The name Carnlough comes from Carn-La. One folk tale suggests that St Patrick founded a Christian group in the area, and his disciple, La, was left in charge of the new converts.
Unfortunately the group gradually reverted to pagan ways and on Patrick’s return, La was so filled with remorse that he chopped off his hand and had it buried beneath a memorial cairn. Hence the name Cairn of La. The Cairn is believed to have been built on the site of the present Carnlough Primary School, opposite the Londonderry Arms.

Lots to do

The picturesque harbour in Carnlough has for many years been the village’s main focal point. Originally built by a local landowner, Phil Gibbons and extended by the Marchioness of Londonderry, it was eventually acquired by Larne Borough Council in 1981 The harbour has undergone extensive refurbishment since that time.

Walkway to Cranny Falls

A substantial scheme carried out by the Department of Watercourse Management under instruction from Larne Borough Council has transformed the old railway line used in the heyday of the local limestone industry into a most attractive part of the Ulster Way.
The walkway, which has just been completed by means of a wooden bridge linking into the quarry area, leads to one of Carnlough’s scenic jewels – The Cranny Falls. This is a beauty spot not to be missed by nature enthusiasts.

The Doonan Picnic Area

Situated about two miles above the village on the Ballymena line the Doonan picnic area provides breathtaking views of Glencloy down to Carnlough Bay and the surrounding headlands, providing an extremely attractive location for a family picnic.

Visitors should be sure not to miss the nearby Doonan Leap viewpoint overlooking it’s own impressive waterfall. Behind is the Doonan Fort. Built over 1200 years ago in the early Christian era, this fort or rath is all that remains of a stockaded homestead. From there you can see Knockaneffrin with its mass rock. Other mass rocks in the area are situated at Ballyvaddy and Straidkilley.

Harbour House

The Harbour House regeneration scheme was carried out following investment from the International Fund for Ireland. It now houses a community resource centre with access for the general public to fax, photocopying and computer facilities at a nominal fee. One retail unit houses a shop for fishing tackle with a boat hire and a boat rod facility, while the upstairs unit is in the process of being let.The original Harbour House was built by Mark Francis Wilson of Drumalla around 1850 as administration offices.

The Coast Road

The original Grand Coast Road, the first road to travel at the foot of, as opposed to over the headlands, was built by William Bald in the 1830s. To the present day it is one of the main routes leading into the village. The previous route which led along High Street and Largy Road veers seawards at a point still known as Baldie’s Branch, named after Bald, himself.