More Than Just a Walk: Exploring Ireland's Hidden Soul with The Antrim Rambler
Welcome! My name is Nicholas McBride, and if you’re here, you likely share the same profound and perhaps slightly obsessive love for the Irish landscape that I do.
Some people might call me a hiker or a photographer, but for 25 years, I've simply been a Rambler. I've walked more of Northern Ireland than anyone else alive, ever. I know the shortcuts, the secret views, and the moments when the light hits a mountain just right to make it feel moody, strange, and entirely unforgettable.
The Audience Is Ireland
My mission, and the mission of The Antrim Rambler, is simple: to share that intimate, unfiltered experience of this land.
This space isn't just for hillwalkers and seasoned hikers. While we welcome everyone, our audience is truly anyone who loves Ireland. It doesn't matter if you’re chasing a peak or simply dreaming of the coast from the other side of the world; if the sight of a mountain crest meeting the Atlantic sea sends a shiver down your spine, you’re in the right place.
We’re not focused on ticking off trails; we’re focused on the soul of the journey.
Why We Ramble Differently
I grew up on the North Coast and every bit of this land, from the basalt columns of the Antrim Coast to the inspiring heights of Lurigethan Mountain, feels like home. This is where I find my arty dark side coming out in my photography, chasing that perfect, dramatic shot.
This deep, personal connection is what sets our guided walks (led by the legendary Cecil Stirling) apart. We don't just point out landmarks; we connect with the quiet history, and we encourage you to see Ireland not as a tourist destination, but as a living, breathing character.
What you can expect from this blog:
* Behind the Lens: My favourite photography spots, tips on capturing that intense, dramatic light, and showcasing my work with my Nikon D7000.
* The Rambler’s Journal: Stories and reflections from a lifetime of walking, from my earliest days in Portstewart to the wilder parts of Belfast.
* Northern Ireland’s Hidden Gems: The routes and views that aren't plastered across the postcards.
We hope you can follow us on this journey..
