Helen’s Bay Beach — Attraction in Northern Ireland

The Lough is relatively calm today. A gentle breeze ruffles the foliage in the distance. Overcast sky above. The municipal pools are closed, sea swimming has become popular. It is late September, and I'm told the water is as warm as it gets. Still feels freezing though, as I gingerly wade in. After a few minutes, I gather the courage to immerse to the neck then begin to swim. Mostly keeping my head above water, I try to remember how to front crawl. Exertion helps dull the ever present sense of cold water on my skin. Crowds on the beach, runners, families and dog walkers on the paths. I emerge from the water, refreshed and...

Tried to visit grey fort, waste of time locked up tight like so many wasted opportunities. Anyway followed path round to Helen’s bay, which if you time it right, like I did, was lovely. Quiet (apart from a few screamers, don’t you get them everywhere nowadays, can’t they just talk instead of scream) midweek and midday it was just lovely sitting listening to the waves and the enjoying the view. Now at weekends or bank holidays, I’m sure a different story but...

Really nice area , but the only car park for the beach doesn't open until 9 O'clock?? , I'm not sure why ??, but the surrounding roads are all double yellow lined .. so no parking.. I could see residents getting annoyed with the cars parking outside their houses, but there is a car park, please open it for the people that are on the go...