Slemish Mountain, the legendary first known Irish home of Saint Patrick, dominates the County Antrim landscape. Slemish is located 1 mile east of Broughshane, just outside Ballymena Town; a quaint and charming village that was named UK Village of the Year 2018. The mountain rises approximately 1500 feet (437 metres) above the surrounding plain and is actually the central core of a long extinct volcano. Slemish has a geological history that dates back millennia. The mountain is all that remains of a volcanic plug much more durable than the surrounding rock, which has been eroded through millions of years of blustery Irish weather.
Whilst Slemish looms large over the surrounding lands of North Antrim, it’s cultural significance in Ireland is larger still, thanks to its association with the early life of the island’s legendary patron saint, Saint Patrick. Born sometime around AD390, according to legend, following his capture and being brought as a slave to Ireland, Patrick worked as a shepherd on Slemish Mountain for about six years, from ages 16 through 22, for a man named Milchu (or Miluic), the local Chieftain. It was during this time that Patrick turned to frequent prayer as his only consolation in his loneliness. In a vision he was encouraged to escape and return home.
He did manage to escape and return home, becoming a priest and returning to Ireland, allegedly to convert his old master. The legend goes that his own real conversion took place while on Slemish, out in all weathers, communing with nature and praying continuously. As Patrick was not the first Christian Bishop to visit Ireland, his ministry was confined to the North. Here he established churches and an episcopal system. One such church is thought to have been founded at the nearby site of Skerry Churchyard, which can also be visited on your trip.
Slemish Mountain is open all year round and on Saint Patrick's Day (17 March) large crowds hike to the top of the mountain as a pilgrimage with nearby musical festivities.
The 1.5 kilometre round walk to the summit and back takes approximately one hour in good weather. Excellent views can be had of the Antrim and Scottish coasts to the east. Ballymena town, Lough Neagh and the Sperrin Mountains are all normally visible to the west whilst the Bann Valley and the higher summits of the Antrim Hills can be seen to the North. The 180 metre climb is steep and rocky. The path can become very slippery in wet weather so care should be taken.
As the weather in County Antrim can change very rapidly, please come equipped with good waterproofs and strong footwear. All dogs should be kept on leads.
Large parking facility with interpretation boards and washrooms onsite.
While you're visiting Slemish, why not make a day of it? Click here to discover other things to see and do in the area...
AT A GLANCE:
Slemish Mountain
Carnstroan Lane, Broughshane BT42 4PE
Distance: 1.2 miles / 1.5 km – approx. 1 hour walk.
Terrain: Steep rocky track
Point of interest: Look out for Wheater, Irish hare, Buzzard & Ravens
Facilities: Picnic tables, public toilets, interpretation boards and a car park.
Open all year with free access. All dogs should be kept on leads.
Slemish Mountain is about 1,500 feet above sea level and is located close to Broughshane in County Antrim. It is the legendary home of Saint Patrick and is actually the central core of an extinct volcano. Hike to the top and enjoy fantastic views!
Arthur Cottage, Cullybackey, is the Ancestral Home of the 21st President of the USA Chester Alan Arthur.
Gracehill, an 18th-century Moravian settlement near Ballymena, is Northern Ireland's first UNESCO Cultural World Heritage site. Visitors can explore its preserved Georgian architecture, historic sites, and book guided tours.
Slemish Market Garden, located at Ecos Nature Park, Ballymena prides itself on using traditional methods to grow seasonal fruit, vegetables and cottage garden plants onsite. Fresh produce plus transplants and potted plants are available for sale.
18th century thatched, family friendly bar and restaurant set in the award winning village of Broughshane with a great choice of menu and unique historic features.
