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A place of exchange
and collaboration.
ABOUT US
Yarn is a creative events space and boutique accommodation on Northern Ireland’s north coast, bringing together food, creativity and nature. It’s a place to stay, connect and explore ideas across multiple forms.
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Transforming a derelict Danske Bank building in Ballycastle, our aim is to create a constantly evolving, multi-dimensional space which incorporates a large events hall, an enclosed garden, Ursa Minor Bakery School and five adjoining residential suites.
We believe everyone should have access to rich cultural experiences, no matter where they live.​
WHO
Yarn was established in 2023 by Ballycastle native Conor McCaughan. Driven by a vision to create a unique space in the heart of the town, Conor set his sights on the former Danske Bank premises, purchasing the building in December 2021 with the idea of transforming it into a vibrant community hub.
In early 2023, Conor's sister-in-law, Susanna, brought her extensive 25 years of experience as an arts producer and programmer to the project. Together, they aimed to build a venue that seamlessly blended music, food, art and nature, creating a welcoming space that reflected the distinctive charm of the north coast.
Yarn was designed as a hybrid venue that embodies a dynamic mix of living, working and performing under one roof. Since its inception, the team has grown to include Donna, the operations and accommodation manager, who returned to Ballycastle after many years of holding senior operations roles in Australia, bringing her expertise to help shape Yarn into a thriving cultural space.
WHERE
We’re proud to call Ballycastle home - a small town with a big personality nestled on the northeastern tip of the Antrim coast.
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Ballycastle sits at the gateway to the Glens of Antrim, renowned for its rolling hills and dramatic landscapes. Here, you’ll discover Murlough Bay and Fairhead, where the wild winds of the North Atlantic whip sea foam against towering basalt cliffs. The area is steeped in history, with ancient castle ruins, invigorating wild swimming spots and a town filled with pubs, cafés, and restaurants.
SUSTAINABILITY
From the very beginning, sustainability was at the forefront of Yarn’s development. We wanted to have a positive environmental impact by removing oil heating and installing an exterior insulated render along with solar panels to power the entire site.
We wanted Yarn’s accommodation to celebrate Irish design and the beauty of natural materials. Each suite combines mid-century designs and thrifted antiques bought from local sellers. Our rooms have been curated using bespoke linen, natural limewash paint and handcrafted furniture made using salvaged wood.
GARDEN
Our garden is more than a backdrop. It's a reflection of our commitment to regenerative practices and our vision for a space where nature and community thrive in tandem. We hope our outdoor space honours the deep connection between ecology and people, inviting opportunities to experience a vibrant landscape that nurtures both.​
Looking ahead to 2025, we're excited to expand our efforts by growing plant species that boost biodiversity, improving soil health and supporting the local ecosystem.
Plans are underway to create a kitchen garden, a greenhouse and a learning hub where visitors can explore the interconnectedness of food, ecology and our relationship with the Irish landscape.
OUR SUPPLIERS
Bringing to life our vision for the accommodation meant partnering with the brands and suppliers we love. Each detail is designed to celebrate craftsmanship and enhance the experience at Yarn.
Bauwerk Colour
Apple & Salt Portrush
Field Day
McNutt of Donegal
Gillybean Pottery
Ursa Minor Bakehouse
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