Attractions and Places To See around Balloo - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Balloo include natural woodlands and historical sites. Located in Northern Ireland, Balloo is known for its natural beauty, such as Balloo Woodland, a remnant of historic gardens featuring mature trees and a wildflower meadow. The area offers a mix of natural landscapes and cultural landmarks. There are 3 notable attractions to explore in and around Balloo.
Best attractions and places to see around Balloo
- The most popular attractions is Antrim Castle Gardens,…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Antrim Castle Gardens
Highlight • Historical Site
Walk into the past as you stroll …
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Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim
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Antrim Round Tower
Highlight • Historical Site
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Randalstown Forest
Highlight • Natural
Within the deer enclosure, there is the opportunity to quietly observe up …
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The Protector of the Lough
Highlight • Monument
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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 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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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Balloo?
Balloo is close to several natural attractions. You can visit Balloo Woodland, a remnant of historic gardens featuring mature trees, a small pond, and a wildflower meadow. Additionally, the Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim offers scenic walking paths along Ireland's largest lake, providing beautiful vantage points.
Are there historical sites to visit near Balloo?
Yes, the area boasts significant historical sites. Explore Antrim Castle Gardens, a 400-year-old estate with features like the Large Parterre and Clotworthy House, which hosts an exhibition on the gardens' history. Another notable site is the Antrim Round Tower, a 28-meter-tall bell tower from the 10th century, marking an ancient monastic settlement.
What family-friendly activities are available around Balloo?
Many attractions cater to families. Antrim Castle Gardens offers extensive grounds to explore. The Lough Neagh Shore near Antrim provides easy walking for all ages. Antrim Round Tower is an interesting historical landmark for children to discover. Also, Randalstown Forest features walking routes, a deer park, and an owl conservation center, making it a great day out for families.
Are there walking or hiking trails near these attractions?
Absolutely. You can find various walking and hiking routes nearby. For example, the Loughshore Trail offers an easy 7 km loop from Antrim. Other options include the 5.5 km Antrim Castle Gardens loop or a moderate 9.5 km loop from Antrim Castle Ruins to Lough Neagh Shore. You can find more details and routes in the Hiking around Balloo guide.
What cycling routes are available around Balloo?
Cyclists have several options, ranging from moderate to difficult. A moderate 37 km loop goes from Antrim to Kells, while more challenging routes include a 70 km loop from Antrim to Lisburn or a 54 km ride to Slemish Mountain. For more detailed information and routes, check the Cycling around Balloo guide.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions or trails?
Yes, Balloo Woodland offers a network of paths suitable for wheelchair users, allowing everyone to enjoy its natural beauty. Additionally, The Protector of the Lough statue at Antrim Marina is also wheelchair accessible.
What is the best time of year to visit Balloo?
The best time to visit Balloo and its surrounding attractions is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September). This period offers milder weather, ideal for exploring the gardens, woodlands, and lake shores, and enjoying outdoor activities.
Are there any unique landmarks or monuments to see?
Beyond the historical sites, you can see The Protector of the Lough, an eight-meter-tall statue of the mythological giant Finn McCool. Located at Antrim Marina, it celebrates local folklore and stands guard on the shores of Lough Neagh.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Balloo?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth of places like Antrim Castle Gardens, with its 400-year history and beautiful features. The scenic views and peaceful walking opportunities along the Lough Neagh Shore are also highly praised. The impressive Antrim Round Tower is often highlighted for its historical significance and striking presence.
Are there dog-friendly options for walks around Balloo?
Many outdoor areas around Balloo are suitable for walks with dogs, provided they are kept under control. Balloo Woodland offers paths for exploration. Additionally, Randalstown Forest has various walking routes where dogs are generally welcome, though specific restrictions might apply in certain areas like the deer park.
Where can I find cafes or pubs near the attractions?
While specific establishments aren't listed in the attraction details, the town of Antrim, which hosts several of the key attractions like Antrim Castle Gardens and the Round Tower, offers various cafes, pubs, and restaurants for visitors to enjoy before or after their explorations.
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