bangor northern ireland tourist attractions

12 Of The Best Things To Do In Bangor In Northern Ireland

By Author Gillian Birch

Posted on Last updated: January 2, 2024

There’s a handful of things to do in Bangor in Northern Ireland and there’s endless places to visit nearby!

And, while many tend to miss it when exploring County Down, the town has a bustling food scene and it’s a great place to explore from.

Below, you’ll discover what to do in Bangor, from walks and great places to eat to heaps of nearby attractions.

Table of Contents

Our favourite things to do in Bangor in Northern Ireland

Photos via Shutterstock

The first section of our guide is packed with what  we  think are the best things to do in Bangor in Northern Ireland.

These are places that one or more of our team have visited and loved. Dive on in!

1. Kick start your visit with coffee or something tasty from The Guillemot Kitchen Café

Photos via Guillemot Kitchen Café on FB

The Guillemot Kitchen Café serves up delicious home cooking with a trademark twist. Visit the place for its famous breakfasts, boozy brunches and hearty lunches.

While you’ll find plenty of traditional favourites such as the Ulster Fry and Belfast Baps served with sausages, hashbrowns, bacon and a fried egg, there are also choices such as huevos rancheros, tortillas topped with guacamole, pico de gallo, fresh cheese, chillies and fried eggs.

There is also a shop where you can stock up on local cheeses, hampers and feasting boxes, and there are tapas nights, book clubs and other events to join in.

2. Then head for a stroll around Bangor Marina and the North Pier

© Bernie Brown bbphotographic for Tourism Ireland

One of the more popular things to do in Bangor in Northern Ireland is to head for a ramble down by the pier.

Bangor Marina runs from the bottom of the town’s Main Street right round to Pickie Fun Park. It is the largest marina in Northern Ireland and was opened in 1989.

Look out for The Pasty Supper while you are there, a sculpture of a man eating a pasty and on the reverse of which is an old map of the town.

The north pier is just a few minutes’ walk away from the gardens and a great place for taking a short stroll, perhaps to walk off some of that enormous breakfast you’ve just consumed in the Guillemot Kitchen Café. 

3. Take the kids to Pickie Fun Park

Photo courtesy of Ards and North Down Borough Council via Ireland’s Content Pool

If you’re looking for things to do in Bangor in Northern Ireland with kids, look no further than the brilliant Pickie Fun Park

Why not pedal a giant Pickie Swan around the shallow waters of the lagoon or try a round of golf while there?

The children will love the Adventure Playground and the Splash Pads and then there is the Pickie Puffer, a narrow-gauge railway journey all around the park’s landscape.

For food options, there is the Candy Shack for drinks and ice-cream on a sunny day and there is also the Pickie Café where you can stop off for lunch.

4. Or tackle the North Down Coastal Path

When in Ireland, it’s hard to resist venturing to the country’s magnificent coastline. The North Down Coastal Path in Bangor extends from Holywood in the west to Orlock in the east.

The path passes through awe-inspiring coastline with beautiful turquoise seas to your right and fine examples of townhouses to your left and parkland.

Here, you will see relics of Ireland’s past and an abundance of local flora and fauna, as well as grey seals that can be spotted off the shoreline. Sections of the path pass through private roads.

Please respect the Highway Code when using these paths and roads.

5. Spend a fine morning at Castle Park

Castle Park surrounds the town hall and the first place you see if you arrive in Bangor by train or bus as it is directly opposite both stations.

Castle Park is the wooded area that surrounds the hall and is a nice place for a walk on a fine, sunny day.

See if you can guess the names of flora and fauna as you wander around, as the park has many magnificent trees in site that have been there for generations.

Related read: Check out our guide to 29 of the best things to do in Northern Ireland

6. And a wet one in North Down Museum

The North Down Museum may be small, but it packs in a huge amount of information to its small space, telling the history of the Bangor area from the Bronze Age (3300 BCE to 1200 BCE) to the present day.

The museum is at the back of the town hall, situated in what was the laundry and stables of the castle built in 1852.

The collections include Christian artefacts from the ancient abbey of Bangor founded in 558AD by Comgall and thought to be one of the most important monasteries in early medieval Europe, such as slate trial pieces, brooches, pottery and the Bangor Bell.

This is a handy option for those of you looking for things to do in Bangor in Northern Ireland when it rains.

Other popular things to near Bangor

Now that we have our favourite things to do in Bangor in Northern Ireland out of the way, it’s time to see what there is to do close by.

Below, you’ll find glorious beaches and outstanding forest parks to some of the most unique places to visit in Co Down .

1. Visit one of many nearby beaches

If you’re someone for whom a holiday isn’t a holiday unless there is a beach involved, then you’re in luck as there is a wealth of them around Bangor.

The Crawfordsburn Beach is a 10-minute drive as is Helen’s Bay while Ballyholme Beach is an 8-minute spin away.

Ballyholme Beach is sandy and approximately 1.3 km in length. There is a car park here, public toilets and a children’s play area.

2. Explore WWT Castle Espie

Come and discover the wonder of Wetlands at Castle Espie . Set on the shores of Strangford Lough, here you will find Northern Ireland’s biggest collection of native and exotic ducks and geese from all around the world.

Spring at Castle Espie is particularly rewarding, as the courtship rituals begin and you will see the large colony of black-headed gulls nesting on the reserve.

Spring also marks the return of the terns to breed, migrating birds coming back and full of birdsong, the arrival of the ducklings and the wood sorrel, celandine and snowdrops that are all around, sparkling with new life.

3. Head for a ramble around Crawfordsburn Country Park

Still in need of more walks in peace and quiet? Head for Crawfordsburn Country Park, which can be found on the southern shores of Belfast Lough and is home to two excellent beaches, some mighty fine scenery.

There’s also tranquil walks through the wooded glens and a waterfall that begs to be snapped.

In the park, you’ll see plenty of wildlife (depending on the time of day you visit), ranging from hedgehogs to rabbits, badgers, a large rookery, seals, herons, shags and guillemots.

There is also the Grey Point Fort, an historic monument completed in 1907 to defend Belfast from sea-borne attack.

4. Spend an afternoon at Mount Stewart

Another of the more popular things to do in Bangor in Northern Ireland is to take a road trip to Mount Stewart – the most visited National Trust mansion house in NI.

The garden was created by Edith, Lady Londonderry in the early 20th century, building on the landscapes created in the late 18th and 19th centuries.

Mount Stuart is said to be an exceptional example of the Irish demesne, with its woodland, orchards and farmlands providing for the household.

The land was acquired by the Stewarts in 1744 and the woodlands they planted, and the bridle paths and farmlands remain unchanged. 

5. Take a spin around the Ards Peninsula

The Ards Peninsula has unspoilt villages, a tranquil abbey and castles to explore. It’s located on the east coastline of Northern Ireland and surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Irish Sea and Strangford Lough.

Villages include Greyabbey, where you will find the 12th century ruins of Grey Abbey and a heritage trail through the village that points out places of note.

Just past Kircubbin is the Echlinville Distillery, where you can book a tour to find out all about the distilling process.

Portaferry is well worth a visit too, with its interesting buildings and architecture and from where you can walk up the Windmill Hill to see panoramic views of the County Down countryside. 

6. Soak up the views from Scrabo Tower

Scrabo Tower is one of Northern Ireland’s best known landmarks. It was built in the mid-19th century to commemorate the 3rd Marquess of Londonderry, who was born Charles William Stewart in 1788 and who fought in the Napoleonic Wars.

The tower is a prime example of a ‘folly’, common place buildings in the late 18th and 19th centuries erected mainly for decorative purposes but the style of them suggesting a grander purpose.

By climbing the 122 steps in the tower, visitors will be rewarded with amazing views over Strangford Lough and its islands, and Newtownards and Comber. On clear days, you can even see Mull of Kintyre

What to do in Bangor: What have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some brilliant things to do in Bangor in Northern Ireland from the guide above.

If you have a place that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check it out!

FAQs about places to visit in Bangor

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘Where’s good when it rains?’ to ‘What to see nearby?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best things to do in Bangor?

Spend a fine morning at Castle Park, tackle the North Down Coastal Path, head for a stroll around Bangor Marina and the North Pier or visit Pickie Fun Park.

Is Bangor worth visiting?

Bangor makes a good base to explore part of Down from. There’s also plenty of great places to eat in the town along with some solid pubs.

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Top Things to Do in Bangor, County Down - Bangor Must-See Attractions

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• Bangor Castle Walled Garden
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Top Things to Do in Bangor, County Down - Bangor Must-See Attractions

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Famous Tourist Attractions to Visit and Things to Do in Bangor, Northern Ireland

Bangor is a seaside resort city in the County Down of Northern Ireland. It is a popular retreat from Belfast owing to its beautiful coastline. The majority of fun things to do in Bangor revolve around beaches and the coastline. You can come here to enjoy spa retreats, sunbathing, beach sports, water sports, boat cruises, and so on. People often visit Bangor as a day trip or a weekend trip from Belfast.

Alongside leisure, there are also quite a few historical places to visit in Bangor . You can visit the classically designed Bangor Castle and gardens. People can explore the historically and culturally significant Bangor Abbey which dates back to the 6th century. It is one of the most important things to see in Bangor . You will also get to visit coastal military sites that were active during the second world war. There are also several small museums, art galleries, and historical monuments to see during Bangor sightseeing .

You will also be treated with a scenic coastline with a lot of activities to do in Bangor , Northern Ireland. The city has a beautiful pier bristle with luxury boats. You can also enjoy amazing seaside boardwalks, amusement parks, sightseeing spots, restaurants, markets, and nightlife venues.

This Blog Post contains affiliate links. If you purchase anything from that link then I may earn a small part of the commission and for that, you do not need to pay any extra amount.

Table of Contents

Top 6 Tourist Places to Visit in Bangor, Northern Ireland

1. bangor castle walled garden.

This huge country house was built in 1852 and was designed by William Burn. The house was occupied by a prominent political Ward family. It is one of the most opulent places to visit in Bangor, Northern Ireland.

The house and the gardens are known for their architecture and design. It retains much of its Elizabethan and Jacobean revival. The house retains many artefacts belonging to its original occupants, the Ward Family. You will need about 2 hours from Bangor sightseeing to tour this historic house.

2. Bangor Abbey

This monastery was founded in 588 A.D. by Saint Comgall. It is one of the most important historical Bangor attractions. The monastery has been at the centre of many religious and cultural events in the city.

It was destroyed and rebuilt several times over the ages. As you explore this monastery, you will find pieces of history from different periods. You will need about an hour from Bangor travel to tour this place.

3. Crawfordsburn Country Park

This park is a great Bangor tourist attraction for its beaches as well as its historical significance. The park is home to the Grey Point Fort. This fort served as a coastal battery during WWII. Now it is a military museum.

The park is also popular for a lot of fun things to do in Bangor, Northern Island. It is home to some of the best beaches and ocean views in the Belfast region. You can easily spend a couple of hours wholeheartedly exploring the 3.5 km coastline when you visit Bangor.

4. Pickie Funpark

This is a small amusement park with fun activities to do in Bangor, Northern Island for children. It has a paddling pool, electric cars, minigolf, and a few other rides. It is a nice place if you want to entertain the children for a few hours.

5. Ward Park

The park is spread over 37 acres and has facilities for leisure and sports. The park has green space, picnic spots, a pond, and tennis courts. But it is best known for hosting events and concerts.

The park has hosted Snow Patrol, Eminem, The Script, D12, The World, and several other artists. You should check the local listing for events in the park.

6. Helen’s Tower

This lookout tower was built by the 5th Baron of Dufferin and Claneboye in the 19th century. He named it after his mother. It is one of the most interesting things to see in Bangor. The Baron intended the tower as a shrine for poems.

Tennyson’s poetry Helen’s Tower is dedicated to this monument. The tower is also a wonderful example of the Scottish Baronial Revival style of architecture. You will need an hour to explore this tower.

If you are looking for more places to go in Bangor check out the section below. We have put together a list of all the attractions and activities to do in and around Bangor, Northern Ireland.

Things to do in bangor, monuments, museums & historical places to visit in bangor.

• North Down Museum
• Bangor Castle & Walled Garden
• McKee Clock
• Grey Point Fort
• Bangor Abbey
• Helen’s Tower
• Somme Museum
• Cockle Row Cottages
• Mew Island Lighthouse

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Bangor

• Balloo Woodlands
• Belfast Lough
• Copeland Bird Observatory

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Bangor

• Bangor Marina
• Crawfordsburn Country Park
• Bangor Aurora Aquatic & Leisure Complex
• Eddie Irvine Sports
• Pickie Funpark
• Eisenhower Pier
• Castle Park
• The Ark Open Farm
• Groomsport Harbour

Shopping in Bangor

• Flagship Centre
• Bloomfield Centre
• Springhill Shopping Centre
• Deiniol Shopping Centre
• Menai Shopping Centre
• Bangor Downtown
• Menai Retail Park

Beaches in Bangor

• Ballyholme Beach
• North Down Coastal Path
• Crawfordsburn Beach
• Copeland Island

Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventures in Bangor

• Beach Activities

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Bangor

• Ava Wine Bar
• Rabbit Rooms
• Wolsey’s Bar
• The Station Diner
• The Imperial Bar
• Wosley’s Bar
• The Salty Dog
• Rose & Chandler
• King Street Kitchen
• Jenny Watts
• Coffee Rustler
• Jamaica Inn
• Betty Blacks
• Little Wing Pizza

Where to Stay in Bangor?

Here we have listed Top Rated Hotels in Bangor. You can check the below-listed hotels for your perfect stay in Bangor.

• Shelleven Guest House
• Clandeboye Lodge Hotel
• The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn
• Princetown Guesthouse
• The Cairn Bay Lodge
• Ennislare Guest House
• Premier Inn Bangor (Northern Ireland) hotel
• Bangor (Northern Ireland) Hotel
• Strangford Arms Hotel

How to Reach Bangor?

The closest airport to visit Bangor is the George Best Belfast City Airport (15 minutes away) and Belfast International Airport (40 minutes away). You can take a train or bus from Belfast to reach Bangor.

You can use the Portadown line to get to Bangor by train. The route directly connects with Carnalea, Helen’s Bay, Belfast , Adelaide, Titanic, Seahill, Lisburn, and several others. You can also get buses from several towns and cities in Northern Ireland for Bangor travel.

If you want to reach Bangor by road, you should head for route A2 or A21.

There are no direct water routes for Bangor travel.

Image Reference

• Bangor Castle Walled Garden – Eric Jones / Geograph.ie
• Bangor Abbey – Andrew Muir / Flickr
• Crawfordsburn Country Park – GreyHobbit / Flickr
• Pickie Funpark – Rossographer / Geograph.ie
• Ward Park – Allan LEONARD / Flickr
• Helen’s Tower – Rossographer / Geograph.ie
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Mustafa Natalwala

Mustafa is a content writer and digital marketing expert at WideWorldTrips.com His mainly interests are into travelling, photography, film-making

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Bangor

Things to do in bangor, explore popular experiences, tours in and around bangor.

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11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Northern Ireland

Written by Andrew Birbeck and Lura Seavey Updated Jul 13, 2022

Eschewed by visitors for years, Northern Ireland has made a comeback following The Good Friday Agreement of 1998, a power-sharing contract seeking to promote peace. Since then, Ulster (as Northern Ireland is also known) has rebounded both economically and culturally and is one of the world's must-see destinations.

Most recently, Northern Ireland's role as the filming location for Game of Thrones has brought another wave of tourists. For those in the know, even during the bad times, this corner of Ireland was always high on the sightseeing agenda. Legendary natural attractions, such as the mystical Giant's Causeway , join newer arrivals, such as Belfast Titanic, as top things to do.

The power-sharing government has invested massively in making Ulster attractive to visitors. There's great shopping, world-class restaurants, a remarkable history and culture, outstanding golf, and a lively music scene. These add up to plenty of places to visit in Northern Ireland for families, couples, and solo travelers, all of whom can be assured of a warm and friendly welcome.

If visiting from the Irish Republic, remember you're crossing the border into a separate sovereign country. Here, you'll need pound sterling, not the Euro as used in the south.

Learn more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions in Northern Ireland.

1. The Giant's Causeway

2. the causeway coast and dunluce castle, 3. carrick-a-rede rope bridge, 4. the titanic belfast, 5. the glens of antrim, 6. carrickfergus castle, 7. ards peninsula, 8. the ulster folk museum and transport museum, 9. dark hedges, 10. londonderry (derry), 11. lough erne, more must-see destinations near northern ireland.

Famed around the world for its columns of layered basalt, the Giant's Causeway is Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage Site . These polygonal-shaped natural features (there are around 40,000 of them) were created by a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago. Today, they are the prime focus of a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Three different periods of volcanic action birthed the Lower, Middle, and Upper Basalts. The Middle Basalt rock forms the famous amphitheaters of columns shaped like hexagons. That's the science. However according to legend it was carved out by the mighty giant Finn McCool who left behind his ancient home to do battle with his foe Benandonner across the water in Scotland.

Various names bear testament to this engaging myth: The Giant's Boot, The Wishing Chair, The Camel, The Giant's Granny, and The Organ high up on the cliffs. Weather permitting, you might even see Scotland in the distance.

Be sure to pop into the modern-looking Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre, too. This state-of-the-art facility is not only architecturally stunning, boasting a design that reflects the area's unique topography, but also provides a fascinating insight into the history of the area (audio guides are provided).

Address: 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, Antrim

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/giants-causeway

Naturally, most visitors' first stop along this scenic coast is the World Heritage-listed Giant's Causeway . The surrounding coastline, however, is magnificent and shouldn't be bypassed. Many treats await, including the beautiful beaches, dunes, and rolling waves at Portrush (where there's a world-class golf course) and Portstewart . If you're feeling brave enough, either is perfect for a bracing dip.

An easy 10-minute drive west, through the picturesque village of Bushmills, brings you to ruined medieval Dunluce Castle (Dún Libhse). It's impossible to miss, perched precipitously on the cliff edge, the kitchen having plunged into the thrashing waves below one terrible night many centuries ago.

The only survivor, apparently, was the kitchen boy who was perched on the windowsill and had to be rescued. Exterior shots of the castle were used in Game of Thrones .

Address: 87 Dunluce Road, Bushmills, Antrim

An easterly drive from the Giant's Causeway of around 15 minutes brings you to another of Ulster's must-sees, the vertigo-inducing Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge . Located near the beautiful coastal village of Ballintoy, this spectacular attraction, though, is not one for the faint-hearted.

The vertiginous rope bridge joins to a tiny island, where fisherman would catch salmon. While access to the grounds are free, if you dare to cross the bridge itself, a fee is required.

Address: County, 119a Whitepark Rd, Ballintoy, Antrim, Ballycastle

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/carrick-a-rede

A striking landmark, this star-shaped building representing the White Star Line logo traces Belfast's maritime history and honors the story of the RMS Titanic. Belfast was once the powerhouse of British Empire shipbuilding, a fact that can't be missed in this part of the city.

There are nine interactive exhibitions on this spot where the infamously ill-fated ocean liner Titanic was built. Enjoy a guided tour around the slipway and dry-dock and, for an additional fee, visit the SS Nomadic . Built in 1911, this tender would carry passengers from shore to their waiting ocean liners.

There's a restaurant, café, and gift shop located on-site, too. This truly is a world-class tourist attraction.

Address: 1 Olympic Way, Queen's Road, Belfast

Official site: http://titanicbelfast.com/

It's not just the North Antrim coastline that beguiles. Inland are the nine Glens of Antrim - usually referred to simply as "the Glens" - each exuding its own charm. Drive from Ballycastle towards Larne along the main A2 coast road, and serene lakes, tumbling waterfalls, forest trails, and rolling hills await. Glenariff , the "Queen of the Glens," is the most famous of the nine.

Along the way, notice the Glendun Bridge, an excellent example of innovative design and construction. Ballypatrick Forest Park has a 10-kilometer loop drive around Carneighaneigh Mountain, which is especially scenic.

The small seaside resort town of Portrush , on the County Londonderry border, is also worth a visit. It's home to the Royal Portrush Golf Club and one of the world's most challenging links golf courses, the Dunluce Links.

Official site: www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/ballypatrick-forest

Around 20 minutes' drive from Belfast is the substantial town and port of Carrickfergus, home to imposing Carrickfergus Castle. One of the best-preserved medieval structures in Ireland, this Norman castle has seen off foes over eight centuries.

Perched near the shore and dominating the town, the fortress is still intact and the recreated banqueting hall is a particular treat, especially for kids. You can pick up an audio guide at the visitor center and explore the interior and battlements at your leisure.

Nearby is the Andrew Jackson Centre , the reimagined ancestral home of the 7th president of the USA.

Address: Carrickfergus Castle, Marine Highway, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Belfast

South of Bangor, at Donaghadee, is the start of the 32-kilometer-long picturesque Ards Peninsula. From Donaghadee, a road runs along the Irish Sea coast to Ballywalter with its beautiful beach, Ballyhalbert, and finally Cloughy, where it turns inland to Portaferry.

Serene 18th century Mount Stewart House and Gardens is well worth stopping off to admire and it's only a 10-minute drive or so from Ballywalter. On the west shore of the Strangford Lough is the resort of Killyleagh , with Hilltop Castle overlooking the town. On a good day, you'll see the famous Mourne Mountains shimmering in the distance.

Portaferry is on the peninsula's southern tip where there's a ferry link to Strangford. Either that or make the drive, which skirts the west side of the peninsula by the shores of Strangford Lough .

Around 15 minutes' drive from Belfast city center brings you to this living history museum, which allows visitors to experience Ulster life more than 100 years ago. Tourists can stroll the village , which is home to nearly three dozen structures, including both restored historic buildings and reproductions.

Among them are laborers' cottages, working farms, rural schools, and village shops, many of which feature interpreters who go about their day in an early 19 th -century life. Visitors can ask questions and learn about their various trades, including basket-weaving; the carpenter's shop; and a print shop, where you can watch them work.

Right next door is the Transport Museum , where you can clamber aboard steam locomotives and explore its impressive collections of electric trams, fire engines, motorbikes, beautiful vintage cars, and horse-drawn carriages. If you're visiting both sites in one day, leave one to two hours to explore the transport museum.

The same non-profit foundation also operates two other excellent museums, including a living history museum in Omagh, the Ulster American Folk Park . This is dedicated to the mass emigration of Irish to North America during the 18 th and 19 th centuries and includes homes, workshops, and other buildings with costumed interpreters. The most fascinating exhibit here is the full reproduction of an emigrant ship, allowing visitors to see and feel what it was like to make the arduous ocean crossing.

In Belfast, there is also the Ulster Museum , which contains exhibits about Northern Ireland's natural history and cultural heritage in a traditional museum setting.

Address: 153 Bangor Road, Holywood, Belfast

Official site: http://nmni.com/uftm

The sight of Dark Hedges' centuries-old beech trees dramatically enveloping the road is so fantastical that even the best photos don't seem real, appearing to be detailed illustrations taken from the pages of a fantasy story instead of a living tunnel that you can walk through in the real world.

Originally planted by the Stuarts in the 18 th century , the lane was designed with the express purpose of inspiring awe in travelers as they approached the family's estate. Time has only added to this effect, and today it is one of the most photographed sites in Northern Ireland . Its beauty and grandeur have also made it the perfect backdrop for film and television, most recently featured in Game of Thrones as the "King's Road."

Today, it is a pedestrian-only lane that is free to visit and open to the public at any time of day or night.

Address: Bregagh Road, Stranocum, Ballymoney BT53 8PX, United Kingdom

The second city of Northern Ireland, Londonderry – or Derry, as it's more commonly known locally – lies where the River Foyle opens out into the sea-lough of the same name. The town has been robbed of part of its natural hinterland of Donegal by the division of Ireland, yet remains an important port and industrial center with a traditional textile industry, chemical and mechanical engineering plants, and ceramics factories.

With its attractive surroundings it's a popular tourist center and a good base for trips into the Inishowen Peninsula and Donegal in the Republic of Ireland. The town itself has an almost completely preserved circuit of medieval walls and a number of interesting old buildings.

Two connected lakes combine to form Lough Erne, in County Fermanagh, a favorite for fishing, kayaking, or exploring on a day cruise . Castles and manor houses dot its banks, and its islands are a main attraction.

A 12th-century round tower dominates Devenish Island's ruined Augustinian priory, and mysterious carved stone figures on White Island and Boa Island were the work of Celts between AD 400 and 800. The 39-mile Shannon Erne Waterway connects Lough Erne to the River Shannon in Ireland.

Once you have seen the highlights of Northern Ireland, you may want to cross into the Republic of Ireland and explore its capital, Dublin . Or you might consider the options available by ferry from Belfast. Two ferry routes connect Northern Ireland to Scotland , one from Belfast and the other from Larne, each about a two-hour trip. Ferries also depart Belfast for Liverpool , in England , and twice a week ferries travel to the Isle of Man , in the Irish Sea, halfway between England and Ireland.

More on Northern Ireland

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Accommodation in Ards and North Down

What's on in Ards and North Down

Welcome to Ards and North Down

Embrace the natural landscapes and seascapes as you journey the 115 miles of scenic coastline winding your way along the edge of Belfast Lough, on to the Ards Peninsula and Strangford Lough .

Explore water’s edge beauty spots and heritage sites, savour our award-winning local food and drink, be inspired by our creative makers and experience exhilarating activities and events – it’s all waiting for you!

Local museums each have a unique story to tell. North Down Museum in Bangor , travels back to the Bronze Age through a series of rooms, each dedicated to a particular era. Uncover the magic of the National Trust’s Mount Stewart . Tour the 19th century stately home, stroll in world-class gardens or wind along idyllic woodland and farmland walking trails in this magnificent Irish demesne.

Water’s edge

Our scenic shoreline is yours to escape to and explore with a boat trip around the loughs, or a coastal walk or bike ride.

Creative spirit

Meet the makers, hear their stories, or why not take a class?

Food and drink

Ards and north down is the ideal location to escape, relax and have fun..

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Dogs accepted by arrangement
• Dogs Welcome Inside
• Dogs Accepted Inside
• Gym On Premises
• Free (parking charges may apply)
• Car parking
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• On site parking
• Parking (charge)
• Parking (free)
• Restaurant on Premises
• Restaurant on site
• Indoor pool
• Outdoor pool
• Swimming Pool On Premises
• Wi-fi available

We have put together a list of highlights in the borough that you can do or visit for free, no matter the season, whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the borough. There is plenty to be enjoyed for all, for little to no money.

Delve into rich culture and heritage, explore parks and gardens, discover the coast and feast on fabulous food.

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Itineraries: Exploring Ards and North Down

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Tourist Attractions and Things to Do in Bangor Northern Ireland

Best things to do in Bangor Northern Ireland. List of tourist attractions in the sunny seaside city of Bangor by the Sea.

Where to Buy Real Christmas Trees in Bangor?

It’s always been one of my bucket list ambitions to just grab an axe/saw, to drive into the nearby hills, trudging through snow, in search of the perfect family Christmas tree. The problem is there’s pretty much no snow here, I’ve no clue how to get home with a massive Christmas tree, and I’ll probably …

Where to Buy Real Christmas Trees in Bangor? Read More »

Beginner’s Guide to Kingsland Pitch and Putt

I remember as a kid I was whacking balls at the Kingsland Pitch and Putt when some lad introduced himself as a reporter for Golf Monthly Magazine and asked if he could take photos of me for the next month’s magazine. It was one of the most exciting days of my life. I was telling …

Beginner’s Guide to Kingsland Pitch and Putt Read More »

Casual Lawn Bowling at Ward Park

I have fond memories of bowls. I used to play as a kid at Bangor West Church, every Tuesday evening I think it was, with mostly elderly ladies that are probably not with us any more 🙁 I was really there for the mid-session snacks through, the tea and biscuits, and while I don’t drink …

Casual Lawn Bowling at Ward Park Read More »

Belfast to Bangor Ferry: Zero Emission Flying Ferry

Bangor 2.0. The Bangor we’ve long been waiting for. With a bustling Queen’s Parade, the foodie paradise at the Flagship Centre, crowds shuttling in from Belfast on the ‘flying ferry’… We did gain city status so I guess these things are possible despite what we’ve learned in the past. And so far so good as …

Belfast to Bangor Ferry: Zero Emission Flying Ferry Read More »

Ward Park Bangor: Monuments, Aviaries and Ducks

You’d think that a 37-acre park, and what is probably the main outdoor recreational and sports facility in Bangor, would be well signposted and heard of. Not really. A massive park within metres of Bangor Main Street (following a slight detour along Hamilton Road). While Ward Park in Bangor is a popular escape for locals, …

Ward Park Bangor: Monuments, Aviaries and Ducks Read More »

Treasure Hunt: Bangor Coastal Path (Part 1)

Our past treasure hunts in Bangor have normally followed loopy circle routes ending up back where they started (like our Bangor Town Centre Treasure Hunt). But this is not so easy when walking the North Down Coastal Path as it’s really just one big straight-ish line along the scenic coastline from Bangor to Holywood. So …

Treasure Hunt: Bangor Coastal Path (Part 1) Read More »

Bangor Heritage Trail: Historical Sites of Bangor

This is one of our resurrected ‘Jenny Watts Treasure Hunts’ only made simpler and more ‘tourist-friendly’ with circle routes and easier questions and answers. On the off-chance we ever find some tourists here. The ‘Bangor Town Centre Treasure Hunt’ therefore follows a circular route from the lower car parks of Castle Park at North Down …

Bangor Heritage Trail: Historical Sites of Bangor Read More »

Strickland’s Glen Coastal Loop

“We’re so lucky to have this on our doorstep”. This would be the daily chitchat of locals on our ‘self-isolation escapes’ as we follow the nearby stretch of the North Down Coastal Path in the Bangor West area. And Strickland’s Glen would be a quieter and more convenient middle point between the two busier sections …

Strickland’s Glen Coastal Loop Read More »

Things to Do in Bangor Castle Park

Castle Park will likely be the first place you see when arriving to Bangor, with the old Town Hall (or Bangor Castle as it’s now better known) found directly opposite central arrivals stations in the centre of Bangor and, it’s just really hard to miss. Then, surrounding Bangor Castle is a rather expansive woodland known …

Things to Do in Bangor Castle Park Read More »

Crawfordsburn Country Park and Coastal Path

Until recently, it was a good 15-20 years since I last explored the forests of Crawfordsburn Country Park. At least, I hadn’t really seen past the visitor centre and the perimeter trees of Crawfordsburn Beach. But through the last year, I have been adventuring more as I follow the changing colours into the Autumn, as again …

Crawfordsburn Country Park and Coastal Path Read More »

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Northern Ireland

Tourism and Tourist Attractions in Northern Ireland as excursions from the seaside town of Bangor on Northern Ireland’s ‘Gold Coast’ (North Down).

Winter Sunshine in Portrush

There would be 3 big seaside destinations in Northern Ireland. Bangor with its proximity to Belfast, Newcastle at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, and Portrush, the gateway to the Causeway Coast. We live in Bangor, have been to Newcastle countless times, but have no recollection of ever being to Portrush. So we made it …

Winter Sunshine in Portrush Read More »

Overnight Stay at Hogwarts (Christ Church College Oxford)

Our overnight stay at Hogwarts was very much an impulsive adventure after scrolling through Facebook a holidaypirates post popped up “Calling all Harry Potter fans 🚨 Did you know you can pay for assignments UK stay at Hogwarts?! ⚡️ 😱 🦉”. Includes breakfast in the Great Hall, so you can dine like true witches and …

Overnight Stay at Hogwarts (Christ Church College Oxford) Read More »

Johnnie Walker: Journey of Flavour Experience (Edinburgh)

I’m half Scottish. My mum’s from Edinburgh. I spent most of my young adult years with a slight whisky obsession. It wasn’t until I left the UK for Asia that I actually discovered Johnnie Walker. “It’s not Scottish, is it?”. Johnnie Walker then became my new obsession connecting my love for both whiskey and travel. …

Johnnie Walker: Journey of Flavour Experience (Edinburgh) Read More »

Beginner’s Guide to Tollymore Forest Park (Shimna River Trail)

I’ve probably covered all the waymarked routes in Tollymore Forest Park in one way or another. I’ve also on occasions been completely lost off the beaten path relying on the sound of faraway traffic to lead us back to the main road. This is because my aunt and uncle owned a holiday home of sorts …

Beginner’s Guide to Tollymore Forest Park (Shimna River Trail) Read More »

Belfast to Liverpool Ferry (Stena Line)

The ferry ports in both Belfast and Liverpool are much quicker/easier to reach than the international airports of both cities. Prices are also cheaper by ferry and you can travel with whatever you want. Cars, bikes, cats, dogs, and there’s no restriction on baggage. The ferry crossings are 8-hours but instead of enduring flights (flights …

Belfast to Liverpool Ferry (Stena Line) Read More »

Belfast’s Continental Christmas Market

Belfast Christmas Market returns in 2022 and will take place on the grounds of Belfast City Hall between 20th November – 23rd December 2022 Belfast Christmas Market is located in the very centre of Belfast City (map here) on the grounds of Belfast City Hall at Donegall Square. It is within a short walk (6-minutes) …

Belfast’s Continental Christmas Market Read More »

Best Tourist Cities in Northern Ireland?

As of May 2022, there are 6 cities in Northern Ireland since Bangor in County Down was awarded city status after scrapping it out with 39 other towns and settlements in the UK to win city status as part of the Queen’s Jubilee (2022 Platinum Jubilee Civic Honours Competition). An honour that set the former …

Best Tourist Cities in Northern Ireland? Read More »

Essential Guides: Best Destinations in Ireland

Covid has taken its toll on tourism and hospitality in Ireland (as expected), and after the lockdowns and strict restrictions, uncertainty still remains now, 2 years later, in 2022. But Ireland is slowly recovering and returning to normal, as lockdowns and restrictions have been lifted, and tourism is finally… hopefully, nearly, back to normal. Or …

Essential Guides: Best Destinations in Ireland Read More »

Ireland’s Ancient East Road Trip Itinerary (North to South)

Did you know you could circle the entire coast of Ireland following 4 interconnecting road trip routes? In Northern Ireland we have the Causeway Coastal Route and Mourne Coastal Route. These then connect to the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland’s Ancient East respectively. But here we are specifically covering Ireland’s Ancient East with a road …

Ireland’s Ancient East Road Trip Itinerary (North to South) Read More »

Best National Trust Properties in Northern Ireland

We had planned on visiting every National Trust property in Northern Ireland through the space of a year, but with our stints in Asia, and the arrival of Coronavirus 6-months in, we didn’t quite make the full list. But we did cover the main sites of the National Trust, and covered many of them two …

Best National Trust Properties in Northern Ireland Read More »