Things To Do
in Ballymena
Ballymena is a town located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom. It is known for its vibrant shopping district and charming Victorian architecture. The town has a strong industrial history, particularly in the linen and textile industries.
Ballymena is also famous for its annual agricultural show, which attracts visitors from far and wide.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Braid Arts Centre to explore any ongoing exhibitions. This venue often showcases local artists and provides a glimpse into Ballymena’s creative scene.
Attend a workshop or seminar at the Arts Centre for a hands-on experience. Get involved in creating your own masterpiece or learning about local craftsmanship.
Catch a live performance at the Braid Arts Centre. Experience the vibrant arts scene with music, theatre, or dance shows.
Start with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Enjoy traditional Ulster fry while chatting with friendly locals.
Join a food tour that highlights the best eateries in Ballymena. Sample local delicacies and learn about the culinary traditions of the area.
Enjoy a cooking class and learn how to prepare a traditional Irish dish. Savor the meal you've created and celebrate your culinary achievements.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural heritage, including historic buildings and museums.
- Beautiful natural surroundings with access to outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
- Community-oriented atmosphere with friendly locals.
- Affordable housing compared to larger cities in the UK.
- Good local amenities including shops, schools, and healthcare facilities.
- Limited job opportunities in some sectors compared to larger urban areas.
- Public transport options may not be as extensive or frequent.
- Weather can be unpredictable with frequent rain.
- Possibly a lack of entertainment and nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Some areas may face social challenges and economic disparities.
Best Activities in Ballymena
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A lovely park with walking trails, playgrounds, and open spaces for picnics and outdoor relaxation.
Great for hiking and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Offers walking and cycling trails, wildlife viewing, and opportunities for outdoor education and recreation.
Places to Visit in Ballymena
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is particularly picturesque during sunrise and sunset.
Features beautiful landscaped grounds and gardens, providing ample photo opportunities with its historic architecture as a backdrop.
The largest freshwater lake in the British Isles, offering breathtaking vistas and chances to capture scenic images of the water and surrounding landscapes.
Food in Ballymena
Ballymena Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Northern Irish breakfast comprising bacon, eggs, sausage, black and white pudding, tomatoes, and soda bread. Sample this dish at popular breakfast spots like Fratelli or Middletown Coffee Co.
Must-Try!
Mashed potatoes mixed with scallions, butter, and milk, creating a delicious side dish often served alongside main courses. Find an authentic rendition at The Blackstone Bar.
A traditional honeycomb toffee originating from Northern Ireland, offering a sweet and crunchy treat. Look for this local delight at specialty sweet shops and markets like The Sweet Spot.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market features a wide array of stalls offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and street food options. Don't miss the chance to savor local snacks like fish and chips or savory pies from the market vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to use polite language and manners when interacting with people in Ballymena. Saying 'please' and 'thank you' is appreciated and shows respect.
In Ballymena, it's important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when first meeting someone.
It's important to be mindful of cultural sensitivities in Ballymena, such as being aware of local customs and traditions, and showing respect for them.
Safety
Tipping in Ballymena
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ballymena, United Kingdom, it is customary to leave a tip of 10-15% in restaurants and cafes if a service charge is not already included. Tipping is also common in bars and for taxi drivers.
Payment in Ballymena, United Kingdom, can be made using cash, credit/debit cards, and contactless methods. Most establishments accept card payments, and it is common to see contactless payment options available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Ballymena is in spring when the weather is moderate and the countryside is in full bloom. Expect temperatures ranging from 6°C to 14°C with occasional rain showers.
Summer is also a great time to visit Ballymena, with longer days and average temperatures between 12°C to 19°C. This season is perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the lush green landscapes.
In autumn, Ballymena presents a beautiful display of colorful foliage, making it a picturesque time to visit. Temperatures range from 7°C to 13°C, and the weather is generally mild with occasional rainfall.
Winters in Ballymena are chilly, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 8°C. While it might be cold, the city and surrounding areas can still be charming, especially during the festive season.
Ballymena at Night
Hiking in Ballymena
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A notable volcanic plug, Slemish Mountain offers a range of hiking trails with stunning views over the surrounding countryside. The trail to the summit is popular and varies in difficulty.
Located in the Antrim Glens, Glenariff Forest Park provides a variety of walking trails through lush woodlands and along rivers, featuring beautiful waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.
This area features several walking paths through forested terrain, ideal for a leisurely hike surrounded by nature.
A natural woodland area close to Ballymena, Torrell Wood offers a peaceful setting for hiking and enjoying the local flora and fauna.
Though primarily a sports facility, the surrounding area includes trails perfect for light hiking and walking.
Aiports
How to reach Ballymena by plane.
Located approximately 20 miles from Ballymena, it is the busiest airport in Northern Ireland.
Situated around 25 miles from Ballymena, it is known for its proximity to Belfast city center.
About 50 miles from Ballymena, this airport serves the northwest region of Northern Ireland.
Located roughly 70 miles from Ballymena, it is a major airport in Scotland with numerous international flights.
Approximately 90 miles from Ballymena, it is Scotland's busiest airport with a wide range of international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Ballymena, representing a significant majority of the population.
A smaller but notable demographic group, comprising individuals with Irish heritage.
Includes various ethnicities, notably those with South Asian backgrounds.
Represents a smaller demographic group, including individuals from African countries.
A category that includes mixed ethnicities and other minority groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Ballymena, with several local teams and a strong community support.
Rugby has a strong following in Ballymena, with a local club that competes in various leagues.
Cricket is played in local clubs and is popular among residents, particularly during the summer months.
Gaelic sports such as hurling and Gaelic football have a presence in Ballymena, with local clubs promoting these traditional games.
Athletics events and clubs encourage running and track & field competitions among the community.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ballymena.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Ballymena are sensitive to dietary needs, offering vegetarian and vegan menu items. Notable options include The Wild Duck's flavorful vegetarian dishes and The Smoking Monkey's array of vegan treats.
Visitors with gluten intolerances will find accommodating options at several establishments in Ballymena. The Wild Duck, for example, provides a diverse gluten-free menu to ensure all guests can enjoy their dining experience.