Updated On: February 17, 2024 by   Rebekah McCaig

Nestled in County Antrim, Ballymena serves as an ideal base for exploring the region’s natural beauty, rich history, and cultural attractions. From the rolling green slopes of Slemish Mountain to the elegant Ballymena Castle and its lush gardens, this town and its surroundings offer many sights and activities to enjoy. 

We’ll be providing an insider guide to Ballymena and the top things there is to see and do in this County Antrim town. Whether you’re keen to hike and explore trails, shop in town, or watch some sporting events, Ballymena has something for everyone. We’ll recommend some of the top historical landmarks like Ballymena Tower, family-friendly attractions such as the People’s Park, suggestions for outdoor escapes, and the best places to sample some local cuisine.

Historical Landmarks and Cultural Attractions

Full of history and culture, Ballymena offers fascinating sights and landmarks for visitors to discover. 

Galgorm Castle

Galgorm Castle traces its roots back to the early 1600s. Today, Galgorm Castle is renowned as a premier golf destination, attracting guests from around the globe. The resort boasts the Championship Castle Course, designed by renowned golf course architect Simon Gidman. 

Galgorm Castle is surrounded by other businesses such as award-winning garden centre, Creative Gardens and highly-rated restaurant, Castle Kitchen and Bar, owned by luxury hotel and spa, Galgorm Resort. 

For a whimsical and scenic walk suitable for all ages, be sure to explore the Galgorm Fairy Trail located within the grounds of Galgorm Castle. This special woodland trail features fairy doors crafted into tree trunks, tiny thatched fairy houses, and other magical structures created to capture young imaginations.

Arthur Cottage

History fans won’t want to miss a stop at Arthur Cottage, the childhood home of beloved Chester Alan Arthur, 21st President of the United States of America, a hidden gem located in the quaint village of Broughshane, just south of Ballymena. 

This property provides a fascinating glimpse into Arthur’s early years with a museum displaying furnishings, photographs, and artefacts shedding light on his upbringing in early 20th century Northern Ireland. 

Knowledgeable tour guides will take you around the cottage, providing you with details about life in 19th century Northern Ireland, the Arthur Family, and their immigration to the United States.

Outdoor Adventures and Nature Escapes

Glenariff Forest Park

For those looking to experience Northern Ireland’s awe-inspiring natural landscapes, Glenariff Forest Park is an essential stop. As the most famous of the scenic Glens of Antrim, Glenariff features a lush valley flanked by steep, craggy hills blanketed in emerald green forest. 

Visitors can explore miles of waymarked nature trails taking them past tumbling waterfalls like Ess-na-Larach, the Queen of the Glen, rambling rivers, and the famous Glenariff Teahouse cafe, a spot to get some delicious homemade food, made with locally-sourced ingredients. 

Our top tip for Glenariff Forest Park is to visit when there is no rain forecast as some of the trails can be steep and can get slippery. With its iconic vistas and enchanting scenery straight from fairy tales, Glenariff Forest Park showcases Antrim’s spectacular landscapes.

Slemish Mountain

Slemish Mountain, a prominent peak towering over the landscape of County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is steeped in history, revered as a place of spiritual significance and revered for its breathtaking natural beauty. 

This ancient volcanic plug, rising approximately 437 metres (1,434 feet) above the surrounding countryside, is renowned for its association with Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint. According to legend, Saint Patrick, captured as a young man and brought as a slave to Ireland, tended sheep herds on Slemish Mountain for six years. During this time, he found solace and spiritual enlightenment, drawing strength from his faith amidst adversity. 

Slemish Mountain is a challenging yet rewarding hike, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can follow the well-worn path to the summit named after Ireland’s patron saint, taking about an hour round trip passing sheep graze lands and magical rock formations created by the elements. 

Whether seeking spiritual inspiration, challenging physical limits, or simply immersing oneself in the beauty of the Irish countryside, Slemish Mountain offers an unforgettable experience that resonates with the soul.

Shopping 

Fairhill Shopping Centre

Spend an afternoon browsing and dining at one of Ballymena’s most popular shopping centres, Fairhill Shopping Centre. Conveniently located in the heart of the town centre, this multi-level covered complex houses an array of high street shops, restaurants, grocery stores, fast fashion retailers, and services under one roof. 

Anchor tenants include Next, New Look, and Marks & Spencer, providing a diverse selection of fashion apparel, homeware, and beauty products. Visitors can spend hours browsing popular clothing stores like River Island or H&M, getting a manicure at Angel Nails, or choosing from several dining options like Starbucks, Burger King and Wildflower Bakery. 

One of our top tips for visiting Fairhill Shopping Centre is to go on a Thursday or Friday evening between 6pm and 9pm when parking is free.

Tower Centre

Another excellent shopping venue, the Tower Centre stands in the heart of Ballymena, just a 10 minute walk from Fairhill Shopping Centre. This sprawling complex houses many popular high street retailers like Boots, Primark, Dunnes, and Iceland Foods all under one roof. 

Visitors can browse goods ranging from cosmetics to sports equipment, pick up ingredients for an evening meal, or grab fast casual bites at onsite eateries. 

The Tower Centre offers a one-stop, convenient indoor shopping hub to find big brands and local products alike during your visit.

Dining Experiences 

River Room & Conservatory at Galgorm Golf Resort and Spa

Overlooking the River Maine, the River Room & Conservatory at Galgorm Golf Resort and Spa offers an exquisite dining experience in a setting of unparalleled beauty. This elegant restaurant seamlessly blends modern sophistication with the rustic charm of its surroundings, creating an ambience that is both refined and inviting.

The River Room’s menu showcases the finest locally sourced ingredients, transformed into culinary masterpieces by the restaurant’s talented chefs. 

Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner, an afternoon tea experience, or having a special occasion celebration, the River Room & Conservatory at Galgorm Golf Resort and Spa promises an unforgettable culinary experience.

The Thatch Inn 

For traditional Irish charm and heritage recipes, The Thatch Inn in the village of Broughshane is one of our top recommendations, located just minutes from Ballymena. 

Housed in a rustic cottage dating back to 1773, this warm, authentic eatery embraces its history with thick thatched roofing, exposed stonework, slate flooring, and open fireplaces where you can enjoy a perfectly pulled pint of Guinness. 

Matching the historic ambience is the comfort food featuring standouts like fish and chips, homemade lasagne, sirloin steaks. 

Beyond its culinary delights, The Thatch Inn is renowned for its warm hospitality and lively atmosphere. The friendly staff, known for their genuine Irish charm, go above and beyond to make every guest feel welcome and at ease. 

Whether you’re seeking a lively night out with friends, a casual catch-up with family, or a cosy retreat on a chilly evening, The Thatch Inn provides the perfect setting for unforgettable gatherings.

Dougies Goodies

No trip to Ballymena is complete without stopping for dessert at Dougies Goodies which has now found a new home along Church Street. Dougies Goodies offers indulgent cakes, pastries, and irresistible baked treats made in-house using family recipes. 

Longtime favourites include the lemon french fancies, cake pops, and, of course, their famous homemade, personalisable birthday cakes. 

The shop’s bright décor featuring neon signage, and friendly service from staff makes everyone feel like a regular. Whether you’re looking for a delightful treat for yourself or a thoughtful gift for friends and family, Dougies Goodies is the perfect destination for a sweet escape.

Arts, Entertainment and Sporting Events

Eaton Park (Ballymena Showgrounds) 

Sports fans visiting Ballymena will want to catch a match at Eaton Park, otherwise known as Ballymena Showgrounds, a top sporting venue that hosts everything from football and rugby to cricket matches. Serving as the playing grounds for Ballymena United Football Club, the park features seating for over 4,100 spectators along with top notch turf and lighting systems for night games. 

Rugby fans can catch home games played by Ballymena Rugby Football Club from September through April against fierce local rivals. Along with league play, Eaton Park stages high profile events like the annual SuperCupNI (formerly known as the Milk Cup) football competition.

Braid Arts Centre

For a vibrant dose of culture and artistic talent, be sure to schedule a visit to the Braid Arts Centre, Ballymena’s premier hub for the visual and performing arts. 

First opening its doors in 2011 as part of an ongoing urban renewal initiative, this sleek modern venue features inviting gallery spaces hosting works by contemporary artists across mediums, a 400-seat auditorium staging everything from comedy acts and theatrical productions to musical concerts. This is the perfect place to visit on a rainy day in Ballymena!

With its packed roster of programming, the Braid Arts Centre offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling inspired.

Key Takeaways

With its rich history, vibrant culture, abundant nature, and warm hospitality, Ballymena offers visitors an incredible diversity of sights, activities, and experiences to enjoy. 

From the striking beauty of the Antrim Coastline, to sports matches at Eaton Park, to the contemporary art scene at the Braid Arts Centre, Ballymena has something for all interests and tastes. 

The excellent shops and eateries provide plenty of opportunities to fuel your adventures by day and unwind comfortably by night. Whether you’re eager to immerse yourself in Irish culture, explore the outdoors, or simply relax amid its beautiful landscapes, Ballymena makes for an outstanding base to unlock this region’s many treasures. 

Its size, central location, and wealth of things to do mean you can pack your itinerary as full or relaxed as you like. We hope our insider’s guide has helped you plan your next trip to this wonderful and welcoming destination in County Antrim.