Attractions and Places To See around Ballydonaghy - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Ballydonaghy include historical sites, natural features, and expansive viewpoints. The region, particularly County Antrim, offers diverse landscapes from the shores of Lough Neagh to the Belfast Hills. Visitors can explore 400-year-old gardens, ascend mountain peaks, and discover significant cultural landmarks. This area provides a variety of outdoor experiences and historical insights.
Best attractions and places to see around Ballydonaghy
- The most popular attractions is Antrim Castle Gardens, a historical garden featuring elements…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Antrim Castle Gardens
Highlight • Historical Site
Walk into the past as you stroll …
Tip by
Black Mountain Summit
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Picnic Area at Divis and the Black Mountain
Highlight • Cafe
Tip by
Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
View of Belfast from Divis Mountain
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Ballydonaghy.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Antrim Castle Gardens are an absolute historical gem. You will find nothing like these 400 year old gardens anywhere else in Northern Ireland. Walk into the past as you stroll around this magnificent setting, visiting beautiful features such as the Large Parterre, Her Ladyship’s Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Within the heart of the Gardens is a unique visitor experience, the refurbished Clotworthy House. Visit the Garden Heritage Exhibition where you can read about the history of the Gardens and the story of the Massereene family. It provides a fantastic opportunity to come and learn about garden history how the lives of the key family members intertwine with the development of Antrim town and the surrounding areas.
1
0
Café at the trailhead with parking
0
0
Scenic section of walking along the shore of Lough Neagh from Antrim. The lough holds the title of the largest lake in Ireland and this footpath gifts you with some gorgeous vantage points to enjoy it from.
3
0
Beautiful picnic area complete with multiple picnic benches, public toilets, and a cafe. The perfect spot to wind down after your hike.
2
0
The summit of Black Mountain stands at 367m high and provides picturesque views across the city of Belfast and Northern Ireland.
4
0
Mount Divis stands at 478m high and is the highest peak in the Belfast Hills. From this viewpoint nearby the summit you can enjoy sensational panoramic views across Belfast toward Lough Neagh and the Mourne Mountains, and Strangford Lough.
4
0
Castle gardens including various buildings and ruins on the river. Plenty to look at and explore in the gardens.
2
0
I'm from England and came over for a few days and used the komoot app, definitely a good app if you ain't familiar with the area. Took me straight there and back home 👍
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Ballydonaghy?
You can delve into history at Antrim Castle Gardens, a 400-year-old historical gem. Within the gardens, Clotworthy House offers a Garden Heritage Exhibition detailing the history of the gardens and the Massereene family. The site provides a fantastic opportunity to learn about garden history and the development of Antrim town.
Where can I find scenic views and natural landscapes near Ballydonaghy?
For breathtaking vistas, visit Divis and the Black Mountain, the highest points in the Belfast Hills, offering panoramic views across Belfast, Lough Neagh, and the Mourne Mountains. You can also enjoy the expansive waters of Ireland's largest lake from the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim, a scenic walking path.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Ballydonaghy area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Antrim Castle Gardens is a great option with plenty to explore in its extensive grounds. The Picnic Area at Divis and the Black Mountain offers facilities like picnic benches, public toilets, and a cafe, making it a comfortable stop after a family walk.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including routes around Divis and the Black Mountain. For cyclists, there are diverse cycling routes, some passing through Antrim Castle Gardens and along Lough Neagh. Explore more options in the nearby guides for Hiking around Ballydonaghy, Cycling around Ballydonaghy, and Running Trails around Ballydonaghy.
Are there hiking trails suitable for different difficulty levels?
Yes, the area caters to various hiking abilities. For example, trails around Divis and the Black Mountain range from easy to moderate, offering options for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging climb. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim provides an easy, scenic walking path.
What facilities are available at Divis and the Black Mountain?
At the Picnic Area at Divis and the Black Mountain, you'll find multiple picnic benches, public toilets, and a cafe. This makes it a convenient spot to relax and refuel after exploring the trails.
Can I find parking at the main attractions?
Yes, parking is generally available. For instance, Divis and the Black Mountain has parking available at the trailhead, often near the cafe. Antrim Castle Gardens also provides visitor parking.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Ballydonaghy?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth of Antrim Castle Gardens, with its beautiful features like the Large Parterre and Yew Tree Pond. The panoramic views from View of Belfast from Divis Mountain are also highly praised, especially after a challenging climb.
Are there any unique natural features to see in the region?
Beyond the prominent Divis and Black Mountain, the region is defined by Lough Neagh, Ireland's largest lake. You can enjoy its vastness from the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim. The area around Divis and the Black Mountain also features a unique mosaic of grassland and heathland bog, home to diverse wildlife.
What are some other notable landmarks in the broader County Antrim area?
While further afield, County Antrim is home to other significant attractions. These include the UNESCO World Heritage site of Giant's Causeway, known for its spectacular basalt columns, and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, offering breathtaking views. The Titanic Belfast museum is also a major cultural draw in the region.
Is it possible to cycle to the top of Divis Mountain?
Yes, it is possible to cycle to the top of Divis Mountain, though it is considered a pretty steep climb. On a clear day, the reward is superb views over Belfast and beyond. Be aware that you may need to dismount to navigate a few gates on the way to the summit.
Can I find cafes or places to eat near the attractions?
Yes, there are options for refreshments. The Picnic Area at Divis and the Black Mountain includes a cafe at the trailhead. Additionally, the towns surrounding these attractions, such as Antrim, offer various cafes and pubs.
Most popular routes around Ballydonaghy
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
