Ballynure village crowned Northern Ireland’s ‘Best of the Best’

Ballynure has been crowned Northern Ireland's overall ‘Best of the Best’ winner at the 2026 Best Kept City, Town, Village and Housing Area Awards, following its success in the Best Kept Small Village category.

The picturesque village impressed judges with its vibrant floral displays, immaculate presentation and strong community spirit, demonstrated by local volunteers who work tirelessly to create a welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.

It was a standout day for the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough area, with Antrim holding onto their title of Best Kept Large Town for a second consecutive year and Randalstown taking home the award for Best Kept Small Town, showcasing the Borough's continued commitment to civic pride and environmental excellence.

Organised by the Northern Ireland Amenity Council (NIAC), the awards ceremony took place at the Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen, on 14 October 2026, bringing together more than 100 representatives from cities, towns, villages and housing areas across Northern Ireland. The awards recognise the dedication and hard work of volunteers, community groups and Councils whose efforts enhance and protect their local environments.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan, said: “Our borough has scored a hat-trick success with Randalstown, Antrim and Ballynure all receiving top honours, and Ballynure crowned the province’s overall ‘Best of the Best’.

“I’m very proud of what has been achieved, these awards reflect the pride, dedication and community spirit of our residents and volunteers who work tirelessly to make our places cleaner, greener and more welcoming."

Now in its 69th year, the Best Kept campaign continues to celebrate communities that demonstrate outstanding commitment to environmental improvement, sustainability, biodiversity and civic pride.

NIAC Chairman, Doreen Muskett MBE, said: “We are delighted to recognise the superb environmental work being done throughout Northern Ireland and celebrate all those who work tirelessly throughout the year to improve the areas in which they live or work.

“Ballynure and indeed all this year's winners truly embody the spirit of the Best Kept Awards, showcasing their dedication to enhancing the quality of life for residents and preserving the natural beauty of the region. The volunteer contribution to the work of Ballynure is the envy of many community groups throughout Northern Ireland and is exemplary.”

The awards ceremony featured a range of categories including Best Kept Cities, Towns and Villages, Best Kept Housing Areas and Best Kept Community Hero. The awards recognised not only the appearance of nominated areas but also the efforts being made to promote sustainability, biodiversity and community engagement.

Speaking at the event, Joe Mahon, Patron of the Northern Ireland Amenity Council, said, “It is wonderful to see so many people coming together to serve their communities, giving up their time so freely to make our cities, towns, villages and housing areas greener and cleaner. I congratulate all the winners here today."

The full list of winners is available on the Northern Ireland Amenity Council Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/bestkeptawards/