Blackhead Path

What You'll Find

If your wee adventurers love a coastal walk with something exciting to discover at the end, Blackhead Path in Whitehead is a lovely one to add to your list!

This beautiful coastal walk follows the edge of Belfast Lough, with gorgeous sea views, rocky coves, woodland and the impressive Blackhead Lighthouse waiting at the end.

Starting from Whitehead Boat Park, the route stretches for around 2.2 miles there and back. Much of the path is fairly level and surfaced, making it a lovely walk along the coastline, although there are some steep steps to tackle if you want to reach the lighthouse itself.

One of the nicest parts for little explorers is the stretch of woodland known locally as the Magic Forest. With trees surrounding the path and the sea just beyond, it's a lovely change of scenery along the way.

There's plenty to keep the kids interested too! Look out for boats sailing across the lough, seabirds along the shoreline and the little rocky coves tucked beneath the cliffs.

And of course, there's the lighthouse! Sitting high above the coastline, Blackhead Lighthouse makes a brilliant destination for the walk. The climb up involves quite a few steep steps, but the views from the top are worth the effort.

The walk is completely free, and because it's an out-and-back route, you can always turn around whenever little legs have had enough.

A gorgeous spot for a family coastal adventure, especially on a bright, clear day!

Wee Ones Will Love...

• ✓Spotting Blackhead Lighthouse in the distance and getting closer with every step
• ✓Exploring the magical woodland section along the coastal path
• ✓Watching the boats sailing across Belfast Lough
• ✓Looking out for seabirds and wildlife along the rocky coastline
• ✓Tackling the steps towards the lighthouse and enjoying the views from above

Before You Visit

The walk starts at Whitehead Boat Park, just off Old Castle Road, and follows the coastline towards Blackhead Lighthouse.

Although much of the coastal path is surfaced and relatively level, the steps leading up towards the lighthouse are steep. It's best suited to children who are confident walking, and the full route isn't suitable for buggies.

Keep little ones close along the coastal sections and enjoy the rocky coves from safe, accessible areas rather than climbing down from the path.

The route can be quite exposed to the wind, so an extra layer is always handy, even on a sunny day.

You'll find cafés and public toilets back in Whitehead village rather than along the coastal path itself.

Occasional cliff maintenance can mean temporary closures near the lighthouse, so it's worth checking for any updates before travelling.

⭐ Wee Adventurers Top Tips

• ⭐Make the lighthouse your little adventure goal! It's a great way to keep the kids motivated along the walk.
• ⭐Bring binoculars if you have them. There are plenty of opportunities to spot birds and boats across Belfast Lough.
• ⭐Choose a dry day if you're planning to climb the lighthouse steps, as they can be slippery when wet.
• ⭐Pack a wee snack for a break along the way, especially if you're tackling the full walk with younger children.
• ⭐Make more of your day with a visit to Whitehead's colourful seafront and promenade. You could also head to Whitehead Railway Museum if your wee ones love trains!