Ballygowan

Ballygowan is a busy commuter village close to Northern Ireland's capital, Belfast.

The Olivet Home

his imposing and austere building has dominated the village since 1886 and is the village's main feature.

The building was originally erected as an orphanage by Alexander Orr Reid as a memorial to his only son who was killed in a shooting accident. It was purchased by Ballygowan Presbyterian Church in 1918. Until the 1980s, when the new Alexander Dickson School was built, it was used as the village primary school. It is now used exclusively as church halls.

The remains of Baron Bannside (better known as the Rev. Ian Paisley) are buried in the graveyard attached to Ballygowan Free Presbyterian Church. Lord Bannside was a former First Minister of Northern Ireland.

Nearby attractions

Nearby attractions include WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, Nendrum Monastic site, and Mahee Castle nearer to Comber, Strangford Lough Activity Centre, Whiterock and Tracey's Farmhouse Kitchen in Killinchy; and renowned award-winning eateries close by in the surrounding villages.

The area is a quiet rural retreat in which to truly immerse yourself.

Ulster-Scots in Killinchy and surrounds

Explore the influence of Ulster-Scots in Killinchy and it's nearby surrounds.

Visitor Information Centres

Our Visitor Information Centres in Bangor and Newtownards have a knowledgeable team who would be delighted to help offer tips and suggestions for how to make the most of your time in the city and the wider borough.

Each of our centres has a gift shop - pick up a memento of your trip from a range of items including souvenirs, locally crafted jewellery, ornaments, books of local interest and so much more.

Bangor Visitor Information Centre | Ards Visitor Information Centre

Click for detailed Maps and Guides

Getting to Ballygowan

Situated on the western side of Strangford Lough in the Borough, inland by approximately 5 miles, it is nearby to the villages of Lisbane, Balloo and Killinchy, and Whiterock, and the town of Comber.

Best accessed by road and by using Translink public transport (bus only).

See Sat Nav details and Distance Guide at the bottom of the page.

Plan your trip

Sat Nav details

Latitude 54°30'2"N and longitude 5°47'42"W

Driving distances (approx, depending on route):
Belfast - Ballygowan | 30 minutes
Bangor - Ballygowan | 30 minutes
Comber - Ballygowan | 10 minutes
Portaferry - Ballygowan | 65 minutes via Strangford Lough