Your FREE Visitor Guide to Ards and North Down EXPERIENCES AND EVENTS DOORSTEP

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1 Your FREE Visitor Guide to Ards and North Down EXPERIENCES AND EVENTS Spring / summer 2018 On BelfAST s DOORSTEP

2 Call into our Visitor Information Centres to discover how best to spend your time in Ards and North Down. Ards Visitor Information Centre 31 Regent Street, Newtownards County Down BT23 4AD Bangor Visitor Information Centre Tower House, 34 Quay Street, Bangor County Down BT20 5ED visitardsandnorthdown.com

3 Experience AND Enjoy 02 Welcome 04 Walk this way Drive this way Explore our coastline 10 Food AND Drink 12 See AND Do 20 Get Active 28 Embrace the Arts 32 Let us inspire you 34 Experience Ards AND North Down Tours 36 Spring/Summer Events 62 Exhibitions 65 Visitor Information Services 66 Emergency Information 67 Accommodation 68 Ards and North Down Map The information in this guide was correct at the time of going to print. Every care has been taken to ensure accuracy; however, we cannot accept responsibility for any errors, omissions or changes that may occur. This information can be made available in a range of alternative formats to meet a specific need. To request an alternative format please phone /

4 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Walk this way Get your boots on and get out there! Walking is one of the best ways to explore the rolling hills of the surrounding countryside and the breathtaking coastline. There are many self-guided walking tour booklets available from our Visitor Information Centres, highlighting the history, heritage and attractions in our towns and villages. You can also book a guided tour. Captivating Coastline With miles of coastline stretching from Holywood to Portaferry, the opportunities for scenic walks are endless. With charming towns and pretty villages nestled along the way, take a break in a cafe or restaurant and recharge with coffee and a sweet treat, or a pint and a pie. The choice is yours! The North Down Coastal Path One of the finest shoreline walks in Northern Ireland, the North Down Coastal path stretches for 16 miles. It runs from Holywood to Cultra to Helen s Bay to Crawfordsburn to Bangor, finishing just after Groomsport at Portavoe. Please be aware that sections of the North Down Coastal Path follow private roads. Respect the Highway Code when walking, cycling or running along these sections where residential traffic will have right of way. In the interests of your own safety please be respectful when using the area for recreational purposes.

5 Page 4 Forty Shades of Green From the hills of Scrabo in Newtownards to the leafy forest of Crawfordsburn Country Park or the world renowned gardens and new farmland trails at Mount Stewart, there is a fabulous countryside to be discovered. This area has a mild marine micro climate with dry and fertile soils supporting the beautiful flora and fauna along the way. The Comber Greenway links country with city along a disused railway line. This seven mile, traffic free linear route is popular with walkers and cyclists. Green Flag Award The International mark of quality Ards and North Down is proud that four of our parks and green spaces have been presented with the Green Flag Award. Make sure to include one or all of these beauty spots in your itinerary Ballymenoch Park Holywood, BT18 0LP Castle Park Bangor, BT20 4BT Kiltonga Nature Reserve Newtownards, BT23 4FY Londonderry Park Newtownards, BT23 8SG

6 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Drive this way If exploring by car, there are driving routes available to direct you to some of the highlights of the area. Designated routes are detailed on the map on page 68. Discover the Ards Peninsula way This handy downloadable guide will help you to plan the perfect tour of Ireland s most easterly coastline and its charming villages. Take in its historic sites, experience its vibrant craft scene and enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, cycling and golf. The Ards and North Down Christian Heritage Trail Ards and North Down has been at the centre of Ireland s Christian Heritage dating back as far as the 5th Century. Today s visitor will still find much of early Christian interest in the area. Tradition holds that St Machaoi founded the island monastery at Nendrum in the 5th Century. Later in 558AD came the foundation of Bangor Abbey by St Comgall, whose influence soon spread across Europe through the work of St Columbanus and St Gall. From early beginnings, Christianity in the area has had a varied development. From attacks at the hands of Vikings in the 9th Century to the growth of Presbyterianism during the Ulster Plantations in the 17th Century. The era of industrialisation and the advent of transport, especially the railways, saw the area grow further. With it came the construction of a plethora of churches. Discover the Bangor Christian Heritage Trail This App guides you along the Bangor Christian Heritage Trail via an offline map. At each of the nine stops along the way you can read about the site, view images past and present and listen to audio about its history.

7 Page 6 Saint Patrick s Trail Follow the Saint Patrick s Trail through a host of Christian sites in Bangor, the Ards Peninsula, Downpatrick, Newry and Armagh to uncover just how strong Northern Ireland s links are with this patron saint. The 92 mile linear driving route links 15 key sites; all identified as having some connection to the saint s life, legacy or landscape and just waiting to be explored. Ards and North Down is home to seven of these sites. Mourne Coastal Route This beautiful scenic route takes you on a journey along the coastline. The route is signposted by directional brown signage. Great Wars Trail Ards and North Down has a rich connection with the two Great Wars. Soldiers of The First World War, of the 108th Brigade of the 36th (Ulster) Division, were trained within the grounds of the Clandeboye Estate in Bangor. General Eisenhower took inspection of the troops prior to D Day in 1944, memorialised in the mosaic art of the Bangor pier, named in honour of the General. These are just two examples of the many sites throughout the borough where you can learn all about how the area played its part in both conflicts. Ulster-Scots in Ards and North Down Our close proximity to Scotland is a big part of our heritage in Ards and North Down. In May 1606 Scottish families began to settle in the area, led by James Hamilton and Hugh Montgomery from Ayrshire, Scotland. These Scottish settlers transformed the borough and what you can see today is largely a result of centuries of Ulster-Scots thrift, graft and perseverance. From towns and villages to our rolling landscape, place names, and the wee turns of phrase you ll hear when talking to the locals. Discover the Ards and North Down App The App takes you on a journey of discovery highlighting the influence of the Ulster- Scots on the area. Audio for each location will accompany and inform you.

8 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Explore our coastline Encompassing the southern shore of Belfast Lough, the Irish Sea coast and most of the perimeter of Strangford Lough. Ards and North Down has around 115 miles of stunning coastline. Strangford Lough is an area of Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, of special scientific interest and Northern Ireland s first marine nature reserve. From sand dunes to rocky pools, no matter where you enjoy it from, you will be surrounded by stunning scenery, wonderful wildlife and fabulous flora and fauna. The iconic Scrabo Tower is the ideal location for a panoramic view of the Lough, the Ards Peninsula and the surrounding drumlins of County Down. You can discover its shores on foot, or its waters by air or boat. If you are more adventurous, why not take a scuba dive!

9 Page 8 A wealth of family attractions await children of all ages. Experience feeding ducks and geese, holding a starfish, getting close to sharks, simply flying a kite or building a sandcastle. Seaside Award A mark of quality management and clean water for beaches across the UK. Ards and North Down is proud that three of our beaches have been presented with a Seaside Award for Make sure to visit one or more during your stay... Ballywalter BT22 2PG Groomsport BT19 6JR Millisle BT22 2HS DID YOU KNOW the most easterly point in Ireland is in this area? Burr Point is located just south of Ballyhalbert, marked by a sculpture in the shape of a large E.

10 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Food AND Drink

11 Page 10 We breed. We grow. We distil. We catch. We bake. We enjoy. Our little corner of Northern Ireland is a foodie heaven! With amazing local produce and flavours, chefs and restaurants, it is the destination of choice for a fabulous food experience. With its vast coastline, the area has seafood at the top of the menu, with a daily catch from the Irish Sea and Strangford Lough supplying the local restaurant trade. Don t miss the Portavogie prawns, local lobsters or oysters. We love to celebrate our local home grown food. The Comber Earlies Food Festival and Sea Bangor Festival (page 52), both in June, as well as Portavogie Seafood Festival in August, showcase local fresh produce and quality ingredients. The local dairy industry produces exciting ranges of ice cream, cheese and yoghurt. Don t leave the table without trying some. Or why not round off a meal with a little nip of a locally distilled spirit! Whether you choose a gourmet dining room, a friendly pub, or fish and chips at the harbour, you will savour the tastes of the lush green fields, fertile soil and clear waters. For visiting hunter-gatherers who prefer to cook for themselves, you ll be spoilt for choice with goods from local producers. Be sure to visit Comber Farmers Market; voted NI Best Local Market at the NI Year of Food and Drink Awards. It is held on the first Thursday of the month. Plus, there s usually a family butcher and baker in every town and village, and plenty of farm shops in the countryside, for you to pick from. Food Experiences NI Food Tours Killinchy, BT23 6UD Irish bread making classes and bespoke tours that showcase the food of County Down where we have more award winning producers and restaurants than anywhere else in NI! nifoodtours.com Echlinville Distillery Kircubbin, BT22 1AJ A must see for Whiskey and Gin enthusiasts. Offering visitors a truly bespoke experience in an exquisite setting echlinville.com For a full list of events and how we celebrate Food AND Drink in Ards and North Down, visitardsandnorthdown.com

12 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 See AND Do Ards and North Down is jam-packed with attractions and activities for all. From the adventurous to the relaxing, from family entertainment to solo experiences, there is something for everyone. For a full listing go to visitardsandnorthdown.com or contact our local Visitor Information Centres. Here are some ideas to inspire you: Family Fun Family time is precious. Take the opportunity to make memories with the kids right here go fairy hunting in the woods, fly a kite on the beach, or have a picnic in the park. Visit Exploris Aquarium to discover the secrets of the sea - and meet the resident African Nile crocodile! - or enjoy a miniature train ride, water zorbing and mini golf at Pickie Fun Park. There s also a host of indoor leisure facilities such as cinemas, museums and go karting to enjoy. With so many attractions to choose from, there is plenty of family fun to be had! Nature Lovers Immerse yourself in the forests and parks of the borough and watch out for the woodland inhabitants. Take in the smells and colours of our exquisite gardens; feel on top of the world on our hills; dip your toes in our waters. The coastline and Lough shore are a delight for bird watchers. With visiting species changing with the seasons, be sure to visit the attractions that showcase nature at its best.

13 Page 12 Step Back in Time Ards and North Down is steeped in history. Experience life as it was in the 5th Century wartime. Follow in the footsteps of Saints, Scholars, Vikings or the first Ulster Scot Settlers. We have a number of attractions and points of interest that represent the eras and are ready and waiting to transport you to days gone by. Visit North Down Museum where you can travel from the Bronze Age to the present day through a series of exhibitions and display areas. Learn about life in the trenches in the early 1900s at the Somme Museum. Return to days of old at the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum; a wonderful experience for young and old that fuels the imagination and home to a host of events throughout the year. Discover Greyabbey Village Heritage Trail App Learn of Greyabbey s origins; of Viking invaders on Strangford Lough, of Scottish settlers who rebuilt the Abbey and developed the village, and of the places of worship which are still thriving today. The audio app, in conjunction with five interpretive panels, will take you from the Abbey to the Lough in a series of fascinating and quirky tales!

14 Belfast Lough Helen s Bay Groomsport Copeland Islands 18 Holywood Seahill Crawfordsburn Bangor 3 Conlig Donaghadee Millisle North Newtownards 13 Carrowdore Comber Strangford Lough Greyabbey 8 Ballywalter Ards Peninsula Ballygowan Lisbane Ballyhalbert Balloo Killinchy Whiterock Kircubbin 23 Portavogie Cloughey Bangor Belfast Newtownards Lisburn Portadown Downpatrick 24 Portaferry Newry Strangford NB. maps not to scale and for illustrative purposes only. 7

15 Page 14 See AND Do Key Forest, Park and Gardens Nature and Wildlife Historic Interest Viewing Point Family Fun Museum Beach and Sea Food and Drink Sport Interest Green Flag Award Ferry Service Sailing every 30 mins Strangford - Portaferry departs on the hour and half hour Portaferry - Strangford departs at quarter past the hour and quarter to the hour 1 The Ark Open Farm Newtownards, BT23 7PH thearkopenfarm.co.uk 2 Air-tastic Trampoline Park Bangor, BT19 7AG air-tastic.com 3 Balloo Nature Reserve Bangor, BT19 7PG ulsterwildlife.org 4 Ballycopeland Windmill Millisle, BT22 2DS Ballyholme Beach and Park Bangor, BT20 5EG 6 Ballymenoch Park Holywood, BT18 0LP 7 Ballyquintin Portaferry, BT22 1RG nationaltrust.org.uk/ strangford-lough 8 Ballywalter Park Ballywalter, BT22 2PP ballywalterpark.com Open by prior arrangement only 9 Bangor Abbey Bangor, BT20 4JE Bangor Castle (Town Hall) Bangor, BT20 4BT Bangor Castle Walled Garden Bangor, BT20 4BT 12 Bangor Seafront and Eisenhower Pier Bangor, BT20 5ED 13 Boys Brigade Heritage Museum Millisle, BT22 2LZ ganaway.co.uk 14 Burr Point Ballyhalbert, BT22 1DL 15 Cairn Wood Holywood, BT19 1UT Castle Park Bangor, BT20 4BT 17 Cockle Row Cottages Groomsport, BT19 6GH 18 Copeland Islands Off the Donaghadee coast, BT21 0HE Crawfordsburn Country Park Helen s Bay, BT19 1JT Derry Churches Portaferry, BT22 1JX 21 Donaghadee Harbour Donaghadee, BT21 0HE 22 Drumawhey Junction Railway Donaghadee, BT21 0LZ drumawhey.com 23 Echlinville Distillery Kircubbin, BT22 1AJ echlinville.com 24 Exploris Aquarium Portaferry, BT22 1NZ explorisni.com 25 Frump in the Stump Corrog Wood, BT22 1PW walkni.com/walks 26 Glastry Nature Reserve Ballyhalbert, BT22 1BL Glen Lyon Park Holywood, BT18 9BX For further information go to visitardsandnorthdown.com

16 Belfast Lough Helen s Bay Groomsport Copeland Islands Holywood 51 Seahill Crawfordsburn 46 Conlig Bangor Donaghadee Millisle North 52 Newtownards 41 Carrowdore Comber 34 Strangford Lough Greyabbey Ballywalter Ards Peninsula Ballygowan Lisbane Ballyhalbert Whiterock Kircubbin Balloo 44 Killinchy Portavogie Cloughey Bangor Belfast Newtownards Lisburn Portadown Downpatrick Newry Strangford Portaferry 39 NB. maps not to scale and for illustrative purposes only.

17 Page 16 See AND Do [continued] Key Forest, Park and Gardens Nature and Wildlife Historic Interest Viewing Point Family Fun Museum Beach and Sea Food and Drink Sport Interest Green Flag Award Ferry Service Sailing every 30 mins Strangford - Portaferry departs on the hour and half hour Portaferry - Strangford departs at quarter past the hour and quarter to the hour 28 Grey Abbey Greyabbey, BT22 2NQ Grey Abbey House Greyabbey, BT22 2QA greyabbeyhouse.com Open by prior arrangement only 30 Grey Point Fort Helen s Bay, BT19 1LE greypointfort. magix.net 31 Happy Town Indoor Play Newtownards, BT23 8NN happytown.uk.com 32 Holywood Maypole Holywood, BT18 9AB 33 Holywood Priory Holywood, BT18 9AD 34 Island Hill Nature Reserve Comber, BT23 5JR walkni.com/walks 35 Kearney Village Portaferry, BT22 1QP Kingsland Play and Picnic Area Bangor, BT20 5HD Kiltonga Nature Reserve Newtownards, BT23 4FY Mahee Castle Comber, BT23 6EP 39 Millin Bay Cairn Portaferry, BT22 1QB 40 Millisle Beach Park Millisle, BT22 2HS 41 Mount Stewart House and Gardens Newtownards, BT22 2AD nationaltrust.org.uk 42 Movilla Abbey Newtownards, BT23 8EZ / doeni.gov.uk/niea 43 Nendrum Monastery Mahee Island, BT23 6EP NI Food Tours Killinchy, BT23 6UD nifoodtours.com 45 North Down Coastal Path From Holywood to Portavoe 46 North Down Museum Bangor, BT20 4BT northdownmuseum. com 47 Pickie Funpark Bangor, BT20 5AG pickiefunpark.co.uk 48 Portaferry Castle Portaferry, BT22 1NZ 49 Portico Arts and Heritage Centre Portaferry, BT22 1LE porticoards.com 50 Priory Newtownards, BT23 7NY Redburn Country Park Holywood, BT16 1YP Scrabo Country Park, Tower and Killynether Wood Newtownards BT23 4SJ Seapark Recreation Grounds Holywood, BT18 0LP 54 Sketrick Castle Killinchy, BT23 6QH For further information go to visitardsandnorthdown.com

18 Belfast Lough Helen s Bay 59 Groomsport Copeland Islands Seahill 61 Crawfordsburn Bangor Holywood Conlig Donaghadee 56 Millisle North Newtownards Carrowdore 58 Comber Strangford Lough Greyabbey Ballywalter Ards Peninsula Ballygowan Lisbane Ballyhalbert Whiterock Kircubbin Balloo Killinchy Portavogie Bangor Cloughey Belfast Newtownards Lisburn Portadown Downpatrick Newry Strangford 63 Portaferry 57 NB. maps not to scale and for illustrative purposes only.

19 Page 18 See AND Do [continued] Key Forest, Park and Gardens Nature and Wildlife Historic Interest Viewing Point Family Fun Museum Beach and Sea Food and Drink Sport Interest 55 Snakes n Ladders Indoor Play Bangor, BT20 3JN snlplay.com 56 Somme Museum Newtownards, BT23 7PH irishsoldier.org 57 St. Cooey s Wells Tara Bay, BT22 1RF 58 Strangford Lough Lookout Newtownards, BT22 2AD nationaltrust.org.uk/ mountstewart 59 Strickland s Glen Bangor, BT20 3SU 60 Tullynakill Church Tullynakill Road, South East of Comber doeni.gov.uk/niea 61 Ulster Folk and Transport Museum Cultra, BT18 0EU nmni.com/uftm 62 Ward Park Bangor, BT20 4LG 63 Windmill Hill Portaferry, BT22 1RH 64 WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre Comber, BT23 6EA wwt.org.uk/ castleespie Ferry Service Sailing every 30 mins Strangford - Portaferry departs on the hour and half hour Portaferry - Strangford departs at quarter past the hour and quarter to the hour For further information go to visitardsandnorthdown.com

20 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Get Active In Ards and North Down there is no reason to be stuck indoors. Our activities will take you over land, up in the air or out on the water. For a full listing check out visitardsandnorthdown.com or contact one of the Visitor Information Centres.

21 Page 20 Tee Off Do you love the challenge of the golf course? Follow in Rory McIlroy s footsteps at his home club in Holywood one of the 12 clubs and 14 courses, in our area. With five Tourism NI accredited courses, ranging from Links to Parkland and Championship to nine hole courses, we have something to suit all levels of golfer. Wet and Wild If you enjoy water sports, this is the perfect location, with open sea or the challenge of the Lough. Try a sailing lesson with one of the local Yacht Clubs or a boat trip for a pleasure cruise or fishing expedition. Be adventurous and have a go at kite surfing or canoeing at your leisure. For an underwater adventure, dive the sea bed or discover a shipwreck in the Lough. Feeling Adventurous Petrolheads hold on tight as you tumble over the off road 4x4 course at Clandeboye Estate, race round Kirkistown Race Track in a Formula Ford or take to the grid in a pro Go Kart. Get on target with clay pigeon shooting and archery in safe, controlled surroundings, perfect for first timers! The Explorer Why not hire a bike? Cycle your way down the coast of the peninsula and up again via the shores of Strangford Lough. Or take to the water in a canoe following the Strangford Canoe Trail. Alternatively, book on a guided excursion visiting one of the islands. For the Kids If the kids want a bit of competitive fun why not take them to one of our putting greens, crazy golf courses or tennis courts. The area s leisure centres all offer children s activities from indoor play to swimming pools.

22 Belfast Lough Helen s Bay Groomsport Copeland Islands Seahill Crawfordsburn Bangor Holywood Conlig 14 Donaghadee North Millisle 13 4 Newtownards Carrowdore Comber Strangford Lough Greyabbey Ballywalter Ards Peninsula Ballygowan Lisbane Ballyhalbert Whiterock Kircubbin Balloo Killinchy Portavogie Cloughey Bangor Belfast Newtownards Lisburn 3 Portadown Downpatrick Newry Strangford Portaferry 19 NB. maps not to scale and for illustrative purposes only.

23 Page 22 Get Active Key Fishing Shooting Golf Leisure Activity Centre Boating Land Sports Air sports Water Sports Activity Centre Horse Riding Family Fun Ferry Service Sailing every 30 mins Strangford - Portaferry departs on the hour and half hour Portaferry - Strangford departs at quarter past the hour and quarter to the hour 1 Admiral Springs Fishery Carrowdore, BT22 2ES / Air-tastic Trampoline Park Bangor, BT19 7AG air-tastic.com 3 Ardminnan Golf Course Portaferry, BT22 1QJ Ards Leisure Centre Newtownards, BT23 4EJ Ballyholme Yacht Club Bangor, BT20 5HT ballyholme.com 6 Bangor Aurora Aquatic and Leisure Complex Bangor, BT20 4TH bangoraurora.com 7 Bangor Boat Bangor, BT20 5ED bangorboat.com 8 Bangor Golf Club Bangor, BT20 4RH bangorgolfclubni. co.uk 9 Bangor Sportsplex Bangor, BT19 1LU northdownleisure. com 10 Bed and Bike Northern Ireland Comber, BT23 5JW bedandbike northernireland.com 11 Birr House Riding Centre Holywood, BT16 1UA birrhouseriding centre.com 12 Blackwood Golf Centre Bangor, BT19 1GB blackwoodgolf centre.com 13 Bradshaws Brae Golf Centre Newtownards, BT23 4TS bradshawsbrae drivingrange.co.uk 14 Bridgewater Fishery Donaghadee, BT21 ONQ / Carnalea Golf Club Carnalea, BT19 1EZ carnaleagolfclub. com 16 Clandeboye Golf Club Conlig, BT23 7PN cgc-ni.com 17 Cockle Island Boat Club Groomsport, BT19 6JR cockleislandboat club.com 18 Comber Leisure Centre Comber, BT23 5DY ardsandnorthdown. gov.uk 19 Cuan Marine Services Ltd Portaferry, BT22 1LA cuanmarineservices. co.uk 20 Donaldson Lake Holywood, BT18 9RN donaldsonfishery. co.uk 21 Donaghadee Golf Club Donaghadee, BT21 0PQ donaghadeegolfclub. com 22 Donaghadee Sailing Club Donaghadee, BT21 0DG For further information go to visitardsandnorthdown.com

24 Belfast Lough 30 Helen s Bay Groomsport 29 Copeland Islands Seahill Crawfordsburn 34 Holywood Bangor 24 Conlig Donaghadee Millisle North Newtownards 31 Carrowdore Comber Strangford Lough Greyabbey 28 Ballywalter 32 Ards Peninsula Ballygowan Lisbane Ballyhalbert Whiterock Kircubbin Balloo Killinchy 40 Portavogie 39 Bangor Cloughey Belfast Newtownards Lisburn 42 Portadown Downpatrick Newry Strangford Portaferry NB. maps not to scale and for illustrative purposes only.

25 Page 24 Get Active [continued] Key Fishing Shooting Golf Leisure Activity Centre Boating Land Sports Air sports Water Sports Activity Centre Horse Riding Family Fun Green Flag Award Ferry Service Sailing every 30 mins Strangford - Portaferry departs on the hour and half hour Portaferry - Strangford departs at quarter past the hour and quarter to the hour 23 DV Diving Newtownards, BT22 2ES dvdiving.co.uk 24 Eddie Irvine Sports Bangor, BT19 7PG eddieirvinesports. com 25 Field of Dreams Bangor, BT19 7QE fieldofdreamsni.com 26 Ganaway Activity Centre Millisle, BT22 2LZ ganaway.co.uk 27 Gransha Equestrian Centre Bangor, BT19 7QD granshaequestrian. co.uk 28 Greyabbey Estate British Horse Society Ireland Toll Ride bhsireland.com 29 Groomsport Golf Centre Groomsport, BT19 6LX groomsportgolf centre.com 30 Helen s Bay Golf Club Helen s Bay, BT19 1TL helensbaygc.com 31 Heli-Power Newtownards, BT23 8SG helipower.co.uk 32 Hollow Farm Shooting Ground Ltd Comber, BT23 5SA Holywood Golf Club Holywood, BT18 9LE holywoodgolfclub. co.uk 34 Holywood Yacht Club Holywood, BT18 9JN hyc.org.uk 35 Ireland Off-Road Experience Bangor, BT19 1RN ni-offroad.com 36 John Erskine Boat Charters Bangor, BT20 5ED Kingsland Pitch and Putt Bangor, BT20 4BN Kircubbin Sailing Club Kircubbin, BT22 2RP kircubbinsailingclub. co.uk 39 Kirkistown Castle Golf Club Cloughey, BT22 1JA kirkistowncastlegolf club.com 40 Kirkistown Motor Racing Circuit Kircubbin, BT22 1AU kirkistown.com 41 Londonderry Park Newtownards, BT23 8SG ardsandnorthdown. gov.uk 42 Lough Cowey Fishery Portaferry, BT22 1PJ nidirect.gov.uk/ angling 43 Mahee Island Golf Club Comber, BT23 6EP maheegolf.com 44 Mike The Bike with Kayak Hire kayakshack.co.uk For further information go to visitardsandnorthdown.com

26 Belfast Lough Helen s Bay Crawfordsburn Seahill Holywood Conlig Bangor Groomsport 56 Copeland Islands Donaghadee Millisle North 61 Newtownards Carrowdore 50 Comber Strangford Lough Greyabbey Ballywalter Ards Peninsula 65 Ballygowan Lisbane 63 Ballyhalbert Whiterock Kircubbin Balloo Killinchy Portavogie Bangor Cloughey Belfast Newtownards Lisburn Portadown Downpatrick Portaferry 54 Newry Strangford NB. maps not to scale and for illustrative purposes only.

27 Page 26 Get Active [continued] Key Fishing Shooting Golf Leisure Activity Centre Boating Land Sports Air sports Water Sports Activity Centre Horse Riding Family Fun 45 John Murray (Jnr) Boats Portaferry, BT22 1PE / Mobile Team Adventure Newtownards, BT8 7SP mobileteam adventure.co.uk 47 Movilla Trout Fishery Newtownards, BT23 8RL Newtownards and District Shooting Club Carrowdore, BT22 2JG Newtownards Sailing Club Newtownards, BT22 2AJ newtownardssailing club.co.uk 53 Polehill Coarse Fishery Newtownards, BT23 8RW fishingtackle2u.co.uk 54 Portaferry Sailing Club Portaferry, BT22 IJZ portaferrysailing club.com 55 Portaferry Sports Centre Portaferry, BT22 1ND Portavoe Reservoir Donaghadee, BT21 0PJ nidirect.gov.uk/ angling 57 Queens Leisure Complex Holywood, BT18 9HL northdown leisure.com 60 Royal Ulster Yacht Club Bangor, BT20 5HY ruyc.co.uk 61 Scrabo Golf Club Newtownards, BT23 4SL scrabogolfclub.com 62 Seapark Recreation Grounds Holywood, BT18 0LP 63 Strangford Lough Yacht Club Killinchy, BT23 6QA slyc.co.uk 64 Stratus Sailing Bangor, BT20 5ED stratussailing.com 65 Swancrest Fishery Ballygowan, BT23 5RU Ferry Service Sailing every 30 mins Strangford - Portaferry departs on the hour and half hour Portaferry - Strangford departs at quarter past the hour and quarter to the hour 51 Northern Ireland Microlight Flying Newtownards, BT23 8SG / nimicrolights.co.uk 52 Pickie Funpark Mini Golf Bangor, BT20 5AG pickiefunpark.co.uk 58 Royal Belfast Golf Club Craigavad, BT18 0BP royalbelfast.com 59 Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club Holywood, BT18 0BB rniyc.org 66 Ulster Flying Club Newtownards, BT23 8SG Ward Park Putting Green Bangor, BT20 4JZ For further information go to visitardsandnorthdown.com

28 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Embrace the Arts Known as the Creative Peninsula, Ards and North Down is bursting with talent. Local artists and makers, inspired by their surroundings, are showcased and celebrated in our galleries and craft studios dotted around the borough. A fantastic programme of leisure classes, exhibitions, festivals and performances of dance, drama and music make creativity very easy for everyone to embrace and enjoy.

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30 Belfast Lough Helen s Bay 12 5 Groomsport Copeland Islands Seahill Crawfordsburn 15 Bangor Holywood Conlig Donaghadee Millisle North Newtownards Carrowdore Comber 13 Strangford Lough Greyabbey Ballywalter Ards Peninsula Ballygowan Lisbane Ballyhalbert Whiterock Kircubbin Balloo Killinchy Portavogie Cloughey Belfast Newtownards Lisburn 11 Portadown Downpatrick Newry Strangford 7 Portaferry NB. maps not to scale and for illustrative purposes only.

31 Page 30 Embrace the Arts Key Exhibits Arts and Crafts Theatre Music Local Crafter 1 Ards Arts Centre and Town Hall Newtownards, BT23 4NP ardsarts.com 2 Ards Crafts Newtownards, BT23 4AD visitardsand northdown.com 3 Avalon Guitar Factory Newtownards, BT23 4BX avalonguitars.com 4 Battletown Gallery Newtownards, BT23 8SL thebattletown gallery.com 5 Bradley Art The Bradley Gallery, High St, Bangor BT20 5BD terrybradley.com 6 The Craft Room Comber, BT23 5DZ thecraftroom comber.com 7 Cuan Crafts Portaferry, BT22 1JY Discovery Glass Comber, BT23 5AP discoveryglass.co.uk 9 Doghouse Gallery Comber, BT23 5EG doghousegallery. co.uk 10 Eden Pottery Millisle, BT22 2DH edenpotteryshop. co.uk 11 Nora Watson Jewellery Portaferry, BT22 1QJ norawatson jewellery.co.uk 12 Project 24 Bangor, BT20 3BH project24ni.com 13 Spring Cottage The Potting Shed Comber, BT23 5JZ / The Web Theatre Newtownards, BT23 4DE webtheatre.biz 15 SPACE Theatre SERC Bangor, BT20 4TD serc.ac.uk Ferry Service Sailing every 30 mins Strangford - Portaferry departs on the hour and half hour Portaferry - Strangford departs at quarter past the hour and quarter to the hour For further information go to visitardsandnorthdown.com

32 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Let us inspire you There is so much to see and do! Here are a few ideas to help you decide where to visit: Castle Espie Wildfowl and Wetland Centre 78 Ballydrain Road, Comber, BT23 6EA Set on the shores of the stunning Strangford Lough, Castle Espie is a tranquil and friendly centre for all the family. Hides and nature walks allow you to get close to the wild birds and collection of endangered ducks, geese and swans from around the world. Outdoor natural play spaces are fun for little ones to burn off energy; with adventure play, a zip wire, a tall tree house, a wobbly bridge and tree swings to enjoy, they will be spoilt for choice! wwt.org.uk/castleespie Crawfordsburn Country Park Bridge Road, Helen s Bay, BT19 1JT Featuring two excellent beaches, spectacular scenery and views across Belfast Lough, Crawfordsburn Country Park provides a relaxing retreat. Enjoy tranquil walks through the peaceful meadows and wooded glens and look out for the stunning waterfall visitardsandnorthdown.com Exploris Aquarium The Rope Walk, Castle Street, Portaferry BT22 1NZ Explore the underwater wonders of Strangford Lough and the coastal seas of Ireland in a variety of exciting and enjoyable exhibits. With tropical fish, otters, a new kids zone and a reptiles section featuring a Nile Crocodile. The Seal Rescue Centre where sick or orphaned seal pups are cared for until they can be returned to the wild is one of the most popular elements of the attraction explorisni.com Pickie Funpark Marina Gardens, Bangor Promenade, BT20 5AG Pickie Funpark is one of the top ten visitor attractions in Northern Ireland. The park provides a fun day out for all and features an eighteen hole minigolf course, giant pedal swans, Pickie Puffer train, children s play area, children s electric car track, splash pads and café pickiefunpark.com

33 Page 32 Mount Stewart House and Gardens Portaferry Road, Newtownards, BT22 2AD One of the most inspiring and unusual gardens in the National Trust s ownership. Recently voted one of the top ten gardens in the world, the house has recently undergone a major refurbishment. Explore this exquisite attraction at your leisure and uncover the wonderful stories of the family that still reside there. Well worth a visit! nationaltrust.org.uk/ mount-stewart Scrabo Tower and Country Park Scrabo Road, Newtownards, BT23 4SJ One of the area s best known landmarks, Scrabo Tower boasts incredible views over Strangford Lough and the surrounding countryside. There are walking trails taking in the fine beech woodlands and disused quarries offering many opportunities to enjoy the surrounding countryside. The Tower is open to the public on particular dates only, however the parkland is always accessible. More information online visitardsandnorthdown.com Ulster Folk and Transport Museum Bangor Road, Cultra, BT18 0EU Step back in time and uncover a way of life from 100 years ago. Discover cottages, farms, schools and shops as you wander through the beautiful parkland of the Folk Museum chatting to costumed visitor guides demonstrating traditional crafts. Climb on and off majestic steam locomotives or experience the sensation of flight in the Transport Museum, bursting with horse drawn carriages, electric trams, motorbikes, fire engines and vintage cars nmni.com/uftm

34 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Experience Ards and North Down: Walks and Tours tours run until november Our programme of guided tours provides the perfect opportunity for you to explore Strangford Lough, the Ards Peninsula and North Down. You are sure to be impressed by the outstanding scenery, rich heritage, history and culture. Book your tickets at: visitardsandnorthdown.com The popular programme includes a variety of tours, all escorted by experienced guides keen to share with you the wonderful history and stories of this magnificent area. They ll provide that extra special experience that you don t normally get on a regular visit or access to places that are normally closed to the general public. The programme runs until November. Tickets should be booked in advance. TOUR TIME PRICE (Ad/Ch) Type April Sat 21 Dawn Chorus, Castle Park, Bangor 5am 6.30am Free May Mon 7 Kids Mini Beasts Nature Trail, Nugent s Wood Portaferry 2pm-4pm 2.50 (Ch) Sat 26 Tea with the Lord, Ballywalter Park 1pm-4.30pm 18 June Wed 6 Bangor Castle Walled Garden Tour 6.30pm-8.30pm Free July Sun 1 Strangford Lough Boat Tour, Portaferry 2pm-4pm 10 (Ad) 5 (Ch) Wed 4 Bangor Castle Walled Garden Tour 6.30pm-8.30pm Free Sat 7 *NEW* Gardens and Gin Tour 2pm-6.30pm 20 Sun 8 Kids Sea Creatures Nature Trail, Crawfordsburn 2pm-4pm 2.50 (Ch)

35 Table Key: Boat Tours Coach Tours Nature Trail Horticultural Tour Historical Walking Tours Living History Walking Tours Page 34 TOUR TIME PRICE (Ad/Ch) Type Mon 16 Step back in Time, Bangor 2.30pm 4.30pm 5 Tues 17 Nautical Past Short Sea Cruise, Belfast Lough, Bangor 7pm 8.30pm 10 (Ad) 5 (Ch) Sat 21 From an Abbey to a Stately Home, Greyabbey 1pm 4.30pm 18 Thurs 26 Newtownards Historical Walking Tour 7pm 8.30pm 4 August Sat 11 Strangford Lough Boat Tour, Portaferry 2pm-4pm 10 (Ad) 5 (Ch) Wed 15 Kids Nature Trail, Castle Park, Bangor 10.30am-12.30pm 2.50 (Ch) Wed 15 Bangor Castle Walled Garden Tour 6.30pm-8.30pm Free Sat 18 Nautical Past Short Sea Cruise, Belfast Lough, Bangor 2pm 3.30pm 10 (Ad) 5 (Ch) Mon 20 Step back in Time, Bangor 2.30pm 4.30pm 5 Fri 24 Kids Sea Creatures Nature Trail, Millisle 2pm-4pm 2.50 (Ch) Sun 26 Strangford Lough Boat Tour, Portaferry 2pm-4pm 10 (Ad) 5 (Ch) Tues 28 Bangor Christian Heritage Walk 2.30pm 4pm 4 September Sat 15 Strangford Lough Boat Tour, Portaferry 2pm-4pm 10 (Ad) 5 (Ch) Sat 22 Woodland and Whiskey Tour 2pm 6.30pm 20 Sat 29 Tea with the Lord, Ballywalter Park 1pm-4.30pm 18 October Wed 24 Halloween Walking Tour, Bangor 7.30pm-8.45pm 6 (Ad) 4 (Ch) Thurs 25 Halloween Walking Tour, Newtownards 7.30pm-8.45pm 6 (Ad) 4 (Ch) November Sat 3 Murder Mystery Night, North Down Museum, Bangor 7.30pm 10pm 20 Sat 10 World War Tour 9.30am 1.30pm 10

36 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Spring/Summer Events (March-August) In Ards and North Down we are proud to have an extensive and varied events programme. Whether you are a foodie, a nature lover, explorer, historian or a family looking to enjoy time together, there s something for you. Keep in touch with the latest news and events: visitardsandnorthdown.com Our E-Newsletter! Keep up to date with news and events in Ards and North Down, sign up to our ezine at visitardsandnorthdown.com

37 Key Page 36 Free Visitor Information Centre

38 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 March Monthly Market Comber Farmers Market First Thursday in the month St Mary s Parish Church Car park, BT23 5DU 9am-1.30pm Weekly Markets Bangor Wednesdays Asda Carpark, BT20 4SD 7am-1pm Newtownards Saturdays Conway Square, BT23 4NP 8am-4.30pm Monday 26 March- Sunday 8 April Easter at Mount Stewart Mount Stewart, Portaferry Road, Newtownards BT22 2AN 11am-4pm Join Ruby Red the squirrel for some Easter fun and Easter crafts at Mount Stewart. Explore the new Ploughmans Hill walk and Red Squirrel hide, get mucky with the garden team in the rose garden or join one of the family friendly garden tours nationaltrust.org.uk/mountstewart/whats-on Cost: normal admissions, members free Friday 30 March- Tuesday 3 April Dusty s GIANT Easter Duck Hunt! Castle Espie, Ballydrain Road, Comber, BT23 6EA Times; various Dusty Duck needs you and your family to help him find the missing GIANT yellow ducks at Castle Espie this Easter. As well as searching for these GIANT yellow ducks, there are lots of Dusty s ducky cousins to see and feed in the Close Encounters wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/castle-espie/ whats-on Cost: included with admission, members free

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40 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 March Saturday 31 March- Friday 6 April Easter Bunny Hunt 2018 The Ark Open Farm, 296A, Bangor Road, Newtownards, BT23 7PH Daily 11am-4pm Come and hunt for your Easter Bunny around the farm. Everyone gets a numbered bunny that they need to find on the farm to receive a chocolatey treat thearkopenfarm.co.uk Cost: Adult; 6.50 Children; 6.00 Sunday 31 March- Monday 2 April Sails and Tales - Stories by the sea Bangor Town Centre, BT20 5ED Sat; 1pm-6pm, Sun; 1pm- 6pm, Mon; 12noon-5pm Step into the land of make believe where colourful characters, startling stories and magical melodies await. Enjoy tasty treats from our very own chocolate factory! visitardsandnorthdown.com

41 Page 40 Monday 26-Friday 30 March Easter Schemes Schemes also run 4-6 april Ards Leisure Centre Mini Scheme; 4-7 year olds 9am-12.30pm Junior schemes; 8-13 year olds, 9am-4.30pm (half or full day options) ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk Cost: contact centre or see website Comber Leisure Centre 4-11 year olds 9.30am-12.30pm ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk Cost: contact centre or see website

42 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 April Monthly Market Comber Farmers Market First Thursday in the month St Mary s Parish Church Car park, BT23 5DU 9am-1.30pm Weekly Markets Bangor Wednesdays Asda Carpark, BT20 4SD 7am-1pm Newtownards Saturdays Conway Square, BT23 4NP 8am-4.30pm Sunday 1 April Easter Fun at Cockle Row Cottages Groomsport Harbour, BT19 6JR 2pm-4pm. Cottages open weekends 11am-5pm. A great day out for all the family. Featuring traditional live music, crafts, gardening workshop and Tales of the Wild animal roadshow. visitardsandnorthdown.com Sunday 1 and Monday 2 April Easter at Exploris Aquarium Exploris Aquarium, Portaferry, BT22 1NZ 10am-5pm Take part in themed arts and crafts in the Crabby Craft club or get your hands wet with our daily open pool demonstrations explorisni.com Cost: normal admission Sunday 1- Tuesday 3 April 2018 Easter Celebrations Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, Cultra, BT18 0EU 10am-5pm Roll eggs down Bleach Green Hill, marvel at magic shows and follow the egg trail as Easter hops into the museum nmni.com/utfm Cost: varies (see website)

43 Page 42 Monday 2 April Sails and Tales - Stories by the sea Bangor Town Centre, BT20 5ED 12noon-5pm Step into the land of make believe where colourful characters, startling stories and magical melodies await. Enjoy tasty treats from our very own chocolate factory! visitardsandnorthdown.com Monday 2 April Easter at North Down Museum Town Hall, The Castle, Bangor, BT20 4BT 11am-1pm Follow clues throughout the museum in order to solve the puzzle and get your Easter egg. Afterwards make Easter crafts to take home northdownmuseum.com Cost: 1 Come dressed as your favourite story book character! Monday 2 April Family Entertainment at Portaferry Visitor Information Centre, Portaferry, BT21 2NZ 2pm-4pm Family Fun Entertainment with Party Professor science workshop and balloon modelling visitardsandnorthdown.com Until Tuesday 3 April Dusty s GIANT Easter Duck Hunt! Castle Espie, Ballydrain Road, Comber, BT23 6EA Times; various Dusty Duck needs you and your family to help him find the missing GIANT yellow ducks at Castle Espie this Easter. As well as searching for these GIANT yellow ducks, there are lots of Dusty s ducky cousins to see and feed in the Close Encounters wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/castle-espie/ whats-on Cost: included with admission, members free Wednesday 4 April Easter Art Schemes Ards Art Centre, Newtownards, BT23 4NP 10am-3pm Suitable for 6-10 and years ardsarts.com Cost: 20

44 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 April Wednesday 4 - Friday 6 April Easter Scheme Ards Leisure Centre Mini Scheme; 4-7 year olds 9am-12.30pm Junior schemes; 8-13 year olds, 9am-4.30pm (half or full day options) ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk Cost: contact centre or see website Comber Leisure Centre 4-11 year olds 9.30am-12.30pm ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk Cost: contact centre or see website Thursday 5 April Dana Masters-Music In The Chamber The Chamber, Town Hall, The Castle, Bangor, BT20 4BT 8pm Renowned jazz and soul vocalist Dana Masters will be performing with her band of exceptional musicians ardsarts.com Cost: 15 (includes refreshments) Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 April Ultimate Strongman, Ireland s Strongest Man competition McKee Clock Arena, Bangor, BT20 5ED Competition starts from 1pm This is a two day strength extravaganza which will be filmed for television. It will consist of five gruelling tests and the eight finalists will be gathered from a qualification route which takes place six months prior to the event. ultimatestrongman.tv/ Until Sunday 8 April Easter at Mount Stewart Mount Stewart, Portaferry Road, Newtownards BT22 2AN 11am-4pm Join Ruby Red the squirrel for some Easter fun and Easter crafts at Mount Stewart. Explore the new Ploughmans Hill walk and Red Squirrel hide, get mucky with the garden team in the rose garden or join one of the family friendly garden tours nationaltrust.org.uk/mountstewart/whats-on Cost: normal admissions, members free Wednesday 11- Sunday 15 April Ards International Guitar Festival Various locations and times. Expect a jam-packed line-up of, blues, folk, rock, bluegrass and classical for guitar aficionados across the borough ardsguitarfestival.co.uk Cost: varies (see website)

45 Page 44 Thursday 12 April Aspects Festival Book Club Town Hall, The Castle, Bangor, BT20 4BT 7pm-9pm Aspects Literature Festival book club will be discussing Carol Drinkwater s new work, The Lost Girl. Carol s event at the Festival last September was a real highlight when she read and discussed her work to an appreciative audience northdownmuseum.com Cost: 5 Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 April Pond Dipping Weekends Castle Espie, Ballydrain Road, Comber, BT23 6EA 1pm-4pm Discover the creatures which live in the ponds during the first mega pond dip of the year. The new and improved pond zone now contains a state of the art aqua tank and underwater camera, so you can see exactly what lies beneath wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/castle-espie/ whats-on Cost: included with admission, members free Friday 20 April Arts Night At The Museum North Down Museum, Bangor, BT20 4BT 6pm-9pm Participate in clay work, printmaking, drawing activities and painting or just sit back and listen to some good music northdownmuseum.com Sunday 22 April Pet Nose Day Mount Stewart, Portaferry Road, Newtownards BT22 2AN 11am-3pm This award-winning charity event returns as part of Pet Month and celebrates our four legged friends. Bring along your dog and be entertained by agility and training demonstrations nationaltrust.org.uk/mountstewart/whats-on Cost: normal admissions, members free Wednesday 25 April Murder-Just What The Doctor Ordered Studio 1A, Hamilton Road, Bangor, BT20 4JP 8pm This show was specially commissioned by The Royal College of Surgeons as part of the celebrations for the re-opening of the Surgeons Hall Museum ardsarts.com Cost: 8 Sunday 29 April Jazz in the Gardens Mount Stewart, Portaferry Road, Newtownards BT22 2AN 2pm-4.30pm Bring your picnic and settle down on the lawn with your family and friends to enjoy an afternoon of jazz in the beautiful gardens at Mount Stewart. Sorry no BBQs nationaltrust.org.uk/mountstewart/whats-on Cost: normal admissions, members free

46 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 May Monthly Market Comber Farmers Market First Thursday in the month St Mary s Parish Church Car park, BT23 5DU 9am-1.30pm Weekly Markets Bangor Wednesdays Asda Carpark, BT20 4SD 7am-1pm Newtownards Saturdays Conway Square, BT23 4NP 8am-4.30pm Tuesday 1 May May Day Madness at Exploris Aquarium Exploris Aquarium, Portaferry, BT22 1NZ 10am-5pm Enjoy talks, feeding demos and May Day activities for all the family explorisni.com Cost: normal admission Wednesday 2 May Little Ducklings Day Castle Espie, Ballydrain Road, Comber, BT23 6EA 10.30am-11.30am Enjoy a session of crafts, play and songs in the soft play area, at Castle Espie. Mums and Dads can enjoy a hot drink and tray bake from The Kingfisher Kitchen, while kids get treated to delicious juice and biscuits and 60 minutes of good fun! Booking essential wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/castle-espie/ whats-on Cost: 5 per adult (children free) Sunday 6 May Owl Man at Castle Espie Castle Espie, Ballydrain Road, Comber, BT23 6EA 12noon-4pm Don Scott returns to Castle Espie with his amazing selection of owls this month. The Owl Man is always very popular, as he offers the chance for you to get close to these fascinating birds wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/castle-espie/ whats-on Cost: included with admission, members free

47 Monday 7 May Merry May Day Holywood Town Centre, BT18 9AE 10am-4pm This popular annual event features traditional May Day dancing by local school children, a selection of market stalls and other family fun. visitardsandnorthdown.com Page 46

48 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 May Saturday 12 May Ards and North Down Pipe Band Championships Bangor Castle, Bangor, BT20 4UT 12noon-5pm With over 40 bands and 50 Drum Majors competing, this event is impressive to spectate. visitardsandnorthdown.com Friday 18 and Saturday 19 May Twilight at the Trust Mount Stewart, Portaferry Road, Newtownards BT22 2AN 7pm-10pm Mount Stewart is delighted to host a new production presented by Peter Corry. Enjoy a wonderful evening of music in the magical grounds with a drinks and canapé reception. Booking essential nationaltrust.org.uk/mountstewart/whats-on Cost: 50 Sunday 20 May Biodiversity Day Castle Espie, Ballydrain Road, Comber, BT23 6EA 1pm-3pm A special afternoon dedicated to the biodiversity of Castle Espie, ahead of National Biodiversity Day. We re offering visitors the chance to explore spring wildlife around the Reserve. Learn more about birds nesting and see new spring wildflowers, which will be in full bloom wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/castle-espie/ whats-on Cost: included with admission, members free Friday 25-Monday 28 May Festiv Ards 2018 Portico, 8 Steel Dickson Ave, Portaferry, Newtownards BT22 1LE Time; various This four day festival held in one of the borough s most stunning venues features international classical musicians attracting patrons into this part of the borough porticoards.com porticoards@gmail.com Cost: varies (see website) Saturday 26 May Market at Project 24 Queens Parade, Bangor, BT20 3BJ 3pm-9pm Fabulous food and foottapping tunes to help you kick back and relax with friends and family. project24ni.com

49 Page 48 Sunday 27 May Owl Man at Castle Espie Castle Espie, Ballydrain Road, Comber, BT23 6EA 12noon-4pm Don Scott returns to Castle Espie with his amazing selection of owls. The Owl Man is always very popular, as he offers the chance for you to get close to these fascinating birds wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/castle-espie/ whats-on Cost: included with admission, members free Sunday 27 May Jazz in the Gardens Mount Stewart, Portaferry Road, Newtownards BT22 2AN 2pm-4.30pm Bring your picnic and settle down on the lawn with your family and friends to enjoy an afternoon of jazz in the beautiful gardens at Mount Stewart. Sorry no BBQs nationaltrust.org.uk/ mount-stewart/ whats-on Cost: normal admissions, members free Monday 28 May Teddy Bears Picnic Castle Espie, Ballydrain Road, Comber, BT23 6EA 11am, 2pm and 4pm A special picnic in the magical woodland at Castle Espie sat alongside your favourite bear! Hear stories and even take a craft home with you (small fee applies). Each one hour session is strictly limited to 20 spaces. Booking required wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/castle-espie/ whats-on Cost: included with admission, members free Saturday 26-Monday 28 May Puppet Festival Various venues and times around Newtownards town centre. Expect a programme jam-packed with puppet fun and antics! With a variety of free scheduled performances, free puppet workshops and plenty of quirky characters to meet ardsarts.com Cost: varies (see website) Monday 28 May Otter MAYhem at Exploris Aquarium Exploris Aquarium, Portaferry, BT22 1NZ 10am-5pm Combining Spring Bank Holiday and World Otter Day. Take part in animal talks and feeding demos as well as some otter madness crafts and lots more entertainment for all the family explorisni.com Cost: normal admission

50 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 June Monthly Market Comber Farmers Market First Thursday in the month St Mary s Parish Church Car park, BT23 5DU 9am-1.30pm Weekly Markets Bangor Wednesdays Asda Carpark, BT20 4SD 7am-1pm Newtownards Saturdays Conway Square, BT23 4NP 8am-4.30pm Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 June Pond Dipping Weekends Castle Espie, Ballydrain Road, Comber, BT23 6EA 1pm-4pm Discover the creatures which live in the ponds during the first mega pond dip of the year. The new and improved pond zone now contains a state of the art aqua tank and underwater camera, so you can see exactly what lies beneath wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/castle-espie/ whats-on Cost: included with admission, members free Saturday 2 June - Sunday 24 June ForM Sculpture Exhibition The ForM Sculpture Exhibition showcases works from an array of artists in the beautiful surroundings of Bangor Castle s Walled Garden. The sculptures, inspired by the garden, will give visitors a unique experience and the opportunity to see art in a different context. A visit to Bangor Castle Walled Garden is a real escape and the sculptures enhance this experience even further ardsarts.com Wednesday 6 June Little Ducklings Day Castle Espie, Ballydrain Road, Comber, BT23 6EA 10.30am-11.30am Enjoy a session of crafts, play and songs in the soft play area, at Castle Espie. Mums and Dads can enjoy a hot drink and tray bake from The Kingfisher Kitchen, while kids get treated to delicious juice and biscuits and 60 minutes of good fun! Booking essential wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/castle-espie/ whats-on Cost: 5 per adult (children free) Every Saturday and Sunday Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages Groomsport Harbour, BT19 6JR 2pm-4pm. Cottages open daily 11am-5pm. Weekend entertainment for children and adults alike, from face painting to animal roadshows, children s crafts to science shows and much more! (Programme varies.) visitardsandnorthdown.com

51 Saturday 9 June World Ocean Day at Exploris Aquarium Exploris Aquarium, Portaferry, BT22 1NZ 10am-6pm Exploris Aquarium are going to share the knowledge on how you can help protect the ocean through workshops and craft activities throughout the day explorisni.com Cost: normal admission Page 50

52 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 June Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 June Sea Bangor Festival Bangor Seafront, BT20 5ED Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 12noon-6pm The popular maritime festival returns with a host of activities including live music, food stalls, street theatre and impressive displays that the event is known and loved for. visitardsandnorthdown.com Sunday 17 June Open Art at Project 24 Queens Parade, Bangor, BT20 3BJ 2pm-4pm Relax and listen to live music; this afternoon will be an art lovers dream. With the chance to participate in workshops, watch demonstrations, browse and buy original artwork. project24ni.com Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 June Specialist Plant Fair Mount Stewart, Portaferry Road, Newtownards BT22 2AN 11am-4pm Mary, Mary, quite contrary, how does your garden grow? Come and see the many visiting nurseries at Mount Stewart. Ask advice and buy some plants to add magic to your own garden. View the garden diaries of Edith, Lady Londonderry and enjoy special tours of our fabulous formal gardens and pleasure grounds nationaltrust.org.uk/mountstewart/whats-on Cost: normal admissions, members free Saturday 23 June Comber Earlies Food Festival Comber 10am-4pm Make sure to visit the festival, which was highly commended in the NI Year of Food and Drink Awards Local artisan food will pave the way to big tops and a hay bale picnic filled with music, children s activities, street theatre, food demonstrations and lots more, making this a great day out for all the family! visitardsandnorthdown.com

53 Page 52 Sunday 24 June Jazz in the Gardens Mount Stewart, Portaferry Road, Newtownards BT22 2AN 2pm-4.30pm Bring your picnic and settle down on the lawn with your family and friends to enjoy an afternoon of jazz in the beautiful gardens at Mount Stewart. Sorry no BBQs nationaltrust.org.uk/mountstewart/whats-on Cost: normal admissions, members free Thursday 28 June- Sunday 1 July Portaferry Sails and Sounds Festival Portaferry, various locations and times. The festival hosts traditional Scottish music and dance including workshops, free kids entertainment and concerts throughout the town portaferrysailsand sounds.co.uk Cost: varies (see website) Friday 29 June- Monday 2 July Home National Deaf Bowls Championships Pickie Bowling Club, Bangor, BT20 4TS First match 10am Saturday morning; second match 2pm; final match 10am Sunday morning. After the successful British Championships which were held in Bangor in 2012, a request was made that the Home National Championships be held in Bangor. This event attracts Bowlers from, England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. paul-canningb@ hotmail.co.uk Saturday 30 June Pickie Fun Park New Attraction Unveil Marine Gardens, Bangor, BT20 5AG 12noon-4pm Visit the official Pickie website or Facebook page for further details pickiefunpark.com Cost: varies (see website) Saturday 30 June School s out for summer at Project 24 Queens Parade, Bangor, BT20 3BJ 1pm-5pm A day of family fun to celebrate the start of the summer holidays. project24ni.com

54 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 July Monthly Market Comber Farmers Market First Thursday in the month St Mary s Parish Church Car park, BT23 5DU 9am-1.30pm Weekly Markets Bangor Wednesdays Asda Carpark, BT20 4SD 7am-1pm Newtownards Saturdays Conway Square, BT23 4NP 8am-4.30pm Every Friday Fairweather Fridays Outdoor Performances Conway Square, Newtownards, BT23 4NP 12.30pm 1.30pm ardsarts.com Every Saturday Family Fun at Portaferry Visitor Information Centre, The Stables, Castle Street, Portaferry, BT22 1NZ 2pm-4pm Free entertainment for children to enjoy, with a varied programme including science and magic shows, craft workshops and more visitardsandnorthdown.com Every Saturday and Sunday Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages Groomsport Harbour, BT19 6JR 2pm-4pm. Cottages open daily 11am-5pm. Weekend entertainment for children and adults alike, from face painting to animal roadshows, children s crafts to science shows and much more! (programme varies) visitardsandnorthdown.com

55 Page 54 Every Sunday Music in the Park Ward Park, Bangor, BT20 4LG 3pm-5pm The perfect way to spend an afternoon! Bring along family and friends, enjoy a picnic and take in the sounds of weekly live music throughout July and August (programme varies) visitardsandnorthdown.com Spend Summer Sundays in Bangor with special discounts at many attractions and eateries. Find out more at visitardsandnorthdown.com Until Monday 2 July Home National Deaf Bowls Championships Pickie Bowling Club, Bangor, BT20 4TS First match 10am Saturday morning; second match 2pm; final match 10am Sunday morning. After the successful British Championships which were held in Bangor in 2012, a request was made that the Home National Championships be held in Bangor. This event attracts Bowlers from, England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. paul-canning6@hotmail.co.uk Wednesday 4 July Little Ducklings Day Castle Espie, Ballydrain Road, Comber, BT23 6EA 10.30am-11.30am Enjoy a session of crafts, play and songs in the soft play area, at Castle Espie. Mums and Dads can enjoy a hot drink and tray bake from The Kingfisher Kitchen, while kids get treated to delicious juice and biscuits and 60 minutes of good fun! Booking essential wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/ castle-espie/ whats-on Cost: 5 per adult (children free) Thursday 12 July Annual Parade, hosted by LOL No 4 Newtownards BT23 4QD Time; see website newtownardsorange.org.uk Thursday 12 and Friday 13 July Teddy Bears Picnic Mount Stewart, Portaferry Road, Newtownards BT22 2AN 11am-4.30pm Bring along your favourite teddy and join Alice in her Mount Stewart Wonderland. Bring a picnic or treat yourself to something delicious from local caterers. Dress up and enjoy a day full of activities for all ages nationaltrust.org.uk/mountstewart/whats-on Cost: normal admissions, members free

56 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 July Summer Schemes Ards Leisure Centre Monday 2 July- Friday 17 August Mini Scheme; 4-7 year olds, 9am-12.30pm Junior schemes; 8-13 year olds, 9am-4.30pm (half or full day options) ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk Cost: contact centre or see website Children s crash course swimming lessons available. See website. Comber Leisure Centre Monday 16 July- Friday 17 August 4-11 year olds 9.30am-12.30pm ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk Cost: contact centre or see website Saturday 14 July Shark Awareness Day at Exploris Aquarium Exploris Aquarium, Portaferry, BT22 1NZ 10am-6pm Swim down to Exploris and develop your knowledge of this amazing species. You can learn all about our blacktip reef sharks - and why not have fun with some of our shark themed activities explorisni.com Cost: normal admission Sunday 15 July- Saturday 21 July Portaferry Gala Festival Portaferry Town, various locations Various from 10am-11pm The 51st Annual Portaferry Gala Festival offering something for everyone. Enjoy fancy dress, pitching the sheaf, live music, treasure trails and much more. The annual float parade will be held on Saturday 21 July portaferrygala.com Cost: varies (see website)

57 Page 56 Monday 16- Wednesday 18 July Under 16 Boys Open Golf Championship Donaghadee Golf Club, 84 Warren Road, Donaghadee, BT21 0EZ 8am-6pm Donaghadee Gold Club is hosting the Under 16 Boys Open Golf Championship for the third consecutive year. To enter , donaghadeegolfclub.com Cost: varies (see website) Saturday 21 July Tastings at the Temple: Gin Mount Stewart, Portaferry Road, Newtownards BT22 2AN 7.30pm-10.30pm Savour the delights of the Temple of the Winds whilst sampling some fabulous locally produced gin by Echlinville Distillery nationaltrust.org.uk/mountstewart/whats-on Cost: normal admissions, members free Sunday 29 July Jazz in the Gardens Mount Stewart, Portaferry Road, Newtownards BT22 2AN 2pm-4.30pm Bring your picnic and settle down on the lawn with your family and friends to enjoy an afternoon of jazz in the beautiful gardens at Mount Stewart. Sorry no BBQs nationaltrust.org.uk/mountstewart/whats-on Cost: normal admissions, members free Tuesday 24 and Wednesday 25 July The Midnight Gang by David Walliams- Presented by Heartbreak Productions The Walled Garden, Bangor Castle, Valentine Road, Bangor, BT20 4BT 2pm and 6pm Come along to The Walled Garden and enjoy this outdoor adaption of David Walliam s bestseller; The Midnight Gang ardsarts.com Cost: 6 Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 July Summer Market North Down Museum, Bangor, BT20 4BT Sat 10am 4.30pm Sun 12 noon 4.30pm northdownmuseum.com Saturday 28 July - Saturday 12 August Donaghadee Summer Festival Donaghadee, BT21 Various times; see website. A fun packed fortnight with something happening every day. Music, classic cars, an artisan market and more visitdonaghadee.com

58 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 August Monthly Market Comber Farmers Market First Thursday in the month St Mary s Parish Church Car park, BT23 5DU 9am-1.30pm Weekly Markets Bangor Wednesdays Asda Carpark, BT20 4SD 7am-1pm Newtownards Saturdays Conway Square, BT23 4NP 8am-4.30pm Every Friday Fairweather Fridays Outdoor Performances Conway Square, Newtownards, BT23 4NP 12.30pm 1.30pm ardsarts.com Every Friday Music In The Courtyard North Down Museum Bangor, BT20 4BT 12noon 2pm northdownmuseum.com Throughout August Open House Festival 2018 Bangor, various locations Times; various The Festival returns with a high quality and eclectic programme that features events ranging from ticketed headline concerts including the Waterboys, John Grant and Public Image Limited, to free music sessions, films, theatre, spoken word, literature, food events and exhibitions hosted in venues throughout the town. Some events on early release now through the website - full programme late May. Book early to avoid disappointment! openhousefestival.com Cost: varies Every Saturday Family Fun at Portaferry Visitor Information Centre, The Stables, Castle Street, Portaferry, BT22 1NZ 2pm-4pm Free entertainment for children to enjoy, with a varied programme including science and magic shows, craft workshops and more visitardsandnorthdown.com

59 Page 58 Every Saturday and Sunday Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages Groomsport Harbour, BT19 6JR 2pm-4pm. Cottages open daily 11am-5pm. Weekend entertainment for children and adults alike, from face painting to animal roadshows, children s crafts to science shows and much more! (programme varies) visitardsandnorthdown.com Every Sunday Music in the Park Ward Park, Bangor, BT20 4LG 3pm-5pm The perfect way to spend an afternoon! Bring along family and friends, enjoy a picnic and take in the sounds of weekly live music throughout July and August (programme varies) visitardsandnorthdown.com Wednesday 1 August Little Ducklings Day Castle Espie, Ballydrain Road, Comber, BT23 6EA 10.30am-11.30am Enjoy a session of crafts, play and songs in the soft play area, at Castle Espie. Mums and Dads can enjoy a hot drink and tray bake from The Kingfisher Kitchen, while kids get treated to delicious juice and biscuits and 60 minutes of good fun! Booking essential wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/castle-espie/ whats-on Cost: 5 per adult (children free) Saturday 11 August Portavogie Seafood Festival Portavogie Harbour, BT22 1EA 12noon-5pm A superb family day out set in harbour surroundings, with splendid seafood produce, children s entertainment and much more! visitardsandnorthdown.com

60 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 August Summer Scheme Ards Leisure Centre Monday 2 July- Friday 17 August Mini Scheme; 4-7 year olds, 9am-12.30pm Junior schemes; 8-13 year olds, 9am-4.30pm (half or full day options) ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk Cost: contact centre or see website Comber Leisure Centre Monday 16 July- Friday 17 August 4-11 year olds 9.30am-12.30pm ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk Cost: contact centre or see website Children s crash course swimming lessons available. See website. Wednesday 15- Saturday 25 August Clandeboye Festival Clandeboye Estate, Bangor, BT19 1RN 1pm, 7.30pm and 3.30pm weekend concert Barry Douglas and Camerata Ireland bring their annual classical music festival to the unique surroundings of the Clandeboye Estate with the theme of folk music s influence on classical music camerata-ireland.com Cost: evening; 6 lunchtime; 5 student/ young person Monday 13 August 28th anniversary family fun week The Ark Open Farm, 296A, Bangor Road, Newtownards, BT23 7PH Daily 11am-4pm A week long family fun event to celebrate Ark Farm s 28th Anniversary. Enjoy friendly animals, an inflatable assault course, carnival games and much more thearkopenfarm.co.uk Cost: normal admission

61 Page 60 Saturday 18 August Groomsport Music and Fireworks Groomsport Harbour, BT19 6JR 6.30pm-10pm An evening of live music, family entertainment and a spectacular fireworks finale. visitardsandnorthdown.com Saturday 18 August Portaferry Triathlon Portaferry Shore Front, The Strand, BT22 1PE Race starts approximately 12.45pm narrowstc.co.uk narrowstriclub@ outlook.com Friday 24 August- Saturday 1 September Bangor Worldwide Missionary Convention Hamilton Road Presbyterian Church, Bangor, BT20 4LN Mornings 11.30am, Evenings 7.30pm A nine day conference with missionary speakers from around the world, including; Africa, Europe, India, Nepal, The Middle East, USA worldwidemission.org Saturday 25 August Annual Demonstration of Co. Down Grand Black Chapter. Hosted by Newtownards District Chapter West Winds Estate, Newtownards, BT23 4RD 12noon approximately for demonstration, returning at 4pm countydownblack.org Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 August Conversations Festival Mount Stewart, Portaferry Road, Newtownards BT22 2AN Time; see website A weekend of lively debate, music and entertainment to celebrate the spirit of Mount Stewart nationaltrust.org.uk/ mount-stewart/whats-on Cost: TBC Monday 27 August Summer Bank Holiday at Exploris Aquarium Exploris Aquarium, Portaferry, BT22 1NZ 10am-6pm Spend a day in Exploris Aquarium and visit our beautiful otters, fish and friendly reptiles explorisni.com Cost: normal admission Spend Summer Sundays in Bangor with special discounts at many attractions and eateries. Find out more at visitardsandnorthdown. com

62 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Exhibitions Ards Arts Centre Town Hall, Conway Square, Newtownards, BT23 4NP Gallery open Mon-Thurs 9am-4.30pm, Fri 9am-4pm, Sat 10am-4pm, Sun Closed ardsarts.com Georgian Gallery Thursday 1 March-Saturday 24 March Exhibition; Aesthetic Showcasing the high calibre artwork produced by recreational artists of the many art clubs in the Ards and North Down area. Sunburst Gallery Thursday 1 March-Saturday 24 March Exhibition; Ordinary? This exhibition demonstrations how the most ordinary objects can induce the most nostalgia. The artists recognise the ability of certain objects and materials to resonate with meaning. Thursday 29 March-Sunday 28 April Exhibition; Hinterlands by Phill Foley This exhibition of drawings by Galway based artist Phill Foley investigates this connection of the land to our sense of identity. It documents the often dramatic landscapes of the west coast and questions the changing perceptions of them as our relation to the land changes. Thursday 29 March-Sunday 15 April Exhibition; An Exploration Of The Relationship Between Music And Art Steve McDowell produces hand painted Acrylic images of some of his favourite musical artists through the years. This exhibition accompanies the Ards International Guitar Festival programme. Thursday 19 April-Saturday 26 May Exhibition; What Fell From The Mountain Charlie Scott s paintings involve a sense of poetic harmony through consolidation of thoughts and memories in nature. This exhibition seeks to challenge concepts of the landscape in painting practice today.

63 Key Page 62 Free Visitor Information Centre Ards Crafts and Visitor Information Centre 31 Regent Street, Newtownards, BT23 4AD Mon-Fri 9.15am-5pm Sat 9.30am-5pm visitardsandnorthdown.com The Space Saturday 10-Saturday 31 March Exhibition; Viewpoints by SERC students, Bangor Viewpoints is an exhibition by students from the Foundation Diploma in Art and Design course at the South Eastern Regional College (SERC). Their work will be based on their local environment. Saturday 7-Saturday 28 April Exhibition; Early 1900 s world of crafts An Exhibition by the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum focusing on local crafts and history. The Museum s extensive picture library will be available for you to browse. Saturday 2-Saturday 30 June Exhibition: The Ulster Flying Club, Newtownards An Exhibition by the Ulster Flying Club. The club was founded in 1961 and has grown to become one of the largest flying organisations in Ireland, providing a range of aviation services. Saturday 7-Saturday 28 July Exhibition: Christian Heritage sites in Ards and North Down Ards and North Down is home to many Christian Heritage sites, some dating as far back as the 5th Century. Many of these are now in State Care and continue to be places of contemplation as well as much loved visitor attractions. This exhibition by the Department of Communities will examine the history surrounding some of these spectacular places. Saturday 4-Saturday 25 August Exhibition; Elemental Vessels by ceramicist Alan McCluney This exhibition will feature a selection of vessels created by using various firing and finishing techniques such as wood, soda, pit, reduction, raku, gas and electric firing. Saturday 5-Saturday 26 May Exhibition; Scandza Collection by glass artist Keith Sheppard A collection of kiln fused glass art presenting functional and non-functional tableware. Focusing on a sleek, contemporary, minimalist approach to tableware for modern living.

64 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Exhibitions North Down Museum Castle Park Avenue, Bangor, BT20 4BT See website for seasonal opening times northdownmuseum.com Tuesday 26 June Sunday 22 July Exhibition; A Sense of Place An emotive exhibition of new paintings, ceramics, fine art prints and photography by local artists. Tuesday 24 July Sunday 19 August Exhibition; Ulster Woodturners A display of the work of the Ulster Woodturners. The Community Gallery Tuesday 6 March-Sunday 1 April Exhibition; Skies, Coast & Wildlife Enjoy the talents of a group of local artists who paint coastal landscapes and wildlife using vibrant colours. Tuesday 3 April-Sunday 29 April Exhibition; Species-by Pauline Little Pauline has begun to speculate on the other world we hardly understand; life below the earth. This has generated her current paintings about life in the ground and the seasonal transition from dormancy to abundance. Tuesday 1 Sunday 27 May Exhibition; Percy French An exhibition celebrating the successful Irish entertainer and songwriter. Tuesday 29 May Sunday 24 June Exhibition; Life in Mono by Ards Camera Club A photographic exhibition by members of Ards Camera Club from across the borough. Tuesday 21 August Sunday 16 September Exhibition; Bangor Art Club 2018 A collection of work from Bangor Art Club. The Long Gallery Until 18 March Exhibition; Little Black Dress Come and explore the evolution of this fashion classic from the Victorian era right through to the modern day. Thursday 22 March-Sunday 3 June Exhibition; Random This exhibition, entitled Random, is exactly that a look at the weird, wonderful and random artefacts the Museum looks after which rarely make it out to display. Wednesday 6 June Thursday 26 July Exhibition; A Brush with Nature Contemporary Chinese Painting Exhibition by Michael Rong-Gen Yin.

65 Page 64 Portaferry Visitor Information Centre The Stables, Castle Street, Portaferry, BT22 1NZ Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 1pm-5pm visitardsandnorthdown.com The Loft Gallery Saturday 31 March-Sunday 29 April Exhibition; Coast by Printmaker Diane Cowan This exhibition will feature a series of monoprints of and around the coastline of County Down. Saturday 5-Saturday 26 May Exhibition; Connecting with the Land - An Artist s Journey from Donegal to Down by Artist Mary Feeney This exhibition comprises of oil paintings depicting Mary s impressions of the rugged beauty of counties Donegal and Down. Saturday 2nd June-Sunday 1st July Exhibition; On The Edge by Ceramicist Mary Pearson An exhibition by local ceramic artist Mary Pearson features mixed media pieces in clay, ceramic and plant fibres. Saturday 7 July-Sunday 29 July Exhibition; Felt Alive by Feltmakers North The collection includes 2D and 3D pieces designed and hand-crafted using wool, silk and other natural materials. This exhibition reflects how these artists approach this ancient craft through their individual interpretations of Felt Alive. Saturday 4-Sunday 26 August Exhibition; Linen Futures 2018 curated by Jane McCann and Cecilia Stephens This exhibition represents a small group of makers from South Wales and Northern Ireland with the focus on innovative approaches to the celebrating of our NI linen and flax heritage. Bangor Castle Walled Garden Castle Park, Valentine Road, Bangor, BT20 4UT See website for seasonal opening times visitardsandnorthdown.com

66 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Visitor Information Services Friendly and knowledgeable staff in our Visitor Information Centres can help you with information on accommodation bookings, directions, attractions, activities, events and tickets. The centres are unique in their own way. Packed full of crafts, souvenirs and free literature, they should be your first port of call! Ards VIC 31 Regent Street, Newtownards, BT23 4AD Jan-Jun and Sept-Dec: Mon-Fri 9.15am-5pm, Sat 9.30am-5pm; Jul-Aug: Mon-Fri 9.15am-5.15pm, Sat 9am-5.30pm. Closed Sundays. Bangor VIC 34 Quay Street, Bangor BT20 5ED Jan-Apr: Mon, Tues, Thurs and Fri 9.15am-5pm, Wed 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm, Sun closed. May-Aug: Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 1pm-5pm. Seasonal Centres Groomsport VIC Cockle Row Cottages, Main Street, Groomsport, BT19 6GH Easter Sunday, Apr and May - Sat and Sun only: 11am-5pm; 1 June - first Sunday in September - open daily: 11am-5pm. Portaferry VIC The Stable, Portaferry BT21 1NZ Good Friday - last Friday in September: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 1pm-5pm.

67 Page 66 Emergency Services and Hospitals Emergency Services: call 999 Fire, Police, Ambulance and Coastguard Police Service of Northern Ireland: call 101 (non emergency) Ulster Hospital Accident and Emergency Department Upper Newtownards Road Dundonald, Co Down BT16 1RH Transport Translink Public Transport: translink.co.uk Strangford Lough Ferry Service: TEXT: Ferry to for updates Belfast International Airport: belfastairport.com George Best Belfast City Airport: belfastcityairport.com P&O Ferries: poferries.com Stena Line Ferries: stenaline.co.uk

68 Experiences And Events SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Accommodation From cosy B&Bs to the ultra-modern self-catering, luxury hotels to budget hostels, there is something for every taste and pocket. Get the best out of your stay in the borough, whether it be for an overnight stay, weekend retreat or weeklong break... Pick up a free copy of our Ards and North Down Accommodation Guide or download it at visitardsandnorthdown.com

69 Portaferry Strangford Departs at quarter past and quarter to the hour. Text FERRY to to register Text STOP to to stop Text messages are free in the UK Passengers can register to receive SMS text message service updates. You can: Strangford Portaferry Departs on the hour and the half hour. Sailings every 30 minutes nidirect.gov.uk/ articles/strangfordferry-fares This is map is based upon Crown Copyright and is reproduced with the permission of Land & Property Services under delegated authority from the Controller of Her Majesty s Stationery Office. Crown Copyright and database right 2017 CS&LA km 2 miles SMS text message alert service: Conlig Strangford Lough Ferry Service Crawfordsburn Helen s Bay We have three Apps available to download for FREE from your preferred store: Bangor Christian Heritage Discover Ards and North Down Greyabbbey Village Heritage Trail visitardsandnorthdown.com In-depth literature on these trails, routes and must-sees are available at your nearest Visitor Information Centre or Access points to the Lough Film Locations Great Wars Trail Ulster Scots Driving Tours Comber/Andrews Titanic Trail Mourne Coastal Route Trail leading to other associated St Patrick s Trail sites St Patrick s Trail (main route) Lecale Way North Down Coastal Path Strangford Lough Cycle Trail Comber Greenway Cycle Trail East Coast Canoe Trail Strangford Lough Canoe Trail Trails & Routes Newtownards Bangor

70 Ards Visitor Information Centre 31 Regent Street, Newtownards County Down BT23 4AD Bangor Visitor Information Centre Tower House, 34 Quay Street Bangor BT20 5ED Pick up our other guides! visitardsandnorthdown.com