Top 5 Castles around Ballygally
Best castles around Ballygally are situated along the scenic Causeway Coastal Route, offering a blend of historical architecture and coastal views. The area is characterized by its rugged coastline and proximity to the Irish Sea. Ballygally itself features a notable 17th-century castle, which has been preserved and adapted over centuries. This region provides opportunities to explore historic structures set against a backdrop of natural landscapes.
Best castles around Ballygally
- The most popular castles is Castle Ward Tower (Winterfell Filming Location)…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Castle Ward Tower (Winterfell Filming Location)
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Audley's Castle
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Castle Ward
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Inch Abbey
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Wikipedia (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%27s_Castle https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%E2%80%99s_Castle Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/audleys-castle-p707501 Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Visit Game of Thrones - Filming Locations, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/blog/read/2020/06/visit-game-of-thrones-filming-locations-b147 “… Within the Castle Ward demesne, you can make your way over to Audley's Field where Robb Stark meets Talisa after the battle at Oxcross. …“ #GoT #BattleOfOxcross #WarOfTheFiveKings
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National Trust (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl_SVBg9R8U Wikipedia (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward “… The most interesting aspect of Castle Ward is that of its dual architecture, representing the differing tastes of Lord Bangor and his wife, Lady Ann Bligh. While the entrance side of the building is done in a classical Palladian style with columns supporting a triangular pediment, the opposite side is Georgian Gothic with pointed windows, battlements and finials. …”
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Great place for a run along the coastline.
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Best known for its role as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property located in Strangford. With its distinctive blend of classical and gothic styles, the castle and its estate grace the picturesque shores of Strangford Lough. Tours of the castle and estate are available year-round. For more information, visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward
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Best known for its place as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property in Strangford. With two unique styles of classical and gothic, the castle & its estate is located in a beautiful location near the shore of Strangford Lough. Tours are available year round of the castle and estate.
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Wikipedia (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%27s_Castle https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%E2%80%99s_Castle Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/audleys-castle-p707501 Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Visit Game of Thrones - Filming Locations, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/blog/read/2020/06/visit-game-of-thrones-filming-locations-b147 “… Within the Castle Ward demesne, you can make your way over to Audley's Field where Robb Stark meets Talisa after the battle at Oxcross. …“ #GoT #BattleOfOxcross #WarOfTheFiveKings
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TheIrishRoadTrip ("Game of Thrones Ireland: 16 Filming Locations From The Show”, 2022-10-08): https://www.theirishroadtrip.com/game-of-thrones-filming-locations-northern-ireland/ “… You’ll find the 16th-century Castle Ward, which was the backdrop for the series pilot and a chunk of season one, just 40 minutes from Belfast. Castle Ward was used as ‘Winterfell’ – the home of the Stark family. Its towering medieval walls and now-iconic castle tower gate made it an ideal shooting location for the show. …” #GoT #HouseStark #Winterfell #Westeros Wikipedia (Winterfell (Game of Thrones episode), 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winterfell_(Game_of_Thrones_episode) National Trust(HBO's Game of Thrones at Castle Ward, 2022-10-08): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/castle-ward/features/game-of-thrones-at-castle-ward Peak Discovery Ltd (Winterfell Tours, 2022-10-08) https://www.gameofthrones-winterfelltours.com/thedarkhedges https://youtu.be/RMwzMU7iW_Y Tripadvisor (Game of Thrones - Winterfell Trek from Belfast(, 2022-10-08): https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g186470-d15079832-Game_of_Thrones_Winterfell_Trek_from_Belfast-Belfast_Northern_Ireland.html
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Wikipedia (Castle Ward (Old Castle Ward), 2022-10-08): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward Tripadvisor (Castle Ward, 2022-10-08): https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g664089-d212598-Reviews-Castle_Ward-Strangford_County_Down_Northern_Ireland.html google (Street View, 2022-10-08): https://www.google.com/maps/@54.3732731,-5.5779806,3a,75y,240.79h,82.97t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sz1-OEQiivuBoui997nWdyA!2e0!7i13312!8i6656
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most notable castle directly in Ballygally?
Ballygally is home to Ballygally Castle, a distinctive 17th-century Scottish Baronial structure. It's unique for being the only 17th-century building in Northern Ireland still used as a residence, now operating as a charming hotel. It features a walled garden, a 'Ghost Room,' and offers panoramic sea views.
Are there any castles near Ballygally known for their historical significance or unique architecture?
Yes, beyond Ballygally Castle, you can explore Castle Ward, an 18th-century National Trust property known for its dual architectural styles—one side classical Palladian and the other Georgian Gothic. Another significant site is Inch Abbey, recognized as one of the most beautiful ruins in the area.
Which castles near Ballygally are family-friendly?
Castle Ward Tower (Winterfell Filming Location) and Castle Ward are both listed as family-friendly. Castle Ward offers trails and activities, including Game of Thrones-themed experiences like archery. Inch Abbey is also considered family-friendly, providing an open space to explore historical ruins.
Are there any castles near Ballygally that were used as filming locations?
Yes, Castle Ward Tower is famously known as 'Winterfell' from Game of Thrones. Additionally, Audley's Castle, located within the Castle Ward estate, was used as a filming location for 'Audley's Field' in the series.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The area around Ballygally offers various outdoor activities. You can find several cycling routes, including easy to moderate options like the 'Mallard Plantation – View of Castle Ward Mansion loop' near Castle Ward. For hiking, there are easy trails such as the 'Castle Ward Farm Trail' and the 'Lecale Way.' You can explore more options on the cycling guide and easy hikes guide for Ballygally.
Is Ballygally Castle reputed to be haunted?
Yes, Ballygally Castle is widely reputed to be one of the most haunted places in Ulster. The most active ghost is said to be Lady Isobel Shaw, a former resident. The hotel even embraces this reputation with a dedicated 'Ghost Room' in one of its corner towers.
What is the best time to visit castles around Ballygally?
The Antrim Coast, where Ballygally is located, is beautiful year-round. However, for milder weather and longer daylight hours, late spring to early autumn (May to September) is generally ideal. This allows for comfortable exploration of outdoor castle grounds and scenic coastal routes.
Are there any accessible castles near Ballygally?
Castle Ward is listed as wheelchair accessible, offering facilities and trails that cater to a wider range of visitors. It's advisable to check specific accessibility details directly with the site before your visit.
Can I find accommodation within a castle in Ballygally?
Yes, Ballygally Castle itself has been transformed into a hotel, offering the unique opportunity to stay in a historic 17th-century castle. It blends historical charm with modern conveniences and features amenities like The Garden Restaurant and a lounge.
What kind of views can I expect from Ballygally Castle?
From Ballygally Castle, guests can enjoy impressive sea views of Ballygally Bay and across the Irish Sea. Its location on the Causeway Coastal Route provides a stunning backdrop of golden sands and uninterrupted coastal scenery.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the castles in Ballygally?
Ballygally Castle itself features The Garden Restaurant and a lounge. For other options, Ballygally village offers local cafes and pubs. When visiting other castles like Castle Ward, you'll find a coffee shop on-site, and nearby towns will have additional dining choices.
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