Newtownards

The 'heart of the Ards Peninsula', Newtownards, locally known as ‘Ards’, is a large town that lies at the most northern tip of Strangford Lough.

Ulster-Scots founded

In 1605, Hugh Montgomery was granted the lands and set about rebuilding what was by then known as Newtown, later expanded to Newtownards. Official records show the town was established in 1606. Montgomery built a residence in the ruins of the Old Priory, the tower of which remains. The Priory is currently not open to the public because of ongoing conservation work. Find out more about the Ulster-Scots influence on Newtownards.

The Market

Newtownards became a market town, with the Market House in Conway Square constructed in 1770. This building is known today as the Town Hall Arts Centre, and, in front of it, in the square, the market still operates on a weekly basis, every Saturday. Find out more about the market.

Scrabo Tower

The town of Newtownards is overlooked by Scrabo Tower, which is one of the dominant features of the area. The tower is 41 metres high, and was built in 1857 as a memorial to Charles Stewart, 3rd Marquess of Londonderry.

Scrabo Grounds are open daily and the Tower is generally open May - September at weekends. The Tower stands tall in Scrabo Country Park with its woodland walks and parkland through Killynether Wood. The woods give visitors the opportunity to enjoy the quiet and peaceful countryside.

Universal Pictures filmed several scenes of the new Dracula Untold film at Scrabo Country Park and Killynether Wood. This is one of many of the locations used for filming across Northern Ireland. Find out more about filming locations in Ards and North Down.

Ards Visitor Information Centre

Ards Visitor Information Centre lies within the town and should be your first stop to visit. The centre will provide you with information on where to stay, local events and where to eat during your visit to Ards Peninsula and Strangford Lough region.

The centre also displays a range of locally crafted gifts and souvenirs of the borough and of the island, from books, jewellery, artwork, textiles and momentos. Contact Ards Visitor Information Centre.

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Newtownards highlights...

Scrabo Tower

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.
Scrabo Country Park

This charming park is situated around the upper slopes and top of Scrabo Hill, near the area of Newtownards. When visitors come and explore, they will be able to view the panoramic sights of Strangford Lough as well as the surrounding countryside.
The Priory

At the south east edge of Newtownards these substantial remains of a Dominican (Black) Friary founded in 1244 may be viewed. They are the only ones of their type in Northern Ireland.
Newtownards Weekly Market

A weekly market catering for all your needs, every Saturday.
Ards Arts Centre

Located in Newtownards’ beautifully restored Georgian Town Hall in the centre of town, the Ards Arts Centres a welcoming space which supports a wide range of community arts activities alongside our own initiatives.
IMC Newtownards

IMC cinema in Newtownards.
Ulster Flying Club

The Ulster Flying Club offers the opportunity to embark on an unforgettable adventure over the picturesque landscapes of Ards & North Down. Take to the skies in either our Microlight C42 or Cessna 172, you will soar above this stunning region, revealing its natural beauty in a whole new light. The sensation of flight combined with the awe-inspiring views creates a truly magical experience that lingers in the memory long after the flight ends.
1. 1 Jan 202431 Dec 2024
IMC Newtownards

IMC cinema in Newtownards.
Mount Stewart

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.
Kiltonga Nature Reserve

In July 2000, Kiltonga Nature Reserve became the first site in the UK to be awarded BT Millennium Miles Status. Almost 1000 metres of walkway were upgraded to enable disabled access to the reserve.
The Ark Open Farm

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.
Scrabo Golf Club

Scrabo, set in the shadow of its famous tower, has its own unique personality and is a favourite amongst Northern Ireland golfers. The course offers magnificent views over Strangford Lough and the Mourne Mountains.