Ballymoney, a small town in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is rich in history, culture, and access to some of the region’s most iconic natural attractions. Though often overshadowed by bigger names like Belfast or Derry, Ballymoney is a gateway to the Causeway Coast and offers an authentic Northern Irish experience.
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| Ballymoney Northern Ireland |
📍 Where Is Ballymoney?
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Region: County Antrim, Northern Ireland
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Population: ~10,000
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Closest City: Coleraine (~13 km), Belfast (~80 km)
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Transport: Served by Ballymoney railway station (on the Belfast–Derry line)
🌟 Why Visit Ballymoney?
🏞️ 1. Proximity to the Causeway Coast
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Only a short drive from world-famous sites like:
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Giant’s Causeway
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Dunluce Castle
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Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
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Bushmills Distillery
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🌳 2. The Dark Hedges
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A few miles southeast in Armoy, this beech tree-lined road was made famous by Game of Thrones.
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A must-visit for photographers and TV fans.
🏍️ 3. Motorcycle Racing Legacy
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Ballymoney is the hometown of the legendary Dunlop family, icons in motorcycle racing.
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Visit the Joey Dunlop Memorial Garden and Ballymoney Museum, which celebrates the local history of road racing.
🏛️ 4. Historical Sites
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Ballymoney Town Hall – a beautiful Victorian building housing a small museum and visitor center.
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Presbyterian and Church of Ireland graveyards – contain gravestones dating back centuries.
🍽️ Local Food & Drink
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Ballymoney has cozy cafés, pubs, and eateries offering both traditional Northern Irish fare and modern options.
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Nearby towns like Bushmills and Portrush offer great seafood and coastal dining.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
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Spring–Autumn (April–October): Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
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Summer is peak tourist season for the Causeway Coast, so booking ahead is recommended.
🚗 Getting Around
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By Car: Most flexible way to explore the Causeway Coast.
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By Train: Regular services connect Ballymoney to Belfast, Coleraine, and Derry.
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Bus Services: Ulsterbus runs routes to nearby towns and tourist sites.
Would you like a sample travel itinerary including Ballymoney and the surrounding Causeway Coast?