THINGS TO DO & EXPLORE FROM BALLYMOTE HOUSE
One of the many exceptional things about County Down is the amount it offers for visitors to do! Below, we list a cross section of the many and diverse delights on offer in our area. But never forget that while at Ballymote, simply doing nothing is as good a way to pass your time as any!
Obviously the very first thing is to relax and unwind at Ballymote House itself! Pick our brains to discover the multitude of unusual and varied places to explore. We are extremly happy to provide endless ideas of how to spend your time with us. We keep a large range of maps, guide and history books to help our guests to get the best from their visit.
GOLF
The term ‘golfer’s paradise’ is often applied. Discover why so many golfers, of all standards, think they have indeed teed off in heaven. (read more)
WALKING
The views are as outstanding as they are diverse. The Mountains of Mourne do sweep down to the sea and we will gladly provide details of mountain, moorland and coastal walks to suit all tastes and abilities. Maps and books are available at the planning stage. Sustenance and sympathy (if needed) is guaranteed at the end of the adventure! (read more)
HISTORICAL PLACES
Ballymote Country House is the perfect jumping-off point for the astonishing number of local historical sites. Drive a few miles in almost any direction and you will find one of any amount of 10th and 11th century churches, stone circles, Viking strongholds, castles, dolmens, healing wells and round towers. We are also in the heart of St. Patrick’s country.(read more)ceptional
GARDENS
The Gulf Stream brings us a hint of extra warmth in and out of season. The resulting benefits include some of the world’s most beautiful gardens, replete with surprisingly exotic specimens. Horticulturalists – and anyone who delights in a garden – will be delighted by the world famous surroundings of Mount Stewart or Rowallane. (read more)
MOTORSPORT
County Down has a long and distinguished motorsport heritage and Ballymote is just a short drive from Bishopscourt Racing Circuit. The famous Kirkistown Circuit is only about 40 minutes drive away. Both circuits hold regular spectator events but if you want to get a bit closer to the action, check out Race School Ireland (see below)
If getting a bit more mucky is what you need, then scrambling, quad biking and cross country driving courses can be arranged very locally.(read more)
SAILING
It’s an over-used term, ‘world class’. Spend a day on a boat in and around Strangford Lough, or for the experienced test your mettle against the Irish Sea. Then decide how you rate our sailing. (read more)
BIRD WATCHING
Diverse habitats support uniquely diverse residents and visitors, increased and enhanced by winter and summer arrivals and departures. (read more)
RIDING
Whatever your level of skill and interest, from ‘passenger’ to ‘pilot’, lessons, gentle hacks in the forest and full-on gallops on a beach can all be arranged in this superb ‘horse country’.(read more)
FISHING
Coarse fishing by a river pool or bass and mackerel hunting on a boat – abundance is the catch-all term for our fishing opportunities. From worm and hook off the rocks to fly fishing lessons with an international coach, we can advise and arrange. (read more)
BEACHES
We could boast. Stroll, run, kite surf or simply stand and marvel at being very often alone with miles of clean and empty sand stretching away. Then tell us what you think.
ST. PATRICK’S COUNTRY
We are also in the heart of St. Patrick’s country! St Patrick is world renowned for bringing Christianity to Ireland – and banishing the island’s snakes!(read more)
Ballymote House, 84 Killough Road, Downpatrick, Co. Down, N.Ireland, BT30 8BJ,
Mobile: +44 (0) 7831 661429, Phone number +44 (0) 28 4461 5500 Email: bandb@ballymotehouse.com