Attractions and Places To See around Ballymoney - Top 12

Beyond the dramatic coastal paths, Ballymoney offers several natural spaces. You can enjoy a pleasant walk in Riverside Park, a 40-acre urban park in the town center, or explore the lovely green spaces of Benvarden Garden. A short drive away, the iconic Dark Hedges provide a unique natural spectacle, and the world-renowned Giant's Causeway offers stunning basalt columns and coastal views.

Yes, Ballymoney has a rich history reflected in its architecture. You can see the historic Ballymoney Town Hall, erected in 1866, and an old church tower dating back to 1637, which is the town's oldest surviving building. The town also features a town clock and masonic hall commissioned in 1775. For ancient history, visit Dooey's Cairn Neolithic Court Tomb, one of the best-preserved court tombs in the Causeway Coast area.

To delve into Ballymoney's local history and culture, visit the Ballymoney Museum. The town is also known for its long-standing cultural events, including the Ballymoney Drama Festival, founded in 1933, and the Ballymoney Show, one of Ireland's oldest agricultural shows.

Absolutely! Families can enjoy Rosepark Farm, located just outside Ballymoney, where you can interact with animals, explore wooded walkways, and enjoy activities like quad train rides, a zip line, and play parks. Other options include the Damhead Miniature Railway, The Jet Centre for cinema, bowling, and soft play, and K-Team Karting for active fun.

The area around Ballymoney offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find various hiking routes, including easy walks like the 'Blackhead Lighthouse from Whitehead' or the 'View of the Gobbins Cliff Path – The Gobbins Entrance Gate loop from Donalds Carn'. For more options, explore the hiking guide for Ballymoney or the easy hikes guide. For running enthusiasts, there are also several running trails around Ballymoney.

Visitors highly recommend The Gobbins Coastal Walk for its extraordinary cliff-face journey. People love discovering caves, mollusc-encrusted rockpools, and eerie passageways, along with the fascinating wildlife and incomparable coastal views. It's often described as a bucket-list must-do for its adventurous path and stunning scenery.

Yes, The Gobbins Cliff Path Visitor Centre is a modern, well-maintained facility that serves as the starting point for the Gobbins tour. It offers amenities such as a cafe, toilets, and a large car park. You can also hire mandatory helmets and hiking boots here if needed.

Yes, you can visit Blackhead Lighthouse, a listed man-made monument built at the turn of the 20th century. It stands as an important landmark marking the northern edge of the Belfast Lough. Also, along the Gobbins Coastal Walk, you'll encounter The Tubular Bridge, a recreation of the original, offering a spectacular crossing over a cut in the coastline.

Ballymoney serves as an excellent base for exploring the breathtaking Causeway Coastal Route. This scenic route features rugged cliffs, stunning views, and serene beaches. Many tours from Ballymoney or nearby cities include key stops like the Giant's Causeway and The Dark Hedges, which are closely associated with the area.

Yes, Gracehill House, built in 1775, famously hosts one of the 'Game of Thrones Doors,' and visitors can even request a 'passport' for the doors. Additionally, The Dark Hedges, an iconic avenue of beech trees, is a famous filming location from *Game of Thrones* and is located a few miles northeast of Ballymoney.

Beyond the main highlights, consider visiting the Joey Dunlop Memorial Garden, a tribute to the legendary motorcyclist, which offers a quiet place for reflection. For a unique historical insight, explore Dooey's Cairn Neolithic Court Tomb, a well-preserved ancient burial site dating back thousands of years.