Land Ahoy Itinerary

Spend quality time together, escape daily life

Take in the beautiful North Down coastline and some of the hidden gems there from a secret waterfall to a magnificent viaduct!

Who: Ideal for couples
 

Where: Crawfordsburn and Bangor seafront
 

Duration: 4 hours

Unwind and connect with nature in leafy Crawfordsburn Country Park

BT19 1JT

Start your day with a tranquil walk through peaceful meadows and wooded glens, in this unique setting, where seaside and countryside meet. Whether you decide to follow the river upstream to be amazed by the stunning waterfall, offering a relaxing natural retreat, or walk under the towering arches of the viaduct, dating from 1865, and admire its fine architecture, the choice is yours. If the sea is calling, head for the beach and stroll along the North Down Coastal Path which skirts Belfast Lough for miles in both directions. 

Spoil yourself at the 4 star retreat, The Old Inn

Crawfordsburn, BT19 1JH

5 mins from previous

Head to picturesque Crawfordsburn village for a spot of lunch at the 4-star hotel, The Old Inn. Standing on one of Ireland’s most ancient highways leading from Holywood Priory to the Parent Abbey in Bangor, records show this building in its current form has stood since 1614 with its most ancient section, still beautifully thatched. Follow in the footsteps of King William of Orange, Dick Turpin and CS Lewis who have all been visitors to this Inn so why not rest your legs in front of a roaring fire! The Old Inn was recently renovated, adding the beautiful Treetops Spa which offers guests unrivalled forest views stretching out to the North Down coastline and will see the addition of a range of new experiences including a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna, hot tubs and relax space set within its tranquil grounds, offering residents an enhanced hospitality experience.

Explore the village of Crawfordsburn further

Explore Bangor Marina and shoreline

City of Bangor, BT20 5AG

8 mins from previous

Make sure you visit the Eisenhower Pier, which is located to the north of Bangor Marina at Bangor Lifeboat Station and is home to a colony of black guillemots who annually nest in the harbour wall. These are known affectionately as "Bangor Penguins". 

Before departing for the D-Day landings on the beaches of Normandy in June 1944, General Dwight D. Eisenhower inspected the 30,000 American soldiers and sailors. They gathered in three huge US Navy battleships (the Nevada, Texas and Arkansas) in Belfast Lough off Bangor.
Follow the coastal path to Ballyholme where you can stop off for a coffee and relax in the village atmosphere.

Explore the City of Bangor further

Stay in Ards and North Down

Find accommodation in the area.

Let our Visitor Information Centre team help plan your visit. Contact them for expert advise!

Note – Please check with inidividual attractions for opening hours before travelling.