Visit Causeway Coast and Glens

Everything you need to know about the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series in Ballycastle - July 2024

Are you ready for an adrenaline-fuelling experience on the stunning Causeway Coast? The Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series is making a splash in Ballycastle this July 2024, and it's an event you won't want to miss.

As world-class athletes take the plunge from breathtaking heights, spectators are treated to a spectacular display of courage, skill, and athleticism set against the picturesque backdrop of Ballycastle's rugged coastline.

Whether you're a fan of the sport or a curious traveller seeking a unique adventure during your visit to Northern Ireland, this guide will answer all your questions and help you make the most of your visit to this thrilling event.

Frequently Asked Questions

Event Schedule and Timing

What are the specific dates and times for the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series in Ballycastle?

The Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series takes place in Ballycastle from 19th-20th July 2024. On both days, the event will start at 4pm and finish at 7pm. The finals will take place on 20th July with the Women’s Final taking place at 5:35pm, and the Men’s Final taking place at 6:20pm.

I can’t make it to Ballycastle, how can I watch the event?

You can watch the event live on Red Bull TV.

Location and Venue Details

Where exactly is the event being held in Ballycastle, and what are the best spots for viewing the dives?

Attendees can watch the event from along Ballycastle’s beachfront. Video walls and sound systems will be located at several points along the event site.

Is the event seated or standing?

The viewing areas for the event are standing only.

What accessibility options are available for those with mobility issues?

An accessible viewing area is available to book for both days of the event. Spaces are limited and must be requested in advance. There is designated parking for blue badge holders in Ballycastle Harbour. Space will be limited and must be requested in advance. Please email redbullcliffdivingni2024@gmail.com to request accessible viewing areas and accessible parking.

Where are the public toilets located?

Toilets will be located throughout the seafront:

Location	Number of toilets	Accessible units
Viewing Area 1	3 portaloos	Includes 1 accessible unit
Viewing Area 2	3 portaloos	Includes 1 accessible unit
Viewing Area 3	3 portaloos	Includes 1 accessible unit

What about disabled toilets or changing facilities?

Accessible toilets will be available throughout as indicated in the table above. A mobile accessible changing unit will also be available at the event.

Tickets and Admission

Do I need a ticket for the event?

This is a free event and tickets are not required.

Are there any free viewing areas, and what do they offer in terms of visibility and amenities?

A free viewing area will be located along Ballycastle’s beachfront. Video walls and a sound system will be installed to enhance the experience for spectators.

Travel

What are the recommended travel options to Ballycastle, including airports, train stations, and public transportation?

There are 3 airports in Northern Ireland: Belfast City Airport, Belfast International Airport and City of Derry Airport. Each airport is approximately 60-75 minutes drive to and from Ballycastle.

Public transport in Northern Ireland is operated by Translink, with bus routes servicing the area. You can plan your route using Translink’s Journey Planner online.

Translink will be providing enhanced services from Belfast and Derry/Londonderry for the event which can be booked here.

Please note that services such as Uber and Freenow are not widely available in Northern Ireland outside of the main cities, however, there are plenty of independent taxi services operating throughout towns and villages.

A Park & Ride will operate in Ballycastle throughout the event.

Is there parking available for the event?

There will be designated paid car parking facilities available in the surrounds of Ballycastle for the duration of the event.

Carparks will open at 12 noon on Friday 19th and Saturday 20th July.
Park and Ride facilities will be in operation for those carparks not within easy walking distance of Ballycastle Harbour. They will operate every 20/30 minutes, subject to the flow of traffic

Please follow signage and marshal direction from

Whitepark Road (if coming from Coleraine/Giants Causeway) or
Glenshesk Road (if coming from Cushendall/Glens Coastal route direction).

Additional parking:

Leyland Road/Market Street –
Moyle Road - Cross & Passion College.
Whitepark Road - McQuillan GAC (Ballycastle GAA).
Quay Road Playing Fields – GAA pitch and old soccer pitch plus existing hardstanding car park spaces
Ramoan Road Playing Fields
Clare Rd/Whitepark Road
15, Glenshesk Road (Duncan Plant)
54, Glenshesk Road
Pay & Display Car Park Sites; Castle St & Ann St

Carparks will carry a fee of £5-10, depending on the car park.

Are there any parking restrictions?

There will be parking restrictions in place on Friday 19th & Saturday 20th July from 07:00-20:30 on North Street, Strandview Road, Rathlin Road, Atlantic Avenue, Quay Road, Mary Street, the Market Street & Moyle Road junction and the Ramoan Road & Whitepark Road junction.

Parking is not permitted in the Marina Car Park and Harbour Car Park (opposite Visitor Information Centre) from 14:00 on Thursday, 18th July until 00:00 on Sunday morning, 21st July.

Will there be road closures?

North Street, Bayview Road, Strandview Road (lower section) and Carrickmore Road will be closed on Friday 19th and Saturday 20th July from 07:00-21:00. Local access to residents will be allowed during these times. However, if deemed necessary by the event organisers and local authorities, these roads might be closed completely.

Vehicle access will be accommodated for ferry passengers, but passengers should add in additional time as there’s likely to be increased traffic. Ferry passengers should make themselves known at any security check points.

Will Ballycastle Harbour be affected?

Ballycastle Harbour will close on Thursday 18th July, 0930-1230, Friday 19th July, 1530-1930, and Saturday 20th July, 1530-1930. During the event, the Spirit of Rathlin & Kintra II ferries will still sail except for the two return sailings listed below.

Will the Rathlin Island Ferry be operating as normal?

There will be two cancelled ferry sailings on 20th July only, as follows:

Rathlin Island to Ballycastle Harbour:

17:00 Spirit of Rathlin
18:00 Kintra II

Ballycastle Harbour to Rathlin Island

18:00 Spirit of Rathlin
18:30 Kintra II

The service will operate as normal outside of these times. For ferry enquiries please contact Rathlin Ferry.

Where can I park in Ballycastle if I need to use the ferry to Rathlin Island throughout the duration of the event?

Parking is available in the usual ferry terminal carpark in Ballycastle Harbour. The Harbour Carpark (adjacent to Morton's fishmongers) will be closed from 1400 on Thursday, 18th July until Saturday just before midnight, the ferry terminal carpark is expected to be busy.

Safety and Regulations

What are the safety guidelines for spectators at the event?

Traffic in Ballycastle is always busy during the summer months and this event will attract even heavier volumes of traffic to the town. Therefore, persons attending the event are asked to be patient and take heed of the advice given by event staff and the PSNI. Red Bull are working closely with the Local Authority and the PSNI to ensure the best possible outcomes.

A footbridge has been installed across the Margy River, linking the town and Ballycastle Beach. Please use this footbridge to access the spectator area on Ballycastle Beach and do not attempt to wade across the river.

Please comply with the instructions of event security at all times. They are present to ensure the safety of spectators attending the event. Do not attempt to climb over crowd safety barriers, and do not bring any prohibited items in to the event area.

What items are prohibited, such as drones, large bags, and professional camera equipment?

Flying of drones will NOT be permitted between 17th and 20th July. Other prohibited items include alcohol, laser pointers, airhorns, glass bottles, or fireworks. This list is not exhaustive.

Where are the first aid facilities, and what are the emergency contact details?

St. John’s Ambulance will be attending the event. Should you need medical assistance at the event, please alert the nearest event marshal.

Wristbands for Children

Blank paper wristbands will be supplied for parents to write their contact details on which children can wear during the event. In the event your child gets separated from you in the crowd, they should approach a marshal, who will then be able to contact you. Wristbands can be collected from the Accreditation Office, which is accessed under the arch (to the right) of The Marine Hotel entrance.

What guidelines should I follow to be respectful of the natural environment?

Please use nearby bins provided along the seafront and the beach. If bins are not available or are at capacity, we recommend taking your rubbish with you to dispose of responsibly at your next convenience.

Weather and What to Bring

What is the typical weather like in Ballycastle in July, and how should I prepare for it?

The weather in Northern Ireland can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack for all seasons! Even in the height of summer, the weather in Ballycastle can still be cool, with an average annual temperature range of 11-17 degrees Celsius. As it’s a coastal town and the event is taking place by the sea, you should expect temperatures to be cool with some lovely sea breeze, too.

Will there be food at the event?

A number of food units from the Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market will be in operation from midday each day at Ballycastle Seafront. In addition, there are numerous cafés, bars and restaurants throughout Ballycastle town.

Destination and accommodation

What are the accommodation options in Ballycastle and how should I book in advance?

There are plenty of accommodation options in Ballycastle, including hotels, self-catering properties, glamping sites, holiday parks and B&Bs. You can browse accommodation for Ballycastle and surrounding areas on our website, and you can even book accommodation directly through our website when you use our availability checker.

Browse all accommodation in the Causeway Coast & Glens here >>

What other attractions and activities can I enjoy in Ballycastle and the surrounding Causeway Coast area?

Get inspired ahead of your visit to Ballycastle by exploring all that the Causeway Coast & Glens of Northern Ireland have to offer on www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Giant’s Causeway in Bushmills, or take a walk across the Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge in Ballintoy, just a 10 minute drive from Ballycastle.

The Causeway Coast & Glens are home to many beautiful beaches, walking and hiking trails, and plenty of watersport activities like surfing, kayaking, coasteering and more.

Browse all things to do in the Causeway Coast & Glens here >>

Where can I find the best local dining options, pubs, and cafes?

There are so many dining options available in Ballycastle and throughout the Causeway Coast & Glens of Northern Ireland. Ballycastle is home to many quaint, traditional pubs, fantastic restaurants and trendy cafes and coffee spots. Throughout the event, the Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market will also be located on Ballycastle Seafront.

Browse food & drink in the Causeway Coast & Glens here >>