Port Path

About

The Port Path (an integral section of the Causeway Coast Way, Ulster Way and International Appalachian Trail) starts in close proximity to the entrance to Portstewart Strand. The start point is along Strand Road, on the right-hand side, approx. 500m before the entrance to the beach, on an area of open rough grassland (signage in place).

ROUTE DESCRIPTION

Proceed onto the surfaced cliff path and follow this coastal path into the centre of Portstewart. Having passed the harbour, ascend the steps on the left to Harbour Hill viewpoint. From this vantage point, follow the waymarked route towards Portrush, hugging the coastline. Extra care should be taken when passing Portstewart and Ballyreagh golf courses.

On reaching Portrush, follow the route along the promenade, past the harbour, around Ramore Head, past the Coastal Zone and the Arcadia, to finish at East Strand, Portrush. 

POINTS OF INTEREST

St Patrick’s Well - St. Patrick’s Well was thought to be the fresh water supply for the Stone Age inhabitants of the sand hills. It was used as a source of holy water by the inhabitants of Portstewart, and locals sold the water to tourists until the 1940s. 

Ice House - There is an ice house along the cliff path, a stone built turf roofed house, where ice was stored in the winter in order to preserve salmon in the summer. Ice house remains can also be seen at Portrush (Arcadia), Portballintrae (Runkerry) and further along the coast, at Castlerock.

Portnahapple Sea Pool and Dominican Convent - The route also passes Portnahapple, a natural sea pool for outdoor bathing and the Dominican Convent, perched on the cliff’s edge. This school was established in 1917 in O’Hara’s Castle, which was built in 1834 by the Montagu family. 

Jimmy Kennedy Sculpture - Look out for the sculpture towards the northern end of Portstewart promenade commemorating the songwriter, Jimmy Kennedy. Although born in Omagh, he grew up in Portstewart and was inspired by one of the town’s sunsets when he wrote ‘Red Sails in the Sunset’.

(This walk is part of the larger Causeway Coast Way Trail)