Layd Old Church (State Care Monument) — Attraction in Moneyvart

A little off the beaten track, but well worth a visit. Has free parking that also has picnic area[s]. The site's position then lends easy access to the Torr Head route (which is a cliff hugging narrow road to the north coast). I had read up on the site, but nothing prepared me for how beautiful it was. It is accessed by a tree covered descending path, after turning a ninety degree corner, the site and burial ground opens before you sloping downwards to a gap in the trees that gives a stunning sea view. The whole ground level has been raised by centuries of burials, giving the church a 'nestled' appearance. A small babbling brook winds its way behind the ruined stone building, the noise of which simply adds to the atmosphere.

The site was founded as a medieval church, and there is a local tradition that it was a Franciscan foundation, this was a parish church valued at 20 shilling in the 1306 tax rolls, continuing in use until 1790. What I couldn't find in the research was reference to the two small stone square structures, one at the entrance and one at the same height in the break of the slope just further down the graveyard. Beside the first of these structures is a curious holed stone cross, I cannot be sure, but I couldn't help but wonder whether this is an earlier relic, perhaps predating the church.

The church itself shows at least four phases of medieval and post-medieval remodelling; the west end contains a tower which probably provided residential accommodation for the priest, and as such has been interpreted as...

Located one mile from Cushendall are the delightful ruins of a 13th century Franciscan foundation. Chief burial place of the MacDonnell's after Bonamargy which has been built at least three times and served as a parish church from 1306 to the end of the 18th century. Fine stones in the graveyard include a cross in memory of Doctor James MacDonnell, pioneer in the use of chloroform for surgical operations.

Open access all year round. Stunning coastal views.

Set in a steep sided valley, uneven ground, take care on walking.

From the Village of Cushendall take the Shore Road and park in the layby (toilets are located at the layby).Follow the laneway northwards for approx. 200m, turn right onto the cliff path and follow the path along the coast to...

Nice peaceful ancient Christian site. I include a photo of brief information from the board in Cushendall. The Holestone Cross (stone cross with a hole) is immediately to the left as you first enter the site at a gateway with an old stone stile. Also I include a photo of where the ruined church has information about Dr James MacDonnell. If you look at the base of the large Celtic cross you will see three carvings depicting stories from the Gospels. One appears to be a healing miracle (possibly the Centurions servant); another appears to be the parable of the Good Samaritan; the third damaged one appears to be the boy giving the 5 loaves and 2...