Ballyronan

What You'll Find

Ballyronan Marina is one of those places that's well worth a visit with the kids, especially if they love a good playground! Sitting right beside Lough Neagh, there's a brilliant nautical-themed play park, woodland walks and plenty of space to enjoy a few hours outdoors.

The playground is definitely the main attraction, and it's a fantastic one! There's a huge play ship, a tall climbing tower, bridges, climbing nets and slides, so the kids can climb aboard, scramble around and pretend they're sailing across Lough Neagh.

You'll also find a musical play area and a big spinning wheel, along with inclusive play equipment designed to let more children join in. There's a good mix of things to explore, particularly for children who enjoy climbing and imaginative play.

Once you've managed to get everyone away from the playground, take a wander around the marina or explore the woodland and wetland trails through Ballyronan Wood. There's a viewing platform overlooking Lough Neagh, which is a lovely spot for watching the birds and looking out across the water.

There are picnic and barbecue areas if you fancy bringing your own food, and The Scullery café is a handy option for a coffee or something to eat when it's open.

Another useful thing for families is that the marina has baby-changing facilities and a Changing Places toilet, which can make a big difference when planning a day out.

You could easily come just for the playground, but between the play ship, woodland trails and waterside walks, there's enough here to keep the kids entertained for a good few hours.

Wee Ones Will Love...

• ✓Climbing aboard the huge nautical-themed play ship
• ✓Crossing bridges, scrambling over climbing nets and zooming down the slides
• ✓Exploring the musical play area and having a go on the big spinning wheel
• ✓Looking out across Lough Neagh from the viewing platform
• ✓Following the woodland and wetland trails to see what birds they can spot

Before You Visit

The playground is fenced, but the marina and Lough Neagh shoreline are open water, so keep younger children close when exploring beyond the play area.

The woodland and wetland trails can be muddy after rain, so wellies or suitable footwear are a good idea if you're planning a walk.

The Scullery café may have different opening hours throughout the year, so check before relying on it for lunch.

The Lough Neagh fly can appear in large numbers at certain times of year. They're harmless, but worth knowing about if you're visiting during the warmer months.

⭐ Wee Adventurers Top Tips

• ⭐The huge play ship is the main attraction here, so allow plenty of time for the playground before planning anything else.
• ⭐Bring bikes or scooters if your children enjoy them, but stick to paths where cycling is permitted.
• ⭐Pack a picnic if you're making an afternoon of it. There are designated picnic areas beside the marina.
• ⭐Take a wander to the viewing platform after the playground for views across Lough Neagh and a chance to spot some birds.
• ⭐If you're visiting after rain, bring wellies for the woodland trails.