Newtownards is a largetown based on the Ards peninsula in Northern Ireland. The fact that it is only10 miles from Belfast,with its two airports and lively cultural scene, makes it a highly convenientdestination for visitors from all over the UK and the rest of the world.
StrangfordLough
Even more appealing than the simple convenience ofits location, however, is the fact that it is also based at the most northerntip of Strangford Lough. This is the largest inletor sea lough in Britain, being linked to the rest of the Irish Sea by just anarrow channel. Its 150 square kilometres of water are home to over 70 islandsand its waters, bays and mud flats play host to a dazzling range of flora andfauna.
The natural diversity of the lough is such that itwas chosen as Northern Irelands first Marine Conservation Zone in 2013. Manysea birds migrate to and from the lough, and its waters are also home toanimals as diverse as basking sharks, common seals and Brent Geese.
Things todo in Newtownard
The shores of Strangford Lough form a naturalplayground for any visitors to Newtownard,offering facilities and activities which can be enjoyed indoors or out, nomatter what the weather. The waters of the lough itself are the most obviouschoice, of course, allowing visitors to take part in activities such assailing, diving and kayaking, with equipment and instruction on hand from a localadventure centre. For those keen on heading out alone, there are alsospecifically marked ‘canoe trails’ and a Strangford Lough Activity Map producedby the Ordinance Survey of Northern Ireland.
To the west of Newtownards,in Scrabo County Park, you’ll find Scrabo Tower, a 125 foot high turreted towerwhich was originally built in 1857. From the car park below you can walk up tothe top of the hill, where the tower is positioned, and mount the steps up tothe top floor to take in stunning views for miles in all directions. Havingconquered the tower, you can then explore the surrounding country park, enjoyingthe rural tranquillity of the woodland walks and disused quarries.
Places to Visitin Newtownards
Slightly to the north of the town itself you’llfind the SommeHeritage Centre, a unique visitor attraction which conveys thereality of the First World War and, in particular, the impact it had on theIrish divisions involved.
Those interested in music will simply have to fitin a visit to the Avalon Guitar workshop. Favoured by artists such as BruceSpringsteen, David Gray and Katie Melua, these are some of the finest handcrafted musical instruments in the world. Book a tour in advance and you’ll getto watch master craftspeople creating highly sought after artefacts beforerelaxing in the guitar lounge and even having a go at playing one of theguitars yourself.
Shoppingand Staying in Newtownards
From the shops in the centre of the town to theindependent craftspeople that have based their studios around the shores ofStrangford Lough, you’ll be able to commemorate your stay in Newtownardsby taking home gifts and souvenirs unique to this beautiful part of the world.
