A winter's day in Ards and North Down is a serene and refreshing experience, perfect for those seeking natural beauty, crisp air, and a chance to explore this picturesque corner of Northern Ireland.
Here’s how you might spend a memorable day:
Morning: Coastal Adventure
Start your day in Donaghadee
• Begin with a stroll along Donaghadee’s charming harbour, featuring its iconic lighthouse, and the Moat and Camera Obscura that sits proudly looking over the land and sea. The winter sea breeze and the calming sound of waves set the tone for a peaceful day.
• Warm up with a hot drink at a cozy café overlooking the harbour. Donaghadee is known for its welcoming atmosphere and picturesque views.
Postcode: BT21 0HF
Walk the Bangor section of the North Down Coastal Path
• Head towards Bangor, located just a 10-15 minute drive north west of Donaghadee, and take a walk along the North Down Coastal Path, part of a 16 mile stretch of beautiful scenery that extends from Holywood to Orlock, not far from Donaghadee. The crisp winter air and panoramic views of Belfast Lough are invigorating. Keep an eye out for seals and seabirds that frequent the area during the colder months.
Please be aware that sections of the North Down Coastal Path follow private roads. Please respect the Highway Code when walking, cycling or running along these sections where residential traffic will have right of way. Northern Ireland has very few public rights of way and therefore in many areas walkers can only enjoy countryside walks because of the goodwill and tolerance of local landowners. In the interests of your own safety please be respectful when using the area for recreational purposes.
Bangor Seafront area and Pickie Funpark [Postcode: BT20 5AG]
Afternoon: Nature and Heritage
Visit Crawfordsburn Country Park, Crawfordsburn
• Stop for lunch at Crawfordsburn Country Park's café, then explore the tranquil woodland trails. The paths lead to a waterfall and a sandy beach, perfect for a quiet moment of reflection.
Or, nestle into the warmth of The Old Inn, a short walk from the park to Crawfordsburn village. The luxurious spa, accommodation and eatery, in the heart of this charming historic spot will be a welcome retreat from the cold.
Postcode: BT19 1JT
Explore Scrabo Tower, Newtownards
• After lunch, a 20 minute drive or so will take you to Scrabo Tower, perched high above the bustling town of Newtownards. The tower offers breathtaking views of Strangford Lough and the surrounding countryside. The landscape is particularly striking in winter, with frosty fields and low-angled sunlight.
Postcode: BT23 4SJ
Evening: Relax and Refuel
Mount Stewart Estate, Newtownards
• If time permits, end your day at the National Trust’s Mount Stewart. The estate’s gardens have a unique charm in winter, and the lake is a serene spot as the sun sets.
Postcode: BT22 2AD
Dinner in a Local Restaurant
• Conclude your day with a hearty meal in one of the region’s excellent restaurants nearby. Try locally sourced dishes—perhaps fresh seafood in Newtownards town, or drive the short distance to visit award-winning eateries in Comber town [Postcode: BT23 5DX], or why not explore a little further and head to Greyabbey village with a quick stop at the Grey Abbey ruins [Postcode: BT22 2NQ ] for a cozy pub dinner.
Optional Activities:
• Birdwatching at Strangford Lough: Perfect for enthusiasts, as winter brings migratory birds to the area.
• Shopping in Newtownards: Browse independent shops for unique gifts or local crafts.
A winter’s day in Ards and North Down combines natural beauty, rich heritage, and a sense of tranquility, making it a perfect seasonal escape.
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.
With tranquil walks through peaceful meadows and wooded glens and a stunning waterfall, Crawfordsburn Country Park provides a relaxing natural retreat.
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.
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.
Refresh the connection at Ulster Folk Museum, a place where traditions and heritage skills are preserved and celebrated to help shape future generations.
Celebrate the history of invention and innovation through engineering, design, and technology at the Ulster Transport Museum. Check out the famous DeLorean, a Ferguson tractor and the motorbikes of some of Northern Ireland's biggest road racing legends!
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.
Grey Abbey, a Cistercian Abbey church and its living quarters were founded in 1193 by Affreca wife of John de Courcy, the Anglo-Norman invader of East Ulster.
