All about Bangor
For more than 150 years the Bangor area has made a profession of providing for the pleasure of trippers and tourists. In 1858 Charles Dickens took time off from lecture tour of Ireland to have a swim at Ballyholme Beach and his example has been followed by countless thousands since-though nowadays bathers are frequently outnumbered by sailors and windsurfers. 16 miles of beautiful coastline in North County Down extends along the southern shore of Belfast Lough from Belfast’s eastern boundary through Holywood, Cultra, Craigavad, Helen’s Bay, Crawfordsburn, Bangor, Groomsport, Ballymacormick & Orlock to Portavoe.
The scenic enchantments of this coastline and its verdant hinterland are enriched by an historical unsurpassed in these islands. It is hard to imagine today that within a half-mile of Pickie Fun Park there was once a huge monastic settlement around Bangor Abbey, which shone as a beacon of enlightenment throughout Europe’s Dark Ages.
Bangor’s importance in more recent times is evidenced by the abundance of splendid Victorian and Edwardian buildings which bear witness to the taste and affluence of residents who came from all over the country to enjoy life in what was described as Ireland’s most salubrious, invigorating and alluring resort”.
With the help of this Web guide, you too will soon discover why North Down is such a terrific place to escape to.
Nowadays Bangor is a busy seaside resort on the coast of Down. Apart from having many shops it also has many tourist attractions. One of these main attractions is Pickie Family Fun Park. Pickie Family Fun Park overlooks Bangor Marina and the landscaped gardens and promenade; this beautiful sea front oasis is designed for all tourists and families alike.
Spectacular Swan pedal boats glide across the Boating Lagoon, while onlookers dine in the Windjammer Cafe. Parents can relax and watch their children at play in the sand pits which surround the Pickie Paddling Pool and adventure playground and Pickie Puffer as seen below. Other attractions include an Amphitheater with children's entertainment, band concerts and variety shows throughout the summer period.
Open weekends from 10.00 a.m. to sunset from October to Easter. The advantage of Pickie Fun Park is that it offers free facilities.
"The Boating Lagoon" and "The Pickie Puffer
Walking is the most popular recreational activity, and there's no better place to put on a pair sensible shoes and stride out! One of the best walks in Ireland is along the North Down Coastal path extending along the shoreline from Holywood to Bangor and then on to Donaghadee. You can park the car or take a bus or train to join the coastal path at many places along its 16 miles.