You will always be greeted with a warm smile and a knowledgeable member of staff in our Visitor Information facilities.
Make this your first stop when planning your trip - our staff are passionate about what they do and will share hints and tips on lesser-known beauty spots, hidden gems and places of interest, then it's time to explore and tick off your list as you go!
Each facility is housed in a unique setting. The Bangor office in the town centre is in the historic eye pleasing *Tower House which dates back to the 1600’s. In Newtownards, the central location showcases a large gift shop of local crafts and souvenirs, and you will find the Portaferry Local Visitor Information Office in Exploris Aquarium (see their website for opening details).
Our Visitor Information staff can advise on how to make the most of your visit, be it a day trip or longer.
Bank Holiday opening
Please note: 2026 Bank Holiday Opening Hours (10am – 4pm) apply over the following days:
Ards
St Patrick’s Day 17 March | Easter Monday and Tuesday 6 and 7 April | May Bank Holidays 4 and 26 May | July Bank Holidays 13 and 14 July | August Bank Holiday 24 August
Closure days over Christmas and New Year - Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve (tbc), and 1 January 2027
Bangor
St Patrick’s Day 17 March | Easter Monday and Tuesday 6 and 7 April | May Bank Holidays 4 and 26 May | July Bank Holidays 13 and 14 July | August Bank Holiday 24 August
Closure days over Christmas and New Year - Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Eve (tbc), and 1 January 2027
Times updated in January 2026. These timings are subject to change. Please check in advance before travelling in case of changes to opening hours throughout the year.
Make us your first point of call for information on attractions, accommodation, activities and events during your visit to the beautiful Ards Peninsula and Strangford Lough region. We can help with tailored advice on how best to spend your time here.
