Castlerock Beach runs about 1km (0.7 miles) between the sea cliffs of Downhill to the west and the Lower River Bann estuary (the “Barmouth”) to the east, backing onto the village of Castlerock, in County Londonderry.
Access
Four boardwalks lead from the dunes to the beach. Cars are permitted on the eastern portion of the beach year-round, though soft, wind-blown sand can make access difficult at times - heed on-site signage. Free car parking is available along the promenade and main street, both a short walk from the beach.
Facilities
Boardwalk beach access; free promenade car parking; disabled toilets and parking; dogs allowed, with restrictions between 1 June and 15 September; seasonal RNLI lifeguard cover (historically July and August, 11am-7pm daily - confirm current dates before relying on this); horse riding permitted (historically 1 May-30 September, before 11am and after 7pm).
Activities
The beach suits swimming, surfing, kite surfing, kayaking, paddling, and fishing, with rock pools and small bays at the beach’s far end from town. The promenade offers cycling and walking with coastal views. Anglers and walkers can access the Barmouth’s concrete pier, though caution is advised in high winds or breaking seas.
Castlerock Golf Club
Sitting behind the beach among the dunes and heathland, Castlerock Golf Club offers 18 holes on the Mussenden Course and 9 on the Bann Course.
Getting There
Castlerock has its own railway station on the Belfast-Derry line, a short walk from the beach and promenade - a genuinely convenient option if you’d rather not drive, with trains connecting east to Coleraine and Belfast and west to Derry~Londonderry.
Nearby
Portstewart Strand lies across the River Bann Estuary to the east.
