Located just 15 minutes from Belfast, Ards and North Down is one of those parts of Northern Ireland that has a bit of everything. Coastal towns, sea views, good food, outdoor activities and plenty of space to slow down and explore. Stretching from Belfast Lough to the Ards Peninsula and Strangford Lough, this destination offers the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, culture and food.
For travel professionals putting together tailor-made itineraries, the region works particularly well because so much is packed into a relatively small area. Visitors can enjoy coastal walks, outdoor adventures, local food experiences and historic attractions, all while discovering some of the most memorable places to visit in Northern Ireland.
Whether visitors are interested in coastal scenery, local food, family attractions or simply finding different things to do in Northern Ireland, there is plenty here to fill a short break or a longer touring itinerary.
Why Visit Ards and North Down?
Ards and North Down combines coast, countryside, culture and cuisine within one easily accessible destination. From the lively atmosphere of Bangor Northern Ireland to the natural beauty of Strangford Lough, the region offers a diverse mix of experiences within a short distance of Belfast.
Visitors can spend time outdoors, explore small towns and villages, enjoy fresh local food and discover some of the most scenic places to visit in Northern Ireland. The region’s relaxed pace and strong local character make it particularly appealing for travellers looking to experience Northern Ireland beyond the major cities.
Bangor Northern Ireland and the North Down Coast
Credit: Ards and North Down Borough Council
For many visitors, Bangor Northern Ireland is the first place they experience in the region, and it is easy to see why. The marina, waterfront cafés and relaxed coastal atmosphere make it a good base for exploring the wider area.
One of the highlights here is the North Down Coastal Path, where visitors can enjoy sea views, peaceful walking routes and charming seaside stops along the way. Bangor attractions range from independent cafés and shopping to outdoor experiences and coastal dining.
It is the sort of place where people can take their time, stop for coffee by the marina and enjoy the coastline without feeling rushed.
Highlights of Bangor attractions include:
• Bangor Marina
• The North Down Coastal Path
• Seafront cafés and restaurants
• Independent shopping
• Coastal viewpoints and beaches
A visit to Bangor pairs particularly well with:
• Coastal walking experiences
• Boutique accommodation
• Seaside dining
• Day trips from Belfast
• Scenic touring routes along the coast
Strangford Lough and Outdoor Adventures
Credit; Ards and North Down Borough Council
Strangford Lough is one of the best known natural areas in the region and easily one of the most impressive places to visit in Northern Ireland.
Visitors to Strangford Lough can experience kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing and birdwatching while taking in the peaceful scenery and diverse wildlife. Seal spotting is especially popular around the lough, creating memorable experiences for nature lovers.
Popular activities around Strangford Lough include:
• Kayaking and paddleboarding
• Scenic boat trips
• Birdwatching and wildlife spotting
• Coastal cycling routes
• Walking trails and nature experiences
The surrounding countryside also provides opportunities for cycling, walking and scenic touring routes, making this an excellent destination for travellers searching for more things to do in Northern Ireland.
Families can also enjoy award winning beaches including Groomsport, Millisle, Ballywalter South and Cloughey, all recognised for their quality and beautiful coastal settings.
What Strangford Lough offers visitors:
• Kayaking and paddleboarding experiences
• Scenic cycling and walking routes
• Wildlife and birdwatching opportunities
• Family friendly beaches nearby
• Beautiful coastal and countryside scenery
Historic Towns and Local Experiences
Credit: Ards and North Down Borough Council
While Bangor Northern Ireland and Strangford Lough are among the region’s biggest highlights, the surrounding towns and villages are equally rewarding to explore.
Comber is known for its connection to local food heritage and traditional market town atmosphere, while Donaghadee offers colourful harbour views and a classic seaside feel.
Holywood has become popular for its independent cafés, stylish boutiques and elegant streets, while Newtownards provides easy access to the countryside alongside shopping and heritage attractions.
Together, these towns give visitors a better feel for local life and offer a different side to Northern Ireland away from the bigger cities.
Visitors can explore:
•Traditional harbour towns
• Boutique shopping and local markets
• Historic churches and heritage sites
• Independent cafés and bakeries
• Scenic countryside surrounding the towns
Visitors will find:
• Independent shops and cafés
• Historic streets and harbour settings
• Local food experiences
• Friendly communities and slower paced travel
• Easy access to nearby countryside and coastline
Family Attractions and Things to Do in Northern Ireland
Credit: Ards and North Down Borough Council
For families and leisure travellers, Ards and North Down offers an excellent variety of attractions and outdoor experiences.
Exploris Aquarium and Seal Sanctuary remain one of the most popular Bangor attractions for visitors travelling with children, while Pickie Funpark continues to be a favourite for traditional seaside fun.
Nature lovers can explore WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, while Mount Stewart offers a mix of impressive gardens, walking trails and historic interiors.
One of the region’s most memorable experiences is the historic Strangford Ferry crossing between Strangford and Portaferry. Operating since 1188, it is recognised as the world’s longest continuously running ferry service and offers beautiful views across Strangford Lough.
For families especially, there is a really good mix of scenery, history and things to do in Northern Ireland without needing to travel huge distances between attractions.
Family friendly highlights include:
•Exploris Aquarium and Seal Sanctuary
• Pickie Funpark
• Mount Stewart gardens and estate
• WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre
• Beaches at Groomsport, Millisle and Cloughey
Food, Drink and Local Produce
Credit: Ards and North Down Borough Council
Food is a big part of visiting Ards and North Down and the region has built a strong reputation for local produce and seafood. Thanks to the region’s coastline and strong agricultural heritage, local menus are filled with fresh seafood and high quality produce.
Specialities such as Comber Earlies PGI potatoes, Portavogie prawns, Strangford Lough oysters and County Down grass-fed beef all reflect the area’s reputation for exceptional ingredients.
Visitors can also experience Northern Ireland’s growing distilling scene through tours and tastings at The Copeland Distillery in Donaghadee and Echlinville Distillery in Kircubbin.
There is also a good mix of places to eat, from relaxed cafés and tearooms to well known local restaurants.
Food and drink experiences include:
•Fresh seafood restaurants
• Artisan food producers
• Distillery tours and tastings
• Traditional cafés and tearooms
• Seasonal menus using local produce
Accommodation in Ards and North Down
Whether visitors are looking for luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, coastal cottages or glamping experiences, Ards and North Down offers accommodation to suit every style and budget.
Many properties enjoy beautiful coastal or countryside views, helping visitors fully relax and enjoy the slower pace of the region. Accommodation across Bangor Northern Ireland and the surrounding coastline ranges from elegant seaside stays to cosy countryside retreats.
Plan Tailor Made Northern Ireland Experiences
At Best of Scotland Holidays, we help travel professionals create tailor made itineraries across Northern Ireland and the wider UK and Ireland.
From scenic coastal journeys and local food experiences to hidden gems and outdoor adventures, Ards and North Down offers a memorable addition to any tailor-made Northern Ireland programme.
