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Maritime Bangor
If you are looking for a holiday destination that combines the best of land and sea, look no further than Bangor and its neighbouring towns of Belfast, Holywood, Groomsport, and Donaghadee. These towns offer some of the finest sailing and yachting facilities in Northern Ireland, as well as a rich and diverse maritime heritage. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, a racer or a cruiser, a solo sailor or a family crew, you will find something to suit your boating needs and preferences in this area.
Bangor is the main hub for boating enthusiasts, with its large and modern marina, operated by boatfolk, which has 530 berths and a range of services and amenities for visiting and resident boats . You can enjoy the stunning views of Belfast Lough and the surrounding hills from the marina, as well as the vibrant atmosphere of the town centre, which is only a short walk away. Bangor Marina is also home to the Royal Ulster Yacht Club, one of the oldest and most prestigious yacht clubs in the UK, which hosts regular racing and cruising events, as well as social functions and training courses.
Belfast, the capital and largest city of Northern Ireland, is only 13 miles (22 km) from Bangor, and is easily accessible by road or rail. Belfast Harbour is one of the largest and busiest ports in the UK, and has a long and illustrious history of shipbuilding and trade. You can visit the Titanic Belfast, a world-leading visitor attraction that tells the story of the RMS Titanic, from her conception in Belfast in the early 1900s, through her construction and launch, to her maiden voyage and subsequent place in history . You can also explore the Titanic Quarter, which has a variety of maritime-themed attractions, such as the Titanic Slipways, the Titanic Dock and Pump House, and the SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line vessel.
Holywood, just 6 miles (10 km) west of Bangor, is another attractive town with a strong boating tradition. Holywood Yacht Club, founded in 1862, is one of the oldest sailing clubs in Ireland, and welcomes visitors and new members alike. The club has a modern clubhouse, a slipway, and a pontoon, and organises sailing activities for all ages and abilities, including dinghy racing, cruising, and junior sailing. Holywood also has a scenic coastal walk, a golf course, and a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore.
Groomsport, 2.2 miles (3.5 km) from Bangor, is a quaint village and harbour, with a historic link to the Ulster-Scots and the Eagle Wing, the first emigrant ship to leave Ulster for America. You can also enjoy the award-winning beach, the picnic area, and the playground, as well as the Cockle Row Cottages, which date back to the 16th century and house a small exhibition room, a visitor information point, and a gift shop.
Donaghadee, 5.4 miles (8.7 km) from Bangor, is a bustling harbour town, with a long maritime history and a distinctive lighthouse. You can also visit the Donaghadee Harbour and Heritage Centre, which displays artefacts and memorabilia related to the town's seafaring past, and the Grace Neill's pub, which is one of the oldest pubs in Ireland.
With so much to see and do, Bangor and its neighbouring towns are the ideal places to stay for your holiday in Northern Ireland. Book your accommodation today and discover the beauty and charm of this area and its boating culture. We look forward to welcoming you soon!.