Step inside this 17th century Tower House to discover all Ards and North Down has to offer.
Bangor VIC, Tower House, Visitor Information Centre, tourist, local crafts, guinness
Reopens on Tuesday 1 June, until then all enquires can be directed to Ards Visitor Information Centre on 028 9182 6846.
Tower House is part of the Columban Way, a heritage trail between Comber and Bangor covering 20 miles (32 km). A trail to experience the area’s rich and diverse history, Bronze Age relics, monastic settlements, Viking attacks, industrial heritage and military influences in both the First and Second World Wars, are just some points of interest you will discover along the way. Find out more about the Columban Way Heritage Trail.
Bangor Visitor Information Centre located within the 17th century Tower House is packed with local and national tourist information, as well as gifts and souvenirs. Make it your first stop in the seaside town.
The friendly knowledgeable team are on hand with advice on:
• local events - the events board is ever changing with all that is going on, from tours to experiences, markets and concerts
• where to eat – from coffee shops, delis, take-aways, bars and restaurant the choice is yours
• attractions – from family friendly to historic ruins, stately homes and award winning gardens
• activities – from relaxing to adrenaline pumping and everything in between
• where to stay - there is a huge choice of accommodation on offer to suit all needs and budgets
Staff can help you plan your day trip, short break or staycation in the area or across Northern Ireland.
Opening hours
June, July and August
Mon – Fri 9.15am - 5pm | Sat 10am – 5pm | Sunday CLOSED
September - May
Mon - Fri 9.15am - 5pm | Sat 10 – 4 | Sunday CLOSED
History of the Tower
The 17th Century Tower and adjoining Tower House on Bangor Seafront are well preserved reminders of Bangor's sea-faring history alongside its modern Marina.Originally built in 1637 as a Custom House, the architecture of the Tower is unique in Bangor and rare in Ulster. Over the past 300 years the building has served various purposes - private dwellings, an antique shop and housed hot sea water baths.
The future of the Tower House was protected when the Historic Buildings Branch of the Department of the Environment added it to their "List of Buildings of Special Interest" in 1979.