Beaches & Marinas
North Down has a is a mix of coast and countryside with the maritime aspect being one of the areas assets. The collection of beaches along the side of Belfast Lough, Bangor Marina and Groomsport Harbour offer a variety of recreational activities throughout the year.
Bangor Marina
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Marvel at one of Ireland's largest marinas from the promenade. The promenade leads from McKee Clock at the Sunken Gardens through to Pickie Family Fun Park. It allows for a terrific view over this multiple winner of the Blue Flag Award and world class 5 Gold Anchor Marina that faciliates upto 550 berths. Access to the marina is restricted to Berth holders only.
Tel: 02891 453297
www.quaymarinas.com
Bangor
Groomsport Harbour & Cockle Row Cottages
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The beautiful village of Groomsport, just ten minutes from Bangor, is known for it's picturesque harbour that was once a major fishing port and it's two fishermans cottages known as Cockle Row.
Cockle Row is one of the main attractions for the visitor in Groomsport. The old fishermen's thatched cottages have not lost their original charm with the heritage cottage depicting what Cockle Row would have been like around 1910.
The second cottage is now a Tourist Information Centre and provides information and events in the area and houses a small shop.
Throughout the summer months, June through August, the cottages host a variety of entertainment every weekend afternoon. Activities range from wildlife road shows to craft activities and live music
Groomsport is famous for the heroic attempt of the 'Eagle Wing', the first ship to set sail for the New World to establish the first settlement of Ulster-Scots. This journey is commemorated in the village's annual Eagle Wing Celebrations which celebrates Groomsport's American links.
Visitors are attracted by to the landscaped picnic and play areas around the harbour, the sandy beaches, quality pubs, restaurants and the picture-postcard beauty of the place.
The village also has a recreation ground with 2 football pitches, also a village hall situated in the historic boathouse at the harbour which dates back to 1884. A bus service links the village with Bangor which is only a few miles away.
Groomsport: Accessible all year.
Cockle Row Cottages: Seasonal