A seaside and holiday destination with an award winning beach and picturesque harbour. During the mid 1800s, during which time it supported a small fishing industry.
Getting to Ballywalter
The village is located approximately 30 minutes drive from Bangor, 15 minutes from Donaghadee in the north or 30 minutes from Portaferry in the south.
Best accessed by road and Translink public transport (bus).
See Sat Nav details and Distance Guide at the bottom of the page.
Plan your trip
Founded by the Ulster-Scots
The village itself was founded in the early 1600s when it was part of James Hamilton’s lands during the Ulster Scots settlement. It has strong links to the Irish rebellion of 1798 when a group of United Irishmen attempted the occupation of Newtownards in which nine men from the village were killed and 13 wounded. After the insurrection, bands of soldiers and yeomen scoured the country looking for United Irishmen. It is said locally that some Ballywalter men escaped capture by spending days at sea in hiding behind the Long Rock! Explore more about the influence of the Ulster-Scots in the area.
Ballywalter Beach
The area has been awarded the Seaside Award over a number of years and holds it currently for 2024, for its facilities and water quality. Ballywalter Beach is a long, sandy coastline that offers enjoyment for all, especially bathers and walkers. Along with its rock pools, ready for children to explore, there is also a small playground located nearby. At the Lime Kilns, a raised area provides great views of the Irish Sea coastline.
During the winter, Ballywalter Beach provides great opportunities for birdwatchers. It is used by over-wintering birds including Ring Plover, Golden Plover, Turnstone, Manx Shearwater to name but a few.
Ballywalter attractions
In the village, visitors will find a selection of facilities such as places to eat, drink and stay, as well as a small fishing harbour.
On the outskirts of the village lies Ballywalter Park estate; home to Lord and Lady Dunleath. It has been in their family for 170 years. Ballywalter Park is a Grade A* listed stately home, deemed to be of exceptional architectural importance. The mansion house, which was built in the Italianate Palazzo style by renowned architect, Sir Charles Lanyon, also boasts 30 acres of pleasure grounds. The walled demesne of 270 acres is home to one of Northern Ireland’s largest dairy herds. It is open to the public, by appointment only.
Second World War
Find out about the role Ballywalter played in the Second World War at, The Second World War in Northern Ireland website; ww2ni.com
Sat Nav details
Latitude 54°32'40"N Longitude 5°29'8"W
Driving distances (approx, depending on route):
Belfast - Ballywalter | 15 minutes
Bangor - Ballywalter | 55 minutes
Comber - Ballywalter | 30 minutes
Portaferry - Ballywalter | 25 minutes (via Strangford Lough), or 30 minutes (via the east coast)
