Located in County Antrim is the town of Ballymena. This town is built on land that was given by King Charles I to the Adair family. When he gave the Adair family the land it was with the understanding that there would be a free Saturday market and two annual fairs. Today the market is still held every Saturday.
Thanks to its popular Saturday market, Ballymena is known for its shopping extravagance. You will find many interesting areas to explore. The market isn't the only reason Ballymena has become so popular. Many believe that the linen industry is what caused the boom. It's true though that even today you will find just about anything you could possibly hope to find. Ballymena has become the shopping Mecca for Antrim County in Ireland.
It's not the only thing that draws the visitors, although it is the main reason, for the golfer it's all about game. Ballymena is home to one of two golf courses in County Antrim. Golfers can enjoy a nice rousing game of golf here. With a par of 68 you will find that the 5,795 yards of this golf course are not necessarily the easiest you've ever handled. If anything seeing the beauty of the area makes the course just that much more enjoyable. It is dominated by the Slemish Mountain and make for a breathtaking view.
Another popular attraction is the Slemish Mountain itself. This mountain is almost 1500 feet high and is believed to be the remains of an extinct volcano. It is also a place of pilgrimage. It is said that when St Patrick was captured during a raid on his homeland he spent six years on the mountain as a slave shepherd. Here he went through a formative period in his Christian experience which helped strengthen his faith and played a part in his returning to bring Christianity to Ireland. Many people venture up the mountain side on March 17th, St. Patrick's Day. It is also a great place to hike. The lower slopes are gentler and easier to manage but the upper slopes are steep and rugged. Experienced hikers can enjoy the challenge of some of these slopes.
There are also many hiking trails around the mountain that will give those less experienced a lot of fantastic views and entertainment. It is a steep walk but many find it enjoyable and it is extremely popular.
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