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Ballygally | Northern Ireland

Ballygally Castle

A Jewel by the Irish Sea

ABOUT  |  HISTORY  |  Rooms |  Facilities  |  Booking  |  Contact

Originally Built In
1625


Associated Family Names
Shaw, Brisbane, Porter
More information

Number of Rooms
54


Seen in (tv/movies)
Game of Thrones (Door of Thrones No 9. )


Type of Architecture
Scots Baronial

Location
Ballygally, Ireland


Perfect for
Couples, Weddings, Family Gatherings, Coastal Break


Property type
Hotel

 

About Ballygally Castle

The magnificent 17th-century Ballygally Castle sits on the shores of Ballygally Bay and boasts panoramic views across the Irish Sea. The 400-year-old castle is the only 17th-century building still used as a residence in Northern Ireland today. Ballygally Castle is situated on the breathtaking Antrim coast making it the perfect base for exploring the famous Causeway Coastal Route which is seen as ‘One of the World’s Great Road Journeys’, enjoying one of the many local attractions, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the long, sandy beach which is opposite to the hotel. The Castle’s elegant yet modern décor, timeless character, and welcoming Irish charm make it one of the most desired destinations in Northern Ireland.

Our history

Civil War Refuge

Ballygally Castle was originally built in 1625 by James Shaw and his wife Isabella Brisbane. Scottish native Shaw came to Ireland in 1606 to seek his fortune. He received a sub-grant of land from the Earl of Antrim in 1613, and this is the land on which the castle was built. The castle’s original purpose was to serve as a refuge for Protestants during the Civil Wars. Ballygally’s last squire, William Shaw, inherited it in 1799 after it had been handed down through many generations of the family. In the early 1800s, the Agnew family acquired the estate after the Shaw family lost all of their wealth. It served as a coastguard station for several years before becoming the family home of Reverend Classon Porter and his family. Afterward, it was purchased by the Moore family who then sold it to a textile millionaire, Mr. Cyril Lord, who refurbished it into a hotel in the early 1950s.

More about the history of Ballygally Castle

Our Gallery

Events & Activities

Wedding

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.
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Conference & Meetings

Arrange a medieval banquet, a brief business gathering, a conference with confidence – or why not hire the lot: the entire castle can be yours for the day! From the Kintyre Ballroom overlooking the Irish Sea to the atmospheric 1625 Room, these specially equipped conference suites and meeting rooms ensure that Ballygally Castle is the perfect venue for your coastal conference. Only 40 minutes from Belfast City, tailored packages can easily be arranged and with parking on site and nearby, we’ve got every event catered for. Conferencing facilities can be arranged in Theatre Style, Board Room, Class-Room, Cabaret and Dining Layouts, accommodating up to a maximum of 400 people.

Events

With a 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. The Kintyre Ballroom can host 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, the walled garden area is very popular for small outdoor events - weather permitting.

Dining

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!

Contact

Booking Request

Ballygally Castle Hotel
Coast Rd, Ballygalley, Larne, BT40 2QZ
United Kingdom