Overview
The Joey Dunlop Memorial Garden sits at the corner of Castle Street and Seymour Street in Ballymoney, County Antrim. A tranquil urban oasis, it commemorates three generations of the Dunlop racing family – Joey, Robert and William – whose achievements shaped road‑racing history. The garden is open all year, free of charge, and offers on‑site parking.
History
Born in Ballymoney in 1952, Joey Dunlop became known as the “King of the Roads”. His record includes five Formula One World Championships, 13 North West 200 wins, 24 Ulster Grand Prix victories and a record 26 Isle of Man TT wins. He was awarded an MBE in 1986 and an OBE in 1996 for humanitarian work. After his fatal accident in Estonia on 2 July 2000, an estimated 60,000 mourners gathered in Ballymoney for his funeral. In May 2001 the Ballymoney Borough Council opened the Joey Dunlop Memorial Garden.
Robert Dunlop, Joey’s younger brother, enjoyed a parallel career with multiple wins at the North West 200, Ulster Grand Prix and Isle of Man TT. He was killed in a qualifying crash on 15 May 2008. The Robert Dunlop Memorial Garden, opened on 8 May 2010, adjoins the original garden and features a polished granite obelisk and a bronze sculpture of Robert.
The third generation, William Dunlop, was killed on 7 July 2018 at the Skerries 100. In February 2022 a life‑size statue of William was unveiled beside his father’s monument, completing a poignant trio of tributes within the same green space.
What to See & Do
Visitors can walk along the neatly laid‑out paths and pause at three distinct monuments:
- Joey Dunlop statue – a bronze figure capturing his determined expression, set against a backdrop of mature shrubs.
- Robert Dunlop memorial – a polished granite obelisk topped by a bronze likeness of Robert, positioned beside the original garden.
- William Dunlop statue – a life‑size bronze unveiled in 2022, placed close to his father’s monument.
The garden’s design incorporates low‑maintenance planting, benches, and subtle lighting that allows evening visits. It also serves as a waypoint on the Ballymoney Heritage Trail, linking the garden to nearby attractions such as the Ballymoney Museum, the Old Church Graveyard, and the Town Hall Arts centre. The site accepts coach parties, making it suitable for group outings or school visits.
Events & Commemorations
The garden is a focal point during the annual road‑racing calendar. During the North West 200 and Ulster Grand Prix weeks, fans often gather here before and after races to pay tribute. In May 2025 the town hosted “Joey 25”, a special event marking the 25th anniversary of Joey’s death, featuring a parade of historic motorcycles, meet‑and‑greet sessions with current racers, live music and a memorabilia exhibition at Ballymoney Museum. Similar commemorations are held each year, making the garden a living part of the Dunlop legacy.
Getting Here & Transport
Parking – On‑site parking is available; a modest charge may apply to some spaces during peak periods.
Public transport – The garden is a short walk (≈5 minutes) from Ballymoney railway station. Local bus services (including the 242 and 244 routes) stop on the nearby A26 Frosses Road, providing easy access for visitors without a car.
Accessibility – Level public footpaths make the garden wheelchair‑friendly. Accessible toilet facilities are located a short distance away along the Ballymoney Heritage Trail.
Nearby Amenities
- Joey’s Bar – Just a minute’s walk from the garden, this popular local pub offers refreshments and a chance to mingle with fellow fans.
- Ballymoney Museum – 0.28 mi away; houses a unique collection of motor‑sport memorabilia, including Dunlop artefacts.
- Riverside Park – 0.4 mi away; a larger green space for a relaxed stroll or picnic.
- Town Hall Arts, Museum & Visitor Information – 0.32 mi away; provides tourist information and occasional exhibitions.
Practical Information
Opening hours All year round, including Christmas and New Year. The garden is open daily from dawn until dusk.
Admission Free entry for all visitors.
Parking & transport On‑site parking is available; some spaces may be subject to a modest charge. The garden is a short walk from Ballymoney railway station and is well served by local bus routes. The main road signs from the A26 Frosses Road guide drivers directly to the corner of Castle Street and Seymour Street.
Accessibility The garden is reachable via public footpaths that are level and wheelchair‑friendly. Accessible toilet facilities are located along the Ballymoney Heritage Trail, a short distance away.
Contact Phone: +44 (0) 28 2766 0230 Website: https://www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com/things-to-do/dunlop-memorial-gardens-p677231
Plan your visit to the Joey Dunlop Memorial Garden as part of a broader exploration of Ballymoney’s rich motor‑sport heritage, and experience the quiet reverence that this garden offers to fans and families alike.
The Dunlop family were part of the famed Armoy Armada – a quartet of 1970s riders from nearby Armoy.