Free Pre-Bookable Event Buses for the Shorelife Celebration!

18th September 2024

Photo caption: The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, and Arthur are looking forward to the Shorelife Celebration. Image: Ian Pedlow

The brand new Shorelife Celebration will provide a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of our shoreline at the stunning WWT Castle Espie and National Trust Mount Stewart on Saturday 5 October. Admission to both venues is free (for both members and non-members) and combined with complimentary pre-bookable shuttlebuses, it will be a fun day out for families and nature enthusiasts.

This exciting event, brought to you by Ards and North Down Borough Council in partnership with WWT Castle Espie and National Trust Mount Stewart, offers a rare chance to experience the wonders of our shoreline. Enjoy a day filled with fun activities, engaging talks and tours, live music, and delicious local food and drink. Plus, take advantage of the free ticketed shuttlebus service for easy access.

Free shuttlebuses will operate a rotational service approximately every 30 minutes between Dundonald Park and Ride, Newtownards Bus Centre and the event’s two venues, with pick up and drop off points at all four locations. Free tickets should be booked in advance from the website and must be retained for use throughout the day to present to the bus driver.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, said:

“The Council is delighted to partner with Mount Stewart and Castle Espie for this brand new event. With free access to both venues, as well as free shuttlebus travel, it offers an excellent opportunity for a fun, family day out that will foster community spirit and environmental stewardship, encouraging everyone to appreciate and protect our beautiful shoreline.”

Ards and North Down has around 115 miles of stunning coastline and is the perfect place to celebrate our shore. Kids and families will love the interactive games and activities, while guided tours and talks will provide fascinating insights into local wildlife and conservation efforts.

The event is open from 10am to 5pm on Saturday 5 October. Admission is free for everyone, including members and non-members of both event venues. Some activities require tickets, so be sure to pre-book in advance.

There are also opportunities to explore the shore even more through pre-bookable guided walks at nearby Island Hill or Newtownards Floodgates. Terms and conditions and ticket prices apply.

For more information, visit visitardsandnorthdown.com/Shorelife.