Ballymena
Ballymena, the bustling "capital" of Mid-Antrim, is a major market town with a strong industrial and agricultural heritage set against the dramatic backdrop of Slemish Mountain. This distinctive volcanic plug is famously where a young St. Patrick tended sheep as a slave and is now a popular pilgrimage and hiking site, offering panoramic views of the Antrim countryside. The town itself is a practical and commercial hub for the surrounding area, with a busy town centre featuring the modern Tower Centre shopping complex and a traditional weekly market that continues its long-standing trading traditions.
Ballymena has a proud manufacturing history, particularly in textiles and engineering, and has produced notable figures from world champion boxers to literary giants. The town's history is explored at the Ballymena Museum, housed in the former town hall. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the wider wonders of County Antrim, including the Glens of Antrim, the Causeway Coast, and Lough Neagh. With its no-nonsense charm, excellent amenities, and proximity to some of Northern Ireland's most iconic landscapes, Ballymena offers an authentic and convenient Ulster experience.