Walk

Port Path: Portstewart to Portrush

Northern Ireland

Dog Friendly Rating:9/10A Causeway Coast cliff walk from Portstewart Strand to Portrush with Atlantic views and dramatic headland scenery.

The Port Path traces 10.5km of the north Antrim coast between Portstewart and Portrush, following headlands, cliff tops and coastal grassland above rocky coves with views across to Scotland on clear days. Starting from Portstewart Strand gives the option of an opening beach run on wide, firm sand before the cliff-top path takes over and the landscape shifts to something wilder and more exposed. The route passes through coastal grassland between headlands where the wind off the North Channel is constant and invigorating, and the rocky coves below reveal themselves one after another as the path unfolds. With 213 metres of undulating ascent, the terrain keeps things interesting without being demanding.

This is an exhilarating dog friendly walk with moderate off-lead potential on the grassland sections between headlands, though leads are needed near cliff edges and on the busier sections approaching both towns. The coastal wind carries powerful salt and marine scent that most dogs find energising, and Portstewart Strand at the start provides open sand and sea access for swimming. Livestock risk is low along the coast path. The exposed nature of the walk means it catches Atlantic weather, so check conditions before setting out. Harry's Shack café at Portstewart Strand is genuinely dog-welcoming with water bowls and outdoor seating. Parking is available at the Strand. A linear walk, so arrange transport at the far end or retrace your steps.

At a Glance

Distance: 10.5 km (6.5 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3 hr
Walk Type: Coastal
Route Type: Point to Point
Off Lead Potential: Moderate
Livestock Risk: Low
Facilities: Toilets, Cafes and pubs at both ends
Parking: National Trust car park at Portstewart Strand - charged in summer

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Port Path: Portstewart to Portrush dog friendly?
The Port Path scores a strong 9/10 for dog friendliness, and it's easy to see why. The route combines wide sandy beach at Portstewart Strand , great for a swim or a run , with coastal grassland, clifftops and dramatic headland scenery across 10.5km of the north Antrim coast. Harry's Shack café at Portstewart Strand is genuinely welcoming to dogs, with water bowls and outdoor seating, and livestock risk along the path is low.
Can dogs be off lead at Port Path: Portstewart to Portrush?
There's moderate off-lead potential on the grassland sections between headlands, and Portstewart Strand at the start offers open sand and sea access where dogs can really stretch their legs. That said, leads are needed near cliff edges and on the busier sections as you approach either town, so you'll want to read the terrain as you go.
What should I know before visiting Port Path: Portstewart to Portrush with my dog?
The walk is linear at 10.5km, so you'll need to either arrange transport at the far end in Portrush or retrace your steps , worth planning before you set off. The route is exposed to Atlantic weather, so it's wise to check conditions ahead of your visit, and note that the National Trust car park at Portstewart Strand is charged during summer. The constant coastal wind and marine scents tend to be a real hit with dogs, but the cliff-top sections can be exhilarating for humans and dogs alike, so keep leads handy near the edges.