Ballyronan Marina

Jun 18, 2023

2 min read

Updated: Sep 13

📍 Ballyronan, County Derry

💷 Free

🅿️ Free parking

🚻 Toilets, baby changing and Changing Places facility

♿️ Wheelchair accessible and SEN friendly

☕️ Café

🧒 Suitable for all ages

🗺️ 135A Shore Road, Ballyronan, Magherafelt, BT45 6JA

What You’ll Find

The main attraction for families is the fantastic nautical-themed play park.

It has been built to a really high standard, with inclusive equipment suitable for children of different ages and abilities.

There is a tall play tower, a large ship, bridges, climbing nets, slides, a musical play area and a large spinning wheel. There is plenty for younger children to enjoy, while the taller equipment gives older children a bit more adventure.

Beyond the play park, you can explore the wetland walk and eco trails through Ballyronan Wood. There is also a viewing platform overlooking Lough Neagh, picnic areas, a barbecue site and lots of space to enjoy the surroundings.

For the Grown Ups

There is a café at the marina where you can stop for food or drinks. Opening hours can vary, so it is worth checking before you visit.

There are also picnic and barbecue areas if you would prefer to bring your own food.

The marina has toilets, baby-changing facilities and a Changing Places toilet, which makes this a particularly good option for families needing accessible facilities.

Why We Loved It

✅ The brilliant nautical-themed play park

✅ Inclusive equipment for different ages and abilities

✅ Beautiful views over Lough Neagh

✅ Woodland and wetland walking trails

✅ Excellent accessible facilities

✅ Completely free to visit

Wee Adventurer Top Tips

⭐️ Bring bikes or scooters for the pathways

⭐️ Pack a picnic and make a few hours of it

⭐️ Keep younger children close beside the marina and Lough Neagh

⭐️ Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead

⭐️ Check the café’s opening hours before travelling

⭐️ The harmless Lough Neagh fly can appear at certain times of the year

⭐️ Bring wellies after wet weather if you plan to explore the woodland trails

Overall Verdict

Ballyronan Marina is a fantastic free family day out with much more than just a play park.

The inclusive equipment, accessible facilities, woodland trails and beautiful setting beside Lough Neagh make it somewhere the whole family can enjoy. You could pop in for a quick play or bring a picnic and easily spend a few hours exploring.

Have You Visited?

Have you visited Ballyronan Marina with your wee adventurers? Let us know what they enjoyed most and tag @WeeAdventurers in your family adventures!