Things To Do
in Ballymoney
Ballymoney is a small market town in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, set on the River Ballymoney. It blends historic streets and a friendly, village-like vibe with easy access to the Causeway Coast and countryside. The town serves as a convenient base for day trips to Giants Causeway, Bushmills, and Coleraine, while maintaining a compact, walkable center.
The surrounding rural landscape features rolling fields, hedgerows, and plenty of welcoming places to eat, drink, and explore.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Irish fare like soda bread and a hearty fry-up. After breakfast, stroll through the charming streets of Ballymoney to discover its rich history, including the iconic Town Hall and the old market square. Don’t forget to visit the Ballymoney Museum, where you can learn about the town's fascinating past, including its role in the linen industry.
In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour to delve deeper into the historical landmarks of Ballymoney, including the impressive church of St. James. After soaking up the local history, enjoy lunch at a quaint bistro, sampling some fresh local seafood. Post-lunch, visit the nearby Benvarden Garden, where you can admire the stunning horticultural designs and peaceful surroundings.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional pub for a taste of local craft beers and perhaps some live music. Engage with the friendly locals and enjoy the warm atmosphere while trying classic dishes such as Irish stew or fish and chips. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the town's picturesque streets, absorbing the ambiance of Ballymoney at night.
Kickstart your day with an early breakfast before embarking on a trip to the iconic Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site. After reaching the site, spend your morning exploring the unique hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity. Take in the breathtaking coastal views and capture stunning photographs of this natural wonder.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch at the Causeway, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and crashing waves. Spend your afternoon hiking the scenic coastal paths that lead to the nearby Chimney Stacks and the historic ruins of Dunseverick Castle. Don’t miss the chance to explore the visitor center for insightful exhibits about the geology and legend of the Causeway.
Return to Ballymoney in the evening and unwind with a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try some unique regional dishes. Share stories of your day's adventures with fellow travelers or locals as you enjoy the delicious cuisine. After dinner, consider a stroll along the beach to enjoy the tranquil sounds of the waves lapping at the shore.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $2-5 |
| 🏨Hotel night | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧥Winter clothing | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with easy access to the coast
- Gateway to the Causeway Coast and Giants Causeway
- Friendly locals and traditional pub atmosphere
- Good base for day trips to Coleraine, Bushmills, and Derry
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Weather can be rainy and changeable
- Some services and dining options are smaller in scale than urban centers
Places to Visit in Ballymoney
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic avenue of beech trees that creates a moody, otherworldly backdrop—perfect for atmospheric photography.
World Heritage coastline with hexagonal basalt columns and dramatic sea stacks; wide viewpoints and intimate shoreline shots.
Historic railway viaduct with arches and lines that make for striking architectural photos against the countryside.
Coastal lighthouse nearby with rugged cliffs and sweeping sea panoramas ideal for sunset or seascapes.
Food in Ballymoney
Ballymoney Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty breakfast featuring bacon, sausages, eggs, black pudding, white pudding, potato bread, and soda bread.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked lamb or beef with potatoes and carrots, often served with crusty bread.
Traditional potato pancake served with savory toppings or as part of a breakfast plate.
Creamy chowder made with locally caught fish and shellfish, perfect for a coastal day.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional town market offering fresh produce, breads, baked goods, and local crafts on market days.
Seasonal stalls offering hot soups, pies, and snacks near the town center during market periods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and a smile go a long way; politeness and small talk are appreciated in social settings.
Rural and close-knit communities value courtesy and respect for personal space and privacy.
Safety
Tipping in Ballymoney
Ensure a smooth experience
In pubs and casual eateries tipping is not always expected; in restaurants a 10-15% gratuity is common if service is not included. Check the bill first.
Cash and cards (contactless preferred) are widely accepted; ATMs are common in town centers. Most places also take mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild to warm days with long daylight hours. Bring a light layer and sun protection; occasional showers are possible, especially along the coast.
Crisp air and shifting foliage; sea breezes can feel fresh. Great for photography and coastal walks, with variable rain gear recommended.
Cool and often wet with shorter daylight. Layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy footwear are essential for outdoor exploring.
Milder temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for hikes and garden visits, with intermittent rain showers.
Ballymoney at Night
Hiking in Ballymoney
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal long-distance path with sea views, rocky shores, and accessible day hikes along the north Antrim coast.
Lush forest trails in the Glens of Antrim with waterfall viewpoints and varied difficulty.
Airports
How to reach Ballymoney by plane.
Major international gateway to Northern Ireland; about a 1–1.5 hour drive from Ballymoney.
Close to Belfast with regional connections; convenient for quick trips to the city and beyond.
Large international hub in the Republic of Ireland; longer drive to Ballymoney but broad flight options.
Northern Ireland’s northwestern airport; further from Ballymoney but useful for certain routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local families and new residents; community-focused neighborhoods.
Quiet, friendly areas with easy access to services and countryside walks.
Residents who travel to nearby towns for work and education.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular traditional sport in Northern Ireland with local clubs and community events.
Local clubs and friendly matches are common; nearby towns offer active pitches and stadiums.
Rugby union has a presence in the region with local clubs and facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ballymoney.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in pubs and cafes. Most places can adapt dishes or offer veggie specials; ask about dairy-free and egg-free choices if needed.