TOUR E - THE ARDS PENINSULAR
Excursions
- £45 - £55
- Approx. 4 hours
- Limited capacity
The Ards Peninsula, an area of immense beauty and spectacular scenery, curls around the western shore of Strangford Lough and at 18 miles long is one of the largest sea inlets in the British Isles. The coastal road along the southern shore of Belfast Lough plays hide and seek with the sea, like the railway that runs alongside it. A place of great natural beauty, the peninsula is a bird sanctuary and wildlife reserve, and is home to many species of marine life.
We will drive from Belfast to Newtownards, the principal town of this area situated at the northern end of Strangford Lough. From here, we will drive along the coast road to Grey Abbey – named after the Cistercian Abbey founded here in 1193. We will stop to view the substantial remains. Unfortunately Grey Abbeys’ annals did not survive but what little history is known is none-the-less intriguing.
From Grey Abbey, we will traverse the peninsula to Ballywalter. Formally a fishing village, Ballywalter is now typical of the tranquil lifestyle enjoyed by the inhabitants of this area. Local fishermen still lay pots or creels for lobsters and crabs during the summer months.
We continue on the coastal route through the town of Millisle before arriving in Donaghadee. A stop will be made here, to visit a local hostelry where we will receive a drink. Afterwards, time permitting, we will have a little free time to explore this pretty little hamlet independently. Donaghadee boasts a long seagoing history, therefore it is not surprising that it still maintains a special relationship with the sea, proving very popular with water enthusiasts, anglers and those who simply like to be beside the seaside. From Donaghadee we have the opportunity to enjoy spectacular views across the Irish Sea when, on a clear day, we can see all the way to Scotland. In the harbour is Donaghadee's impressive lighthouse, which was built in 1836 and was the first lighthouse in Ireland to be lit by electricity.
Rejoining our coach and guide, we will make the return journey to Belfast.
TOUR NOTES: There is limited walking on this tour – approximately 30 to 45 minutes at Grey Abbey, over uneven ground, and at guests’ discretion during the free time in Donaghadee. Some steps will be encountered at these stops. One drink per person will be included at the refreshment stop.
DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2011 CRUISES
Snack or meal provided
Refreshments available
Free time
Shopping opportunity
Wheelchair access
Swimming opportunity
All prices are based on operating costs, tariffs and rates of exchange and are subject to change without notice.
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