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Top reasons to visit Ballymena

• Scenic Outdoor Adventures: Ballymena is surrounded by stunning landscapes, perfect for hiking and exploring the great outdoors.
• Charming Galgorm: Experience the vibrant live music scene and relax in this picturesque area.
• Historic Attractions: Visit ancient castles and local libraries that reflect Ballymena’s rich history.
• Welcoming Accommodation: Choose from boutique hotels and B&Bs, including the luxurious Tullyglass House Hotel.
• Friendly Local Culture: Enjoy the warm hospitality and vibrant cafes that make Ballymena a delightful destination.

Where to stay in Ballymena

Ballymena offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, perfect for a refreshing getaway. With its friendly locals and vibrant cafes, you'll find an idyllic escape just a stone's throw from historical attractions. Explore elegant wedding venues and enjoy excursions in the surrounding countryside, where sunny weather enhances your adventure. Whether you seek relaxation or excitement, Ballymena is a premier destination that captures the essence of Northern Ireland's charm.

• Galgorm: Nestled in the Ballymena area, Galgorm is a charming village perfect for those seeking an outdoor and eco-friendly getaway. The village sees a steady influx of travellers year-round, with peak visits happening during the summer months from July to September. Galgorm is famous for its recreational areas and lush golf courses. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby parks and mountains, which offer stunning scenery and trails to explore. Whether you're playing a round of golf or enjoying a family day out in nature, Galgorm promises a delightful experience.
• Glenariff: Known for its breathtaking landscapes, Glenariff is another picturesque village in the Ballymena vicinity. This area enjoys a moderate flow of visitors, with the highest numbers occurring in March to April and October to November. Travellers flock to Glenariff for its adventurous spirit, with activities centred around eco-friendly exploration. The village is in close proximity to a national park and nature reserves, making it an ideal base for hiking and outdoor activities. With its beautiful parks and recreational spaces, Glenariff is a nature lover's paradise.
• Cushendall: Located within easy reach of Ballymena, Cushendall is a delightful village that attracts visitors seeking adventure and stunning scenery. The peak travel times for Cushendall are typically from June to August, making it a vibrant summer destination. Outdoor activities abound, with golf courses and recreational areas readily accessible. Visitors can explore nearby national parks and nature reserves, offering a rich variety of flora and fauna. Cushendall's picturesque setting and outdoor charm ensure a memorable visit for all who come.

Things to do in Ballymena

Shopping

Ballymena offers a charming shopping experience with The Fairhill Shopping Centre, featuring a mix of high street brands and local shops. For a wider selection, if you're up for a drive, visit the Abbey Centre in Newtownabbey, about 20.9km away, with a range of retail options and dining choices.

Recreation

At the Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort, unwind in luxurious thermal facilities and indulge in rejuvenating treatments inspired by nature. Explore the scenic River Maine where tranquil walks and picnics await, or enjoy a round of golf surrounded by lush landscapes, enhancing your overall wellness experience.

Adventure

Explore the stunning landscapes of the Antrim Coast on a hiking adventure, where you can discover breathtaking cliffs and coastal views. For thrill-seekers, try out the exhilarating zip line at the nearby Adventure Park, offering an adrenaline rush in a scenic setting.

Nightlife

Ballymena offers a vibrant nightlife with venues like The Braid, where you can enjoy live music and events, and the vibrant pubs around the town centre, perfect for socialising over local brews. The atmosphere is lively, making it an enjoyable spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ballymena

For a budget-friendly trip to Ballymena, consider visiting between December and February for lower accommodation rates. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can help secure better prices, especially on Mondays. Explore last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia, and use filters to find eco-friendly hotels and sort options by price. Additionally, bundling your hotel with flights and activities can lead to significant savings. Don't forget to check out free local attractions to maximise your experience without overspending.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Ballymena are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Ballymena about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Ballymena is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Ballymena is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise the search wizard on Expedia to narrow down your options based on your budget, preferred location, and ideal type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and special offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by packaging your Ballymena hotel with your flights and activities through an Expedia deal.

Find the best attractions in Ballymena

Ballymena offers a fantastic getaway for those keen on outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. With an array of attractions, including historic castles, inviting parks, and local libraries, there’s plenty to explore. Whether you're after family-friendly activities or a taste of local culture, Ballymena’s diverse points of interest cater to all types of travellers seeking a memorable experience in Northern Ireland.

• Glenarm Castle: Nestled in the picturesque countryside, Glenarm Castle exudes a romantic charm with its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore the rich history of the estate and enjoy the surrounding landscapes, making it a lovely spot for leisurely walks.
• Cushendun Beach: This serene beach boasts golden sands and dramatic coastal views, ideal for relaxation or a brisk stroll. The soothing sound of the waves and the fresh sea breeze create a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for unwinding amidst nature.
• Ossian's Grave: A site steeped in legend, Ossian's Grave offers a glimpse into local folklore. The tranquil setting, surrounded by lush greenery, provides a reflective space to appreciate the cultural heritage of the area.

Best time to go to Ballymena

The best time to visit Ballymena is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	39.9°F (4.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
May	50.4°F (10.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
June	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	57.6°F (14.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
October	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
December	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Ballymena

Getting to Ballymena from the major airports is quite accessible. GLAsgow International Airport (GLA) is 160.9km away, with excellent hotels nearby such as the 5-star JA Mar Hall Scotland, located 6.4km from the airport, providing convenient transport options. Closer to Ballymena, George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD) is 38.6km away, with luxurious accommodations like The Fitzwilliam Hotel, 4.8km from the airport, and The Merchant Hotel, which is 3.2km away. Additionally, Belfast International Airport (BFS) is 22.5km away, offering options like Doubletree by Hilton Belfast Templepatrick, 9.7km away, and Dunadry Hotel and Gardens, just 6.4km from the airport.