Things To Do
in Ballymoney
Ballymoney is a small town located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, known for its rich history and close-knit community. It serves as a hub for the surrounding rural area and is famous for its connection to the early 20th-century motorcycle racing events, particularly the North West 200. The town features several historical landmarks, including the iconic Ballymoney Railway Station and the impressive Old Church of Saint James.
Additionally, Ballymoney is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, making it a charming destination for visitors exploring Northern Ireland.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Ballymoney Museum to learn about the local heritage. Enjoy a walk around the scenic town center to take in the historical architecture.
Have lunch at a local café, then visit the iconic Dark Hedges for stunning photo opportunities. Spend your afternoon strolling through the lovely parklands nearby.
Dine at a local pub serving traditional Irish meals. End your day with a relaxing walk by the river.
Kick off your day with a hike at the nearby Ballymoney Forest. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery as you explore the trails.
Pack a picnic to enjoy in the forest, then head to the local adventure center for some fun activities like kayaking or climbing. Spend your afternoon soaking in nature and having fun.
Return to Ballymoney for dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Unwind with a movie at home or explore local evening events.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural heritage, with several historical sites.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes, including the nearby Causeway Coast.
- Relatively low cost of living compared to larger urban areas.
- Variety of local amenities, including shops, schools, and healthcare facilities.
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields.
- Public transport options may be less frequent compared to larger cities.
- Possible isolation due to its smaller size and rural location.
- Weather can be damp and unpredictable, typical of Northern Ireland.
- Fewer entertainment and nightlife options compared to major urban centers.
Best Activities in Ballymoney
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride along the Ballymoney River, where you can take in the beautiful natural landscape and observe local wildlife.
Visit this memorial garden dedicated to the famous motorcycle racer, featuring well-kept gardens, pathways, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a relaxing day out.
Play a round of golf at this picturesque 18-hole course, which offers challenges for all skill levels amidst stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Explore the walking trails in Dunloy Forest, ideal for family hikes and picnics, with various paths suitable for all fitness levels and plenty of natural beauty to enjoy.
Take a ferry from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island and spend the day hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the stunning coastal views and unique wildlife.
Visit the local market for fresh farm produce, artisan goods, and crafts whilst enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the community.
Places to Visit in Ballymoney
Visit one of these nice places.
This stunning park offers picturesque woodland trails and breathtaking views of waterfalls and lush greenery, ideal for photography and nature exploration.
Located a short drive from Ballymoney, this UNESCO World Heritage site features unique basalt columns and dramatic coastal views, perfect for capturing stunning landscape photos.
Explore the historic ruins of Ballymoney Castle and enjoy views over the surrounding area, providing a great backdrop for historical-themed photography.
Famous from 'Game of Thrones', the Dark Hedges are a picturesque avenue lined with beech trees, creating a magical atmosphere for photography at certain times of the day.
A lovely local park featuring beautiful flower beds and open green spaces, offering a peaceful setting for capturing nature and family-oriented photographs.
Food in Ballymoney
Ballymoney Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic dish made with lamb or beef, root vegetables, and a hearty broth. You can find a delicious version at The Salmon Leap.
Must-Try!
Traditional Irish potato pancakes that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often served with a variety of fillings. Try them at The Tullyglass House Hotel.
A creamy soup packed with local seafood and fresh herbs, offering a taste of the coastal bounty. The Courthouse Tea Room serves an excellent chowder.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held every Friday, this market features a variety of local produce, baked goods, and street food stalls. You can sample homemade bread, pastries, and artisanal cheeses.
Occasionally held during the summer months, this festival showcases both local and international street food vendors. Expect to find gourmet burgers, fish and chips, and various global dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Ballymoney, it is customary to greet with a friendly handshake and maintain eye contact. Use polite greetings such as 'Hello' or 'Hi' along with the person's name, if known.
In Ballymoney, as in much of the UK, it is important to form an orderly queue and wait your turn in public places, such as shops or bus stops. Jumping ahead in a queue is considered impolite.
In restaurants and cafes, it is common to leave a tip of around 10-15% if service is good. In pubs, it's customary to round up to the nearest pound or leave small change for bar staff.
Safety
Tipping in Ballymoney
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ballymoney, as in much of the UK, tipping practices vary by service. It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill. Tipping for taxi drivers is also appreciated, typically rounding up to the nearest pound or an additional 10%. In casual settings or for takeaways, tipping is less common.
Payment methods in Ballymoney include cash and card transactions, with a significant preference for card payments, including contactless options. Many establishments accept debit and credit cards. Some smaller shops or markets may prefer cash, but the trend is moving towards digital payments with mobile payment options growing in popularity.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Ballymoney is characterized by mild temperatures and blooming flowers. March to May is a delightful time to visit, with average temperatures ranging from 6°C to 15°C. Expect occasional rain, but also plenty of sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the scenic countryside.
Summer months from June to August are the warmest, with temperatures averaging between 12°C and 20°C. This is the peak tourist season, with longer daylight hours and various local festivals. Visitors can enjoy outdoor attractions, such as parks and coastal areas, but should prepare for some rain.
Autumn, from September to November, brings cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. Expect average temperatures of 7°C to 15°C. This season is less crowded, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter experience. Rain is more frequent, so visitors should bring appropriate clothing.
Winter, from December to February, is cold and damp, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 8°C. While snowfall is rare, it can get chilly, and visitors will experience shorter days. This is a quieter time to explore the town and enjoy seasonal events, but warm clothing is essential.
Ballymoney at Night
Hiking in Ballymoney
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic forest park featuring a network of trails that wind through lush woodlands and alongside stunning waterfalls.
An ancient hill fort with a walking trail that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and River Bann.
A beautiful mountain range located south of Ballymoney, popular for hiking, with varying trails catering to different levels of experience.
This scenic route offers various walking paths along the coast, allowing hikers to enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and cliffs.
A prominent peak with several hiking routes, offering dramatic views of the surrounding landscape and coastline.
Aiports
How to reach Ballymoney by plane.
Located approximately 28 miles south of Ballymoney, this is the largest airport in Northern Ireland, offering a range of domestic and international flights.
Situated approximately 35 miles south of Ballymoney, this airport primarily serves the city of Belfast and offers flights to various UK and European destinations.
Located about 35 miles west of Ballymoney, Derry Airport serves the city of Derry and offers a limited selection of domestic routes.
Approximately 174 miles northeast of Ballymoney, this is the busiest airport in Scotland, providing access to a wide range of domestic and international flights.
About 160 miles northeast of Ballymoney, Glasgow International is one of Scotland's main airports, serving numerous international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Ballymoney, typically making up the majority of the population.
Includes individuals of South Asian, East Asian, and Middle Eastern descent, representing a smaller segment of the population.
Individuals identifying as belonging to more than one ethnic group.
A small demographic group consisting of individuals from various African and Caribbean backgrounds.
Includes any other ethnic backgrounds not classified in the above categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played team sport in Ballymoney, with various local clubs and a strong community following.
Includes sports like Gaelic football and hurling, which are popular in the area, with local clubs promoting these traditional Irish sports.
Rugby has a dedicated following in Ballymoney, with local teams that compete in regional leagues.
Cricket is played in the summer months, with local clubs providing opportunities for players of all ages.
Track and field athletics are promoted through schools and local clubs, supporting young athletes in the community.
Cycling is a popular activity, both as a sport and a recreational pastime, enjoyed by many in the scenic rural areas around Ballymoney.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ballymoney.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local restaurants, such as The Courthouse Tea Room and The Tullyglass House Hotel, offer varied vegetarian dishes made from local produce.
While not as common, some eateries like The Salmon Leap have begun to include vegan options, particularly with salads and plant-based burgers.
Ballymoney has several options for gluten-free dining, with various cafes and restaurants accommodating dietary needs upon request.