Journey our stunning shorelines nestled between the sparkling waters of the Irish Sea and spectacular Strangford Lough, take time out, relax and enjoy the warmest of welcomes in Ards and North Down.

Explore the nooks in the woods to award-winning beaches and country parks, discover our stunning coastline or visit a top-class attraction. Find inspiration to guide you through the attractions you can visit while in the area in our family fun mid-term guide.

If it is a spot of shopping you’re after, you will love our distinctive towns and villages. From wonderful local weekly and monthly markets, exquisite gift shops, galleries and independent stores, you are sure to be spoilt for choice. Then enjoy the finest and freshest local ingredients on menus across the region's artisan food shops, cafes and award-winning restaurants.

When it comes to the perfect place to stay, whether you are looking for a cosy guest house or a unique self-catering option, we have an array of choices.

If you love the great outdoors, choose a caravanning or camping location, or if you are looking for luxury, treat yourself to a hotel stay. From 5* luxury to boutique charm, inns dating back as far as the 17th century, to those with a more modern twist, it’s time to plan your perfect getaway.

Don't forget to check out our Special Offers and for more inspiration and tips on how to make the most of your trip sign up to our newsletter.

Note – Covid-19 Safety measures, travel restrictions and pre-booking may apply, please check nidirect.gov.uk and with providers before booking and travelling Please lateral flow test prior to travelling. Offers are limited and Ts&Cs apply – check individual offers for details.  

Ulster Folk Museum
Visitor Centres & Museums
Visitors enjoying picnics in the grounds of the Folk Museum

Refresh the connection at Ulster Folk Museum, a place where traditions and heritage skills are preserved and celebrated to help shape future generations.

Ulster Transport Museum
Visitor Centres & Museums
Vintage double decker bus

Celebrate the history of invention and innovation through engineering, design, and technology at Ulster Transport Museum. Check out the famous Delorean, a Ferguson tractor and a model replica of the Titanic!

Pickie Fun Park
Adventure Park / Playground
Photo of people enjoying rides on the Giant Swans pedal boats on the blue waters of the man made pond at Pickie Funpark

Enjoy a fun day out at Pickie Fun Park. Try out the 18-hole mini-golf course, giant pedal swans, Pickie Puffer train, children's play area, children's electric car track and more.

Exploris Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary
Zoo / Aquarium
a boy and his dad looking at a sea creature in the tank

Enjoy a diver's view of marine life from around the world without getting wet. An underwater Tunnel Experience, friendly sharks and a Dwarfcrocodile, a Waddle of Penguins, all star in Northern Ireland’s only aquarium and seal rehabilitation centre.

Scrabo Tower
Tower
Scrabo Tower at dusk

At the top of Scrabo Hill, overlooking Strangford Lough and the whole of North Down, is Scrabo Tower. The tower, which was built in 1857, is one of Northern Ireland’s best known landmarks and the views from the top are spectacular.

Bangor Marina
Adventure Sports
Birds eye view of Bangor Marina

Bangor Marina is located right in the heart of Bangor city centre close to all major road, rail and air transport networks. The Marina lies at the mouth of Belfast Lough offering exceptional access to world class yacht racing waters.