What to do in Ards and North Down

The historic house has some of the most interesting gardens in Northern Ireland and an extensive exhibition of ancient relics and artwork.

Built in the 18th Century, Mount Stewart is a handsome neoclassical house and garden on the eastern edge of Strangford Lough in County Down in Northern Ireland. Once the seat of the Marquesses of Londonderry, the Vane-Tempest-Stewart dynasty, who bought the estate in 1744, this National Trust-owned property is a must-see for anyone interested in history or horticulture or who likes nothing better than to spend time appreciating beautiful and calm surroundings.

Located on the North Down coast just west of the town of Newtownards, the looming Scrabo Tower is an imposing sentinel in the Northern Irish countryside. Built in 1857 as a memorial to the third Marquis of Londonderry, the turreted tower is constructed from dark stone and resides on a hill 540 feet above sea level. The tower itself is 125 feet high, affording visitors with unbeatable views over the countryside and coastline beyond.

Take the children to visit the sea life who live at Exploris Aquarium during your holiday to Portaferry. Make some time to visit the temples while you're in the area.

Explore the waterfront in Donaghadee with a trip to Donaghadee Harbour. While in this relaxing area, you can enjoy the bars.

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Kearney Beach during your travels in Portaferry?

Portaferry Castle is just one of the places to see in Portaferry, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Make some time to visit the temples while you're in the area.

You can take time to visit Ballyquintin Point Nature Reserve during your travels to Portaferry. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.