The tour begins at the heart of Ballyclare, outside the Ballyclare Town Hall, a striking red-brick building on The Square that has stood as a community landmark since 1854. Its clock tower and elegant architecture set a welcoming tone, reflecting the town’s pride as a historic market centre. From here, a short five-minute walk along Main Street, lined with independent boutiques and cafes, leads to the Six Mile Water River Park. This easygoing, flat path is perfect for all ages and even welcomes dogs, winding along the gentle flow of the Six Mile Water. The riverside trail, stretching about 1.
4 miles, offers a serene setting with lush greenery and the soft murmur of the river, inviting walkers to pause and enjoy the tranquillity or perhaps spot a kingfisher darting across the water.
Continuing along the river path for another ten minutes, the route reaches Ballyclare War Memorial Park, a peaceful green space honouring local history. The park’s well-kept lawns and memorial provide a moment for reflection, while its open areas are ideal for a brief rest or a picnic if the weather permits. From here, a 15-minute walk north along Rashee Road brings visitors to the Rashee Old Cemetery, tucked behind the modern cemetery. This hidden gem, though slightly tricky to find, offers a fascinating glimpse into Ballyclare’s past, with weathered gravestones dating back centuries, whispering tales of the town’s early inhabitants. The quiet, almost forgotten atmosphere adds a touch of intrigue, perfect for those with a curiosity for local history.
The tour then loops back towards the town centre, a 12-minute stroll along Doagh Road, passing the Ballyclare Golf Club, a beautifully matured 18-hole parkland course founded in 1923. While the course itself is private, its tree-lined fairways and glimpses of the Islekelly River from the road add a scenic charm to the walk. For those intrigued by horticulture, a slight detour to Ballyrobert Cottage Garden, just a mile from the town centre, is well worth the extra steps. This six-acre RHS partner garden, designed by a former associate of Belfast’s Botanic Gardens, bursts with vibrant plantings and relaxed charm, offering a delightful stop for nature lovers, especially in spring or summer when blooms are at their peak.
Returning to Main Street, the walk concludes back at The Square, where visitors can unwind at one of Ballyclare’s welcoming pubs or cafes, such as The Bureau, known for its hearty fare, or grab a coffee at a nearby spot to reflect on the journey. Spanning roughly three kilometres, this tour captures Ballyclare’s essence, a blend of riverside calm, historical whispers, and the warmth of a close-knit community. Sturdy shoes are recommended for the cemetery’s uneven ground, and a light jacket is wise for the unpredictable Antrim weather. For those with extra time, nearby Ballyboley Forest, a 19-mile trail network with wintery views, offers a longer adventure, though the town’s compact charm makes this shorter route a perfect introduction to Ballyclare’s understated allure.
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