Carra Castle

Carra Castle sits on a headland near Ballycastle, a sturdy ruin that's been weathering Atlantic gales for centuries. There's not much left standing - mainly tumbled walls and the ghost of what was once a proper defensive stronghold - but that's rather the point. You're not touring a museum piece here; you're picking your way through genuine medieval rubble with views across the North Coast that'll stop you mid-step.

It's the sort of place that appeals to history types who don't mind a bit of scrambling, or walkers passing through on the Causeway Coast way who fancy a detour. Families with younger kids might find twenty minutes enough before boredom sets in. The real draw is context - standing here looking out at the same seascape, imagining boats arriving, raiders departing, centuries of Irish coastal life unfolding.

There's no visitor centre or interpretation boards, which keeps it raw and unspoiled. Free to visit, naturally. Allow an hour if you're thorough about it, less if you just want a quick poke about. Wind can be fierce, so dress accordingly.

If you're staying at Watertop Farm, the excellent holiday park just down the way, Carra makes a sensible morning walk before heading into Ballycastle for lunch. It slots neatly between the bigger Causeway Coast attractions without any of the crowds. Worth the detour if ruins and wind-scoured headlands appeal to you. Skip it if you're after a polished heritage experience.