Discover what Ards and North Down has to offer with a selection of fantastic experiences that let you explore some fascinating places, enjoy some delicious food and immerse yourself in the beauty of the borough while enjoying a friendly welcome!
From paddleboarding and kayaking to cooking your own freshly caught fish, as well as a watercolour workshop that will get those creative juices flowing, you can enjoy the natural beauty of our countryside while enjoying all of the warmth and hospitality that Ards and North Down has to offer.
Running from August until early October, six different experiences offer something for everyone.
The first Sunrise Paddle and Yoga Experience (1 Aug) starts with an early morning paddle in the waters of Strangford Lough that takes you to an island where yoga and breakfast await.
If you fancy the perfect foodie adventure, then Catch and Cook (22 Aug/6 Sep) lets you head out from Bangor Marina with a local boatman, giving you the opportunity to catch your own fish, before returning to cook at one of Bangor’s seafront restaurants.
You can also try a guided SUP-NIC Paddleboarding Experience (29 Aug/12 Sep/3 Oct) that includes a picnic on your paddleboard while you take in the beautiful surroundings.
If tea and cake is more your thing, the Killinchy based Canoe and Cake Experience (30 Aug/5 Sep) lets you enjoy the sights of Strangford Lough from the water. Then you will visit a traditional Irish thatched cottage for some delicious cake where you will also be treated to a demonstration of soda bread making.
You can also Explore the Shore (20 Sep) at Whiterock by kayak on a magical adventure that brings you closer to the lough’s wildlife. Stop off at one of the many islands before foraging for mussels with your guide and trained chef, who will cook them with a local Irish whiskey cream sauce.
If you prefer to keep your feet firmly on dry land, you can awaken your creative spirit at the Water’s Edge Watercolours Workshop (26 Sep) in Castle Espie Wetland Centre. Enjoy a brief tour with a guide before joining local artist, Bernice Anderson, for coffee, scones and a two-hour workshop where you will create a pen and watercolour illustration of the Centre’s birds.
All providers will operate the experiences with COVID-19 measures in line with current government guidance.
Spaces for all experiences are strictly limited so book early to avoid disappointment. For more information, including ticket prices and booking, go to visitardsandnorthdown.com/experienceAND.