Attractions and Places To See around Ballynoe - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Ballynoe offer a diverse range of experiences, from historical sites to natural viewpoints. The area provides opportunities to explore ancient monuments and scenic landscapes. Visitors can discover a mix of cultural heritage and outdoor beauty.
Best attractions and places to see around Ballynoe
- The most popular attractions is Antrim Castle Gardens, a historical site that features 400-year-old gardens with various architectural features and a visitor experience in Clotworthy House. It provides insight…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Antrim Castle Gardens
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Walk into the past as you stroll …
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Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim
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View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road
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Antrim Round Tower
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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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The Round Tower is an impressive reminder of Antrim’s 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 Ladyship’s 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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A long climb followed by a nice fast descent. The summit of the climb on a clear day has views for miles across to Slemish Mountain and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Ballynoe?
The area offers rich historical experiences. You can visit Antrim Castle Gardens, a 400-year-old site with various architectural features and a visitor experience in Clotworthy House. Another significant historical landmark is the Antrim Round Tower, an impressive 10th-century monastic bell tower, locally known as The Steeple, standing 28 meters tall.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the Ballynoe area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Antrim Castle Gardens is a great option, offering extensive grounds to explore. The Antrim Round Tower is also considered family-friendly, providing a glimpse into ancient history. Additionally, the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim offers scenic walking paths that families can enjoy.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Ballynoe?
For breathtaking views, head to the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim, which provides gorgeous vantage points of Ireland's largest lake. Another excellent spot is the View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road, where on a clear day, you can see for miles across to Slemish Mountain and beyond from the summit of the climb.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Ballynoe offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy road cycling on routes like the 'Divis Mountain & Antrim Castle loop' or 'View of Lough Shore loop'. For runners, there are trails such as the 'Tardree Forest loop' or the 'Antrim Castle Gardens – The Protector of the Lough loop'. Hikers can explore easy routes like the 'Loughshore Trail - Antrim Loop' or 'Antrim Castle Gardens – Antrim Castle Ruins loop'. You can find more details on these activities on the respective guide pages for Road Cycling Routes around Ballynoe, Running Trails around Ballynoe, and Easy hikes around Ballynoe.
Are there any unique man-made monuments to see?
Yes, the area features the impressive The Protector of the Lough statue at Antrim Marina. This eight-metre-tall sculpture depicts the mythological giant Finn McCool guarding Lough Neagh, celebrating local folklore. The Antrim Round Tower is also a significant man-made monument from the 10th century.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Ballynoe?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth and scenic beauty. The 400-year-old Antrim Castle Gardens are praised as an 'absolute historical gem' for their magnificent setting and insight into garden history. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim is loved for its 'gorgeous vantage points' of Ireland's largest lake.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions?
Yes, The Protector of the Lough statue at Antrim Marina is noted as being wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy this unique monument and its surroundings.
Can I find places with water views or features?
Absolutely. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim offers extensive views and walking opportunities along the shore of Ireland's largest lake. Antrim Castle Gardens also features river elements within its historical landscape.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see?
The region offers a mix of natural beauty, primarily centered around Lough Neagh, Ireland's largest lake. You can experience expansive water views along the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim and distant mountain vistas from the View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road.
Are there any challenging climbs or routes for experienced hikers/cyclists?
For those seeking a challenge, the View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road involves a 'long climb' that rewards with extensive views. In terms of cycling, the 'Divis Mountain & Antrim Castle loop' is rated as moderate, and for running, the 'Antrim Castle Gardens – The Protector of the Lough loop' is considered difficult, offering more strenuous options.
What is the significance of Antrim Castle Gardens?
Antrim Castle Gardens are a 400-year-old historical gem, offering a unique insight into garden history and the story of the Massereene family. Visitors can explore beautiful features like the Large Parterre, Her Ladyship’s Pleasure Garden, and Yew Tree Pond, with a visitor experience housed in the refurbished Clotworthy House.
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