I recently collaborated with Tourism NI for a mini adventure and exploration of County Down. It was probably the first time I have been there as a tourist, is tourist the right word? Anyway I had a really good time and I am already planning another trip to the exceptionally beautiful Co. Down and I recommend you visit too! But what is there to do in County Down?
Must See Attractions
with over 150 attractions I have narrowed it down to my top 5 must see places that fall between Ards and Down. In no particular order, I suggest you do them all; we have.
Castle Espie Wetlands Centre - go and explore the beautiful grounds which are inhibited by some of the most beautiful birds of the world - added bonus, grab yourself some bird feed and an explorer pack and go feed some birds - they're all friendly!
Mount Stewart - here's your chance to live like aristocracy, enter the home of Lady Edith and explore all the different quarters of this stately home which has just undergone a £8,000,000 restoration (1920s). Remember to leave time to take in the lake and array of beautiful gardens.
Echlinville Distillery - nestled among the rolling hills of the Ards Peninsula this newly refurbished distillery offer you the chance to see how Whisky and Gin are produced, take a tour to get an insight into just what happens in a wonderful fully operational distillery - our first one for over 125 years!
Scrabo Tower - At the top of Scrabo Hill, overlooking Strangford Lough and the whole of North Down, is Scrabo Tower. The tower, which was built in 1857, is one of Northern Ireland’s best known landmarks it is immediately recognisable and the views from the top are spectacular. Why not pop in and visit the exhibition too
Exploris Aquarium - a perfect day out for the whole family, from the otter enclosure to the shipwreck there is something for everyone here, including a Craken Coffee shop
Places to Stay
So you are truly spoilt in North Down and Ards for places to stay - here are my top 3
Peartree Hill B&B - recently awarded 5 stars by the NI Tourist Board this B&B offers much more than just bed and breakfast, the word luxury springs to mind, along with tranquil, special and amazing. Home made treats, home grown ingredients and and a wonderful welcome await you at Peartree Hill B&B. Utterly Splendid.
La Mon Hotel & Country Club - if Afternoon Tea, Evening Dining, Superb Gardens and a little Spa Retreat are what you are after then look no further than the 4 start La Mon Country Club. Surprisingly only 15 minutes from Belfast the La Mon has a very rural feel, nestled in the countryside the La Mon offers the perfect getaway without having to travel too far. My cousin Claire got married here - a really great wedding venue!
Helen's Tower - if you are looking a truly memorable retreat then look no further Helen's Tower, it does come at a price but it's not every day you get to stay a Castle. Built in 1848 by Frederick Lord Dufferin, 5th Baron of Dufferin and Ava in honour of his mother Helen Selina Blackwood, Helen’s Tower has since been immortalized by Tennyson in the poem of the same name. Again, this is one for those who want a truly memorable break as prices online can range from £280 - £500 for 2 nights. Worth it though, surely!
Where to Eat
The Old School House Comber - for me this is fine dining at the top of it's game - excellently crafted menus making the most of local produce. Superb presentation and precision cooking with a fab taste. Friendly staff and modern décor make this a superb spot for a culinary adventure. Also extremely reasonable for the quality of food produced
The Salty Dog Bangor - Think of the best pub grub you could imagine, then go up another notch and you are at The Salty Dog, I personally think the quality of food here could be considered as elegant fine dining but the ethos of The Salty Dog is to produce really good pub grub using, once again, local produce. The Victorian buildings (two buildings converted into one) overlooking Bangor Marina is beautifully presented and to make tings even better, it's dog friendly, so grab your pooch and get to Bangor.
Vanilla Newcastle - in the heart of Newcastle lives a gem, an unassuming gem that produces scrumptious food served in a cosy and very welcoming setting. Great food presented superbly could definitely warrant more expensive prices but that is what makes Vanilla so great, brilliant standards, super presentation with very affordable pricing.
So there you have it, my round up of the best places to see, stay and salivate over - but what do you think? Have I left any super spots out? Let me know in the comments and if you do visit North Down and Ards, have a great stay - it truly is a beautiful part of our country.
