Bangor Town

Places to See | Co. Down, Northern Ireland.

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Bangor is a picturesque maritime resort located only 12 miles from the heart of Belfast.

There has been a settlement in the area since at least the year 555 when Bangor Abbey was founded by St Comgall.  It became a centre of great learning and was amongst the most eminent of Europes missionary institutions.

Since Victorian times, the Bangor area has been one of Northern Ireland’s main tourist towns, providing for the pleasure of trippers and tourists. In 1858 Charles Dickens took time off from lecture tour of Ireland to have a swim at Ballyholme Beach and his example has been followed by countless thousands since, though nowadays bathers are frequently outnumbered by sailors and windsurfers.

Bangor also boasts one of Ireland’s largest marinas which holds the prestigious 5 Gold Anchor Award. On the far side of the Marina is Pickie Family Fun Park, a seaside oasis for children with Giant Swan pedal boats, paddling pools, adventure playgrounds, cafe and a miniature railway.

Other attractions include North Down Museum, situated at the back of the Town Hall in the beautiful Castle Park and Bangor Castle Walled Garden.

Bangor Visitor Information Centre is situated in an historic former Tower House on the seafront.

One of the best walks in Ireland is along the North Down Coastal Path extending along the shoreline from Holywood to Bangor and then on to Donaghadee. You can park the car or take a bus or train to join the coastal path at many places along its 16 miles.

Address: Bangor Tourist Information Centre, 34 Quay Street, Bangor BT20 5ED

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