About Newtownards
Newtownards is the largest town in the Ards peninsula and has a population of around 30,000 people.
Birthplace of Christine Bleakley, the television presenter who is best known for her work on ITV.
Newtownards has a rich history, dating back to the 12th century with many historical buildings and ruins.
Things To Do
There are plenty of things to see and do in Newtownards, whether you are a tourist or live in the town, you will not be short of activities. Newtownards is a charming town with a rich history and has several notable historical buildings. The town is home to one of the older surviving Presbyterian churches in Ireland, the 17th-century Ballyblack Presbyterian Church. Or, explore the ruins of the 12th-century Grey Abbey, which was founded by Affreca, the wife of John de Courcy, an Anglo-Norman knight who conquered Ulster in the 12th century.
Newtownards also boasts Scrabo Tower, a Victorian tower offering panoramic views of Strangford Lough and the surrounding countryside, which is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. The town is also home to many parks and green spaces, including Castle Park, which is a popular spot for walking, picnicking, and playing sports.
The arts and culture scene in Newtownards is alive and well, with several annual festivals and events taking place, including the Newtownards Agricultural Show and the Ards International Guitar Festival.
Lastly, Newtownards is located near the coast, providing easy access to the seaside towns of Donaghadee and Groomsport, as well as Strangford Lough, a popular spot for sailing and bird watching.
Local Housing
Property prices in this area range from just over £100,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment and anywhere up to £500,000 for a large detached house.
For modern living, look no further than Milecross Manor, a lakeside housing development in the perfect location to enjoy the town, coast and countryside. The development is just 15 minutes away from the coast and in the heart of the countryside. Homes range from around £250,000 to £400,000 depending on the style of property.
Or why not take a look at the homes around Scrabo Park? Perfect for growing families, there are large detached houses that are in close proximity to highly-regarded schools, including Regent House Grammar School.
Eating & Drinking
If you're looking for delicious food and a great dining experience, look no further than the restaurants in Newtownards. This charming town in Northern Ireland is home to some of the best restaurants in the area, offering a wide variety of cuisines and dining experiences for visitors and residents alike.
One of the most popular restaurants in Newtownards is Tuk Tuk Asian Bistro. This restaurant offers a wide range of Asian-inspired dishes, with a focus on Thai and Chinese cuisine. The menu features a variety of options, including soups, salads, noodles, and stir-fries, all made with the freshest ingredients and authentic flavours. The atmosphere is cosy and inviting, and they cater to vegetarians, vegans and those following a gluten-free diet.
Another great option in Newtownards is The Lamppost Cafe. This cafe serves delicious breakfast and lunch options, with a menu that features a variety of sandwiches, wraps, and salads. They also offer a selection of baked goods and pastries that are made fresh daily. The atmosphere is cosy and casual, making it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family. There is even a whole menu dedicated to dogs!
Chef and Manager is a great option for those looking for a fine dining experience. The restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine, with a focus on using locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a variety of options, including soups, salads, and entrees, all made with the freshest ingredients and authentic flavours. The atmosphere is elegant and the staff is friendly and attentive.
The restaurants in Newtownards are a great destination for food lovers, with a wide variety of cuisines and dining experiences available. Whether you're looking for a casual meal with friends or a special night out, you'll find it all in Newtownards.
Shopping
The town is home to the Ards Shopping Centre, which offers a wide range of shops for visitors and residents to explore. Whether you're looking for clothing, accessories, jewellery, or shoes, you'll find it all at great prices.
One of the most popular stores in the Ards Shopping Centre is TK Maxx. This store offers a wide range of clothing, accessories, and home decor at discounted prices. You can find a variety of high-quality brands at great prices, making it a great destination for those on a budget.
Another popular store in the Ards Shopping Centre is River Island. This store is known for its trendy and fashionable clothing and accessories. Or why not stop by Primark? It’s a great option for those looking for the latest trends at affordable prices. If you are looking for shoes, you’ll be pleased to know that there is a Clarks store. Whereas, if you are looking for some accessories or a fun gift, the shopping centre is home to Claire’s.
Photos of Newtownards
Living in Newtownards
Travel
Travelling from Belfast to Newtownards is easy and convenient, whether you choose to go by car, bike, or bus. The distance is approximately 10 miles, depending on the route taken, and the journey by car takes around 30 minutes depending on traffic. If you prefer to travel by bike, the journey should take less than an hour, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
Another option for travelling from Belfast to Newtownards is by bus. There are several bus routes that operate and you can enjoy a comfortable ride while you take in the sights and sounds of Northern Ireland.
Local Amenities
Newtownards offers a wide range of local amenities to suit the needs of residents and visitors alike.
When it comes to supermarkets, Newtownards has plenty of options to choose from. Asda, Tesco Extra, Lidl, and Iceland are all located in the town, making it easy for residents to find the groceries and household items they need. These supermarkets offer a wide range of products at competitive prices, making them a great choice for those on a budget.
For those looking to stay active, Newtownards has a number of great gyms to choose from. The Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex offers a wide range of facilities, including a gym, pool, and sports hall. The North Down Barbell Club is also a great option for weightlifting and strength training. Both gyms offer a wide range of equipment and classes, making them a great destination for those looking to stay in shape.
Newtownards also has a number of churches for those looking for a place of worship. The Newtownards Baptist Church, Newtownards Congregational Church, and St Patrick's Catholic Church are all located in the town.
Schools
Newtownards is home to some of the best schools in the area. The town offers a wide range of educational options for students of all ages, including primary, secondary, and post-secondary institutions.
One of the most popular primary schools in Newtownards is Newtownards Model Primary School. This school has a strong academic reputation and offers a wide range of programs, including music, drama, and sports. Another great option for primary education in Newtownards is Victoria Primary School. The school has a close-knit community and dedicated teachers who are committed to providing a high-quality education for all students.
Castle Gardens Primary School is also a great option for primary education in Newtownards. The school offers a free Breakfast Club for all children to attend and there is on-site after-school care, which is great for working parents.
For secondary education, Regent House Grammar School is one of the most reputable schools in Newtownards. Regent House is known for its academic excellence, and it is considered one of the top schools in Northern Ireland, with a rigorous curriculum and a focus on preparing students for further education.