Ballymoney

Day Trips

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.

Begin your day with breakfast at your accommodation or a local café before setting off to the charming village of Cushendall. This picturesque coastal village offers stunning views of the Glens of Antrim, perfect for a morning of exploration. Take a leisurely walk along the beach, breathing in the fresh sea air as you admire the rugged coastline.

After a scenic morning, enjoy lunch at a local eatery, sampling hearty Irish fare with a view of the sea. In the afternoon, take a guided boat tour along the coast, providing a unique perspective of the cliffs and marine life. Feel the thrill of the ocean breeze as you learn about the area’s maritime history from your knowledgeable guide.

As evening approaches, return to Ballymoney and opt for a delicious meal at a restaurant that features locally-sourced ingredients. Enjoy a glass of whiskey or a locally brewed beer while reflecting on the day’s adventures. If time permits, explore the local nightlife, perhaps catching a live performance at a nearby venue.

Fuel up with a healthy breakfast before gearing up for a day of outdoor adventure in the surrounding countryside. Head to the nearby Glenariff Forest Park, known for its beautiful trails and waterfalls, perfect for a morning hike. The lush greenery and vibrant wildlife will invigorate your spirit as you traverse the various walking paths.

After a morning of hiking, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature, listening to the soothing sounds of the forest. Continue your exploration in the afternoon by visiting the park's stunning waterfalls, where you can take photos and enjoy the serene atmosphere. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at mountain biking on one of the designated trails.

Return to Ballymoney for a well-deserved dinner, perhaps at a restaurant that specializes in local dishes. Share your hiking experiences with fellow diners and enjoy the warm ambiance of the local dining scene. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the town, soaking in the peaceful evening atmosphere.

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, indulging in traditional pastries and strong Irish coffee. After your meal, visit the Ballymoney Farmers Market, where you can experience the local culture and sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts. Engage with local vendors and learn about the region’s culinary delights.

Continue your cultural immersion by attending a workshop on traditional Irish crafts, such as pottery or weaving, which are often available in the area. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, where you can taste dishes prepared with ingredients from the market. Spend the afternoon exploring local art galleries that showcase the work of talented regional artists.

As evening arrives, find a cozy restaurant that features live traditional music for dinner. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps even join in on a dance or sing along. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a local pub, relishing the rich sounds of Irish folk music.

Begin your day with breakfast at a local café, fueling up for a day of exploration. Visit the nearby ruins of Dunluce Castle, an iconic site perched on a cliff that offers stunning views of the North Atlantic Ocean. Spend your morning exploring the castle grounds and learning about its storied history through informative displays.

After touring the castle, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café that boasts a view of the coastline. In the afternoon, head to the ancient ruins of Ballintoy Harbour, where you can also take in the breathtaking coastal scenery. Engage in some photography or simply relax by the harbor, soaking up the tranquil atmosphere.

Return to Ballymoney for dinner at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and other local specialties. Reflect on your day of discovery as you dine in a charming setting. If you have the energy, consider a night walk to admire the stars away from city lights.

Start your beach adventure with breakfast at a local café, then pack your essentials for a day in the sun. Head to the nearby Portrush, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Spend your morning lounging on the beach, building sandcastles or taking a refreshing swim in the sea.

After a fun morning, grab a bite at one of the many beachside food stalls or cafés offering delicious fish and chips. In the afternoon, try your hand at some water sports such as surfing or paddleboarding with rental services available along the beach. For a more relaxing option, enjoy a stroll along the scenic promenade, taking in the lively atmosphere.

As the sun sets, enjoy a beachside dinner at a local seafood restaurant, relishing fresh catches of the day. Share your day’s experiences with friends or fellow travelers, enjoying the relaxed beach vibe. After dinner, take a sunset walk along the shore, watching the sun dip below the horizon in a spectacular display of colors.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the nearby Ballypatrick Forest for a morning of nature exploration. Enjoy walking through the lush forested areas, listening to the sounds of birds and wildlife around you. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna as you stroll along the tranquil paths.

After a refreshing morning in nature, enjoy a packed lunch at a picturesque spot within the forest. Spend your afternoon visiting the nearby animal sanctuary, where you can learn about conservation efforts and see various rescued animals. Engage with the staff to gain insights into the important work being done to protect local wildlife.

As the day winds down, return to Ballymoney for a delightful dinner at a restaurant that focuses on local cuisine. Share stories and experiences from your day in nature with fellow diners, enjoying the cozy atmosphere. After dinner, consider an evening walk in one of the local parks, unwinding in the peaceful surroundings.

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, enjoying a traditional Irish meal to fuel your upcoming adventures. After breakfast, embark on a tour of a local brewery or distillery, learning about the brewing process and the history of craft beer in Northern Ireland. Engage with the brewers and get a behind-the-scenes look at how your favorite drinks are made.

After the tour, enjoy a tasting session where you can sample various craft beers or spirits, paired with light snacks. For lunch, find a nearby pub that offers a selection of local dishes made with regional ingredients. Spend the afternoon visiting other local breweries or distilleries, soaking in the vibrant craft beverage culture of the area.

As evening approaches, join a craft beer or whiskey tasting dinner at a restaurant that showcases local brews and spirits. Share your newfound appreciation for local craftsmanship and flavor with fellow diners as you enjoy the meal. End your day with a nightcap at a cozy pub, soaking in the lively atmosphere and perhaps enjoying some live music.