By the water

Bangor Seafront, Marina and Eisenhower Pier

Picturesque promenade, leading from town centre to coastal path, past the prestigious marina. Sites include historic McKee Clock, Bregenz House the Headquarters of HM Coastguard, and Pickie Funpark.

On the pier, mosaics depict the boroughs’ role in WWII, including General Dwight D. Eisenhower’s historic send off to the hundreds of Allied ships gathered in Bangor Bay before the D Day landings. It was renamed in 2005 by General Eisenhower’s granddaughter.

Find out more about Bangor Marina and Eisenhower Pier.

Groomsport Village

Groomsport village is nestled between the City of Bangor and the bustling harbour town of Donaghadee. Renowned for its historic link to the Ulster-Scots and the Eagle Wing, the first emigrant ship to leave Ulster for America. She sailed from Groomsport on 9th September 1636 but battering winds and rain forced the ship to return to the Island after reaching nearly two thirds of their way in the point of their journey. Their attempt inspired others over the next couple of years to make the journey themselves.

Find out more about Groomsport

Donaghadee town

Donaghadee is located at Northern Ireland's closest point to Scotland and on most days the Scottish coast is visible to the naked eye. This little town is a hub with many shops, restaurants and is reputedly home to the oldest pub in Ireland.

Donaghadee’s iconic lighthouse stands guard on the harbour keeping ships right in times of trouble with its beam and foghorn.  This was a critical factor in the development of the town. Up until the middle of the 19th century Donaghadee was the province’s principal port before Belfast became the major city.

A fantastic food tour is also available here.

Find out more about Donaghadee

Donaghadee Moat

Known locally as The Moat, Donaghadee Motte was constructed by the Anglo-Normans in the late 12th century. Circa 1821 a picturesque castle, the Gunpowder Store, was built on top of the Motte to store explosives during the building of the ‘new’ harbour.

The Gunpowder Store is now home to the only accessible Camera Obscura on the island of Ireland.

Find out more about Donaghadee Moat and Camera Obscura

Burr Point

Burr Point is the most easterly point on the mainland of Northern Ireland and on the island of Ireland.  It is located at longitude 5.43⁰ west, two kilometres south of Ballyhalbert and is marked by a sculpture by artist Ned Jackson Smyth. Currently there is work being carried out to link the four corners of the Island.

Find out more about Burr Point - Viewpoint in Ballyhalbert

WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre

Set on the shores of the stunning Strangford Lough where almost the entire world’s population of Brent Geese resides during the winter months. Castle Espie is a tranquil and welcoming centre for everyone. 

Get up close to Ireland's largest collection of native and exotic birds, ducks, and geese from around the world or simply explore our woodland and shore-view walks, and dedicated bird hides all while enjoying spectacular views across Strangford Lough.

Find out more about Castle Espie Wetland Centre, Comber

Portaferry

Right at the tip of the Ards Peninsula is Portaferry, a small town well known for its fishing, seafront, and beautiful views over Strangford Lough. The town has a Ferry (Portaferry-Strangford Ferry) that operates daily between the villages of Portaferry and Strangford – accessible for coaches.

Exploris Aquarium is also located in Portaferry The aquarium gives a fascinating insight into the sea life and habitat of the lough shore. Exploris also operates the NIE Seal Sanctuary, where seals are brought into Exploris for rehabilitation. The seals are then released back into the wild when they make a full recovery.

Find out more about Portaferry and Exploris.

Ferry services | nidirect

Strangford Lough Activity Centre

Strangford Lough Activity Centre is an adventure centre based on the shores of Strangford Lough, County Down. They help families, individuals and groups explore places off the beaten track. Offering a variety of land and water based - outdoor activities throughout Northern Ireland including archery, boat tours, bushcraft, canoeing, e-foiling, hill walking, kayaking, laser tag, orienteering, raft building, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), and team building games.

A range of experiences can be arranged with the centre.

Find out more about Strangford Lough Activity Centre.