Planning the perfect picnic in the Causeway Coast and Glens promises a delightful blend of stunning landscapes and delectable local produce. As you pack your blanket, chairs, and a hamper brimming with treats, envision an idyllic day spent amidst nature's beauty.

As we all know, the weather can be unpredictable here in Northern Ireland, so it’s always good to check the forecast and be prepared for those sudden changes! Even in summer it can get breezy here, so bring an extra layer of clothing just in case.

We’ve put together a list of just some of the scenic picnic spots you’ll find across the Causeway Coast and Glens, which make for perfect pitstops should you be visiting one of our towns or villages, or embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime road trip around Northern Ireland’s famed Causeway Coastal Route!

Picnic Spots in the Causeway Coast & Glens

Picnic with the puffins on the enchanting island of Rathlin

Savour an enchanting picnic experience on Rathlin Island, just a short six-mile ferry crossing over the Sea of Moyle from Ballycastle Harbour, where the spring sees the start of puffin season and there is a range of walks and trails for you to discover. Observe the wildlife and seabirds and explore the island’s three lighthouses. Take time to engage with the locals and enjoy the island’s tranquillity whilst visiting this magical place, where nature, history, and community come together to create a truly unique experience.

There are more wild picnic spots than we could mention on this remote island, but on arrival by ferry into Church Bay you’ll quickly realise this could be one of the best, with its beautiful sandy beach, quaint buildings and a friendly colony of placid local seals!

A wonderful picnic with a side of waterfall, anyone?

Step into Glenariff Forest Park, a place of exceptional beauty and stunning scenery. Follow the unique Waterfall Walkway, which passes through a National Nature Reserve, as the timber walkway winds through the glen, tracing the river gorge. Take in the sights and sounds of nature, the cascading waterfalls, sweet birdsong, and luscious greenery. If you’re using the dedicated carpark, the climb back up can be challenging, so you’ll be more than ready to tuck in to your tasty picnic upon your return!

Mountain top picnic views from Binevenagh

On a clear day, you can enjoy breathtaking views extending across to Donegal and the islands of Islay and Jura off the west coast of Scotland from this wonderful viewpoint atop Binevenagh Mountain, one of four Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the Causeway Coast and Glens. Here, you’ll find the sculpture of Celtic Sea God, Manannán mac Lir, who stands with arms outstretched looking over Lough Foyle, Magilligan and the enchanting Roe Valley area. This spot is simply inspiring and the perfect place to enjoy a lavish picnic.

Venture along Bishop’s Road and take a moment to appreciate the rugged charm of the landscape before enjoying your picnic. You can also opt to enjoy many of the walking trails in the area if you fancy working up an appetite pre-picnic!

View the epic coastline from a different perspective with a picnic at Portaneevy

Combine a delicious picnic with this stunning trailhead location situated along the Causeway Coast Way and the International Appalachian Trail. Take a giant step onto the Portaneevy viewing platforms and experience unparallelled views out towards Rathlin Island to the North, and Fair Head to the East. Towards the West, you’ll see Carrick-a-rede Island with its iconic rope bridge, and Sheep Island just behind it, a unique uninhabited islet which is a Special Protection Area due to it’s unique species of bird life. Enjoy excellent vehicle access, parking and comfortable picnicking facilities in thoughtfully landscaped surroundings at Portaneevy Viewpoint and capture the stunning vistas whilst surrounded by natural beauty and tranquillity.

Frame your picnic experience at a ‘Picture This’ location

Did you know that there are 8 spectacular hidden gems on the Picture This Trail where you can enjoy your picnic at carefully selected beauty spots? Revel in the remoteness of the Altirichard Viewpoint, located within the Slieveanorra and Croaghan Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI), one of the few accessible upland blanket bogs in Northern Ireland. You can enjoy two way-marked walks from Altarichard; the Breen Forest Walk and The Milibern, taking in the summit at Croaghan. Both provide remoteness, solitude and characteristically wild yet beautiful scenery, perfect for a remote picnic to calm the senses.

Enjoy a beach picnic on one of the regions stretches of beautiful golden sands

Explore the region’s award-winning Blue Flag beaches, perfect for walkers and families, nature lovers, watersports enthusiasts and, of course, those seeking a stunning wild location for the perfect picnic in the Causeway Coast and Glens. The Atlantic Ocean stretches along golden sands, backed by dunes and cliffs where you can find a secluded spot to throw down a blanket and enjoy your hamper of goodies on the shore. It’s time to take the best seat in the house for some of the most epic views on the Causeway Coastal Route.

Or plan a private picnic at a secret beach…shhhh!

The secret beach is located close to Ballintoy Harbour and really is a true hidden delight. A picnic-ers paradise with rocky islands and wild waves, you won’t find picnic tables on this little beach - but that’s part of the charm! Wrap up warmly, spread out a blanket, and enjoy the breathtaking views over the ocean.

As you picnic, listen to the roaring waves crashing against the shore. It’s a serene and unforgettable experience. Remember, sometimes the best places are the ones that are off the beaten path. Just be sure to check the timings of the tide before laying your picnic out, you don’t want to end up with soggy sandwiches!

Local Produce for your Perfect Picnic

Pack your picnic with scrumptious Seasons of the Glens local produce for a fully immersive foodie picnic experience

The picnic menu is just as important as the location, and a visit to our Visitor Information Centres in Ballycastle, Ballymoney, Bushmills, Limavady and Portrush will ensure you can stock up with delicious Seasons of the Glens products, which include award-wining local producers such as Broighter Gold, Corndale Farm, Devil’s Churn Caramel Sauce, Distillers Pickle Sauce and Dundarave Estate. Create a local artisan food and drink hamper here; a delightful way to explore the flavours of the Causeway Coast and Glens. Whether it’s small-batch chocolates, or unique sauces, you can curate a selection that resonates with your taste buds. By opting for these hampers, you directly contribute to the livelihoods of local artisans and producers. It’s a wonderful way to appreciate their hard work and dedication. This is not just a picnic; this is a celebration of our culture, craftsmanship, and flavour!

While you’re at our Visitor Information Centres, have a chat with our friendly and knowledgeable staff about what there is to see and do along your chosen picnic route, or get in touch in advance to help plan your trip.

Find our Visitor Information Centres here >>>

We hope by now you’ve found plenty of inspiration for picnicking on your next adventure along the Causeway Coastal Route of Northern Ireland, from picnic spot locations in the wild countryside to local produce to stock up on to make it extra special.

Remember to take plenty of photos of the beautiful landscapes and your picnic setup and share with us on social media, but most of all, relax and enjoy it. The most important part of your picnic is to embrace the moment and the company you’re in.

And please - respect the environment and leave no trace behind. Make sure to clean up after your picnic and preserve the natural beauty of the area. We hope that you have a fantastic time picnicking in the Causeway Coast and Glens!