Blog (Things To Do) - Ards & North Down

They say the best things in life are free! Making precious family memories does not have to break the bank. Here are a few perfect spots to enjoy a stroll, paddle or a picnic in Ards and North Down.

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.

Men are notoriously hard to buy for but this Father’s Day, Sunday 19 June, we have the ultimate gift guide! With unique experiences for all types of enthusiasts, eateries for all taste palettes and an array of local makers and shops, you won’t fall short of getting something your Dad is sure to thoroughly enjoy…

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.

The gold of Autumn has dissipated some and the chill in the air may have a sharpness to it but our parks, our forests and idyllic walking spots are just as calming and beautiful as ever.

Explore water’s edge beauty spots and heritage sites, savour our award-winning local food and drink, be inspired by our creative makers and experience exhilarating activities and events – it’s all waiting for you!

Our place offers far reaching skies, miles of magnificent coastline, natural beauty, bountiful beaches and inspirational coastal and country walks.