Enjoy Gorgeous Getaways in Ards and North Down
Annnnnnd relax! Stunning coastline, charming towns and picturesque countryside, this hidden gem, only two hours from Dublin, and all within an hour of Belfast, offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Unwind and embrace a slower pace, as you experience everything that is on offer in the coastal haven of Ards and North Down.
Over 115 miles of coastline are yours to explore, take in the landscapes and seascapes in this beautiful part of the island, savour delicious local food and drink, cultural experiences, and adventures aplenty. A friendly smile, welcoming chat and renowned hospitality await you, all the elements to make the perfect escape this autumn.
Explore the outdoors
Take advantage of the great outdoors by venturing from the water's edge to the rolling hills, where every turn reveals breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems.
From the seaside village of Groomsport, home to the famous Cockle Row Cottages, built in circa 1600, to the unique coffee shops and independent shops of Bangor, Northern Ireland’s newest city, Ards and North Down has outdoor escapes to suit all tastes.
Enjoy peaceful walks along the scenic coastal paths, where you can breathe in the fresh sea air and take in the spectacular views of the shoreline, or, for a more adventurous experience, book a guided paddle along the calm waters of Strangford Lough.
A rich history
Myths, legends and folklore – you’ll find it all in Ards and North Down.
From ancient sites and monuments to charming villages, there’s a wealth of stories to uncover.
Visit Greyabbey, where you can explore the ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian monastery and learn about the region's heritage, or take a walk through the thriving town of Newtownards, which boasts a rich history including its famous market and iconic landmark Scrabo Tower.
Enjoy the walk from Killynether Wood to Scrabo Hill to take in panoramic views across Strangford Lough.
As you dive into Ards and North Down’s past, you’ll encounter fascinating local tales, taking you back to the early Viking settlers, rich Christian heritage, and local links to Belfast’s renowned shipbuilding history.
Delicious Food and Drink
Ards and North Down is a foodie region, with small artisan producers to large-scale distributors, offering an abundance of great flavours and unique world class ingredients including the Comber Earlies potato (with PGI status), Portavogie Prawns, Strangford Lough Langoustines, and grass-fed rare-breed Irish beef to name just a few examples.
Throughout the year we celebrate our famed agricultural and nautical heritage with food festivals, markets and food and drink themed experiences to enjoy.
At many of these events celebrity chefs and local college lecturers from South Eastern Regional College (SERC) work to curate delicious recipes using local produce for their demonstrations in the festival kitchen. You can try a selection of these recipes for yourself at visitardsandnorthdown.com/recipes.
The most recent you’ll find will be from Tide and Turf Portavogie provided by celebrity chefs Rachel Allen and James Tanner.
For an enjoyable dining experience, consider visiting one of the coastal restaurants that offer beautiful views and delicious menus, including pan-seared scallops, traditional Irish stew, and a selection of locally brewed craft beers and fine wines.
Find out more about our fabulous award winning food and drink.
Great value short breaks and day trips
Escape from the stresses of daily life and take the opportunity to relax and recharge. With great accommodation ranging from distinctive self-catering options, cosy guest houses to three, four and five-star hotel and spa facilities, there’s somewhere to stay to suit all budgets in Ards and North Down.
Treat yourself to a spa break - find out more!
You don’t have to go far to enjoy fresh open spaces and the calming ambience of nature. Ards and North Down is packed with peaceful places just waiting to be explored. Our itineraries help to guide you on exciting journeys, discover History and Legends, Coastal Gems, itineraries for the family and if indulgence is what you need, we have you covered, explore all this and more!
Both bustling with character, cosy firelit corners, and elegant interiors, wherever you choose, a perfect escape and a warm welcome awaits you on your next rural retreat.
Find out more about great value short breaks in the area, go to or you can contact our friendly Visitor Information Centre Team in Newtownards or Bangor.
Family fun this Christmas
Enjoy themed festive fun for all this year in Ards and North Down. A festive calendar of events throughout November and December filled to the brim with ideas of how to make the most of this wonderful time of year. Discover how we do Christmas in Ards and North Down - Find out more!
Unwind, recharge, and start planning your getaway today at visitardsandnorthdown.com
Always be DrinkAware.
Visit North Down Museum to explore the fascinating saga of the North Down area from the Bronze Age to the present day. The Museum takes you on a journey through Early Christian heritage and the Vikings to Scottish Settlers and the Victorians.
This relatively flat scenic coastline known as the North Down Coastal Path extends from Holywood in the west to Orlock in the east. The path passes through coastline and parkland. Historic relics and flora and fauna are found in abundance, including the grey seals which can be spotted offshore.
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.
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.
