Dunluce Castle

The castle sits on a basalt headland so dramatic you'll spot it from miles away - one half perched on the cliff edge, the other half having simply fallen into the sea centuries ago. It's properly striking, especially on a grey day when the Atlantic whips around the ruins and you realise how exposed these medieval builders were.

You're walking around genuine 16th and 17th century remains here - the kitchen, the great hall, bits of fortification - all open to the elements and the elements winning. There's no roof, no comfort, just stone and history and a rather sobering drop. Kids usually find it thrilling rather than boring; there's enough climbing and exploring to hold their attention for a couple of hours, though younger ones need close watching on the narrow, uneven paths.

Free to wander, which is generous. From Bushmills it's a short drive north towards the coast. Worth combining with the Giant's Causeway itself - they're only a few miles apart, so you could knock both out in a proper coastal morning. If you're staying at Causeway Country Pods nearby, this is exactly the sort of windswept historical walk that justifies a holiday up here.

Go when the weather's decent enough that you won't be blown clean off the headland, though honestly the drama works better in a bit of a storm. Allow an hour minimum, longer if you're the type to sit and sketch or photograph. The views across the coast are genuine.