Ballymena gearing up for another record St Patrick’s Day at Slemish and ecos

SPECTACULAR views and traditional entertainment are all on offer at Slemish Mountain this St Patrick’s Day. After a challenging hike up the hill where the Saint reputedly tended sheep, reward yourself with one of the most beautiful sights around..... miles of rolling countryside in every direction.

Following the huge success of last year’s St Patrick’s Day events at Slemish and the nearby ecos Centre, Ballymena Borough Council is once again providing aparkand ride facility forease of access.

Each year, numbers visiting the Mountain on March 17 have grown dramatically with more than 3,000 last year. Storytelling, traditional music and children’s entertainment will be among the fantastic attractions at the ecos Centre between 12.00 and 4.00. You can also enjoy delicious traditional Irish fayre at the ecos Cafe.

Visitors can park at the ecos Centre, Buckna Presbyterian Church car park and Buckna Gospel Hall car park. Park & Ride services will run continually from ecos between 9.00am and 2.00pm and the Buckna car parks between 9am and 3pm with all coaches departing from Slemish from 4.00pm.

There is a small charge for this service - adults £2.00, children £1.50 from ecos and adults £1.50, Children £1.00 from Buckna. Children under 5 years go free. Only disabled badge holders will be allowed to park at Slemish car park and no parking will be permitted along the Carnstroan Road or the Carnstroan Lane approach to the Mountain.

The mountain walk takes approximately two hours up and down and Suitable clothing and footwear are necessary if you are to enjoy the best St Patrick’s experience. For further information on this event contact Ballymena Tourist Information Centre on 028 2563 5900.