Larne Promenade car park

The car park at Larne Promenade doesn't sound like much on paper, but this stretch of Northern Irish coastline is genuinely worth a stop if you're exploring Mid and East Antrim. You get proper views across the water toward the Scottish coast on a clear day, and the promenade itself is a decent spot for a walk without the crowds you'd find elsewhere.

It's not a formal nature reserve in the fenced-off sense - more that the coastal area around here supports decent birdwatching and you'll see waders and seabirds if you time it right with the tides. The rocks and shingle beach attract photographers, though it's industrial Larne rather than postcard-perfect. Real appeal for walkers wanting a breezy hour along the front, or for anyone based at Down to Earth Wild Camping four miles south who fancies a proper coastline change of scenery.

Parking is straightforward - it's a functioning car park serving the promenade - and there's no admission charge to the waterfront itself. Allow an hour for a reasonable walk either direction. Don't expect facilities or cafes right there; Larne town centre is just back from the front.

If you're doing a park holiday in the area, this works as a morning outing before heading inland to bigger attractions. The coast here is working and genuine rather than prettified, which appeals to some people more than manicured seaside towns.