Attractions and Places To See around Ballealy South - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Ballealy South, a townland in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, offers a blend of historical sites and natural landscapes. Located near Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles, the area provides opportunities for exploring woodlands and significant cultural landmarks. Visitors can discover 5 notable attractions, making it a destination for those interested in history and outdoor activities.
Best attractions and places to see around Ballealy South
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Last updated: July 1, 2026
Antrim Castle Gardens
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Walk into the past as you stroll β¦
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Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim
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Antrim Round Tower
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Randalstown Forest
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Within the deer enclosure, there is the opportunity to quietly observe up β¦
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The Protector of the Lough
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The Round Tower is an impressive reminder of Antrim's ancient monastic settlement. Built around the 10th century as the monastery's bell tower, it is known locally as The Steeple. It stands 28 meters tall. The monastic site was burned down in 1147.
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The Protector of the Lough statue shows the mythological giant Finn McCool standing guard at Antrim Marina on the shores of Lough Neagh. It's an eight-metre-tall sculpture created by Spanish artist Casto Solan to celebrate the local folklore of the Lough.
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A 430 acre mixed conifer forest that contains an owl conservation centre, deer park and several walking routes. Within the deer enclosure, there is the opportunity to quietly observe up to 25 resident fallow deer. There are also two small adjacent nature reserves at the forest edge on the shores of Lough Neagh.
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The Round Tower is an impressive reminder of Antrimβs ancient monastic settlement. It was built around the 10th century as a bell-tower as part of the Early Christain monastery and is known locally as The Steeple. It is 28 metres tall and is one of the finest of its kind in Ireland. The monastic site was burned in 1147.
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Antrim Castle Gardens are an absolute historical gem. You will find nothing like these 400 year old gardens anywhere else in Northern Ireland. Walk into the past as you stroll around this magnificent setting, visiting beautiful features such as the Large Parterre, Her Ladyshipβs Pleasure Garden and Yew Tree Pond. Within the heart of the Gardens is a unique visitor experience, the refurbished Clotworthy House. Visit the Garden Heritage Exhibition where you can read about the history of the Gardens and the story of the Massereene family. It provides a fantastic opportunity to come and learn about garden history how the lives of the key family members intertwine with the development of Antrim town and the surrounding areas.
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Scenic section of walking along the shore of Lough Neagh from Antrim. The lough holds the title of the largest lake in Ireland and this footpath gifts you with some gorgeous vantage points to enjoy it from.
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Castle gardens including various buildings and ruins on the river. Plenty to look at and explore in the gardens.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Ballealy South?
The area around Ballealy South is rich in history. You can explore the 400-year-old Antrim Castle Gardens, which include the refurbished Clotworthy House and offer insights into garden history and the Massereene family. Another significant historical landmark is the Antrim Round Tower, an impressive 10th-century structure standing 28 meters tall, a reminder of Antrim's ancient monastic settlement.
Are there natural attractions or viewpoints near Ballealy South?
Yes, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the region. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim offers scenic walking sections and beautiful vantage points of Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles. Additionally, Randalstown Forest provides a 430-acre mixed conifer forest with nature reserves on the shores of Lough Neagh.
What outdoor activities, like hiking, are available near Ballealy South?
There are several opportunities for outdoor activities, particularly hiking. You can find various routes, including easy loops around Antrim Castle Gardens and the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim. For more options, explore the hiking guide for Ballealy South, which details routes like the moderate Randalstown Viaduct β Randalstown Forest loop.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Ballealy South area?
Many attractions around Ballealy South are suitable for families. Antrim Castle Gardens, Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim, and Antrim Round Tower are all listed as family-friendly. Randalstown Forest also offers walking routes and a deer park, which can be enjoyable for all ages.
Can I go cycling near Ballealy South attractions?
Yes, the region offers several cycling opportunities. You can find various routes ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the Antrim to Kells loop or longer rides like the Antrim to Slemish Mountain loop. For detailed cycling routes and their difficulties, refer to the cycling guide for Ballealy South.
What is Randalstown Forest and what can I do there?
Randalstown Forest is a 430-acre mixed conifer forest. It features an owl conservation center, a deer park where you can observe up to 25 resident fallow deer, and several walking routes. There are also small adjacent nature reserves on the shores of Lough Neagh, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
Is there any public art or unique monuments to see?
Yes, you can visit The Protector of the Lough, an eight-meter-tall sculpture by Spanish artist Casto Solan. Located at Antrim Marina on the shores of Lough Neagh, it depicts the mythological giant Finn McCool and celebrates local folklore. This monument is also wheelchair accessible.
What are the best places for a scenic walk around Ballealy South?
For scenic walks, consider the paths along the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim, which provide beautiful views of Ireland's largest lake. The extensive grounds of Antrim Castle Gardens also offer picturesque strolls through historical landscapes. Additionally, Randalstown Forest has various walking routes through woodlands and near nature reserves.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Ballealy South?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth of sites like the 400-year-old Antrim Castle Gardens and the impressive Antrim Round Tower. The scenic beauty and walking opportunities along the Lough Neagh Shore and within Randalstown Forest are also highly valued, offering a blend of culture and nature.
Are there running trails available in the Ballealy South area?
Yes, there are several running trails for various fitness levels. You can find routes around Antrim Castle Gardens and towards Randalstown. For a comprehensive list of options, including moderate and difficult trails, check the running trails guide for Ballealy South.
What is the significance of Lough Neagh in this region?
Lough Neagh is the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles and plays a significant role in the region's natural landscape and history. The area around Ballealy South, including the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim and Randalstown Forest, offers many opportunities to experience its beauty and explore its shores.
Is Ballealy South well-connected to other notable areas?
Ballealy South, being a townland in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is conveniently located near significant natural and historical areas. Its proximity to Lough Neagh and the historical Shane's Castle Estate (as indicated by the historical link of Ballealy Cottage) means it's well-situated for exploring a broader range of attractions in County Antrim.
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