Situated by the picturesque River Moy in County Mayo, Ballina is a fantastic destination to discover.
This town enchants visitors with its blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or simply in search of a serene retreat, Ballina has something to offer everyone.
Join me as we explore the top ten attractions and activities that make Ballina a must-see destination!
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Belleek Castle
Belleek Castle is a wonderful find in Ireland. You can discover it in Belleek Woods, not far from Ballina, Co. Mayo. It only costs €10 for adults to tour the castle.
This old Belleek Castle was built in 1831. Sir Arthur Francis Knox-Gore asked architect John Benjamin Keanes to design it, and it cost £10,000 back then!
The Knox-Gore family lived there until 1942. In the 1950s, Mayo County Council bought it. Interestingly, it was then turned into a place for women with tuberculosis.
Later on, Marshall Doran, a Merchant Navy officer, bought it. He traveled the world and collected fossils, armor, and other things. These are now displayed in the museum.
Around 1970, Marshall fixed up the castle and made it a hotel. You can see his work on the tour. There are many things related to sailing and ships. Even the bar looks like a ship! There are other rooms too, like the Medieval Banquet Hall, the Spanish Armada Bar, and the Marshall Doran Collection with medieval armor.
There’s also a nice dining area. You can have afternoon tea there and check out the rest of the menu on their website.
This amazing place is open every day of the week.
Connacht Whiskey Company
If you’re stuck indoors on a rainy day in Ballina and don’t know what to do, then visiting the Connacht Whiskey Company might be a great idea!
While Ireland is famous for its pubs, in Ballina, you can learn about your drinks at the Connacht Whiskey Company!
During the tour, you can try samples of some of the best whiskeys from the area.
This place sits by the River Moy. It’s a small, privately owned Irish whiskey distillery that offers guided tours, tastings, and has a nice gift shop. Tours are available at 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM.
Belleek Woods
If you’re a nature lover, Ballina has something special for you! It’s the famous Belleek Woods, Europe’s biggest city forest! Covering over 1,000 acres, this magical forest has twisting trails, old ruins, and peaceful walks by the river.
The trails are mainly for hiking, walking, running, and enjoying nature. The Knox Gore family planted over two million trees here in the 19th century, mostly Oak, Beech, Ash, Sycamore, Chestnut, Lime, Willow, and Yew. There are several paths that lead you through beautiful Irish forests.
As you wander, you’ll spot lots of local wildlife and flowers like Iris, Foxglove, and Primroses. You might even stumble upon some historical sites, like the Horse’s Grave monument.
People often call this forest a paradise for kids! It’s a perfect spot for a family day out, with countless trees to climb, ducks to feed, trails to follow, and even rare red squirrels to catch a glimpse of. It’s like being in Hogwarts for your little ones—they can run up and down the hills, bike along the river, and explore through the trees.
Another charming spot in Belleek Woods is the Fairy Trail. You’ll find tiny fairy houses hidden high up in the trees and tucked into tree roots. Each little house is colorful and unique, just like its tiny resident!
This clean and peaceful place, with the sounds of wildlife all around, is perfect for clearing your mind and relaxing.
Jackie Clarke Collection
If you’re into history, visiting the Jackie Clarke Collection is a must! This amazing museum has a huge collection of items and documents from Ireland’s fight for independence. From old manuscripts to famous memorabilia, you’ll learn a lot about the country’s past.
You’ll also see rare books, newspapers, autographs, letters, posters, photos, and much more. Some of the stuff here belonged to famous Irish figures like Michael Collins, O’Donovan Rossa, and Wolfe Tone.
There are over 100,000 items here, covering 400 years of history!
The museum itself is a lovely red brick Victorian building from the 19th century. It’s right on Pearse Street in Ballina, by the River Moy. And don’t miss the beautiful heritage garden!
This museum is a great place to visit, especially on a rainy day!
Downpatrick Head in Ballycastle
Another fantastic spot to explore near Ballina is Downpatrick Head in Ballycastle. During the castle tour, you’ll come across an impressive collection of Jurassic fossils. And if you’re fascinated by medieval times, the Marshall Doran collection at Belleek Castle is a treasure trove of medieval weapons and armor from Ireland. Just imagine standing in front of these rare and valuable artifacts!
But that’s not all. You’ll also get to see Grace O’Malley “The Pirate Queen’s” bed, the last wolf shot in Connaught, and other interesting items. Plus, there’s a holy well, a stone cross, and a small building that used to be a lookout post during WW2. It’s a fantastic experience for everyone, no matter their age!
And when you’re at Downpatrick Head, you’ll be treated to breathtaking coastal views. The dramatic sea cliffs, towering sea stacks, and natural arches sculpted by the powerful Atlantic Ocean are truly a sight to behold.
Ballina Arts Centre
Besides its historical sites, Ballina is also renowned for its arts and culture scene. Here, you can immerse yourself in a beautiful array of exhibitions, theater shows, concerts, and films.
The Ballina Arts Centre is the heart of this cultural hub, offering a diverse range of events for all ages. From traditional showcases to interactive experiences in music, dance, and visual arts, there’s something for everyone. Over the years, they’ve hosted numerous international and local celebrities, making it a vibrant cultural destination.
What’s really special about the centre is its strong support for local and national independent artists. Plus, its multipurpose building offers stunning views of the River Moy, adding to the overall experience. You can find out more on their website!
North Mayo Heritage Centre
The North Mayo Heritage Centre is all about preserving the rich heritage of this region. What’s great is that since 2019, it’s been honored with the An Taise Green Flag.
You’ll find this center within the Enniscoe House, about 2 miles from Crossmolina in Mayo.
They offer genealogical research for the North Mayo Diaspora, with access to over 1.2 million records. Throughout the year, they host cultural programs, events, workshops, and exhibitions.
Inside, there are several small museums showcasing artifacts from North Mayo. And don’t miss the Victorian Organic Garden—it’s one of the oldest in the country.
And let’s not forget about the Enniscoe house itself. It’s one of the most beautiful Georgian mansions in the area, offering stunning views of Lough Conn. They have looped walks open all year round, and if you need a space for a gathering, they’ve got a conference room available.
Currently, the center is closed to the public, but it’s set to reopen in April 2024. Keep an eye out here for all the details you’ll need!
The River Moy
In addition to visiting heritage centers, there are plenty of fun things to do in Ballina, like fishing on the River Moy!
The River Moy is famous for being one of the top salmon fishing spots in Europe. Whether you’re a pro angler or just starting out, give fly fishing a try! You can rent all the gear you need right there. Plus, local guides are on hand to enhance your experience.
The staff can also help you get the angling license you need. The prime time for salmon fishing on the River Moy is during rainy weather, especially in July. And if you’re around in July, don’t miss the annual salmon festival in Ballina—it’s a real treat!
The Ceide Fields
The Ceide Fields offer a glimpse into a Neolithic landscape, showcasing the world’s oldest field systems. Here, you’ll find an archaeological site set amidst striking rock formations.
The viewing platform, perched on a 110-meter-high cliff, offers breathtaking views. You’ll also see the remnants of stone field walls and ancient tombs, and enjoy audio-visual presentations during guided tours.
Surfing!
If you’re up for a surfing challenge, check out 7th Wave Surf School! This welcoming, family-run school welcomes surfers of all ages, including adults looking to have some fun in a relaxed atmosphere.
Enniscrone’s gentle waves make it ideal for beginners, and it’s just a short 15-minute drive from Ballina. All instructors are fully ISA qualified, and equipment and insurance are provided. Your kids can join surf camps, take individual lessons, or you can even hire gear and give surfing a try yourselves as a family!
Another great spot is Tonn Nua Surf School at Glosh Beach. This stunning beach, located in the Mullet Peninsula, is only a 15-minute drive from Belmullet Town. During July and August, they offer summer camps, so grab your kids and dive into the surf adventure!
From wine tasting to surfing, Ballina offers endless delights. Whether you’re craving outdoor thrills, cultural experiences, or simply a peaceful getaway, this charming town has something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and uncover the treasures of Ballina, Ireland. Its beauty and warmth will leave you with memories to cherish forever.
