Situated at the northeastern edge of County Down’s Ards Peninsula, just 30 minutes by train from Belfast, Bangor may be one of Northern Ireland’s newest cities, but its history stretches back thousands of years. From Bronze Age settlers and medieval monks, to Viking raiders and Victorian holidaymakers, the city has played many roles over the centuries, but it was during the 19th century that Bangor established itself as one of Northern Ireland’s favourite seaside escapes. Today, Bangor is still a go-to for a break by the sea – wander the walled garden, relax by the Bangor Marina, and dine in some of the city’s great seafood restaurants.
Scrabo Tower, County Down
Hunter Bros for Ards and North Down Borough Council
Visitors to Bangor are often surprised by the number of attractions this small city packs in. Begin at Bangor Castle Walled Garden, a beautifully restored garden from the 1840s. While Bangor Castle itself is not open to the public, the surrounding grounds are free to explore and feature sweeping views over Belfast Lough. Keep an eye out for the bench dedicated to Belfast-born CS Lewis, author of The Chronicles of Narnia, who visited the gardens often.
Also within the park is the North Down Museum, with exhibits including the remarkable Ballycroghan Swords, Bronze Age weapons dating back to around 500BC. A short walk away is Bangor Abbey, one of Ireland’s most important Early Christian sites. Established by Saint Comgall in 558AD, the abbey was raided by the Vikings in the 9th century.
As you’d expect from a coastal destination, Bangor has a strong seafood scene. Head to The Guillemot Kitchen Café for a seafood sharing platter, enjoy fish and chips at Donegan’s or try Portavogie scampi at the popular Rabbit Rooms. Afterwards, make your way to the Court House, a venue at the heart of Bangor’s burgeoning arts and music scene, and home of city’s annual Open House Festival.
Mount Stewart, Strangford Lough, County Down
© Tourism Ireland
Bangor is perfectly placed for exploring the wider Ards Peninsula and nearby Strangford Lough, one of the island of Ireland’s most spectacular natural landscapes. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the lough is dotted with islands, is rich with history and offers an array of walking routes and watersports.
Stroll through the exquisite gardens and elegant interior of the 18th-century Mount Stewart House on the eastern side of the shore, immerse yourself in nature at the Castle Espie Wetland Centre, a sanctuary for thousands of Brent Geese; travel back in time at the 5th-century ruins of Nendrum Monastic Site, and visit Game of Thrones® filming locations at Castle Ward.
Few places in Ireland offer the kind of attractions that Bangor boasts, so why not start your Bangor adventure today?
