Attractions and Places To See around Ballymoney - Top 12

The area around Ballymoney offers stunning natural beauty. You can visit Binevenagh Lake, an artificial lake on a cliff-top in Binevenagh Forest, perfect for picnics. For breathtaking panoramic views, head to Gortmore Viewpoint, where on clear days you can see the Inishowen Peninsula, Lough Foyle, and even Scotland. Another notable viewpoint is at the Manannán Mac Lir Statue and Bishop's View, offering vistas over Magilligan to Donegal.

Ballymoney is rich in history. You can explore the St. Cadan's Church Ruins and Holy Well, with remains dating back to the 13th century and an ancient spiritual site. The Tamlaghtard Church is also a beautiful building said to have been founded by St. Patrick. In the town itself, the Ballymoney Town Hall houses the Ballymoney Museum, which provides insights into local history, including the enigmatic Derrykeighan Stone. You can also follow the Ballymoney Heritage Trail, a 2.5-mile self-guided walk through the town's built heritage.

Families visiting Ballymoney have several engaging options. The Damhead Miniature Railway is a popular choice for all ages. Rosepark Farm, located just outside Ballymoney, offers animal interactions, wooded walkways, and Northern Ireland's first inland beach. Additionally, natural spots like Binevenagh Lake and Gortmore Viewpoint are considered family-friendly for leisurely visits and picnics.

The primary place to delve into Ballymoney's past is the Ballymoney Museum, located within the historic Ballymoney Town Hall. The museum covers a wide range of local history, from Mesolithic times to road racing, and features significant artifacts like the Derrykeighan Stone. For a broader historical context, the area also boasts ancient sites such as Dooey's Cairn Neolithic Court Tomb and various megalithic tombs, ringforts, and motte and baileys, reflecting its long history of human settlement. More information can be found on the Ballymoney Heritage page.

Ballymoney is a great base for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various hiking routes, such as the moderate Binevenagh Hill and Lake loop or the longer Bineveneagh loop via North Sperrins Way. For an easier option, consider the River Walk loop from Ardgarvan. There are also running trails, including a challenging Binevenagh Hill loop. Cyclists can enjoy road cycling routes like the Mussenden Temple loop or the Garvagh Pyramid loop. For detailed routes and maps, explore the hiking guide, running trails guide, and road cycling routes guide around Ballymoney.

Yes, some attractions offer wheelchair accessibility. The Manannán Mac Lir Statue and Bishop's View is noted for being easily accessible, located right next to a parking area, allowing visitors to enjoy the breathtaking views. While not all sites may be fully accessible, this viewpoint is a good option for those requiring wheelchair access.

The best time to visit attractions around Ballymoney generally depends on your preferred activities. The summer months (June to August) offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, ideal for exploring natural features and outdoor activities. However, popular spots like the Dark Hedges can be very busy during peak season. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful scenery, especially for walks and photography. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit, as Northern Ireland's weather can be unpredictable.

The iconic Dark Hedges, an avenue of interwoven beech trees made famous by *Game of Thrones*, is located a short distance northeast of Ballymoney. It's a popular spot for photography and is easily accessible by car from the town.

The Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its unique basalt columns, is approximately a 20-minute drive from Ballymoney. Its proximity makes Ballymoney an excellent base for exploring this natural wonder. Nearby, you can also visit the exhilarating Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, offering stunning coastal views, and the historic Old Bushmills Distillery for tours and whiskey tasting.

Ballymoney is an excellent starting point for *Game of Thrones* enthusiasts. The most famous nearby filming location is The Dark Hedges, which served as the King's Road. Additionally, the region's proximity to other iconic filming spots like Dunluce Castle and Ballintoy Harbour (Lordsport Harbour) makes it convenient to explore multiple locations from the series.

Beyond the well-known sites, Ballymoney offers some unique spots. The Joey Dunlop Memorial Garden commemorates the legendary motorcycle racer, providing a peaceful place for reflection for fans. Gracehill House, built in 1775, is not only historically significant but also features a 'Game of Thrones Door' and is connected to the planting of the Dark Hedges. For a glimpse into ancient history, Dooey's Cairn Neolithic Court Tomb is a well-preserved site dating back thousands of years, featuring a unique cremation passage.

Parking availability varies by attraction. For popular sites like the Giant's Causeway and the Dark Hedges, designated parking areas are available, though they can fill up quickly during peak times. For highlights such as the Manannán Mac Lir Statue and Bishop's View, parking is conveniently located right next to the statue. For town-based attractions like the Ballymoney Museum, public car parks are available within the town center. It's always advisable to check specific attraction websites for detailed parking information before your visit.