Autumnal Events
- Saturday 2 October - Saturday 13 November, Winter Migration Festival at Wildfowl and Wetland Centre Castle Espie in Comber.
A Guide to Hallowe'en in Ards and North Down
Due to covid there are not as many events running this year and those that are running are subject to change. Please visit the attractions website directly for up to date information on the Covid guidelines they are adhering to and for up to date information relating to their business and events.
- Saturday 16 – Sunday 31 October, Ark Open Farm Pumpkin Patch in Conlig
- Tuesday 19 October - Sunday 31 October, Teeth or Treat Trail at Exploris.
- Tuesday 26 - Sunday 31 October, sees the return of the fang-tastic Hallowe'en celebrations at Ulster Folk Museum in Cultra
- Wednesday 27 - Sunday 31 October, add some adventure to your half term and set off on Mount Stewart's Batty about Bats trail
- Saturday 30 October, 2pm - 4pm Come along to Cockle Row Cottages, Groomsport for creepy crafts, seashore nature trail, a pumpkin trail and more this Halloween. For more information call Bangor Visitor Information Centre 028 9127 0069. *Cottages will not be open.
- Sunday 31 October, Pickie Funpark Pumpkin Patch in Bangor
- Sunday 31 October, Drumawhey Junction Miniature Train at four road ends Donaghadee - Open 1pm-4pm, tickets £3ea payable on site (U2yrs free)
Get out and about
There is nothing more satisfying that crunching though a path of golden brown leaves, kicking them about, feeling cosy in our coats and if you have a cup of hot chocolate in hand even better! We are so lucky in Ards and North Down to have so many places to explore, stunning scenery to admire all year round and most of these area are free!
Highlight walks
- Killynether Wood and Scrabo Tower in Newtownards - the view alone is worth it!
- Castle Park in Bangor, where you will also find a real gem of ours - Bangor Castle Walled Garden. Stop in the garden's cafe or even explore North Down Museum and grab a bite at Coffee Cure.
- Nugent's Wood in Portaferry overlooking the exquisite still waters of Strangford Lough.
- And of course the National Trust's Mount Stewart House and Gardens in Newtownards which offers trails through the woods, around the lake and a natural play area for the little ones. A great way to spend a morning or afternoon.
Find more walks in the region.
There's more!
There are a host of attractions just waiting for you to visit, and for families half term lends that perfect opportunity - from Wildfowl and Wetland Centre Castle Espie in Comber, Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry and the Ulster Transport Museum in Cultra.
North Down Museum in Bangor located beside Bangor Town Hall in Castle Park - Why not grab an Explorers Pack and go on a nature adventure with the kids, followed by an ice cream in Bangor Castle Walled Garden (It's never too cold for ice cream!).
Decorate and personalise your very own piece of pottery at Eden Pottery - hire a box or visit the studio.
Please note, this listing is meant as a guide only. All information is subject to change. If you would like to submit information on Halloween events and activities please email marketing@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk
As always, be aware of what current local COVID-19 restrictions are in place and please follow public health guidance. For information visit, nidirect and the Public Health Agency website.
To avoid disappointment, when planning to visit an attraction in the area please continue to check individual provider websites before you leave the house to confirm if they are open, closed or if pre-booking is required.
WWT Castle Espie is an extraordinary day out for the whole family. Escape the everyday, reconnect with nature, and experience the wonder of wetlands on the picturesque shores of Strangford Lough. Visit Castle Espie all year round and discover new trails, activities and wildlife highlights every time!
Mount Stewart is a stunning estate in the beautiful scenic area of Strangford Lough. The Formal Gardens are ranked as one of the top ten in the world and the within the house there are collections of national and international significance.
Enjoy a diver's view of marine life from around the world without getting wet. An underwater Tunnel Experience, friendly sharks and a Dwarfcrocodile, a Waddle of Penguins, all star in Northern Ireland’s only aquarium and seal rehabilitation centre.
Refresh the connection at Ulster Folk Museum, a place where traditions and heritage skills are preserved and celebrated to help shape future generations.
Enjoy a fun day out at Pickie Fun Park. Try out the 18-hole mini-golf course, giant pedal swans, Pickie Puffer train, children's play area, children's electric car track and more.
The Ark Open Farm is a fantastic family day out; the farm itself is set in 40 acres of beautiful countryside between Newtownards and Bangor. It’s home to a huge selection of farm animals and some that are a little more exotic.
