Things to do in Ballina
Things to do in Ballina (Our Top 9 Picks)
Ballina used to, quite literally, fly under the radar for most holidaymakers to Northern NSW.
It was the airport you flew into before heading straight up to Byron Bay or Lismore, or the place with the big prawn you drove past. But that is all changing. The iconic Big Prawn is a must-see landmark in Ballina. Snap some photos and maybe grab a souvenir. This town can charm you with its history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil escape Ballina has everything for everyone!
So join me
Give fishing in the River Moy a crack
a place renowned as the salmon capital of Ireland! Ballina is a perfect spot to enjoy fishing. Whether you have experience with fishing or you want to give it a try for the first time, Head over to the Ballina Angling Centre on Ridge Pool Road to rent or purchase the necessary fishing equipment. They’ll provide you with everything you need, from rods and reels to bait and tackle.
Be sure to inquire at the Ballina Angling Centre about where you can obtain the required angling license. They’ll likely be able to provide you with information on where to purchase one locally or online, ensuring you’re all set to legally enjoy your fishing experience on the River Moy. Fishing for salmon in the River Moy when it’s raining can indeed be highly productive. Rainfall tends to increase water levels and flow, which can stimulate salmon to move upstream, making them more active and easier to catch. So, if you see rain in the forecast, it might just be the perfect time to plan your fishing excursion! There is even an annual salmon festival in Ballina that takes place every July.
Image credit:-River Moy
Surfing!
Today, surfing is one of the most popular and preferred extreme sports in the world. It is done by riding the waves in the sea or the ocean by standing or lying on a surfboard. It was an integral part of their culture and way of life, used for fishing, transportation between islands, and even as a form of spiritual expression. Used as a way to return to the shore from the ships originally, surfing became a hobby with time and an official sport in 1920.
Surfing gained attention from Western explorers and missionaries in the 18th and 19th centuries. Accounts of Polynesian surfing captivated imaginations and sparked interest in the sport among Westerners.
By the early 20th century, surfing had gained popularity in Hawaii and along the California coast, thanks in part to the efforts of pioneering surfers like Duke Kahanamoku. Surf clubs were formed, and competitions began to be held, laying the groundwork for surfing as a modern sport.
Want to take a dare for surfing? Then the 7th Wave Surf School is right there to help you! Contact 7th Wave Surf School to schedule your surfing lesson. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to improve your skills, their friendly and experienced instructors will tailor the lesson to suit your needs and abilities. Surf School caters for all ages!
Besides, Enniscrone’s gentle waves make it perfect for beginners and it’s just a short 15-minute drive from Ballina. Having fully qualified instructors and including insurance and equipment in the package makes it even more appealing. Offering options like surf camps, individual lessons, or simply renting gear for a family outing caters to various preferences and skill levels.
Tonn Nua Surf School sounds like a fantastic option for those looking to experience the thrill of surfing in the stunning surroundings of Glosh Beach. Glosh Beach, located in the Mullet Peninsula of County Mayo, Ireland, is renowned for its breathtakingly stunning scenery. It will take only a 15-minute drive from Belmullet Town.
Joining the summer camps at Tonn Nua Surf School during July and August sounds like an incredible opportunity for kids to dive into the world of surfing and enjoy an exciting summer adventure.
Belleek Castle
Belleek Castle is like a real gem in Ireland, tucked away in the picturesque Belleek Woods and just a short drive from Ballina, Co. Mayo. It just costs only €10 per adult for the castle tour.
Belleek Castle’s history is fascinating! Built in 1831 by Sir Arthur Francis Knox-Gore and designed by architect John Benjamin Keanes, it stands as a testament to the grandeur of its time. The £10,000 cost back then reflects the significant investment put into creating such a magnificent structure.
The Knox-Gore family lived there until 1942. Then around the 1950’s, the house was purchased by Mayo County Council. The transition of Belleek Castle from a private residence for the Knox-Gore family to a sanatorium for female tuberculosis patients under Mayo County Council’s ownership adds another layer to its intriguing history.
Later on, a Merchant Navy officer Marshall Doran purchased it. The transformation of Belleek Castle into a museum showcasing Doran’s extensive collection is a testament to his dedication to preserving and sharing these treasures with others.
Marshall Doran’s restoration of Belleek Castle in the 1970s, transforming it into a hotel, marks a pivotal moment in its history. You can enjoy all his work on the castle tour. There are many references to sailing and ships. The references to sailing and ships throughout the castle, including the ship-like design of the bar, add a nautical flair that sets it apart. The bar is also fitted out as if it is a ship. You will fall in love with this stunning building for sure!
Also, there is a beautiful place to dine.
The town’s greatest treasure is open 7 days a week.
Image credit :- Belleek Castle
Visit Downpatrick Head in Ballycastle
Downpatrick Head is indeed a breathtaking natural wonder located in County Mayo, Ireland. Located less than 3 miles from the village of Ballycastle, it offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and is one of the country’s most beautiful wilderness sites. Its dramatic cliffs rise steeply from the Atlantic Ocean, offering stunning views and a sense of awe-inspiring isolation. It’s easy to get to by road, and there’s also a short footpath where you can enjoy the foot view!
Downpatrick Head is hard to miss with its dark stone strata.
Accessing Downpatrick Head via a small, free parking lot is convenient for visitors, though it’s worth noting that the lot may be exposed to sea spray, which can leave a salty residue on parked cars.
The journey to Downpatrick Head continues on foot from the parking lot, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural splendor of the area fully. As you walk, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the majestic beauty of the Atlantic Ocean, with its waves crashing dramatically against the rugged cliffs. A lovely statue of Saint Patrick marks the start of these cliffs, and you can admire Poll na Seantoine, a 30-metre chasm carved out naturally by ocean erosion.
The history of Downpatrick Head is rich with tales of human resilience and tragedy. During the 1798 Rebellion, insurgents sought refuge within the cavity of Poll na Seantoine. Tragically, their hideout was not enough to protect them from the relentless power of the ocean, and the tide swept them away.
Image credit :-DoAwnpatrick Head
Belleek Woods
Ballina indeed has much to offer for nature enthusiasts! Here, you will find the famous Belleek wood, which is Europe’s largest urban forest! As Europe’s largest urban forest, spanning over 1,000 acres, it offers a vast expanse of natural beauty to explore.
The Knox-Gore family’s legacy of planting over two million trees in the 19th century has left an indelible mark on the landscape of Ballina and its surroundings. With a diverse range of tree species including Oak, Beech, Ash, Sycamore, Chestnut, Lime, Willow, and Yew, Belleek Wood and its picturesque Irish woodlands offer a rich tapestry of colors and textures to explore.
Exploring the pathways of Belleek Wood offers not only a chance to enjoy the beauty of its diverse tree species but also to encounter a rich array of native wildlife and flora. From the vibrant colors of Iris, Foxglove, and Primroses to the subtle beauty of woodland creatures, every step reveals something new and delightful. Amidst the natural wonders, visitors may also stumble upon historical features such as the Horse’s Grave monument, adding another layer of intrigue to their journey through the woodlands.
Belleek Forest’s reputation as a “children’s paradise” is well-deserved, offering endless opportunities for families to create cherished memories together. With thousands of trees to climb, ducks to feed, and trails to explore, children can let their imaginations run wild as they embark on adventures through this magical woodland. Like Hogwarts, your kid can race up and down the hills, or cycle the track by the river and peek through the trees.
In this place, Belleek Woods Fairy Trail is another beautiful spot. As you wander through the enchanting woodland, you’ll discover tiny little fairy houses nestled high in the trees and hidden amongst the roots, each one bursting with colorful charm and character.
With its clean and tidy surroundings and the soothing melodies of wildlife singing from the trees, it offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
The name “Belleek” or “Beal-Leice” in Irish, which translates to “mouth of the Flagstones,” suggests an early crossing point over the River Moy, indicating the likelihood of a settlement predating the town of Ballina. The lands in this area were historically owned by the Knox Gore family, who acquired nearly 750 hectares in 1701. This rich history adds depth and significance to the landscape, providing a glimpse into the early roots of human habitation and activity in County Mayo. The lands in this area formerly belonged to the Knox Gore family who acquired almost 750 hectares in 1701.
Image credit :- Belleek Woods
North Mayo Heritage Centre
The North Mayo Heritage Centre is dedicated to honoring and preserving the heritage of its region. The best thing is, since 2019, this center has been awarded the An Taise Green Flag. It speaks volumes about the center’s dedication to environmental sustainability and conservation efforts.
The North Mayo Heritage Centre is located on the grounds of Enniscoe House near Ballina, Co. Mayo.
This center provides Genealogical research for the North Mayo Diasoira with access to over 1.2 million records. The center is currently embarking on a five-year project, titled the 2023 Diaspora Project. which when completed will add a further 400,000 records to the collection. The center has a Genealogy Service which provides genealogical research for parishes in the northern part of Co. Mayo along with a small museum, exhibition area, book shop, looped walks, organic garden, ornamental garden, and cafe.
The place is the home of many small museums where you will find a bunch of artifacts from North Mayo. Exploring these museums must offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past, allowing them to connect with the heritage of North Mayo on a more intimate level. The Victorian Organic Garden is also worth visiting! Walking through its pathways must feel like stepping back in time, experiencing the beauty and tranquility that generations before have also enjoyed. The garden is one of the oldest in the country.
The center is currently closed to the public but it will reopen in April 2024. Here are all the details that you need to know!
The Ceide Fields
The North Mayo Heritage Centre is dedicated to honoring and preserving the heritage of its region. The best thing is, since 2019, this center has been awarded the An Taise Green Flag. It speaks volumes about the center’s dedication to environmental sustainability and conservation efforts.
The North Mayo Heritage Centre is located on the grounds of Enniscoe House near Ballina, Co. Mayo.
This center provides Genealogical research for the North Mayo Diasoira with access to over 1.2 million records. The center is currently embarking on a five-year project, titled the 2023 Diaspora Project. which when completed will add a further 400,000 records to the collection. The center has a Genealogy Service which provides genealogical research for parishes in the northern part of Co. Mayo along with a small museum, exhibition area, book shop, looped walks, organic garden, ornamental garden, and cafe.
The place is the home of many small museums where you will find a bunch of artifacts from North Mayo. Exploring these museums must offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past, allowing them to connect with the heritage of North Mayo on a more intimate level. The Victorian Organic Garden is also worth visiting! Walking through its pathways must feel like stepping back in time, experiencing the beauty and tranquility that generations before have also enjoyed. The garden is one of the oldest in the country.
The center is currently closed to the public but it will reopen in April 2024. Here are all the details that you need to know!
Image credit :-The-Ceide-Fields
Jackie Clarke Collection
With its extensive collection of artifacts and documents related to Ireland’s struggle for independence, it offers a unique opportunity to delve deep into the country’s past, Visiting Jackie Clarke Collection can be the most fascinating site visit if you love to explore historical collections. This remarkable museum has an extensive collection of artefacts and documents of Ireland’s struggle for independence. The Jackie Clarke collection is located in Ballina and is home to more than 100,000 maps, rare newspapers, political posters, editorial cartoons, photographs, and films.
Also, The opportunity to see rare books, newspapers, autographs, letters, posters, prints, photographs, and more provides a comprehensive and immersive experience in Irish history. The association of these items with famous figures from Irish history, such as Michael Collins, O’Donovan Rossa, and Wolfe Tone, adds another layer of significance and intrigue.
Its location in a charming red brick 19th-century Victorian building on Pearse Street in Ballina, overlooking the banks of the River Moy, adds to its allure. This museum can be the perfect place to visit on a rainy day!
Ballina Arts Centre
Ballina Arts Centre is based in Ballina Co. Mayo, Ireland. Besides these historical sites, Ballina is also famous for its arts and culture. Indulging in exhibitions, theatre performances, concerts, theatre performances, concerts, and films right here in Ballina.
Experiencing the arts in Ballina not only provides entertainment but also offers a deeper connection to the local community and its creative spirit.
The Ballina Arts Centre hosts a wide range of arts events catering to all generations. From music performances to dance showcases and visual arts exhibitions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the Ballina Arts Centre. The wide range of events ensures that visitors can explore different art forms and perhaps even discover new favorites along the way.
The most important thing is, that the centre provides immense support to local and national independent artists. Moreover, the breathtaking vistas of the River Moy from the Arts Centre’s multipurpose building add another layer of allure to the experience. The scenic backdrop enhances the atmosphere of creativity and inspiration, offering visitors a truly immersive and memorable setting for enjoying arts events and cultural performances. Learn more from their website.
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