Attractions and Places To See in Ballymoney - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see in Ballymoney include a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural points of interest in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The town serves as a base for exploring the rich heritage and landscapes of the Causeway Coast and Glens area. Ballymoney and its surroundings feature ancient landscapes, architectural heritage, and significant historical monuments. The region offers diverse destinations for visitors.
Best attractions and places to see in Ballymoney
- The most popular attractions is The Dark Hedges, a natural monument featuring an avenue of over 300-year-old beech trees. This iconic site is one of Northern Ireland's most photographed natural phenomena and gained fame as a filming location.
- Another must-see spot is Gracehill House, a historical site built in 1775. This stately home is associated with the planting of the original beech trees that form the Dark Hedges.
- Visitors also love Dooey's Cairn Neolithic Court Tomb, an archaeological site dating from approximately 4000 to 2000 BC. It is considered the best-preserved court tomb in the Causeway Coast area, featuring a horseshoe-shaped forecourt and a unique cremation passage.
- Ballymoney is known for its historical sites, natural features, and cultural points of interest. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient monuments to significant architectural heritage.
- The attractions in Ballymoney are appreciated by the komoot community, with 27 upvotes and 60 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 22, 2026
The Dark Hedges
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Gracehill House
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Game of Thrones Door at Gracehill House
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Dooey's Cairn Neolithic Court Tomb
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There is a cremation passage behind the chamber containing three pits, one of these pits held the remains of several people.
This form of cremation passage is the only one of its type found in Ireland.
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Slieve na mBan American Airmen Memorial
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Tips from the Community
Memorial stone and plaque in memory of fallen US soldiers and a Royal Air Force aircraft crash in which 10 people died
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Absolutely overrated. Many trees have been broken or cut down. Completely overcrowded during normal daytime. You really don't have to go there...only if it's on your way.
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This is the best preserved court tomb in the Causeway Coast area. A Neolithic tomb dating from c.4000 to 2000 BC. It was excavated twice, in 1935 and 1975. It consists of a horse shoe shaped forecourt that leads into a small chamber. There is a cremation passage behind the chamber containing three pits, one of these pits held the remains of several people. This form of cremation passage is the only one of its type found in Ireland.
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The door is inside the hotel. If you politely ask for it, you'll even get a "passport" with all of the Game of Thrones doors.
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A stately home not far from the Dark Hedges.
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It is a street popularly known as Dark Hedges. It is only a few hundred meters long and a tree worth seeing. The road is north east of Ballymoney. There is a small parking lot at the end of the street. From there you can βhikeβ the avenue in peace and quiet on foot. The street was a filming location for a scene in the hit fantasy series Games of Thrones.
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Not only GoT fans will find a nice photo motif here. At the end of the path, the tourists are fewer.
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YouTube (Drone Video, RODPIKER DRONES UK, 2022-10-08): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGPxGuAn7NE TheIrishRoadTrip ("Game of Thrones Ireland: 16 Filming Locations From The Showβ, 2022-10-08): https://www.theirishroadtrip.com/game-of-thrones-filming-locations-northern-ireland/ ββ¦ The Dark Hedges are arguably the Game of Thrones Ireland location that receives the most attention online. The trees here were planted in 1775 by James Stuart to make the approach to his Georgian estate more impressive. The Dark Hedges were used Season 2, episode 1: On the Kingβ s Road to depict, unsurprisingly enough, the Kingβs Road. The scene that they feature in shows Arya Stark escaping from the Kingβs Landing and travelling with the Nightβs Watch, dressed as a boy. β¦β #GoT #Kingsroad #Westeros
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Ballymoney?
Ballymoney and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit Dooey's Cairn Neolithic Court Tomb, considered the best-preserved court tomb in the Causeway Coast area, dating from approximately 4000 to 2000 BC. Other historical points include Gracehill House, built in 1775, and the Slieve na mBan American Airmen Memorial. The area also features Craigs Dolmen and Broad Stone, Ballymoney Town Hall, and the Ballymoney Museum.
Are there any natural attractions or walking trails near Ballymoney?
Yes, Ballymoney offers several natural features and walking opportunities. The Bogs of Ballymoney, including Garry Bog, Slieveanorra, and Croaghan, are internationally important peatlands with unique habitats and publicly accessible walking trails. You can also enjoy leisurely strolls along the Ballymoney River, explore Tirghra Park, or venture to Roughfort Forest and Ballybogey Wood for quiet woodland walks. The Antrim Coast Road, a short drive away, provides breathtaking scenic views.
What family-friendly activities are available in Ballymoney?
For families, Dooey's Cairn Neolithic Court Tomb is a family-friendly archaeological site. Tirghra Park in Ballymoney offers open green spaces and playgrounds. Many of the natural walking areas like the Ballymoney River paths or the Bogs of Ballymoney are suitable for family outings. The iconic The Dark Hedges is also a popular spot for all ages, though it can get crowded.
Are there any attractions related to 'Game of Thrones' in the area?
Absolutely. The famous The Dark Hedges gained international fame as a filming location for the 'King's Road' in 'Game of Thrones'. Additionally, Gracehill House features one of the 'Game of Thrones Doors', a specific point of interest for fans.
What cycling routes are available around Ballymoney?
Ballymoney is a great base for cycling. You can find various routes, including touring options like the 'Whiterocks Beach and Dunluce Castle loop from Ballymoney' or the 'Ballymoney to Dooey's Cairn loop'. For road cycling, there are routes such as the 'Ballycastle loop from Ballymoney β Causeway Coast' and the 'Joey's Bar loop from Ballymoney'. You can explore more options on the Cycling in Ballymoney guide and the Road Cycling Routes in Ballymoney guide.
Are there any dog-friendly attractions or walks?
Yes, Dooey's Cairn Neolithic Court Tomb is noted as dog-friendly. Many of the natural walking areas, such as the paths along the Ballymoney River, Tirghra Park, Roughfort Forest, and Ballybogey Wood, are generally suitable for dog walks, but always check local signage for specific restrictions.
What are some lesser-known historical or cultural gems in Ballymoney?
Beyond the main highlights, Ballymoney holds several hidden gems. The Joey Dunlop Memorial Garden commemorates a local motorcycling legend. The Old Market Place, dating back to the 18th century, was once a central trading hub and now hosts seasonal events. The wider area also features numerous Megalithic Tombs, Ringforts, Motte and Baileys, and Early Christian Sites like Drumaqueran, which houses the Chi Rho Stone.
What is the best time of year to visit Ballymoney attractions?
The best time to visit Ballymoney attractions generally depends on your preferences. Spring and summer (April to September) offer milder weather, ideal for exploring natural sites and walking trails. However, iconic spots like The Dark Hedges can get crowded during normal daytime hours in peak season. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, especially around the beech trees. Winter can be atmospheric but may have colder, wetter conditions.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in Ballymoney?
The Game of Thrones Door at Gracehill House is noted as wheelchair accessible. For other attractions, it's advisable to check specific accessibility details beforehand, as historical sites and natural trails may have varying terrain.
What are the options for running trails in Ballymoney?
Runners can find several trails around Ballymoney. Options include the 'Joey's Bar loop from Ballymoney', which is a moderate run, or the 'Running loop from Cloughmills' for an easier option. You can discover more running routes and their difficulties by checking the Running Trails in Ballymoney guide.
What are some notable natural features in the Ballymoney area?
The Ballymoney area is known for its significant natural features. The Bogs of Ballymoney, including Garry Bog, Slieveanorra, and Croaghan, are ancient peatlands up to 10,000 years old, providing unique habitats. The Ballymoney River offers peaceful walking paths, and the nearby Antrim Coast Road boasts breathtaking views of the sea and cliffs.
What is the significance of Gracehill House?
Gracehill House, built in 1775, is a historic stately home. It is particularly significant as it is associated with the planting of the original 150 beech trees that eventually formed The Dark Hedges. It also features one of the popular 'Game of Thrones Doors'.
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