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Northern Ireland’s Hidden Gem Itinerary: An Escape to Bangor & the Ards Peninsula

If you’re dreaming of a getaway to Northern Ireland that combines coastal charm, rich heritage, artisan flavours and scenic serenity, then look no further than Clandeboye Lodge in Bangor, County Down.

Just two hours from Dublin and 20 minutes from Belfast, Clandeboye Lodge is the perfect base to explore the hidden gems of the Ards Peninsula.

Where to stay: Clandeboye Lodge

With 41 bedrooms, a locally loved brasserie and gorgeous landscaped gardens, Clandeboye Lodge is an award-winning 4-star hotel ideal for a getaway. It’s no surprise it’s ranked the best place to stay in Bangor on Tripadvisor.

You’ll find stylish interiors, a warm welcome and plentiful free parking (including EV charging). Whether you’re sipping coffee in the conservatory or toasting the sunset with a cocktail on the terrace, it’s the perfect place to relax and reconnect.

Day 1

Afternoon: Arrive & Unwind

Check in from 3pm and settle into your luxurious room at Clandeboye Lodge, where countryside calm meets contemporary comfort. Take a wander through the landscaped gardens, enjoy a quiet moment with a book, or simply ease into weekend mode with a drink in the lounge area.

Evening: Local Flavours at Coq & Bull

Your first night calls for a treat. Head to Clandeboye Lodge’s very own Coq & Bull brasserie, a local hidden gem known for its seasonal, locally sourced menu, curated wine list and handcrafted cocktails.

Day 2

Morning: Breakfast & Slow Start

Wake to the smell of freshly brewed coffee and enjoy a hearty breakfast at Clandeboye Lodge. Choose from locally sourced ingredients, cooked-to-order dishes and wholesome morning favourites all served with a side of laid-back luxury.

Late Morning: Breadmaking at Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen

Photography credits: Courtesy of Tourism Northern Ireland

Head to the shores of Strangford Lough for an authentic Irish food experience at Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen. Arrive to warm fruit soda Bannock straight from the oven, served with tea or coffee, before a hands-on breadmaking session featuring three traditional Irish breads cooked on the griddle.

After baking, sit back in the cosy cottage or al fresco in the garden with your creations, creamy Irish butter, homemade jams and a slice of fresh cream cake, plus bottomless tea and coffee.

Note: Spaces are limited, advance booking is essential.

Afternoon: Live Music at The Court House in Bangor

Make your way to The Court House in Bangor for its weekly Irish trad session. This beautifully restored Georgian courthouse pulses with fiddles, pipes and warm Northern craic, ideal for tapping toes and sipping a local brew!

Evening: Dine Out or Stay In

Return to Clandeboye Lodge for a relaxed evening. Dine again at the Coq & Bull brasserie or venture out to explore Bangor or Holywood’s buzzing food and drink scene.

Day 3

Morning: Breakfast & Breath of Fresh Air

Enjoy another hearty breakfast at the hotel to set you up for the day. Then collect an artisan picnic hamper from reception*, curated with delicious bites from The Guillemot, one of Bangor’s most-loved local delis.

Afterwards, head to Crawfordsburn Country Park for a forest walk, a visit to the hidden waterfall, or a coastal stroll to Helen’s Bay beach. Prefer a more leisurely pace? The Bangor Marina promenade is perfect for a seaside saunter.

*Please note: 48 hours’ notice is required to secure your picnic hamper. You can add this to your stay at the time of booking or by contacting the Clandeboye Lodge reception team.

Midday: Walled Garden Picnic

Photography credits: Walled Garden Courtesy of ANDBC

Take your picnic hamper to Bangor Castle Walled Garden, a peaceful, hidden gem bursting with blooms, sculpture trails and historic charm. Find a quiet spot, unpack your picnic and savour a slow lunch.

Afternoon – Ards Peninsula Scenic Drive

Before heading home, take the scenic route along the Ards Peninsula Way to discover:

Greyabbey Ruins — Step back in time at this hauntingly beautiful 12th-century monastery. Wander through the peaceful ruins and explore the adjoining herb garden, still fragrant with traditional healing plants.
Kircubbin — A charming harbour village where you can soak in the coastal views and stop for a bite or coffee at one of its welcoming cafés.
Ballycopeland Windmill — Visit one of Northern Ireland’s last functioning windmills, lovingly restored and steeped in local history. A rare glimpse into a bygone rural tradition.
Echlinville Distillery — Round off your journey with a guided tour and tasting at this award-winning, field-to-glass distillery, where every drop of whiskey and gin is crafted from grains grown on the estate.

Plan Your Getaway

Whether you’re wanting to explore somewhere new in Northern Ireland, indulge in artisan food and drink, or simply enjoy the rhythm of a slower weekend, Clandeboye Lodge is your ideal base.

Check out their 2-night package, ‘Settle In’, which includes 2 nights B&B, prosecco on arrival and a 3-course dinner with a free bottle of wine on one evening. Explore hidden gems, savour seasonal flavours, and soak up the peace of the Ards Peninsula, all from the comfort of one of Northern Ireland’s most welcoming boutique hotels.