The Larne Museum and Arts Centre is housed in the former Carnegie Free Library building and its exhibitions focus on the history of the region. Olderfleet Castle, the Chaine Memorial Tower and the Coast Road Cycling Route appeal to a range of interests: regional history, distinctive buildings and cycling along the coast. When planning a stay in Larne, it helps to distinguish between these different attractions. The long cycling route is a different kind of activity from visiting an exhibition or exploring individual buildings.
Coastal cycling: a long route
The Coast Road Cycling Route is classified as a long cycling route of over 60 miles. As this classification may change, it is best to check its current status again before planning. The route follows a rural, winding road along the coast. Its length makes it an undertaking in its own right, rather than a short addition between other sightseeing stops.
Timing is also a consideration: expect heavy traffic on the route in summer and during holiday periods. Take this seasonal condition into account when adding the ride to your travel plans. The character of the road and traffic conditions are therefore important factors in deciding whether this cycling route should be the main focus of your stay.
Regional history at the museum
The Larne Museum and Arts Centre features permanent and changing exhibitions on the region’s agricultural, industrial, military and maritime history. The range of topics offers different ways to explore the past: visitors particularly interested in maritime history will find it alongside agriculture, industry and military history. The museum is therefore not limited to a single chapter of regional history.
The combination of permanent and changing exhibitions distinguishes the enduring themes from a part of the offering that changes over time. If a particular temporary exhibition is important to your visit, check its current status in advance. Admission is free; as admission arrangements may change, it is advisable to confirm this information again before your visit.
Ruin and tower on Larne Lough
The ruins of Olderfleet Castle stand on Curran Point, opposite Larne Lough. The Chaine Memorial Tower is on the west side of Larne Lough, at the entrance to Larne Harbour. The two structures have distinct, clearly identified locations around the lough.
Their forms also contrast: Olderfleet Castle is a ruin, while the Chaine Memorial Tower is an exact replica of an Irish round tower. Locally, the tower is also known as “The Pencil”. A ruin and a precise replica of a historic tower form thus offer different ways to explore Larne.
Choosing the focus of your stay
The coastal cycling route is a long undertaking with heavy seasonal traffic; the museum offers a broad introduction to regional history through its four subject areas. For the buildings, the contrast between ruin and replica takes centre stage. These different focuses offer a range of approaches to planning, without requiring you to combine them into a fixed itinerary. When choosing a particular accommodation, check that its location suits your own plans.
Discover more destinations: Templepatrick, Dunadry, Carnlough, Cushendall, Aldergrove, Ballymoney, Crumlin, Newtownabbey
For the broader travel overview: Antrim.
