If you are a fan of reading, the Ballyhackamore Library located just off Upper Newtownards Road is a fantastic place to visit. With a 5-star Google rating, the library also holds weekly events for people of all ages. In addition to this, there is also an exhibition space and a study area.

Or, why not take a stroll through Victoria Park? It’s a great way to spend a few hours exploring and relaxing. The park is home to many water birds such as swans, ducks, geese and herons. If you prefer exercising outside, the park also has football pitches, tennis courts and basketball courts, along with two walking trails around the lake.

Ballyhackamore is suited to both first-time buyers and those who are looking for a larger, family home.

The Belmont area is extremely popular with house buyers, with excellent transport links, close to amenities and in close proximity to schools, it is clear to see why. Homes in this area range from 2-bedroom terraced homes to large 4-bedroom family homes.

Another popular residential area is between Bloomfield Road and Grand Parade, with many of the homes being very affordable under £200k. An added benefit of living in this area is that you are extremely close to Orangefield Park, which has an abundance of wildlife.

You won’t be short of places to eat and drink in Ballyhackamore after unsurprisingly being named the Brunch Capital of Belfast by the Sunday Times in 2018. The area is well-known for its growing portfolio of independent restaurants.

If you are passionate about food, head to Graze which serves locally-sourced flavourful food made from the finest ingredients. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a meal out for the whole family, Graze has been an integral part of the Ballyhackamore food scene since it first opened its doors in 2013.

Or why not try the much-loved Neill’s Hill? Nestled in the heart of Ballyhackamore, this neighbourhood restaurant has been serving high-quality food for over 20 years. From brunch through to the evening menu, there is something for everyone. The restaurant specialises in local cuts, fresh fish and even has dedicated menus for vegans and vegetarians.

If you love shopping, you’ll be pleasantly surprised that there is a great shopping centre located within Ballyhackamore. Forestside Shopping Centre has a range of shops, such as Clarks, H&M, Monsoon, Marks & Spencer and Next, to name a few.

Open seven days a week, the shopping centre has on-site parking and is very accessible, with the option to have a wheelchair provided. There are also feeding area facilities and lockers available.

Or why not head to the high street? Nearby in Holywood, Lulu Blu is a trendy women's clothing store. Whilst you’re there, pop next door and you will find Bluebell Cottage, a beautiful store filled with hand-painted furniture, home decor and clothing.

With the large offering of restaurants and eateries in Ballyhackamore, it will come as no surprise that hospitality work is in abundance in this area. With roles in chains such as Little Wing Pizzeria or KFC often available.

However, with excellent transport links or a short drive away by car, it makes sense to commute to Belfast for more job opportunities. According to NI Direct, some of the most sought-after roles in Northern Ireland are in ICT, Digital Media and Financial Services, to name a few.

Ballyhackamore is less than a fifteen-minute drive away from Belfast, depending on what time of day you choose to travel, so it makes it a perfect place to live if you need to commute to the city.

If you are travelling via public transport, you’ll be pleased to know that a regular bus service from the city centre is running every ten minutes. Or, you could take a leisurely stroll in just under an hour.

Ballyhackamore is not short on big brand names that many of us use, along Upper Newtownards Road there are grocery stores such as Tesco Express and a EUROSPAR. Whilst you’re there, you could also pop by the conveniently located Post Office if needed.

There happens to be many independent stores down the same road, such as the very popular health shop Natures Way or indulge at Kirks Bakery. Along this busy high street, you will also find popular establishments such as KFC and Caffé Nero.

There are several churches in Ballyhackamore, such as the Catholic St Colmcilles Parish, Kirkpatrick Memorial Presbyterian Church and Ballyhackamore Gospel Hall.

For those wanting to hit the gym, there is INTENT located on Upper Newtownards Road which focuses not only on your fitness but your mental health too.

According to SchoolGuide, Our Lady and St Patrick’s College is their top-rated school for the area of Ballyhackamore. The Catholic diocesan grammar school is mixed-sex for ages 11 to 17 and around 1400 students currently attend.

If you are looking for a primary school, St. Joseph’s is a Catholic co-educational primary school located on Holland Drive, just off Upper Newtownards Road. The school is situated in a very popular residential area, perfect for young families.