Newtownards and surrounding points of interest worth exploring

Positioned at Strangford Lough’s northernmost point, Newtownards is a historic location that serves as an excellent day trip from Belfast. The area originated as a 6^th-century monastic settlement before it was ravaged by the Vikings and eventually overtaken by the Normans. Today, the locale’s cultural attractions offer a captivating glimpse into Northern Ireland’s turbulent history, all within regions of exceptional natural beauty.

Explore the top attractions for a Newtownards visit, including museums, nature reserves and family-oriented activities. For overnight stays in the area, a multitude of accommodation options are available at https://rentola.co.uk, in both the town centre and the nearby countryside. From contemporary apartments and historic townhouses to tranquil country homes perfect for retreating to after an exhilarating day of exploration, all are readily available.

Experience wildlife at the Ark Open Farm

The Ark Open Farm, located on the northern outskirts of Newtownards, extends across 40 acres of picturesque countryside. Home to a varied range of farm animals for interaction, exotic reptiles and dinosaur sculptures also form part of its attractions. This family-friendly destination includes tractor rides and features an outdoor playground, as well as a giant bouncing pillow sure to be a hit with children. After all the excitement, visitors can unwind over a homestyle meal or coffee and cake at the Cottage Cafe.

Unearth Ireland’s wartime history at the Somme Heritage Centre

On the path leading north from Newtownards to Bangor lies the Somme Heritage Centre. Here, the narrative of Ireland’s involvement in World War I is presented, with a particular emphasis on the three local volunteer divisions – the 10^th, 16^th and 36^th Divisions. A guided tour of the museum provides a look into recruitment strategies used to enlist locals and a chance to closely observe reconstructed trenches from the 1916 Battle of the Somme.

Enjoy birdwatching at the Kiltonga Nature Reserve

The Kiltonga Nature Reserve, situated on the western outskirts of Newtownards, serves as a sanctuary for various waterbirds including swans, moorhens and mallards. It’s interspersed with a network of walkways that are wheelchair and pram accessible. At the observation area, visitors can spot kingfishers and grey herons or simply relax on one of the benches and appreciate the tranquillity.

Explore the residence and gardens of Mount Stewart

A brief southeast journey from Newtownards leads to Mount Stewart, a 19^th-century estate and one of several properties managed by the National Trust in Northern Ireland. Positioned on Strangford Lough’s shores, the country’s largest inlet, it was formerly the home of the influential Londonderry family. After touring the mansion house with its period-style furnished rooms, a stroll through the world-class gardens, landscaped in an Arts and Crafts style, is highly recommended. Children will enjoy the natural play area inspired by “The Magic Inkpot” and spotting local wildlife at the Squirrel Hide.

Discover the historic Ballycopeland Windmill

Merely a short distance from the Irish Sea, the Ballycopeland Windmill is a fully operational landmark that offers a hands-on milling experience. Previously owned by the McGilton family, it was employed to grind grain until 1915 before undergoing restoration in the 1970s. Now, it stands as East Down’s only working windmill and is an ideal day trip from Newtownards. Information panels scattered across the site explain the windmill’s function and the millers who once earned their livelihood here. The windmill’s inner workings are unveiled cleverly via touchscreen displays.

Relax by the seaside in Bangor

Bangor, a relaxed coastal city overlooking Belfast Lough’s southern shores, is centred around a yacht-filled marina. Discover its role in the D-Day Landings at Eisenhower Pier before experiencing the family-friendly rides and attractions at Pickie Fun Park. During summer months, a refreshing dip from Skipping Stone Beach’s pebbly shores or a hike to Holywood (a town on Belfast’s edge) along the scenic North Down Coastal Path can be delightful. Wooded walking trails and a walled garden await visitors in Bangor’s Castle Park.

Sample gin and whiskey at the Echlinville Distillery

An insider’s tour at the Echlinville Distillery reveals the creation process of their award-winning spirits from barley harvested at their very own farm. The Tour and Tipple experience offers a field-to-glass journey, allowing guests to see the distillery’s stunning copper stills and enjoy the intoxicating aroma of maturing whiskey. The tour concludes with samples of their delectable whiskeys and gins, alongside the traditional Irish distilled beverage known as poitín.

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