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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 13 June 2026 by the Insight Britain weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
The live forecast above shows the current conditions and the next few hours for Ballycastle, updated automatically. Use the hourly breakdown to plan walks on the coastal path or trips to the beach, and check the daily summary for the week ahead.
How do I read the live forecast for Ballycastle?
The live forecast above displays temperature, wind speed and direction, precipitation probability, and visibility. Pay close attention to the wind arrow, as conditions can shift rapidly along this exposed coast. The “feels like” temperature is often lower than the actual air temperature due to the prevailing sea breeze.
What is Ballycastle’s typical climate through the seasons?
Ballycastle has a mild maritime climate, heavily influenced by the North Atlantic. Winters (December to February) are cool and wet, with daytime highs typically in the low single digits Celsius and frequent rain. Frost is occasional but not severe. Spring (March to May) brings lengthening days and a gradual warming, though sea breezes keep temperatures moderate. Summer (June to August) is the warmest period, with daytime highs often reaching the mid to high teens Celsius; heatwaves are rare. Autumn (September to November) sees increasing rainfall and stronger winds, particularly from October onwards.
How do local geography and coast affect the weather?
Ballycastle sits on the north Antrim coast, sheltered by Knocklayd mountain to the south and open to the Atlantic to the north. This creates a microclimate: the town can be wetter than inland areas when southwesterly winds push rain against the hills, but it also benefits from a slight rain shadow in some northwesterly flows. The coastal location means fog and low cloud can form quickly, especially in spring and autumn.
When is the best time to visit and what should I pack?
The best time for outdoor activities is late May through early September, when the weather is most settled and the days are longest. Even in summer, pack layers including a waterproof jacket and a warm mid-layer, as conditions can change from sunshine to drizzle within an hour. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential for the coastal path.
What nearby areas do readers also check?
Those planning trips in the region often look at Ballymoney weather for inland conditions, Portrush weather for the popular resort coast, and Coleraine weather for the wider Causeway Coast area. For travel planning, the UK weather hub and all UK towns A–Z are useful resources.
What will the weather be in Ballycastle tomorrow?
The live forecast above includes a detailed daily breakdown for tomorrow. In general, expect conditions similar to today but with potential shifts in wind direction. Coastal fog can develop overnight, clearing by mid-morning.
What is the 10 to 14 day outlook for Ballycastle?
Beyond the week ahead, the forecast becomes less certain. The 10-day forecast gives a general trend, but for Ballycastle, longer-range predictions should be treated as a guide due to the variable Atlantic weather patterns.
Does it rain a lot in Ballycastle?
Yes, Ballycastle receives above-average rainfall for the UK, typical of western coastal areas. Rain is spread throughout the year, with autumn and winter being the wettest. However, showers are often short-lived, and sunny spells can appear between bands of rain. Always check UK weather warnings before travelling.