Best attractions and places to see around Macleary include coastal features, historical sites, and riverside paths. The region offers diverse landscapes, from expansive sandy beaches backed by dunes to a historic 17th-century cottage. Visitors can explore scenic promenades and natural river environments. This area provides a range of outdoor and cultural experiences.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Highlight (Segment) โข Beach
Translated by Google โข
Tip by
Highlight โข Parking
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight โข Natural Monument
Tip by
Highlight โข Monument
Tip by
Highlight โข Beach
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Macleary.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Portstewart Strand is a sweeping two-mile beach at the edge of town and forms a fitting finale (or start!) to the Causeway Coast Way. The viewpoint is from St. Patrickโs Well, a small spring long associated with local tradition.
1
0
Mountsandel Fort is a prehistoric fort dating to the Mesolithic period that was reused in the Irish Middle Ages (10th to 11th centuries). Located in Coleraine, County Derry, the fort consists of a huge grassy mound hollowed out in the middle, overlooking the River Bann. A must-see for lovers of mysterious monuments!
1
0
Beautiful walk along the seafront, overlooking the town, the beach and the cliffs in the distance. Lots of shops and restaurants nearby.
1
0
Castlerock Beach is a stunning stretch of golden sand with a back drop of dunes and the Atlantic Ocean. There's car parking at the top of the beach and you can park on the sand throughout the year in the eastern section. The beach benefits from RNLI lifeguards in July and August but care should be taken when swimming all year round, as the beach is very exposed.
0
0
This charming, single-storey thatched cottage was built in the 17th century using a particularly unusual method for the time: cruck construction. The house was bought in the 1700s by Isaac Hezlett, a local farmer and his family continued to live in the property until the 1970s when it was given to the National Trust. You can visit the property and take a guided tour. For more information and to arrange a visit, head here: http://www.nationaltrustcollections.org.uk/place/hezlett-house
0
0
You can walk along a well defined forest path from the small car park near Coleraine Courthouse and from the Fort, you can see great views of the Salmon Leap (Weir) and Coleraine.
1
0
Yes, Macleary offers several family-friendly attractions. Castlerock Beach is a popular choice with its golden sands and dunes. The River Bann Riverside Path is great for spotting wildflowers and birdlife, and Hezlett House, a historic 17th-century thatched cottage, offers guided tours suitable for families.
Macleary is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Castlerock Beach, known for its expansive golden sand and dunes. Another beautiful coastal spot is Portstewart Strand from St. Patrick's Well, a sweeping two-mile beach. For riverside nature, the River Bann Riverside Path provides opportunities to observe wildflowers and birdlife.
Yes, a notable historical site is Hezlett House. This charming 17th-century thatched cottage, built with a unique cruck construction method, offers guided tours and a glimpse into local history. It was home to the Hezlett family for centuries before being given to the National Trust.
The Portstewart Promenade is wheelchair accessible, offering beautiful views along the seafront, overlooking the town, beach, and distant cliffs. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll.
There are several easy hiking routes around Macleary. You can find trails like the 'View of the River Bann โ Mountsandel Fort loop' or the 'Somerset Forest loop'. These routes typically range from 3 to 5 km. For more details and a variety of options, check out the Hiking around Macleary guide.
Yes, Macleary offers various cycling opportunities. You can find easy to moderate road cycling routes, such as the 'Causeway Coast Cycle Route: Coleraine to Bushmills Loop' or the 'Portstewart Promenade โ View of Portrush Harbour loop'. For more options, including touring bicycle routes, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Macleary guide or the Cycling around Macleary guide.
Yes, parking is available at key attractions. For instance, Castlerock Beach has car parking at the top of the beach, and you can even park on the sand in the eastern section throughout the year.
Many of Macleary's natural outdoor spaces are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control. The River Bann Riverside Path and the various beaches like Castlerock Beach are generally welcoming for dogs, though specific restrictions might apply during peak seasons or in certain areas. Always check local signage.
The best time to visit Macleary's attractions generally depends on your preferred activities. The summer months (July and August) are ideal for beach activities at Castlerock Beach, as RNLI lifeguards are present. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring historical sites like Hezlett House and enjoying walks along the River Bann Riverside Path without the peak crowds.
The River Bann Riverside Path is an excellent place to experience riverside nature. It's known for its abundant wildflowers and diverse birdlife, offering opportunities to spot various species across the dunes and along the river.
Absolutely. The Portstewart Promenade offers a beautiful walk along the seafront with views of the town, beach, and distant cliffs. Additionally, the two-mile stretch of Portstewart Strand from St. Patrick's Well provides a stunning coastal experience, forming part of the Causeway Coast Way.
Yes, particularly around the coastal areas. The Portstewart Promenade area is noted for having 'Lots of shops and restaurants nearby,' providing convenient options for refreshments and meals after exploring the seafront.


Still not found the Highlight youโre looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: