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North Down Museum

Bangor City Hall, Castle Park Avenue, Bangor, County Down, BT20 4BT
External building of museum with adjoining Town Hall building in background

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About

Uncover the fascinating saga of the area in Northern Ireland's most visited small museum, located in the picturesque stable block of Bangor Castle in the beautiful grounds of Castle Park.

The story of the region's history, archaeology and wildlife unfolds before you through a series of exciting audio-visual displays and intriguing exhibits. Here you will see examples of archaeological finds, such as the Ballycrochan Swords, dating from 500 BC, and a 9th Century hand bell which marks the period when Bangor's monastery was one of the most important in Christendom.

Experience life as a Viking in our replica longhouse which in summer features an observation beehive that children adore. Other displays highlight the natural history of the area. Borrow a young explorers backpack to discover the hidden wildlife of Castle Park.

Explore the Raven Maps to discover what the area was like for Scottish Settlers in the Plantation Era. Unveil the links between North Down and the Far East through the Jordan Collection, a magnificent selection of decorative Asian objects.

Through ever changing temporary exhibitions, the more recent stories of the area are told.

The museum also runs special events, activities and a successful education programme throughout the year. Round off your visit at our café, the award winning Coffee Cure overlooking the Victorian courtyard and stop in our gift shop to purchase a memento of your visit.

North Down Museum is accessible – for full details of their accessibility features, see North Down Museum | AccessAble.

Facilities

Attraction Facilities

  • Gift Shop
  • Guided Tours Available
  • Open Sundays

Catering

  • Picnic Area
  • Tea-room/Cafe onsite

Children & Infants

  • Baby changing facilities

Establishment Features

  • Accept coach parties
  • Toilets

Leisure Facilities

  • Wifi

Parking & Transport

  • On site parking

Payment Methods

  • All major credit/debit cards accepted

Provider Preferences

  • Free (parking charges may apply)

Guide Prices

Ticket TypeTicket Tariff
TicketFree

No admission charge

Events

Friday, 22nd November 2024 - Sunday, 5th January 2025

Made in AND: Pop-Up Christmas ShopBack by popular demand, a unique shopping experience in the lead up to Christmas at North Down Museum!
more info

Thursday, 28th November 2024 - Thursday, 28th November 2024

Squiggles and Giggles Christmas StorytellingLate-Night Christmas ShoppingTo launch North Down Museum's Pop-Up Christmas Shop, the museum is hosting a Late-Night Christmas Shopping event.
more info

Saturday, 7th December 2024 - Saturday, 7th December 2024

Squiggles and Giggles Christmas StorytellingChristmas Storytelling with Squiggles and GigglesJoin Kelsey from Squiggles & Giggles at North Down Museum for some Christmas fun with festive stories, music and movement.
more info

Saturday, 14th December 2024 - Saturday, 14th December 2024

Children's Christmas Gift WorkshopChildren's Christmas Gift WorkshopChildren can enjoy the gift of giving by taking part in one of our children's workshops to make a bespoke gift for someone special in their life.
more info

Add North Down Museum to your Itinerary

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Call direct on:

Tel+44 (0) 28 9127 1200

Map & Directions

Opening Times

Season (1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024)
DayTimes
MondayClosed
Tuesday - Saturday10:00 - 16:00
Sunday12:00 - 16:00
Bank HolidayClosed

What's Nearby

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    0.05 miles away
  2. Stroll through this beautiful wooded wonderland which is an exhilarating experience…

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  3. Founded in 558AD the main body of the building dates from 1830's, the tower from 15th…

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  1. It is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. Varieties of flowers,…

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  2. A perfect park in the centre of Bangor. An ideal spot to enjoy the local wildlife and…

    0.31 miles away
  3. Destination spot for Terry Bradley collectors and art enthusiasts from across the globe.…

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  4. Enjoy a fun day out at Pickie Fun Park. Try out the 18-hole mini-golf course, giant pedal…

    0.65 miles away
  5. An enchanting park leading onto the North Down Coastal Path.

    0.85 miles away
  6. A perfect area for a family day out. Picnic area, children's playground and views over…

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  8. The mile long crescent of sandy beach curving along Ballyholme bay has been a favourite…

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  9. Take a step back in time with a visit to the lovingly restored Cockle Row Cottages…

    2.43 miles away
  10. With tranquil walks through peaceful meadows and wooded glens and a stunning waterfall,…

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  11. Groomsport village is a delightful spot, with quaint village shops, cafes and popular…

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  12. Groomsport has one of Northern Ireland's few fully accessible beaches for all ages and…

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  13. The Ark Open Farm is a fantastic family day out; the farm itself is set in 40 acres of…

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Related

Image of a walkway and woodland steps surrounded by leafy green trees and pink flowersCastle Park, BangorStroll through this beautiful wooded wonderland which is an exhilarating experience throughout the seasons.

Photo of the side view of Bangor Castle (Bangor Town Hall) on a beautiful sunny day framed by flowersBangor Castle (City Hall), BangorThis impressive building was built for the Hon Robert Edward Ward and his family in 1852. It is presently the headquarters of Ards and North Down Borough Council who use the mansions spectacular grand salon as the council chamber.

Bangor Castle Walled GardenBangor Castle Walled Garden, BangorIt is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. Varieties of flowers, plants, fruit and vegetables mix with sculptures and a unique fountain with a tongue twister! We are thrilled that the Walled Garden is now open all year round (except on particular holidays). Please see opening…

Map & Directions

Road Directions

Directions from Town: Follow signs for Bangor town centre. At the roundabout at the train and bus station, follow the brown signs for North Down Museum, turning up the hill towards Bangor City Hall.

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