10 Best Things To Do In Ballymena, Northern Ireland

things to do in ballymena
William
William 
Updated
| 4 min read

Being the eighth biggest town in Northern Ireland, UK, Ballymena prides itself on having unique and attractive endowments, thus making it a preferred travel destination. This city is also home to Liam Neeson, a prolific award-winning actor, famous for movies like Taken and The Commuter. Some of the town’s places of interest include Peoples Park, Tower Centre Shopping Centre, Ballymena Raceway, and Mid-Antrim Museum, that are frequented by both natives and tourists. In addition, you can engage in leisure activities like shopping, hiking, bird watching, and cycling, to kill time and create cherishable memories. A tour around the metropolis will expose you to interesting historical events as well as Christianity’s influence on the locals. Below are the best things to do in Ballymena, UK, for unforgettable experiences.

1. Climb Slemish Mountain

Slemish mountain County Antrim
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Man vyi used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Paths up Slemish Mountain lead you to destinations with fresh air and stunning views of the region. The mountain is only 1500 feet (457 m) tall, thus offering an easy climb that’s ideal even for beginners. Additionally, it’s endowed with numerous routes, each with a different adventure. The region around it is also perfect for taking pictures and videos. Carry warm clothing as it sometimes gets cold.

Slemish Mountain

Address: Antrim, Northern Ireland

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2. Visit Glenarm Gardens

Glenarm Castle Garden
Source: Photo by Flickr user horslips5 used under CC BY 2.0

Glenarm Gardens houses one of the long-standing walled gardens in Ireland. By visiting this establishment, you’ll learn local history as well as interact with locals and other tourists. Pass by their gift shop for unique and pocket-friendly items. Taste local cuisines at the facility’s restaurant that’s in a modern setting and with helpful and friendly staff. You’ll also find a variety of gluten-free foods at the eatery.

Glenarm Castle

Address: 2 Castle Ln, Glenarm, Ballymena BT44 0BQ, United Kingdom

Website: Glenarm Castle

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)

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3. Unwind at Lissanoure Castle Estate

Courtyard, Lissanoure Castle
Source: Photo by user Anthony O'Neil used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Relax at this privately owned establishment that’s endowed with a luscious green garden, lake, trees, and seating areas. As it’s located far away from the busy city, you’ll be in for a peaceful treat that’s perfect for relaxing. In addition, it’s also spacious, clean, and well maintained, making it even more attractive. The fact that it’s a picturesque location makes it possible for you to take amazing photos and videos to post on social media. Being a venue for numerous wedding ceremonies, you might witness a couple tying the knot, which is always a good feeling.

Lissanoure Castle Estate

Address: Ballyveely Rd, Loughguile, Ballymena BT44 9JW, United Kingdom

Website: Lissanoure Castle Estate

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 4:30pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

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4. Explore Glenariff Forest Park

Waterfalls Trail, Glenariff Forest Park
Source: Photo by Flickr user Umberto Nicoletti used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Covering over 1000 hectares (2471 acres), this public park is endowed with lakes, trees, a waterfall, and hiking trails, making it an ideal location for exploration. It’s also a perfect spot for relaxing and self-reflection as it’s peaceful and quiet. Moreover, it’s home to fun outdoor leisure activities like fishing, horse riding, and hiking. You can easily get to the park using a car, taxi, or bus.

Glenariff Forest Park

Address: Glenariff Forest Park, Glenarrife Rd Northern Ireland, County Antrim

Website: Glenariff Forest Park

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5. Dine at Galgorm Castle and Golf Estate

Galcorn castle 2018
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Victuallers used under CC BY-SA 4.0

This 17th-century castle has a high-end bar and grill that serves delicious meals and drinks. Among its tastefully cooked cuisines are tacos, chicken, burgers, fries, and salads, prepared using fresh and organic ingredients. Their bar serves a range of tasty beverages that include beers, cocktails, and spirits. Apart from that, the establishment is clean and well decorated, bringing out an accomodating ambiance. Take advantage of their happy hour and enjoy discounted prices on food and booze.

Galgorm Castle and Golf Estate

Address: Galgorm Rd, Galgorm Parks, Ballymena BT42 1HL, United Kingdom

Website: Galgorm Castle and Golf Estate

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 9pm; Sat: 6:30am - 7pm; Sun: 8am - 7pm

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6. Relax at Ballymena Memorial Park and Obelisk

War memorial park skate board 11a07
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Snowmanradio~comm... used under CC BY-SA 3.0

If you’re into reminiscing and self-reflection, this is an ideal spot for you. It’s quiet, clean, and peaceful, making it attractive to both locals and visitors. With its numerous trees and flowers, you’ll be in for a cool environment with fresh air. Furthermore, the park is conveniently located, opposite Ballymena Police Station and near Ballymena Train Station; adding to its glamour. There are also eateries and pubs close by.

Ballymena Memorial Park and Obelisk

Address: 23 Galgorm Rd, Ballymena BT43 5EY, United Kingdom

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7. Visit Layd Old Church

Information board, Layd Church
Source: Photo by user Kenneth Allen used under CC BY-SA 2.0

If you’re a history lover then you’ll enjoy this place. Layd Old Church dates back to the 13th century, and it has served as a church parish. A stroll around it takes you back in time to ancient graveyards, carvings, and ruins. Besides the breathtaking views, it’s also a good place to learn about the region’s history. To add to its allure, you’ll enjoy free parking at the facility.

Layd Old Church

Address: Layd Church, Cushendall, Ballymena BT44 0NH, United Kingdom

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8. Stroll along The Galgorm Castle Fairy Trail

Nature trail
Source: Pxhere

This well thought out park is home to endowments such as forests and gardens, thus a great venue for relaxing outdoors. As it has plenty of things for kids to see and do, you can be sure to see and interact with them. You’ll be attended to by a kind and helpful staff who will make you feel appreciated. The facility’s trails are beautifully done, thus sparking the imagination of both the young and old. There are picnic tables spread all over the place, where you can sit and enjoy the serene environment. In addition, they have an affordable entrance fee.

The Galgorm Castle Fairy Trail

Address: Galgorm Castle, Toadstool, Galgorm Parks BT42 1HL, United Kingdom

Website: The Galgorm Castle Fairy Trail

Opening hours: 10am - 5:30pm (daily)

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9. Tour Cushendun Village

Cushendun
Source: Photo by Flickr user Jane Dickson used under CC BY-SA 2.0

This small coastal village is a well-kept National Trust area. It’s worth roaming around to see its endowments that include pubs, cottages, and sandy beaches. Interestingly enough, caves near Cushendun have been used as a background in the Game of Thrones series. Being along the coast, you’ll see water animals like seals and dolphins. Explore the town’s nightlife by visiting entertainment joints that spread out across it. With a population of only 138 people, according to the 2001 census, you’ll be in for a peaceful and quiet environment that’s free of overcrowding.

Cushendun Village

Address: Ballymena BT44 0PJ, UK

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10. Escape to Dooey’s Cairn

A Cairn
Source: Photo by Flickr user Rob Hurson used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Dooey’s Cairn is a Neolithic tomb serving as one of the landmarks in Ballymena. Interestingly, it’s named in honor of Andrew Dooey, who was the landowner. If you like history and exploration then you’ll love this spot. It’s an interesting and well-maintained location that’s a picture of ancient times. You’ll see memorial chambers, pits, and cremation passages that were used by early inhabitants of the region. Apart from that, there are old publications with information about the region and early settlers, written by excavators and archaeologists.

Dooey’s Cairn

Address: 12-, 16 Presbytery Ln, Ballymena BT44 9DZ, United Kingdom

Website: Dooey’s Cairn

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9am - 5pm; Fri: 9am - 4:30pm; Sat: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sun)

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The captivating Ballymena

As there’s something for everyone in Ballymena, don’t wait to hear stories from people who have experienced the city’s charms. You’ll be spoilt for choice of things you can indulge in to have a great time. And if you’re already in town, engage in one of the above leisure activities, if not all, and you won’t go wrong.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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William believes that we should strive to make the world a better place. He's passionate about landscapes, the ocean, and people. When not traveling, he enjoys swimming, hiking, and planning for...Read more

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