In The Mount

In The Mount is a contemporary art gallery tucked away in Ballymoney, and it's one of those places that catches you off guard with how seriously it takes itself. The space hosts rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary work - paintings, sculptures, installations - with a real focus on both established and emerging artists. You're looking at anywhere from two to four hours here depending on how much you want to sit with individual pieces, though plenty of visitors breeze through in 45 minutes.

The gallery works best for art enthusiasts and anyone after a cultural break during a Causeway Coast break. History buffs won't find much - this is about current creative practice, not heritage. Children under ten will likely find it tedious unless they're already gallery-trained, but teenagers with an art interest might surprise you.

Ballymoney itself is a working market town rather than a coastal tourist hub, so In The Mount feels genuinely local - no coach parties, no tourist gift shop nonsense. That said, it's worth timing your visit properly since hours can be irregular and admission policies vary by exhibition. Ring ahead to check what's on.

If you're based at Watertop Farm or North Coast 9 Glamping nearby, this makes a solid rainy-day outing or a morning slot before heading to the bigger attractions along the coast. Don't expect it to be the highlight of your break, but it's a proper addition to a mixed itinerary rather than a tourist tick-box.