Attractions and Places To See around Owensland - Top 4
Attractions and places to see around Owensland include a mix of natural landscapes and historical sites. The region features open moorland, dense forests, and significant viewpoints offering expansive vistas. Owensland is also home to an ancient monastic settlement, providing insight into its cultural past. These diverse features make it a destination for both outdoor exploration and historical interest.
Best attractions and places to see around Owensland
- The most popular attractions is View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road, a…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Killylane Reservoir
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Ballyboley Forest
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View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road
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Antrim Round Tower
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View of Slemish Mountain
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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 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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Ballyboley Forest provides a picturesque setting for an enjoyable jog. The forest features a whopping 70 different types of native tree species which tower high above the forest floor.
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Killylane Reservoir is a pristine reservoir situated on open moorland near Ballyboley Forest. It's a real hidden treasure and a perfect spot for a run. You can laze along the lush green banks overlooking the water to stretch and unwind post-jog.
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Killylane Reservoir is a pristine reservoir situated on open moorland near Ballyboley Forest. It's a real hidden treasure, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic on the lush green banks.
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Ballyboley Forest provides a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll through the southern end of the Antrim Coast & Glens Area of Natural Beauty. The forest features a whopping 70 different types of native tree species which tower high above the forest floor.
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Slemish, historically called Slieve Mish (from Irish: Sliabh Mis, meaning 'Mis's mountain') is a small mountain in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. It lies a few miles east of Ballymena, in the townland of Carnstroan. Tradition holds that Saint Patrick, enslaved as a youth, was brought to this area and tended sheep herds on Slemish, and that during this time he found God. Slemish is the remains of the plug of an extinct volcano. The plug is made of olivine dolerite and was formed during the Palaeogene period of the Earth's geological history. Its distinctive appearance —its upper reaches are very steep and rugged, in contrast to the tidy fields on its lower westward-facing slopes and the relatively flat bogland to the east— causes it to dominate the landscape for miles around. Slemish is within an Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) and, therefore, helps to protect and manage the fragile animal and plant communities that inhabit its slopes. An ideal location for bird watchers, large black ravens, buzzards, wheatears and meadow pipits can be seen regularly.
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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 kind of natural attractions can I explore around Owensland?
Owensland offers a variety of natural landscapes. You can visit Killylane Reservoir, a pristine lake on open moorland perfect for strolls or picnics. Another great spot is Ballyboley Forest, known for its 70 different native tree species and picturesque walking trails. For expansive views, head to the View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road, which offers vistas for miles on a clear day.
Are there any historical sites to visit in the Owensland area?
Yes, Owensland is home to the impressive Antrim Round Tower. This 28-meter tall structure, known locally as The Steeple, is an ancient monastic settlement built around the 10th century and is one of Ireland's finest examples of its kind.
What outdoor activities are available near Owensland's attractions?
The area around Owensland is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, road cycling, and running. For detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Owensland, Road Cycling Routes around Owensland, and Running Trails around Owensland guides.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Owensland?
Absolutely. Both Killylane Reservoir and Ballyboley Forest are considered family-friendly, offering pleasant settings for leisurely strolls and picnics. The Antrim Round Tower is also suitable for families interested in history.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Owensland?
Visitors particularly appreciate the serene beauty of places like Killylane Reservoir for its peaceful setting and the extensive views from the View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road. The diverse native tree species in Ballyboley Forest also receive positive feedback for creating a picturesque walking environment.
What kind of hiking trails can I find near Owensland's attractions?
You'll find a variety of hiking trails, including moderate loops around Killylane Reservoir and through Ballyboley Forest. These trails offer distances ranging from approximately 7 km to 11 km. For more options, check the Hiking around Owensland guide.
Are there opportunities for road cycling around Owensland?
Yes, there are several road cycling routes available. These range from moderate to difficult and cover distances between 33 km and 69 km, often passing by local landmarks. You can find detailed routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Owensland guide.
When is the best time to visit Owensland's attractions?
Given the focus on natural landscapes and outdoor activities, the spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring Owensland. Clear days are ideal for enjoying the expansive views from viewpoints like the View of Slemish Mountain from Colin Road.
How long should I plan to spend at Owensland's attractions?
The time you spend can vary. For a leisurely stroll around Killylane Reservoir or a walk through Ballyboley Forest, plan for 1-3 hours. Visiting the Antrim Round Tower might take less than an hour. If you plan to combine multiple sites or undertake a longer hike or cycle, a full day or more would be beneficial.
Are there any less-known or 'hidden gem' attractions in Owensland?
While not widely publicized, Killylane Reservoir is often described by visitors as a 'hidden treasure' due to its pristine setting on open moorland, offering a peaceful escape away from more crowded spots.
What running trails are available in the Owensland area?
Owensland offers a selection of running trails, ranging from easy to difficult, with distances from approximately 4.8 km to 17.3 km. These routes provide varied terrain for different fitness levels. You can find more details in the Running Trails around Owensland guide.
Most popular routes around Owensland
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