Blog (Inspiration) - Ards & North Down

Ards and North Down is brimming with events, activities and attractions to stir all the senses in every season of the year. 

In April we launched the Experience Ards and North Down programme, a series of experiences that run annually from Easter to New Year’s Day. These experiences offer you the opportunity to immerse yourself in our place, from the natural beauty of our countryside to water’s edge encounters, touring our historic towns and charming villages, and sampling our delicious food and drink.

Discover this beautiful region, all within an hour of Belfast. Bring your group to journey along our stunning shorelines nestled between the sparkling waters of the Irish Sea and spectacular Strangford Lough. 

Dive deep into the maritime history and heritage of this stunning Peninsula, with many tales to tell dating back through the centuries with this free App recently launched by Ards and North Down Borough Council.

It is time to wind down as you discover 115 miles of scenic coastline along the edge of Belfast Lough, the Ards Peninsula and Strangford Lough. All within an hour of Belfast you will find stunning beauty spots, fascinating heritage sites and savour award-winning local food and drink.

Come and explore a world full of adventure.  Take in the breathtaking views at Scrabo Tower or dive into Strangford Lough. With activities for all the family to enjoy, Ards and North Down is the perfect location for your staycation this spring. 

As half term approaches, this year more than ever we’re all in need of a relaxing short break!  Ards and North Down is the perfect place for family fun, all within an hour of Belfast City. 

Think Green. Think Environment. Think Sustainability: Making Ards and North Down a better place, for now and for our future.

Is your dog getting tired of the same old walks? Why not explore somewhere new this weekend? Whether your dog loves sniffing around the forest or running free on the beach, we can guarantee that we’ve got something to suit all pups here in Ards and North Down.

Here are some of the most beautiful sights in Ards and North Down, they need no filter, and you are guaranteed to be snap happy.  

With a renewed interest and appreciation for the outdoors and nature that is right on our doorstep, why not explore your local area and enjoy some of our walking routes?

In Ards and North Down, we've 115 miles of scenic coastline for you to explore, from the edge of Belfast Lough, on to the Ards Peninsula and Strangford Lough. Here you will find many beautiful and lesser-known beaches dotted along your journey.