Prestigious Blue Flag and Seaside Awards for Ards and North Down’s Stunning Coastline

9th May 2025

Ards and North Down’s exceptional coastline has once again been recognised for its outstanding quality, with the Borough’s popular coastal destinations receiving prestigious accolades from Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful as part of the 2025 Blue Flag and Seaside Awards programme.

Ballywalter South Beach, Cloughey Beach, Groomsport Beach, Millisle Beach, have retained its Seaside Award status, recognising it as a clean, safe, and well-managed beach – ideal for families, walkers and water lovers alike.

Meanwhile, Bangor Marina has once again earned the coveted Blue Flag Award, one of the world’s most recognised standards for water quality, safety, accessibility and environmental management in marinas.

Judith Hammond, Tourism Development Officer Ards and North Down Borough Council and Eric Randall, CEO of Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful.

The awards were announced during a ceremony at Belfast Harbour Office, where 22 sites across Northern Ireland were recognised – including 16 Blue Flag Awards and 6 Seaside Awards.

Ards and North Down Borough Council continues to deliver high standards in environmental protection, sustainable tourism, and accessible coastal experiences. These awards are a testament to the tireless work of Council teams, volunteers, local businesses and partner organisations who work year-round to ensure our coastline is welcoming, clean and safe for everyone to enjoy.

Environmental Education and Sustainability

The Blue Flag and Seaside Awards go beyond beauty – recognising leadership in environmental education and sustainable coastal management. Across Ards and North Down, the Council works with local schools, community groups, and initiatives like Eco-Schools NI and Live Here Love Here to promote environmental awareness and responsible tourism.

These award flags will fly proudly throughout the 2025 bathing season (1 June–15 September), offering assurance to residents and visitors of high-quality coastal experiences. Flags will be temporarily removed if water quality dips below standards, ensuring public safety remains a top priority.

Find out more at Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful

Read more about beaches in the area