Bonamargy Friary (State Care Monument)

The ruins of Bonamargy Friary sit quietly on the outskirts of Ballycastle, a 16th-century Franciscan monastery that's seen better days but retains real character. What you're looking at is largely skeletal - roofless walls, crumbling arches, scattered stone fragments - yet it's precisely this decay that makes it compelling. You can walk through what remains of the cloisters, spot carved details in the stonework, and stand where friars once moved through their daily routines.

It's the kind of place that appeals to history types and anyone who enjoys poking around old buildings without crowds. The grounds are accessible, though you'll want sturdy shoes if it's been wet. Allow 20 minutes to half an hour to get a proper look, longer if you're keen on photographing the masonry or sitting quietly with a coffee.

The friary works well as a quick stop while exploring the Causeway Coast. If you're staying at Watertop Farm or North Coast 9 Glamping - both cracking spots nearby - it's worth bundling this in with a coastal walk or a visit to Ballycastle itself. Admission appears to be free, which makes it a sensible detour rather than a major commitment. Not spectacular, but honest and atmospheric. The sort of ruin that rewards a slow wander rather than a rushed visit.