Ahoghill is a large village of intermediate settlement in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, just under six kilometres from Ballymena, along the A42.
Its name is derived from the Irish Achadh Eochaille (field of the yew forest).
Archaeological and topographical evidence suggests the surrounding area was inhabited in early times, with numerous ancient forts, tumuli, and human remains indicating prehistoric settlement and conflict.
Historically known as Magherahoghill, the parish was strategically positioned between the River Bann and the River Maine. During the Williamite War in 1689, the nearby ford at Portglenone was a key crossing point defended against Irish forces. In the 18th century, the area saw both civic mobilisation, such as the raising of volunteer corps during the threat of French invasion in 1760, and episodes of rural unrest, notably the "Hearts of Steel" agrarian movement.
Ahoghill was also touched by religious and social change. The 1859 Ulster Revival brought large gatherings to the village, particularly at First Ahoghill Presbyterian Church, where overcrowding during a Thanksgiving service became part of local lore. The Troubles of the late 20th century left their mark, including the 1977 killing of a local shopkeeper.
Traditionally, the economy was rooted in agriculture, with mixed farming and linen production playing essential roles. While agriculture remains significant, the modern economy is more diverse, with residents commuting to nearby Ballymena and beyond for work in manufacturing, retail, and services.
Notable sites within the village include its three Presbyterian churches (First Ahoghill, Brookside, and Trinity), reflecting its strong Presbyterian heritage, as well as St. Colmanell's Church of Ireland, a prominent landmark on Church Street. The surrounding countryside, from ancient habitation to contemporary life, remains visible in its structures and community institutions.
This category lists websites and online resources related to the village. Likely inclusions are local government or community sites, historical and cultural resources, churches and other places of worship, educational institutions, local businesses and services, recreational and sporting organisations, and news or media outlets covering the area.
Recommended Resources
Sean Blaney had grown a cluster of engineering businesses from his family farm in Ahoghill, County Antrim. These companies operate under the Blaney Group umbrella, sharing expertise to drive innovation in design and manufacturing. These include Blaney Motor, Blaney Agri, Quad-X, Load-X, Blaney Fabrications, and Blaney Gears, of which specialises in a segment of agricultural or industrial engineering, while collaborating closely to cross-pollinate skills, ideas, and innovations.
https://www.blaney-group.com/
Brookside is an evangelical church situated in the heart of Ahoghill, County Antrim, Northern Ireland. Its main Sunday service begins at 11:30 am, with online streaming available for those who prefer to attend remotely. The congregation has served the community for over two and a half centuries. Featured on its website are a monthly prayer guide, daily devotionals, and information about its small-group ministries and leadership training programmes. Contact details are provided.
https://www.brooksidepc.org/
First Ahoghill Presbyterian Church
Situated on Straid Road in Ahoghill, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, the church and its adjacent graveyard are landmarks in the local community. Sunday gatherings begin with Sunday School and One-to-One session, followed by Morning Worship, and Midweek Prayer meetings are held after the Wednesday meeting, with smaller groups arranged throughout the week. The church hosts a variety of programmes for people of all ages, and its services are streamed and archived.
https://firstahoghill.co.uk/
Raymart Building Maintenance & Support Team
Established by Raymond Scullion in 2005, Raymart is a specialist building, repairs, and maintenance contractor based just outside Ahoghill, County Antrim, Northern Ireland. Its complete maintenance package covers all types of work, including electrical, plumbing, joinery, landscaping, and general maintenance and repairs. Its team is on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with rapid response times tailored to each client's needs. Qualifications and safety information are provided.
http://www.raymart.net/
St. Paul's is a Catholic-maintained primary school serving children from Primary 1 through Primary 7. Its mission statement emphasizes nurturing each pupil's academic, spiritual, and personal development within a supportive community environment. The school delivers a broad curriculum covering literacy, numeracy, science, and the arts, along with digital learning initiatives led by ICT and Digital Leaders, and sports programmes from Gaelic football to athletics.
https://www.stpaulspsahoghill.com/
