Things To Do
in Newtownards
Newtownards is a town located in County Down, Northern Ireland. It has a rich history dating back to medieval times and is known for its historic buildings and landmarks. The town has a vibrant community with a range of shops, restaurants, and amenities for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Newtownards is also surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the amazing Mount Stewart Gardens. Enjoy a peaceful walk among beautifully landscaped gardens and stunning views of Strangford Lough.
Head to the local market and sample some traditional Northern Irish food. Take time to stroll through Newtownards town center and explore its quaint shops.
Dine at a cozy pub that offers authentic local dishes. Consider catching a live music show to experience the vibrant local culture.
Visit the historic Newtownards Priory and learn about its fascinating history. Take your time exploring the beautiful ruins and surrounding area.
Visit the Ards Arts Centre to see if there are any exhibitions or workshops going on. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café to refuel.
Relax with a walk around the town and grab some ice cream at a local shop. Wind down with a movie at a nearby cinema.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and coastlines.
- Strong sense of community and family-friendly environment.
- Good access to local amenities, such as shops and schools.
- Proximity to larger cities like Belfast for additional services and entertainment.
- Rich history and cultural heritage, with local events and activities.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger urban centers.
- Possible lack of public transport services in some areas.
- Weather can be unpredictable and often rainy.
- Higher property prices compared to some other areas in Northern Ireland.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to bigger cities.
Best Activities in Newtownards
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the famous Scrabo Tower for panoramic views of the surrounding area and take a leisurely walk around Scrabo Country Park.
Explore the beautiful gardens and grounds of Mount Stewart, including scenic walking paths and a variety of outdoor activities.
Enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking, boat trips, and wildlife watching around the picturesque Strangford Lough.
Tours
Uncover the best of Newtownards with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Newtownards
Visit one of these nice places.
A prominent landmark with panoramic views of Strangford Lough and the surrounding countryside.
A National Trust property with beautiful gardens and scenic vistas across Strangford Lough.
A tranquil spot with walking trails and a picturesque reservoir, offering scenic views for photography.
Food in Newtownards
Newtownards Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty breakfast dish consisting of fried eggs, bacon, sausage, black and white pudding, tomatoes, and soda farls. A must-try for those looking to start the day with a filling and flavorsome meal. Can be enjoyed at local cafes such as Pim's Cafe or Molly Brown's Cafe.
Must-Try!
A traditional Irish potato pancake that can be served in various ways, such as filled or topped with savory ingredients. Visit The Old Cross Inn or The Scrabo Tower Restaurant to savor this iconic local dish.
A sweet, honeycomb-like candy with a crunchy texture, often found at local fairs and markets like the Newtownards Market and the annual Scrabo Country Fair.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Newtownards better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An annual event featuring various street food vendors showcasing a mix of traditional and innovative dishes, providing an opportunity to indulge in a diverse range of local and international cuisine.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Newtownards, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially in public places.
When dining in Newtownards, it's customary to use utensils and maintain good table manners, such as not talking with food in your mouth.
Being on time is important in Newtownards, so make an effort to arrive punctually for meetings, events, and social gatherings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Newtownards with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Newtownards
Ensure a smooth experience
In Newtownards, United Kingdom, tipping is not always expected but is appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and bars. A typical tip is around 10-15% of the total bill, but it's not mandatory.
In Newtownards, United Kingdom, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payment. Contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular, and most businesses accept them.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Newtownards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Newtownards, with the flowers blooming and the temperatures starting to warm up. The landscapes are lush and picturesque, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer in Newtownards brings pleasant weather, with longer days and plenty of sunshine. It's the perfect time for exploring the stunning coastline, enjoying outdoor festivals, and partaking in water sports.
Autumn offers a beautiful display of colors as the leaves change, creating a picturesque backdrop for hikes and nature walks. The weather is still relatively mild, making it a great time to explore the local parks and countryside.
Winter in Newtownards can be cold and wet, but it also offers a unique charm with festive events and cozy atmospheres. It's a great time to visit local pubs, enjoy holiday markets, and experience the seasonal traditions of the area.
Newtownards at Night
Hiking in Newtownards
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning National Trust property featuring beautiful gardens and walking trails with views of Strangford Lough.
A scenic trail offering picturesque views and a variety of landscapes, suitable for walking and hiking.
A popular hiking spot with a distinctive tower and panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Strangford Lough.
Located a bit further away, this forest park offers extensive walking trails through woodlands and along rivers.
A moderate trail located near Newtownards, providing a peaceful walking experience through nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Newtownards through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Newtownards by plane.
The main international airport serving Belfast, located approximately 20 miles northwest of Newtownards.
An international airport located approximately 8 miles west of Newtownards, primarily serving domestic flights and some international routes.
Ireland's largest international airport, located approximately 100 miles south of Newtownards, serving numerous international destinations.
Officially known as Ireland West Airport Knock, located about 137 miles from Newtownards, offering flights to various European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Newtownards, predominantly of British descent.
Includes individuals from other European countries and ethnicities, such as Irish and Lithuanian.
Comprises individuals of Asian descent, including Indian, Pakistani, and Chinese communities.
Individuals who identify with more than one ethnic group.
A smaller demographic group representing individuals from African, Caribbean, and other Black backgrounds.
Includes those who identify with ethnic backgrounds not classified in the previous categories.
The Soul of Newtownards
Discover the essence of Newtownards through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played team sport in Newtownards, with several local clubs and youth academies.
Rugby is popular in Newtownards, with a strong local rugby club that engages both youth and adults.
Various athletic events are promoted in Newtownards, with local running clubs and events.
Cricket is played in the area with clubs that participate in regional leagues.
Newtownards has a number of golf courses and clubs that attract both locals and visitors.
Cycling is a popular activity in Newtownards with many scenic routes and cycling clubs.
Swimming is a common recreational activity, supported by local pools and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Newtownards.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find accommodating choices at various establishments throughout Newtownards, including The Bulls Eye, which features a dedicated gluten-free menu.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Newtownards with these cultural adventures.