Attractions and Places To See around Ballykeel - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Ballykeel include a variety of natural features, cultural sites, and historical landmarks in the broader Ballymena region. While Ballykeel is primarily residential, it serves as a starting point for exploring destinations like Gracehill Moravian Village, a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage site, and Arthur Cottage, the ancestral home of a US President. The area also offers natural attractions such as Slemish Mountain, an extinct volcano, and ECOS Nature Park with its extensive walking paths.…
Last updated: June 18, 2026
Slieve Gullion Summit
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North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough
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Giant's Lair
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The Witch Sculpture
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Camlough Lake
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Camlough Lake is picturesquely nestled between the rolling hills of Slieve Gullion and the Ring of Gullion. Cycling along the narrow roads on the shore, you immediately feel the tranquility that emanates from the long stretch of water. The lake stretches for more than two kilometers and seems like a narrow, silent crack in the landscape - a peaceful place to take a short break or let your gaze wander over the water. I decided to take a little detour and cycled a little closer to the shore on a path. The water was almost still and reflected the range of hills that rise in the background. It may be a paradise for fishermen, but cyclists also enjoy the special atmosphere. The roads around the lake are not very busy and you can cycle in a relaxed manner without having to constantly pay attention to the traffic. One small criticism: some of the access roads are not well signposted, but if you look around a bit, you'll surely find a good place to get to the shore and enjoy the scenery.
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In the middle of the forest, you suddenly find yourself standing in front of a bizarre stone creature - the "witch". She looks as if she has just risen from the mossy ground, with a mischievous smile and deep, expressive wrinkles on her face. This artfully designed stone is one of those unexpected encounters that transform the forest into a small adventure land. When you explore this magical place surrounded by old trees and whispering leaves, it almost seems as if the witch is greeting you with a wink. Here you can linger for a moment, enjoy the silence and let your imagination run wild - who knows what stories this forest still has to tell?
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On the way through the Giant's Lair you will be immersed in Irish legends. As soon as you pass under the artistically carved archway, a magical world opens up in which the story of Finn McCool comes to life. The path leads you and the whole family through four chapters that bring the world of legend to life with lovingly designed stations. For the little ones it is an exciting treasure hunt - at every bend there are new clues waiting for them, which they eagerly discover. While they run ahead to find the next adventure, there is enough time for you to enjoy the lush nature. The dense trees, the mosses and the ancient carvings make you forget everyday life. You are in the middle of a story that unfolds further with every step.
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As soon as you cross the gentle ridge of Slieve Gullion, the North Cairn stretches out before you - a slightly smaller hill than its southern neighbour, but no less impressive. The stones that gather here seem like silent sentinels, witnesses of the distant Bronze Age. Two ancient stone boxes were once found here during excavations, which lay hidden in the depths of history. The North Cairn, with its diameter of around 18 metres, invites you to pause for a moment and enjoy the peace. But it is not just the Cairn that is fascinating. Right next to it lies "Calliagh Beara's Lough", a quiet mountain lake that, according to legend, is the home of the witch Beara. On a clear day, the sky is reflected in the calm waters and you can almost feel the ancient magic of this place coming to life. The road here may be rocky, but the landscape rewards with sweeping views and a touch of mysticism that makes Slieve Gullion something special.
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This small forest at the foot of Slieve Gullion seems to be straight out of a fairy tale. Running through it will leave you enchanted, and you'll come across curious sculptures like this giant witch's face.
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At the heart of the Ring of Gullion AONB, you'll find this beautiful mountain, which represents the highest point in the county with an elevation of 573 meters (1,880 ft). Right next to it there is a burial cairn.
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One of the many surprises you'll encounter in this enchanting and artistic forest.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Ballykeel?
The area around Ballykeel offers several impressive natural features. You can hike up Slieve Gullion Summit, an extinct volcano with panoramic views and the highest Passage Tomb in the British Isles. Another highlight is Camlough Lake, a tranquil body of water nestled between hills, perfect for a peaceful visit. Further afield, you can visit Slemish Mountain, also an extinct volcano with legendary ties to Saint Patrick, or explore the 220-acre ECOS Nature Park with its extensive walking and cycling paths, woodlands, and wetlands.
Are there historical or cultural sites to visit near Ballykeel?
Yes, the region boasts significant historical and cultural sites. Don't miss Gracehill Moravian Village, Northern Ireland's first Conservation Area and a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage site, offering a glimpse into 18th-century life. You can also visit Arthur Cottage in Cullybackey, the ancestral home of US President Chester Alan Arthur, providing insight into traditional Irish life. For ancient history, the Slieve Gullion Summit features an ancient Passage Tomb, and the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion holds Bronze Age artifacts.
What family-friendly activities are available around Ballykeel?
Families will enjoy the interactive Giant's Lair, a magical trail that brings the story of Finn McCool to life with sculptures and clues. Nearby, you can also discover The Witch Sculpture within an enchanting forest, adding to the fairy-tale atmosphere. The People's Park in Ballymena offers a children's playground and sports facilities, while the Galgorm Castle Fairy Trail provides another outdoor adventure for children.
What are the best hiking trails near Ballykeel?
For hiking enthusiasts, the area around Ballykeel offers a variety of trails. You can explore routes like the 'Slieve Gullion loop — Ring of Gullion' or the 'Slieve Gullion Summit – Calliagh Beara Lough loop from Meigh', both offering moderate challenges and stunning views. For an easier family-friendly option, the 'Giant's Lair Trail' is highly recommended. You can find more details and routes in our dedicated guide to Hiking around Ballykeel.
Are there easy walks or accessible trails around Ballykeel?
Yes, there are several easy walks suitable for various fitness levels. The 'Giant's Lair Trail' is an easy and engaging option for families. ECOS Nature Park offers over 8km of walking and cycling paths through woodlands and wetlands, providing a tranquil and generally flat environment. Victoria Park Lake also features two walking trails. For more easy hiking options, check out our guide to Easy hikes around Ballykeel.
What cycling routes are available near Ballykeel?
Cyclists can enjoy scenic routes around Ballykeel. Popular options include the 'Camlough Lake loop from Camlough', which offers picturesque views of the tranquil lake, and the 'Giant's Lair – View of Slieve Gullion loop from Meigh'. These routes vary in difficulty from moderate to difficult, providing options for different experience levels. Discover more routes in our guide to Cycling around Ballykeel.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Ballykeel?
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning panoramic views from Slieve Gullion Summit and the mystical atmosphere around the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough. The interactive storytelling and sculptures at Giant's Lair are a big hit with families, making hikes engaging for children. The tranquility of Camlough Lake is also frequently mentioned as a highlight for peaceful moments and scenic cycling.
Are there any parks or green spaces in Ballymena itself?
Yes, Ballymena offers several green spaces. The People's Park in Ballymena provides sports facilities, a children's playground, and a man-made lake. ECOS Nature Park, on the outskirts of Ballymena, is a 220-acre haven with extensive walking and cycling paths through woodlands, wetlands, and meadows. Victoria Park Lake, described as being 'around Ballykeel,' is open 24 hours and features a lake, walking trails, and playing fields.
Can I find information about the history of Ballymena town?
Yes, to delve into the history of Ballymena town, you can visit Morrow's Shop Museum, which features items depicting the town's past. Additionally, the Ballymena Town Hall, dating back to 1924, is among the historical buildings in the town center that reflect its heritage.
What are some unique cultural aspects of the Ballykeel area?
While Ballykeel is primarily residential, it has a strong local identity. The area is known for its local marching band, 'Ballykeel Loyal Sons of Ulster,' and observes traditional bonfires on the night before the 12th of July, reflecting local cultural practices and community spirit.
Is Ballykeel a good base for exploring wider Northern Ireland attractions?
Yes, Ballykeel, being within the broader Ballymena area, serves as a convenient base for day trips to other significant Northern Irish tourist destinations. While attractions like Titanic Belfast, the Giant's Causeway, and Hillsborough Castle and Gardens are further afield, Ballymena's central location makes them accessible for a day's excursion along the Antrim Coast and beyond.
Where can I find more information about ECOS Nature Park?
For more detailed information about ECOS Nature Park, including facilities and events, you can visit the official Mid and East Antrim Borough Council website: midandeastantrim.gov.uk.
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