Categories: HalloweenEventsAutumn

Autumnal Events

A Guide to Hallowe'en in Ards and North Down

Due to covid there are not as many events running this year and those that are running are subject to change. Please visit the attractions website directly for up to date information on the Covid guidelines they are adhering to and for up to date information relating to their business and events.

  • Saturday 16 – Sunday 31 October, Ark Open Farm Pumpkin Patch in Conlig
  • Tuesday 19 October - Sunday 31 October, Teeth or Treat Trail at Exploris.
  • Tuesday 26 - Sunday 31 October, sees the return of the fang-tastic Hallowe'en celebrations at Ulster Folk Museum in Cultra
  • Wednesday 27 - Sunday 31 October, add some adventure to your half term and set off on Mount Stewart's Batty about Bats trail
  • Saturday 30 October, 2pm - 4pm Come along to Cockle Row Cottages, Groomsport for creepy crafts, seashore nature trail, a pumpkin trail and more this Halloween. For more information call Bangor Visitor Information Centre 028 9127 0069. *Cottages will not be open.
  • Sunday 31 October, Pickie Funpark Pumpkin Patch in Bangor
  • Sunday 31 October, Drumawhey Junction Miniature Train at four road ends Donaghadee - Open 1pm-4pm, tickets £3ea payable on site (U2yrs free)

Get out and about

There is nothing more satisfying that crunching though a path of golden brown leaves, kicking them about, feeling cosy in our coats and if you have a cup of hot chocolate in hand even better! We are so lucky in Ards and North Down to have so many places to explore, stunning scenery to admire all year round and most of these area are free!

Highlight walks

  • Killynether Wood and Scrabo Tower in Newtownards - the view alone is worth it!
  • Castle Park in Bangor, where you will also find a real gem of ours - Bangor Castle Walled Garden. Stop in the garden's cafe or even explore North Down Museum and grab a bite at Coffee Cure.
  • Nugent's Wood in Portaferry overlooking the exquisite still waters of Strangford Lough.
  • And of course the National Trust's Mount Stewart House and Gardens in Newtownards which offers trails through the woods, around the lake and a natural play area for the little ones. A great way to spend a morning or afternoon.

Find more walks in the region.

There's more!

There are a host of attractions just waiting for you to visit, and for families half term lends that perfect opportunity - from Wildfowl and Wetland Centre Castle Espie in Comber, Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry and the Ulster Transport Museum in Cultra.

North Down Museum in Bangor located beside Bangor Town Hall in Castle Park - Why not grab an Explorers Pack and go on a nature adventure with the kids, followed by an ice cream in Bangor Castle Walled Garden (It's never too cold for ice cream!).

Decorate and personalise your very own piece of pottery at Eden Pottery - hire a box or visit the studio.

Please note, this listing is meant as a guide only. All information is subject to change. If you would like to submit information on Halloween events and activities please email marketing@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk 

As always, be aware of what current local COVID-19 restrictions are in place and please follow public health guidance. For information visit, nidirect and the Public Health Agency website.

To avoid disappointment, when planning to visit an attraction in the area please continue to check individual provider websites before you leave the house to confirm if they are open, closed or if pre-booking is required.

WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre
Nature and Wildlife
two young girls looking through binoculars over the wetlands

Here you'll find the largest collection of ducks, geese and swans in Northern Ireland, as well as a gallery, café, woodland walks, sensory garden, events and activities, free parking, and a picnic area.

Mount Stewart
The National Trust
Mount Stewart House

Mount Stewart is a stunning estate in the beautiful scenic area of Strangford Lough. The Formal Gardens are ranked as one of the top ten in the world and the within the house there are collections of national and international significance.

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.

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.

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.

The Ark Open Farm
Open Farm
Image of the Ark Open Farm's small replica of Noah's Ark with animal statues including giraffe

The Ark Open Farm is a fantastic family day out; the farm itself is set in 40 acres of beautiful countryside between Newtownards and Bangor. It’s home to a huge selection of farm animals and some that are a little more exotic.