About
Part of Experience Ards and North Down 2024. Click here to see the full programme.
“From Grain to Griddle", Ballycopeland Windmill's new and unique visitor experience, will bring to life the traditions of the story of bread-making.
Visitors will be given an opportunity to weave a Corn Dolly and make their own traditional Irish soda bread on an open (though more modern!) griddle, integrating fully into the history and mythology of milling grain at Ballycopeland. A tour of the whole heritage site and access up the windmill are included in this experience too.
Guided tours of the site bring visitors on a journey that follows the grain from the field to the mill, how it was dried and ground to make the wheatmeal and flour that would finally have been used to bake bread on the open griddle in the Miller’s cottage.
The tours also tell of many of the traditions and folklore that surround man’s association with grain and bread-making. From the derivation of “bread” and “dough” as slang words for money, the “daily grind” of working to make enough flour for a loaf of bread.
Ballycopeland Windmill is one of the most iconic structures on the Ards peninsula and since fully restored in 2022 attracts visitors from afar, with its café to visit too.
Be prepared to get a little dusty during your baking session, on what is sure to be a fascinating experience.
Things to note
No concessions
Those aged 16 years plus are welcome
U18s should be accompanied by a paying adult.
Tickets close 1 day before.
Dietary requirements
Please ensure that you check with all members of your party regarding food allergies, intolerances, and dietary requirements prior to booking tickets.
It is the responsibility of the ticketholder to inform a member of staff at the host venue about food allergies, intolerances and specific dietary requirements.
This must be done 72 hours before the experience by contacting Laura Warrington: lwarrington@usel.co.uk
Getting there
By Car: From Belfast follow the A20 to Newtownards. Turn right onto Movilla Rd/B172. Turn right onto Ballyblack Rd E/B17 and then left onto Moss Road B172. Destination on the left.
There is parking available on site.
By Bus: See Translink NI website for bus departure and arrival times.
Accessibility
This is mostly fully accessible, except during the tour access to the upper floors of the windmill are restricted due to its steep and narrow steps. The rest of the tour and activities are accessible. However if a guest has a particular question/concern around accessibility they are asked to contact lwarrington@usel.co.uk before booking.
Carers
Where practicable providers within the Experience Programme will aim to accommodate carers and be as inclusive as possible. With such a diverse range of activities, operated by a number of providers, it is necessary for this to be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Please contact Bangor Visitor Information Centre on 028 9127 0069, and they will be able to address your enquiry.
TICKETS ON SALE SOON | Terms and conditions apply
Online booking fees apply. Avoid the booking fee and buy direct through our Visitor Information Centres.
All details subject to change.
Guide Prices
| Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
|---|---|
| Ticket | £25.00 per ticket |
TICKETS ON SALE SOON!
Online booking fees apply. Avoid the booking fee and buy direct through our Visitor Information Centres.
