuite, 3 Hot/Cold Water)	All year
Updated:07/03/2002	Kilmean Farm Margaret Kane 4 Glenstaughey Road Ballycastle Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 3305 Fax: +44 (0)28 2076 2027 Email	Modern farm bungalow overlooking Rathlin Island. Two miles from Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Ideally situated for touring the North Antrim Coast. Home baking. Rural Setting, Near Sea Lake River Mountain,  Golf booked by manager owner,  Convenient to Ulster Way, Sea view. Rooms: 2 Double, 1 Twin (3 Hot/Cold Water)
Updated:07/03/2002	PortCampley 8 Harbour Road Ballintoy, BT54 6NA Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 8200 Fax: +44 (0)28 2076 8200 Mobile: +44 (0) 77 8095 4654 Website Email	Spacious 6 bedroom modern bungalow with panoramic views of Whitepark Bay, Rathlin and Scotland. Short walk to Ballintoy harbour and rope bridge. Convenient for fishing, walking and golfing. Home cooking and friendly atmosphere assured. Evening meals from £10. Discount on group bookings. Babysitting available. Pack lunches available. Look at Ballintoy page, right-hand of image is PortCampley House
Updated:07/03/2002	Rathushard Mrs. J Lynn 3 Rathlin Road Ballycastle, BT54 6DD Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 2237	NITB Detached house standing on its own mature grounds. Sea view. Convenient to beach, tennis courts, golf, bowling, recreation centre and town. Ideal base for touring Giant’s Causeway and Glens of Antrim. Near Sea ,  Baby Sitting Service,  Golf booked by manager owner,  Convenient to Ulster Way, Seaview. Rooms: 2 Family, 1 Single (All Hot/Cold Water)
Updated:27/11/2004	Roscor House Mrs. Avril Gormley 11 Whitehall View Ballycastle BT54 6JS Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 9468 Mob: +44 (0)7787787068 Website Email	NITB Newly built family home with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Ideal base for touring the coast, near beaches, fishing, tennis, golf course, walking routes, Carrick-a-rede Rope bridge, Giant’s Causeway and Rathlin Island. Pack Lunches available, Guest Lounge; Euros accepted Rooms: 1 Double, 1 Twin (All Ensuite)
Updated:20/08/2011	Sea Breeze 8 Drumavoley Grange Ballycastle BT54 6NZ Tel : +44 (028) 2076 8651 Mobile: +44 (0) 7968 214 602 Website Email	Sea Breeze B&B is a comfortable, modern and high quality Northern Ireland Tourist Board Approved B&B located in the small sea side town of Ballycastle. We are situated just off from the Quay area of Ballycastle, a ten minute walk from the Beach, Golf Club and the many attractions the town has to offer making our B&B perfect for your stay in Ballycastle, be it golfing, exploring Ballycastle and the surrounding areas or relaxing. With our high quality accommodation, breathtaking views, we aim to make your stay here at Sea Breeze B&B a memorable and enjoyable one! NITB Full Irish Breakfast made with local or continental produce as requested, High Speed internet access in every room, a range of guest sitting areas such as the Patio, Sun Room, Balcony and Art Gallery and spectacular views of Fair Head Rooms: 1 Double Ensuite, 1 Double, 1 Twin
Updated:07/03/2002	Silversprings House Mrs. Molly Mulholland 20 Quay Road Ballycastle BT54 6BH Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 2080 Email	Family run Dutch Colonial style house in quiet area. Convenient to local amenities. Comfortable roomy accommodation. Residents lounge with tea making facilities. Rooms: 2 Double, 1 Twin (2 Ensuite)
Updated:10/02/2001	Tara House 49a Ann Street Ballycastle, BT54 6AA Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 2282 Tel2 : +44 (0)28 2076 3880 Mobile: +44 (0)7808440975	NITB Babysitting Arranged/Available, Town House, Near Ulster Way, Near Cycle Route, Near Sea, Sea View
Updated:07/03/2002	Torr Brae Mrs. Oonagh McHenry 77 Torr Road TorrHead Ballycastle, BT54 6RQ Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 9625 Email	Newly refurbished farmhouse situated in rural surroundings with spectacular views of Torr Head and the Mull of Kintyre. Residents lounge with tea/coffee making facilities. Hill walking available. Rural Setting, Near Sea Lake River Mountain,  Baby Sitting Service, Golf booked by manager owner,  Convenient to Ulster Way, Sea view. Rooms: 1 Double Ensuite, 1 Single Ensuite, 1 Family Ensuite
	The Warren 36 Cushendall Road Ballycastle, BT54 6QR Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 3779	NITB
Updated:07/03/2002	Westwinds Mrs. Mary Mc Conaghie 290A Moyarget Road Ballycastle Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 1471	Modern new bungalow with lovely views. Home cooking and baking. Within 15 – 2O minutes drive of all North Antrim resorts. Convenient to golf course. Rooms: 1 Double Ensuite, 1 Single Ensuite, 1 Family Ensuite
	Whitepark House Bob Isles, UK AA Landlady of the Year 2003 150 Whitepark Road Whitepark Bay Ballintoy, BT54 6NH Tel : +44 (0)28207 31482 Website Email
Updated:07/03/2002	Willeen Mrs. E McAlister 1 Church Road Ballycastle, BT54 6EA Tel : +44 (0)28 2076 3560	Situated in quiet residential area, within 5 minutes walk to town centre. Residents Lounge with views of Knocklayde Mountain NITB Rooms: 1 Double

Children welcome, Children Discounts, Dogs welcome, Senior Citizen Discounts, Suitable for less able people (check for details), Business Travelers welcome, Caravanning facilities, Credit Cards accepted, Country House, Golf Arranged/Available, Fishing available/arranged, Foreign languages spoken, No smoking, Riding available, Camping Facilities, Waymarked walks, Bicycles for hire, Dive Equipment For Hire, Boat hire arranged, Tea/Coffee in rooms, Satellite Television in rooms, Television in rooms, Communal Television, Laundry facilities, Ironing Facilities, Hairdryer available, Licensed to sell alcohol, Heated rooms, Car parking, Specialist food available, Room Phone, Payphone, Visitors Garden, NITB – Approved by Northern Ireland Tourist Board

B&B – price per room for Bed and Breakfast, EM – price per person for Evening Meal, SC – price per unit per week for self catering, Tents or Caravans- price per night per pitch.

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