Discover Sustainable Experiences Across Ards and North Down
The Loughs and Legends Tourism Cluster was launched in October 2025, and brings together tourism businesses from across Ards and North Down to develop a more sustainable, resilient and high-quality visitor offering. Building on the success of the AND Sustainable Giants network, the cluster reflects a shared commitment to responsible tourism that supports local communities, protects the natural environment and contributes to a thriving local economy.
The cluster also supports the ambitions of Ards and North Down Borough Council's Corporate Plan, helping to promote sustainable economic growth, enhance the visitor experience and protect the unique landscapes, heritage and culture that make the borough such a special place to live, work and visit.
Inspired by the area's spectacular loughs, coastal landscapes, vibrant towns and rich storytelling traditions, the cluster celebrates the distinctive character of the destination. From the shores of Strangford Lough to the legends, folklore and historic sites that shape the region's identity, members work together to create authentic visitor experiences that connect people with place while ensuring tourism growth remains sustainable for future generations.
Their Commitment
Working collaboratively, cluster members are committed to:
- Promoting sustainable tourism practices across their businesses.
- Encouraging visitors to explore responsibly and support local communities.
- Protecting the natural environment and biodiversity.
- Showcasing local culture, heritage, food and storytelling.
- Extending visitor stays and supporting year-round tourism.
- Strengthening local supply chains and the regional economy.
- Sharing knowledge, innovation and best practice.
Together, members are helping to ensure tourism growth enhances, rather than detracts from, the unique qualities that make Ards and North Down such a special destination.
Explore Sustainable Itineraries
The Loughs and Legends itineraries showcase how visitors can experience the best of Ards and North Down while supporting sustainable tourism. From food and heritage to wildlife, culture and outdoor adventure, each itinerary has been designed to encourage meaningful travel and deeper connections with local people and places.
Here is how you can enjoy your time with us sustainably...
Meet the Cluster Members
The Loughs and Legends Tourism Cluster brings together a diverse range of tourism, hospitality, heritage, arts and visitor experience businesses committed to sustainability.
Members include...
- Court House Bangor with Open House Festival
- Clandeboye Estate
- Clandeboye Lodge Hotel
- Exploris Aquarium and Seal Sanctuary
- Kiri Cottage Crafts
- Lightfoot Kitchen and Deli
- Mrs Maker is Art
- NI Silver
- Princetown Guesthouse
- Strangford Lough Activity Centre
- Sustainable Journey's Ireland
- Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen
- Ulster Folk Museum
- The Walled Garden Helen's Bay
- WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre
Working Together
By collaborating, sharing best practice and developing sustainable visitor experiences, the Loughs and Legends Tourism Cluster is helping to create a tourism industry that delivers economic, environmental and social benefits while safeguarding the natural and cultural heritage of Ards and North Down for future generations.
