Overview
The River Braid (Irish: Abhainn na Brád) is a 15‑mile spate river that rises in the Antrim Hills and flows south‑westerly through the heart of Broughshane before joining the River Main near Ballymena. Its clear waters, gentle meanders and surrounding farmland create a peaceful backdrop for walkers, bird‑watchers and anglers alike. The river is a focal point of the village’s identity – Broughshane is proudly billed as the “Garden Village of Ulster”, and the river’s banks host several community‑run walks and wildlife sanctuaries.
History & Background
Historically the Braid Valley marked the boundary between the parishes of Skerry and Rathcavan in the 19th century. Over the decades the river has remained a vital natural resource for the local population, supporting both agriculture and sport fishing. In recent years the Braid Angling Club has invested in improved facilities, especially to make salmon fishing more accessible for disabled anglers. The river’s reputation for good water quality has helped sustain healthy populations of brown trout, Dollaghan (the migratory Lough Neagh trout) and seasonal runs of salmon and sea trout.
What to See & Do
Braid River Path
The Braid River Path is a 4.3 km out‑and‑back walk that starts at the Grange Road trailhead, just 0.7 mi southwest of Ballymena railway station. The route follows light tree cover before reaching the riverbank, then continues alongside the water past farmland and the edge of the Galgorm Castle Golf Club. The terrain is easy, with an overall elevation gain of 98 m, and most walkers complete it in 1–1.5 hours. Signage is average, crowd levels are moderate, and the path is family‑friendly. Pets are welcome on a leash.
Riverside Walks & Wildlife
Beyond the formal path, the Little Acorn Riverside Walk meanders around the village’s side of the River Braid, linking the Little Acorn Wood to the Broughshane Waterfowl & Wildlife Trust sanctuary. Here visitors can hear the river’s gentle rush, spot waterfowl, and enjoy a dedicated hedgehog habitat on the adjoining Butterfly Walk. The sanctuary is one of only two places worldwide where all seven species of swan – whooper, Bewick’s, mute, trumpeter, tundra, black and swan – can be observed in the same site, a fact highlighted by the Mid & East Antrim walking guide.
Angling
The river is a prized fishing venue. The Braid Angling Club holds rights from the Fork bridge on the Carnlough Road to the Motorway Bridge on the Broughshane Road. The river is stocked regularly with brown trout and Dollaghan, and supports seasonal runs of salmon (June‑September) and sea trout. Anglers may fish by bait or spinning. A day permit costs £4.00, while a full‑day licence is available at McNeills Hardware Store for £10. The club is actively improving access for disabled anglers.
Events & Seasonal Activities
May marks National Walking Month in Mid & East Antrim. The council’s MEA Outdoors programme offers a series of free guided walks along the River Braid, including sections of the Little Acorn Riverside Walk and the Braid River Path. These events are family‑friendly and provide an excellent opportunity to learn about local flora, fauna and the river’s heritage.
Cultural Highlights
A short walk from the river brings you to Raceview Mill, a 200‑year‑old mill converted into a centre for tourism, arts and crafts. Its Butterfly Walk leads directly back to the river, and the nearby Wool Tower now serves as a unique wedding venue. The surrounding hills, especially Slemish Mountain, offer panoramic views of the Braid Valley and are steeped in St Patrick legend.
Nearby Attractions
While you’re in the Braid Valley, consider a visit to Ballymena Castle, a historic 17th‑century house set in landscaped gardens just a short drive from the river. The castle’s grounds are open to the public and provide additional walking routes, a café, and occasional heritage events.
Practical Information
Getting there – The river runs parallel to the A42 road. From Ballymena, follow signs for Broughshane and turn onto Grange Road to reach the trailhead. Public transport: Ballymena railway station is a 0.7 mi walk to the trailhead. For drivers, free on‑site parking is available near the start of the Little Acorn Riverside Walk.
Fishing permits – Day permits can be purchased locally; the Braid Angling Club’s office provides details, and day licences are sold at McNeills Hardware Store. The river is open year‑round for angling, with the peak salmon season from June to September.
Accessibility – The Braid Angling Club is upgrading facilities to improve access for disabled anglers. The Riverside Walks are largely flat and suitable for wheelchair users, though some sections of the Braid River Path have uneven ground.
Coordinates – 54.856028, ‑6.286669. Use Google Maps or Apple Maps for navigation.
Further reading – For a concise overview, see the Wikipedia entry for Braid River.
Seasonal notes – While the walk is enjoyable year‑round, the river’s salmon run peaks in September and October, offering anglers a spectacular sight.
The River Braid provides a rare blend of gentle walking, rich wildlife and rewarding angling, all set against the rolling farmland of County Antrim. Whether you are seeking a leisurely stroll with the family, a quiet spot to cast a line, or a scenic backdrop for a picnic, the river’s banks welcome you.