Explore

Our place offers far reaching skies, miles of magnificent coastline, natural beauty, bountiful beaches and inspirational coastal and country walks.

Strangford Lough

Strangford Lough, the UK’s largest sea lough, is one of only three Marine Nature Reserves in the UK. It’s hard to believe that only 30 minutes from Belfast’s urban attractions, this captivating rural retreat (designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and an Area of Special Scientific Interest) is waiting to be explored.

Legend says there are 365 islands on Strangford Lough, one for every day of the year. In autumn, three quarters of the world’s Brent geese population migrate from Arctic Canada to make our shores their winter home. Watch their spectacular arrival and learn more about native wildlife at WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre.

The Ards Peninsula

The Ards Peninsula, Strangford Lough and their surrounding shores thrive with many creatures, marine life and visiting species through the changing seasons. You can spot seals and otters lounging on rocks, as well as Brent geese, cormorants and guillemots, creating a spectacle for bird watchers. Explore The Ards Peninsula Way and discover pockets of history, its unspoilt villages, tranquil abbeys, castles, and welcoming locals!

Award-winning beaches and marina

Ards and North Down is home to six award-winning beaches, five Green Flag Awards for parks and open spaces, as well as a world-class marina in Bangor.

Green Flag Award Parks include, Ballymenoch Park in Holywood, Castle Park and Linear Park in Bangor along with Londonderry Park and Kiltonga Nature Reserve in Newtownards.

Ballywalter, Cloughey, Groomsport, Millisle beaches have all been awarded the prestigious Seaside Award for the 2023 beathing season.

Creative spirit

Events, festivals and workshops celebrate local talent and welcome artists from near and far. Everything from our maritime heritage to local creative arts, music and food is here to embrace and enjoy.

Create your perfect escape in Ards and North Down

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Cities, Towns and Villages

Ards and North Down is made up of the City of Bangor, four lively individually defined towns, all surrounded by an abundance of unique villages, big and small, each with something special to offer.
Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

With over 100 miles of coastline, many Areas of Special Scientific Interest and a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty we want to protect this special place and the impact we have on our natural surroundings.
Beaches

Explore our miles of stunning coastline and its coves and beaches, perfect for your chosen escape, a family fun day out, a romantic getaway or timeout to relax and recharge.
Forest, Parks & Gardens

Amongst the flora and fauna of our parks and gardens and trunks of towering trees you can immerse yourself in the natural environment and enjoy these shared spaces with the many animals who have made here their home.
Filming locations

Whether you are a film buff, a TV addict or have a keen interest in the area, we will help you plan a trip to explore some of the top filming locations in Ards and North Down, and enjoy this stunning place for yourself.
Ulster-Scots in Ards and North Down

It was May 1606 when Scottish families began to settle in the Ards and North Down, led by James Hamilton and Hugh Montgomery from Ayrshire, following the land deal they had struck with Con O’Neill of Castlereagh. Find out how they influenced our land making it what it is today.
What's on in Ards and North Down

Vibrant festivals, events and workshops celebrate our talent and welcome artists from near and far.
Things to do

Ours is a promise of adventure, from the nooks in the woods to award-winning beaches and country parks, we’re home to some of Northern Ireland’s top attractions. Plan your visit and make unforgettable memories with family and friends.

Immerse yourself in this beautiful place...

Experience Ards and North Down

Be surprised and awakened with immersive experiences and guided walking tours. Take in the natural beauty of our countryside, encounter water’s edge wonders, charming towns and villages and our delicious food and drink.
Itineraries: Exploring Ards and North Down

Let us help you make the most of your visit to Ards and North Down, whether you are looking a family getaway or an adventure for two, we have something for all. Our itineraries will guide you through some of our most spectacular landscapes and scenery, picture perfect settings, towns and villages that each hold a warm welcome.
Heritage Trails

Our land is centuries deep and oh the stories it has to tell, some of which dates back to as early as 558AD. Learn about our history and heritage through one of our tours.
Mourne Coastal Route Self-Driving Tour

The Mourne Coastal Route is a driving trail, taking you from Belfast via North Down, the Ards Peninsula, County Down coastline, Mourne Mountains and on to the city of Newry. The route leads you through some of the most scenic views in all of Ireland.
The Ards Peninsula Way - Part of Ards and North Down

Discover the Ards Peninsula with its unspoilt villages, tranquil abbey, castles and welcoming locals, all with a story to share. Located on the east coastline of Northern Ireland, only half an hour from Belfast, the area is surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Irish Sea and Strangford Lough, boasting miles of coastline.
Food and Drink Trails and Tours

Tantalise your tastebuds with these food and drink orientated trails and tours.