Journey Through Time

Embark on a captivating 'Journey Through Time', where the stories, landscapes, and legacies of County Down unfold.

Suitable for: Groups | Duration: 1 day with optional overnight stay

Begin by stepping into the past at the Ulster Folk Museum, where costumed guides, traditional cottages, and working farms immerse you in the rhythms and crafts of early 19th and 20th-century Ulster.

Enjoy a seasonal lunch amid the vibrant colours and tranquility of The Walled Garden at Helen’s Bay, before experiencing the remarkable vision of Lady Dufferin on an exclusive private visit to Clandeboye Estate-one of Ireland’s last great houses, renowned for its innovation, gardens, and cultural life.

As evening falls, soak up live entertainment and local history at the beautifully restored Court House in Bangor, a Victorian landmark now buzzing with music, theatre, and dining.

As an optional extra, your day can conclude with a restful retreat at the elegant Clandeboye Lodge Hotel, where comfort, sustainability, and heartfelt hospitality ensure a perfect end to your journey.

Pricing available on request – this itinerary can be customised to your needs, with quotes provided based on group size and selected experiences.

Click here, for more information and to book

Ulster Folk Museum, National Museums Northern Ireland 

Cultra, Holywood BT18 0EU 

Step back in time and explore life in Ulster from the 1800s onward in this living history experience. Wander through traditional thatched cottages, working farms, and a recreated historic town, meeting costumed guides and experiencing authentic crafts, stories, and rural traditions in a beautiful open-air setting.

Find out more about the Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra

The Walled Garden Helen's Bay

Helen's Bay, BT19 1UB | 6 mins (2.7 miles) from previous location

Enjoy a fresh, seasonal lunch in a beautifully restored Victorian walled garden, where organic produce and flowers are grown and creative community projects flourish. Wander through lush gardens, drawing inspiration from the vibrant colours and tranquil setting. Following lunch, visitors will enjoy a guided tour of the estate.

Find out more about The Walled Garden Helen's Bay

Google Map Directions Ulster Folk Museum to The Walled Garden Helen's Bay

Clandeboye Estate

Bangor, BT19 1RN | 7 min (3.0 miles) from previous location

Experience an exclusive visit to Clandeboye Estate, which is not open to the public.  Guests will hear the remarkable story of Lady Dufferin-artist, innovator, and passionate custodian of one of Ireland’s last great houses. Discover how her vision brought new life to the estate through initiatives like Clandeboye Yoghurt, vibrant gardens, and cultural events, all set within 2,000 acres of historic woodlands and parklands. Your visit offers a rare glimpse into Lady Dufferin’s legacy and the enduring spirit of Clandeboye.

Find out more about Clandeboye Estate

Google Map Directions from The Walled Garden Helen's Bay to Clandeboye Estate, Bangor 

The Court House

Bangor, BT20 5ED | 9 min (2.8 miles) from previous location

Finish your day’s activities at The Court House in Bangor.  Enjoy dinner and entertainment in a stunning Victorian Italianate building steeped in history. Originally built in 1865 as a Belfast Banking Company branch, it later became a Court of Petty Sessions, with features reflecting its role during Northern Ireland’s Troubles. Now beautifully restored by the local arts charity Open House, it serves as a vibrant hub for live music, comedy, theatre, and dining. Enjoy a unique atmosphere where history meets culture with original architectural details and stories woven into every corner, making your evening both entertaining and memorable.

Optional Add on:

Enjoy a 30-minute tour of the remarkable Court House building and hear about its 250-year history

Find out more about The Court House

Google Maps Directions from Clandeboye Estate, Bangor to The Court House, Bangor

Stay a while…  Optional Overnight Accommodation

Clandeboye Lodge Hotel | Bangor, BT19 1UR | 10 min (3.7 miles) from previous location

Retreat and unwind in the elegant rooms of Clandeboye Lodge Hotel - featuring handcrafted Irish furnishings, blackout curtains, and orthopaedic mattresses for ultimate comfort. Relax with locally sourced, seasonal dining at the Coq & Bull Brasserie, known for its honest, heartfelt cuisine.

Google Maps Directions from The Court House, Bangor to Clandeboye Lodge Hotel, Bangor

Find further inspiration

With Plan Your Trip, Itineraries, Free things to do, Pack a Picnic for a day out, Great Family Days Out and Beaches off the Beaten Track.

Please note, all details are subject to change.

It is always recommended to check directly with the provider for up to date information with regards event activity and opening.

Ts and Cs may apply to some activity.