Ballygally Castle

Perched on the tip of the famous Causeway Coastal Route, sits Ballygally Castle, a stunning 17th Century Castle which overlooks the golden sands of Ballygally Bay and has uninterrupted views across the Irish Sea.

This beautiful Castle is perfectly located for top tourist attractions and has a wealth of recreational activities within easy reach making it the perfect base for exploring the stunning Causeway Coastal Route, Bushmills Distillery, Carrickfergus Castle, Royal Portrush Golf Course, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and the popular Game of Thrones Tour.

For those wishing to explore on foot will enjoy the beautiful walks to be found in Carnfunnock Country Park, which is within walking distance, or simply relax and enjoy a leisurely stroll on the beach opposite the hotel.

The Castle has 54 tastefully decorated bedrooms, some have beautiful, original beamed ceilings, while others enjoy stunning views of the sea and mountains.

From the beautiful Antrim Suite and new Coastal Deluxe Rooms with their spectacular panoramic views to the Garden wing and the original period rooms, uniquely shaped by the imposing architecture, the Castle is bursting with bedrooms full of character and charm.

Ballygally Castle’s Garden Restaurant enjoys beautiful views over the grounds and serves a delicious traditional Irish Breakfast. The restaurant offers an excellent table d’hôte dinner menu, as well as a range of daily specials, where our chefs use only the best of local produce to provide a wide range of culinary delights.

Guests can also enjoy a selection of lighter dining options and bistro menu in the new lounge and Ballygally Castle is also the perfect spot to treat yourself to our famous afternoon tea!

LUXURY HOTEL ON THE ANTRIM COAST
A bed fit for a King or Queen at Ballygally Castle
The interior design of Ballygally Castle is a fusion of styles, where the original features of the 17th Century Castle have been allowed to blend into the modern luxury of the hotel. This unique style can be seen in our 54 bedrooms, which have all been designed with relaxation and comfort in mind.

Each room is tastefully decorated, combining contemporary décor with the distinctive character of the Castle, and each of our King Koil beds has a luxurious ‘cloud mattress’ that will ensure you get a comfortable night’s rest.

Many of our luxury hotel rooms boast stunning views over Ballygally Bay or the beautifully landscaped gardens of the Castle. Or for those wanting to experience the Castle in all its charm we have a select number of Tower Bedrooms available.

These stunning rooms are located in the original Tower of the Castle. Feeling extra brave? Then check out the ‘ghost room’, located at the top of the Castle in one of the turrets is the bedroom of the Lady Isabella Shaw, the former Lady of the Castle whose Ghost is said to remain in the Castle.

JUNIOR SUITES
Experience the ultimate luxury with a stay in a Junior Suite at Ballygally Castle
Enjoy Luxury Accommodation and stay in style in our one of our Junior Suites. Ballygally Castle boasts two suites, the Antrim Suite which offers views over the Irish Sea & Ballygally Bay & the Garden Suite which offers full views of our private 17th Century walled gardens.

Junior Suites offer a super king size bed, separate bath and shower unit and a small living room area with armchairs. Our Junior Suites also offer dining table and chairs.

All Suites have bathrobes, slippers and complimentary mineral water, in-room safe, plasma TV screens, telephone, voice mail service, iPod docking station, complimentary WiFi, hairdryer, iron and ironing board and welcome tray.

DINING ON THE ANTRIM COAST
Relaxed and stylish dining at Ballygally Castle
Set within the original 17th Century walls, The Garden Restaurant serves up a range of delicious bistro and table d’hote menus for lunch or dinner, featuring many dishes made using the finest local produce. Stop by for Sunday Lunch in the magnificent Kintyre Ballroom.

Traditional roasts, contemporary fayre, family catch-ups and stunning views across the bay and beyond to Scotland make it a special place to be. Not forgetting Afternoon Tea, a pastry and cake-fest for the palette.

Private dining in the medieval dungeon or in the atmospheric Room 1625 can also be arranged – great for birthday parties, christenings, anniversaries and any special occasions. Or for something different why not host a medieval banquet? Something a bit different for that special private event!

DINING
The Garden Restaurant has the character and charm you would expect of a 17th Century Castle. Enjoy the Garden views whilst you receive the highest level of service from our staff and enjoy the delicious, contemporary food which has been carefully selected, using the finest local produce and prepared by our experienced culinary team.

THE LOUNGE
Casual dining is enjoyed in the Lounge at Ballygally Castle by both guest and locals. Catch up with friends or family, reminisce on days gone by, make plans for the future or simply let all your cares float away for a few hours.

With unspoiled views of the beautiful Antrim Coastline and the Irish Sea, the Lounge at Ballygally Castle is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing beverage, our bar is fully stocked with a wide selection of Beers, Spirits, Whiskeys and soft drinks.

Sample our award-winning Afternoon Tea with our variety of fine finger sandwiches, dainty cakes and pastries with copious amounts of tea and coffee or just sit back, relax and enjoy a sumptuous snack made from the finest local produce as you sit by the open fire and take in the breathtaking views of the Irish Sea and Scotland’s Mull of Kintyre.

AFTERNOON TEA 
An hour or two of loveliness complete with cups of the finest tea or coffee, finger sandwiches and an array of delectable treats. There’s no sweeter way to spend an afternoon than enjoying a delightful Afternoon Tea at Ballygally Castle.

At Ballygally Castle we have perfected the art of Afternoon Tea. Sit by a roaring fire, appreciate the panoramic views and catch up with friends as you enjoy this sumptuous treat. Served daily in the Lounge, guests can enjoy the finest pastries, scones and sandwiches served with the finest blended teas.

Our Culinary team at Ballygally Castle is continually coming up with new twists on Afternoon Tea including our famous Game of Thrones afternoon Tea.

Inspired by the Emmy Award-winning show filmed in Northern Ireland, the delicious Game of Thrones-themed tea allows guests to immerse themselves in the atmospheric mood of the show whilst relaxing in the luxurious surroundings of the Castle.

The tasty treats which will delight fans of the show include Lannister Egg, Baratheon Bread, Little Fingers Chicken Caesar wrap and Jon Snow cakes to Dothraki Trifle with Mini Dragon’s eggs.

BREAKFAST 
At Ballygally Castle we firmly believe that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and we know our guests tend to agree. We also believe that breakfast best way to showcase some of the finest produce that Northern Ireland has to offer.

We are proud of the lengths that our chefs and suppliers have gone to in order to source the freshest local ingredients to ensure the freshest and tastiest start to your day. Breakfast offers a wide selection of the finest locally sourced produce.

From a full Irish breakfast to our special Bushmills Whiskey Porridge or a classic Continental breakfast comprising of fruit, danish pastries, cereals, meats and cheeses we have an option catering to all tastes.

Our breakfast suppliers include Thompson’s Tea, Grand Cafe Coffee, Farmview Dairies, McCann’s Apple Juice, Clandeboye Estate Yoghurt, Just Live a Little Granola and Muesli, White’s Oats, Waggle Dance Honey, Bushmills Whiskey, Irwin’s Bread, Hastings Muffins and Scuffins, Carnbrooke Meats and Honeybee Sausages, Grant’s Dry Cured Bacon, Gracehill Fine Foods Black and White Puddings,Clements Eggs, Malachy McKenna Mushrooms and Get Fresh Tomatoes.

 

Visit the Antrim Coast where Game of Thrones was filmed
HBO’s award-winning television series Game Of Thrones was filmed in the areas surrounding Ballygally Castle, with cast and crew from the series frequently found relaxing at the Castle.

The stunning scenery within the Causeway Coast and Glens was used to represent everything from Winterfell to the King’s Road, The Iron Islands to Stormlands. Now you can stand on the spot where Lannisters schemed, stroll in the footsteps of the Starks, and gaze on grasslands crossed by the Dothraki horde.

The Causeway Coast and Glens Game Of Thrones itinerary is a three-day voyage of discovery that lets you experience the fantasy world of author George R.R. Martin for yourself. Plotting a path through the scenic splendour of the Seven Kingdoms, it takes you to where so many of the pivotal scenes were shot.

The Game of Thrones itinerary not only brings to life the drama of the series but also provides a front row seat at locations steeped in local myth and legend, where ancient warriors walked long before leading men.

So why not step on to a set like no other, where you can indulge your fascination for Game of Thrones, investigate what the Antrim Causeway Coast and Glens have to offer, and still have time to enjoy the sort of hospitality for which this small corner of the globe is famed.

When retracing the steps of your Game of Thrones heroes stay at Ballygally. This beautiful 17th Century Castle is centrally located and the perfect base for exploring the Antrim Coast and following the 3 day Game of Thrones itinerary!

WEDDING VENUE 
What could be more romantic than saying ‘I do’ in your very own 17th Century Castle on the stunning Antrim Coast?

At Ballygally Castle you’re the King and Queen. With a one wedding per day policy, it’s your exclusive wedding wonderland in a truly unique County Antrim wedding venue.

The dramatic backdrop of the Irish sea, mountains and rugged cliffs just add to the character and charm of the Castle itself – a stunning spot for wedding photographs.

With over 60 years experience in planning and organising weddings, our attentive and helpful expert team will ensure that the whole process is relaxing and enjoyable and the day itself memorable! Book your Antrim wedding in our Northern Ireland Castle hotel today.

EVENTS AT BALLYGALLY CASTLE
The ideal choice for your event on the Antrim Coast
With our stunning coastal location, removed from the hustle and bustle of city life, yet only 30 minutes from Belfast City Centre and with easy access to major airports, bus and rail networks, Ballygally Castle is one of Antrim’s most popular event venues.

Our Kintyre Ballroom can host wedding celebrations of up to 200 guests, trade shows, conferences and exhibitions, while each year we host a series of special musical tribute nights, gala dinners and private parties. In addition, our walled garden area is very popular for small outdoor events – weather permitting.

Ballygally Castle offers a wide variety of activities, to satisfy guests’ every desire. Whether you’re looking for an energetic, action-packed break or a reviving, relaxing getaway, our Castle Hotel on the Antrim Coast has something to offer.

Attractions near Ballygally Castle
The Antrim Coastline is an area of breathtaking coastline with its winding roads, beautiful beaches, deep silent glens and lush forest parks.

The wonders don’t stop there as the region has been made famous by the Causeway Coastal Route which is seen as ‘One of the World’s Great Road Journeys’ and one of the most outstanding scenic touring drives.

The Causeway Coastal Route is not only an outstanding scenic drive but is also brimming with must-see local attractions all within an easy driving distance from Ballygally Castle Hotel.

Embrace A Giant Spirit
Tourism NI and Tourism Ireland have launched a new destination brand that will be used to promote Northern Ireland on the island of Ireland and internationally, with the aim of supporting the tourism industry and local economy by developing new authentic experiences that can be promoted to the travel trade and to consumers throughout the world.

Toast the Coast NI
Causeway Coastal Food Tour
Enjoy a journey to celebrate the delicious local food along the Antrim Coast Road & Glens, part of the world-famous Causeway Coastal Route, stopping off in towns and villages from Whitehead to Cushendun.

Enjoy a range of handmade, hooked & harvested food on a full day of tasting and eating. Celebrate what is traditional and newly formed recipes featuring local foods & drinks and delight in the tastes of local award-winning producers.

Toast the Coast with the ‘water of life’ and get into the spirit of Northern Ireland. Relax on board your luxury coach, enjoy the breath-taking views and stories of the Causeway Coastal Route.

BALLYGALLY BEACH
Enjoy a relaxing coastal stroll while staying at Ballygally Castle
Ballygally Beach is a beautiful beach on the Antrim Coast located beside Ballygally village, across the road from Ballygally Castle.

The 200m long, sandy beach has great views in all directions: northwards up towards the Antrim coast and its dramatic headlands, eastwards across the sea to Scotland, southwards to distinctive Ballygally Head and westwards inland to landmark features such as Scawt Hill and Sallagh Braes where the Antrim Hills Way/Ulster Way goes across.

THE OLD BUSHMILLS DISTILLERY
Visit the Old Bushmills Distillery when staying at Ballygally Castle
Bushmills Irish Whiskey is made at Ireland’s oldest working distillery in Bushmills in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The original grant to distil was signed in 1608 by King James 1st and they have been Distilling in Bushmills ever since.

The Bushmills Experience is a popular tourist attraction which includes guided tours around the distillery highlighting all the associated sights and smells, tutored whiskey tastings and a specialist whiskey shop.

This world-famous tourist attraction is just a short drive from Ballygally Castle. Travel along the Causeway Coastal route to Ireland’s oldest working distillery.

Watch whiskey making take place and enjoy a wee taster too as you unlock the secrets of 400 years of distilling at the home of Irish whiskey. There are no set tour times except for groups who book in advance. Facilities include a visitor’s centre, gift shop, bar and ‘The Distillery Kitchen’ Coffee Shop.

CARNFUNNOCK COUNTRY PARK
Visit Carnfunnock Country Park when staying at Ballygally Castle
Located on the breathtaking Antrim Coast Road, Carnfunnock Country Park is just a short walk or drive away from Ballygally Castle and is the perfect location for a fun family or group day out.

Carnfunnock Country Park is packed full of exciting and unusual attractions to see and do, with over 191 hectares of mixed woodland, colourful gardens, walking trails and coastline, not forgetting its spectacular panoramic views of the Antrim Coast and North Channel.

The park has a host of activities, heritage of attractions and onsite facilities for visitors to avail of – some of which are privately operated on the site. The Park was originally part of the estate of Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon and was purchased by Larne Borough Council in 1957.

Many of the original features remain, including the walled garden, the ice house and the lime kilns. Carnfunnock has combined man-made attractions and entertainment with the splendour of its natural scenery in a way which is very special.

CARRICK-A-REDE ROPE BRIDGE
Visit Carrick-a-rede rope bridge when staying at Ballygally Castle
Located on the Coastal Route Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a must visit for tourists, and one of the best things to see and do in Antrim.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a famous rope bridge near Ballintoy in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The bridge links the mainland to the tiny island of Carrick-a-Rede. The bridge is mainly a tourist attraction and is owned and maintained by the National Trust.

A short coastal footpath leads to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. On the way, there are wonderful vantage points to stop and take in the natural beauty of the area. The geology, flora and fauna have won Carrick-a-Rede recognition as an area of special scientific interest. Fulmars, kittywakes, guillemots and razorbills breed on the islands close to the rope bridge.

When visiting Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge make Ballygally Castle your base! Located approximately an hours drive from the Rope Bridge, Ballygally Castle is the ideal location from which to explore the Antrim coastline.

DUNLUCE CASTLE
Explore Dunluce Castle when staying at Ballygally Castle
Dunluce Castle is located North of Ballygally Castle, on the Antrim coast. It sits dramatically close to a headland that plunges straight into the sea and was the headquarters of the MacDonnell Clan.

Constantly fought over, it eventually succumbed to the power of nature, when part of it fell into the sea one stormy night in 1639. It was abandoned shortly afterwards. While there is evidence that parts of the castle date back to the 14th century, the first record of it is from 1513 when it belonged to the MacQuillans.

Enjoy an audiovisual tour where visitors view animations of the castle’s structures rebuilt before their eyes, to create an engaging and immersive visitor experience.

The Castle also provides an adults’ tour and a children’s tour designed to run simultaneously, allowing families to explore an area together but to engage with it on different levels.

A ‘hidden treasure’ element of the children’s tour encourages younger visitors to explore the site to find resin-cast replicas of artefacts discovered at Dunluce.

THE GIANT’S CAUSEWAY
Visit the Giant’s Causeway when staying at Ballygally Castle
Often described as the Eighth Wonder of the World, the Giant’s Causeway is located along the scenic Causeway Coastal Route, approximately a one hour drive from Ballygally Castle.

The Giant’s Causeway near Ballygally Castle is renowned for its polygonal columns of layered basalt and is steeped in myth and legend that intrigues both adults and children alike.

According to legend, the columns are the remains of a causeway built by the Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn MacCool) who was challenged to a fight by the Scottish giant Benandonner. Fionn accepted the challenge and built the causeway across the North Channel so that the two giants could meet!!

When visiting the Giant’s Causeway guests can enjoy the interactive exhibition in the state of the art Visitor Experience Centre before heading out to the stones to identify the distinctive formations and enjoy a stroll by the coast. Once you have visited, you will quickly see why it has become Ireland’s top tourist attraction!!

WHITEPARK BAY
Visit Whitepark Bay when staying at Ballygally Castle Hotel
Whitepark Bay is a Beautiful stretch of golden sands on the North Antrim coast located on the Causeway Coastal route, approximately 80 minutes from Ballygally Castle, Hotel. The spectacular sandy beach forms a white arc between two headlands on the North Antrim Coast and is a favourite with tourists and locals alike.

Its secluded location means that even on a busy day there is plenty of room for quiet relaxation and is a must visit for those who enjoy exploring the shoreline and walking along the sandy beaches.

Always check the tide before you plan a walk from White Park Bay to Portbraddan or Ballintoy Harbour. Tide information for Ballycastle Bay.

Whiskey on the Rocks Tour
Experience a taste tour like no other when staying at Ballygally Castle
Sitting on basalt rocks in a quiet spot on the Giant’s Causeway, you take a sip of Bushmills 12-Year-Old Distillery Reserve whiskey and let the salty sea wind envelop you.

This is a truly unique, and intimate, way to experience the world-famous Giant’s Causeway, and to savour the world-famous whiskey distilled just a couple of miles away. Your trip begins at the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre, where you meet your National Trust tour guide and take your first steps onto the spectacular Causeway.

This geological wonder, with its 40,000 basalt stone columns, was created by volcanic eruptions about 60 million years ago… Or was it built by warring giants? On this tour, you’ll hear both sides of the story, so you can decide for yourself.

Your guide brings this ancient place to life, sharing geological information, history, local myths and legends about homegrown giant Finn McCool. There are mentions of whiskey here and there to whet your appetite along the way.

You’ll see the Scottish island of Isla and hear about its distillery (the Scots spell whisky without the ‘e’). Your guide will also point out a wishing well, where legend has it that an old woman would ply visitors with whiskey.

And you encounter so much nature as you walk: the smell of the sea, the sounds of birdlife. The tempo is easy-going and the craic is plentiful. A guide from Bushmills will explain the history and the methods used in the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world, dating back to 1608. You’ll sit on rocks as the 12-Year-Old Distillery Reserve is poured.

You’re in for a treat: the whiskey you’ll be drinking is exclusively available at the Distillery, and cannot be bought online. You’ll also get a miniature bottle to take home. Your guide will talk you through the tastes and smells to pick up on as you raise a toast to the giants and take a sip of warming whiskey.

Away A Wee Walk Giant’s Causeway Walking Tour
Take in a walking tour when staying at Ballygally Castle
The Causeway Coast has some of the most picturesque scenary and walks in Northern Ireland. Explore the great outdoors thanks to Away a Wee Walk who specialise in Ireland’s world famous Causeway Coast, and provide guided walking day tours along the stunning Giant’s Causeway cliffs, independent walking holidays or bespoke, guided hiking vacations.

This five mile (8k) guided hike along the spectacular Giant’s Causeway cliff path is a uniquely stunning and authentic experience in what is among some of the best cliff top views in Europe.

Feel the wind in your hair, hear the waves crashing the shore, watch the gulls dance in the wind, smell the scent of the ocean far below the cliffs, see the sheep grazing right in front of you and bask in the stunning beauty of Ireland’s amazing Causeway coast.

All while part of a small group far away from the crowds. Put your walking boots on and let them guide you. Join a small group for the guided hike while also enjoying a luxury coach tour with a larger group from Belfast.

The full day tour includes the guided hike plus visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Causeway stones, Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge, a stunning drive along one of the top coast drives in the world and a photo stop at Carrickfergus Castle.

Causeway Coast Foodie Tours
Enjoy a Causeway Coast Foodie Tour when staying at Ballygally Castle
The North Coast offers some of the freshest food around. Now you can experience it like never before. Causeway Coast Foodie Tours, owned & managed by Wendy Gallagher offers visitors guided food and drink tours of the Causeway Coastal Route.

These tours showcase the best local produce and hidden gems this stunning destination has to offer. A series of award-winning food tours on the world-famous Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland.

While each trip offers exclusive tasting sessions and behind the scenes access they aren’t just for culinary obsessives. The relaxed atmosphere will introduce you to new food experiences, astonishing taste combinations and open the door to previously undiscovered food producers.

RATHLIN ISLAND
Visit Rathlin Island when staying at Ballygally Castle Hotel
Rathlin Island is an island off the coast of County Antrim accessed by Ferry from Ballycastle. Rathlin is the only inhabited offshore island of Northern Ireland, with a rising population of now just over 100 people, and is the most northerly inhabited island off the coast of Ireland.

The ferry to Rathlin Island travels just six miles across the “Sea of Moyle”. In the harbour is the Boathouse, where visitors can discover some of the exciting history, learn about present day island life and see some artefacts from shipwrecks around the island.

A short walk around to Mill Bay there is a colony of seals, who are fun to just sit and watch! At the other side of the harbour are two churches where visitors can sit quietly or just admire the architecture.

At the west of the island is the renowned RSPB Seabird Centre, where puffins, guillemots, razorbills and kittiwakes can be viewed during the summer months.

It is also home to some magnificent views, on clear days Donegal, the North Antrim coastline, the island of Islay and the Mull of Kintyre can be seen. Throughout the year special occasions are celebrated with ceilidhs. Music, song and dance remain at the heart of the community life.

Website: www.hastingshotels.com

Rooms: 53

Price: from 124 EUR per night