The charming Victorian town is perfect for a coastal getaway, with stunning walks and a historic railway museum to explore
The town is home to a number of scenic walking routes (Image: Daily Mirror)
Tucked away from the main tourist trail, you’ll discover this charming town, perfect for a peaceful coastal retreat, complete with picturesque walks and breathtaking vistas.
Whitehead boasts all the appeal of a Victorian seaside resort, featuring period architecture and meandering pathways that overlook the tranquil azure waters. Like any worthwhile destination, it’s home to an array of delightful bakeries, cafés and pubs, all providing refreshments and a chance to rest your feet after a day spent exploring the coastline.
However, the standout amongst these establishments is the Lighthouse Bistro and Bakehouse, which holds the top spot for dining in the region according to TripAdvisor. Visitors keep returning for the delicious seafood chowder, freshly baked treats and the lovely scenery as you enjoy your drink whilst gazing out over the ocean during summer months.
It lies between the limestone cliffs of Whitehead and the volcanic cliffs of Blackhead(Image: Walter Bibikow via Getty Images)
One satisfied patron said: “What a great find! This bakery/restaurant is excellent. We each had a delicious bowl of soup accompanied by freshly baked bread. Perfect lunch after our Blackhead Beach walk.”
It’s outdoor enthusiasts who frequently find themselves drawn to the area, renowned for its trails, including the famous Gobbins Cliff Path. Rich in heritage, this route offers more than simply a stroll but rather a voyage through history, as you encounter all the natural forces and feel more connected to the ocean than ever before.
You can peer down into the thundering waves of the North Passage whilst standing on a tubular bridge suspended between clifftops, providing unparalleled panoramas. An enthusiastic traveller shared their experience on TripAdvisor, saying: “The views are spectacular, and the history is so interesting. Keep your eyes open in the water – we saw several seals in the water. “
The Blackhead path is a popular route (Image: © Marco Bottigelli via Getty Images)
Due to some recent rockfall, the site is currently closed but is due to reopen as soon as possible. Apart from this, however, there are loads of other walks to witness the splendour of the Northern Irish coastline, including the Blackhead Path. Renowned for its charming white lighthouse backdrop, this route attracts all sorts of visitors, as it’s a fairly straightforward path suitable for all fitness levels.
One hiker added: “You’ll enjoy stunning views across Belfast Lough of North Down, Scotland and nearby islands. You can walk up to the lighthouse in a circular route – through the caves and up the back steps – or take a left up across the Golden Steps. Incredible views and all free!”.
For those eager to discover something new or with a passion for railways, Whitehead Railway Museum is essential. Here there’s the chance to step aboard a train with a 140 year old engine and enter an original 1950s carriage, all maintained by the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland’s collection.
Guests are welcome to wander the venue at their leisure or acquire plenty of fresh insights from the knowledgeable guides stationed at the museum. When the weather’s not playing ball, it’s a perfect spot for some indoor merriment, as one visitor confessed they “nearly didn’t call in” but were “so glad” they did and even wished they’d allocated more time.