Larne Lough

Larne Lough is a sea inlet in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, lying between the Islandmagee peninsula and the mainland. It opens near the town of Larne and is protected as an area of special scientific interest, a special protection area, and a Ramsar site. The wetland supports rare bird species and shellfish. Its name comes from the medieval territory of Latharna, meaning ‘descendants of Lathair’. The older Irish name was Loch Ollarbha or Inbhear nOllarbha. The lough is recognised for its ecological importance and has been studied for its algae since 1929. Members of the Botanical Society at Queen’s University Belfast mapped seaweed species there, including Ascophyllum nodosum var. minor Turn. A lighthouse called Chaine Memorial Tower stands at the western entrance to the lough. The Belfast–Larne railway line runs along its shore, passing through Larne Harbour, Larne Town, and other villages. Visitors find a quiet coastal landscape with views across the water to Islandmagee. The railway line follows the shoreline, offering glimpses of the lough from passing trains. The protected status means rare birds and plants can be seen along its edges. The Chaine Memorial Tower marks the entrance and provides a landmark for those approaching by sea. The lough remains a place of natural beauty and scientific interest.