Summer may be drawing to a close, but there is still time to enjoy a few more memorable days out before the season changes.
Whether you fancy a relaxed afternoon at Tullyglass, an overnight escape in Ballymena or one last adventure around Northern Ireland, late August and early September are perfect for making the most of the longer days.
To help you plan, we have brought together some of our favourite ways to enjoy the final weeks of summer – starting right here at Tullyglass House Hotel.
Make the Most of Summer at Tullyglass ☀️
1. Savour Summer Afternoon Tea 🍰
Slow down and enjoy a little indulgence with our Seasonal Summer Afternoon Tea in the elegant surroundings of McAllister’s Whiskey Lounge.
Enjoy freshly prepared sandwiches and savoury bites, warm homemade scones with clotted cream and strawberry preserve, and handcrafted pastries and desserts from our in-house pâtissier. Add tea or coffee – or a glass of Prosecco for an extra-special summer treat.
Available Monday to Saturday from 12 noon until 4.00pm throughout the summer season. Advance booking is recommended.
2. Plan a Date Night at McAllister’s 🥂
Make the most of a late-summer evening with delicious food, handcrafted cocktails and time together at McAllister’s Whiskey Lounge.
From relaxed lunches to evening dining, McAllister’s offers stylish surroundings, a warm atmosphere and menus filled with classic favourites and fresh local flavours. It is ideal for date night, a long-overdue catch-up with friends or a spontaneous evening out.
3. Gather Everyone for the Post House Carvery 🍽️
Some of the best summer memories are made around the table. Bring family or friends together and enjoy the much-loved Post House Carvery, with generous portions, comforting favourites and no washing-up afterwards.
It is the perfect way to round off a day exploring County Antrim – or simply an excuse to enjoy good food and great company close to home.
EXPLORE DINING AT TULLYGLASS →
4. Take a Stroll Through the Tullyglass Grounds 🌳
Before dinner or after Afternoon Tea, take time to enjoy the beautiful gardens and woodland surrounding the hotel. With 15 acres of peaceful grounds, Tullyglass offers a lovely setting for a gentle stroll, a quiet coffee or a few final summer photographs.
There is no need to rush. Find a favourite spot, enjoy the fresh air and let the pace of the day slow down.
5. Turn One Day into a Relaxing Overnight Stay 🛏️
Why head home when you can make a proper break of it? Stay in one of our beautifully refurbished Superior Bedrooms, spacious Deluxe Rooms, elegant Suites, Family Rooms or luxury Residences.
Enjoy dinner, a restful night and breakfast the next morning before setting off to discover more of Northern Ireland. With complimentary on-site parking and many leading attractions within easy reach, Tullyglass is an ideal base for a last-minute summer staycation.
Late-Summer Adventures Around Northern Ireland 🚗
6. Climb Slemish Mountain 🥾
Just a short drive from Tullyglass, Slemish is a wonderful choice for anyone who wants to stretch their legs and take in panoramic views across County Antrim.
The mountain is closely associated with Saint Patrick and its distinctive shape can be seen for miles. Choose a clear day, bring suitable footwear and enjoy one of the most rewarding local outings close to Ballymena.
7. Follow the Causeway Coastal Route 🌊
Pack the camera and spend a day exploring one of Northern Ireland’s most scenic routes. From the Glens of Antrim and Glenariff Forest Park to the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and the Dark Hedges, there is no shortage of unforgettable stops.
You do not have to see everything in one day. Choose two or three favourites, stop in a coastal village for lunch and return to Tullyglass for a relaxing evening.
EXPLORE ATTRACTIONS NEAR TULLYGLASS →
8. Keep a Belfast Day Out in Your Back Pocket 🏙️
Northern Irish weather does not always follow the plan, but that does not have to spoil the day. Belfast is within comfortable driving distance of the hotel and offers shopping, cafés, museums and visitor attractions for every forecast.
Step inside Titanic Belfast, explore the city centre or combine a little sightseeing with lunch before heading back to Ballymena.
Add These Dates to Your Late-Summer Diary 📅
Belfast Mela | 22–30 August 2026 🌍
Celebrate music, dance, food and culture at Belfast Mela. The city-wide festival finishes with Mela Day at Botanic Gardens and includes global performances, international food, workshops, family activities and wellbeing experiences.
NI Legends at Galgorm | 2–6 September 2026 ⛳
Golf fans can enjoy top-class tournament action close to Tullyglass when NI Legends returns to Galgorm Castle Golf Club. Its Ballymena location makes it easy to combine a day at the golf with dinner and an overnight stay at Tullyglass House Hotel.
Find out more about NI Legends
Armagh Food and Cider Weekend | 3–6 September 2026 🍎
For food lovers, the Orchard County hosts four days of tastings, guided orchard tours, special dining experiences and celebrations of local produce. It is a delicious way to extend the summer feeling into early September.
Explore Armagh Food and Cider Weekend
Your Easy Two-Day End-of-Summer Escape 🤍
Day One: Arrive at Tullyglass, settle into your room and enjoy a stroll through the grounds. Treat yourself to Afternoon Tea or dinner and drinks at McAllister’s Whiskey Lounge.
Day Two: After breakfast, choose a local walk at Slemish, a scenic drive through the Glens of Antrim or a full day exploring the Causeway Coast. Return to Tullyglass for a relaxed meal before heading home.
It is simple, unhurried and exactly what an end-of-summer break should be.
Plan Your Final Summer Escape at Tullyglass ✔️
Whether you join us for Afternoon Tea, dinner with friends or a relaxing overnight stay, Tullyglass House Hotel is perfectly placed for enjoying the best of Ballymena and Northern Ireland before summer comes to a close.
Make the most of the season, create a few more memories and let us take care of the rest.
