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Newtownards

Newtownards, Ards and North Down, United Kingdom

Newtownards, located in the Ards and North Down district of Northern Ireland, is a charming town with a rich history and plenty to offer visitors. Nestled in the picturesque countryside, Newtownards boasts a unique blend…

#Historic town#County Down#Northern Ireland#Market town#Ards Peninsula

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Newtownards.

Top Hotels in Newtownards

Top Flights to Newtownards

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Newtownards.

Tours

Exploring Scrabo Tower

Visit the historic Scrabo Tower offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and Strangford Lough.

Shopping

Newtownards Market

A bustling local market offering a range of goods from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

Outdoor

Castle Espie Wetland Centre

A wetland wildlife reserve providing an opportunity to explore nature trails and observe diverse bird species.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Newtownards.

Currency

£ | GBP | Pound Sterling

Population

Not Available

Languages

English, Irish, Ulster Scots

Average weather

Newtownards

Jan

6°1°

Feb

7°1°

Mar

9°2°

Apr

11°3°

May

14°6°

Jun

17°9°

Jul

19°11°

Aug

19°11°

Sep

17°9°

Oct

13°6°

Nov

9°3°

Dec

7°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Newtownards.

What people love

Newtownards, located in Ards and North Down, United Kingdom, offers several advantages for travelers:

Historic Sites: Newtownards boasts a rich history with several historic sites to explore, such as Scrabo Tower, Mount Stewart House, and Grey Abbey. These sites offer a glimpse into the region's past and provide a unique cultural experience for visitors.
Natural Beauty: The town is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including Strangford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and sailing in these picturesque surroundings.
Shopping and Dining: Newtownards has a vibrant town center with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore. Visitors can indulge in local cuisine, shop for unique souvenirs, or simply enjoy a relaxing day out in the town.
Convenient Location: Newtownards is located close to popular tourist destinations such as Belfast and the Ards Peninsula, making it a convenient base for exploring the wider region. The town is easily accessible by road and public transportation, making it an ideal destination for travelers.

Overall, Newtownards offers a mix of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities, making it a compelling destination for travelers seeking a well-rounded experience in the United Kingdom.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Newtownards could include:

Limited public transportation options: Newtownards may have limited public transportation services, which could make getting around the area more challenging for visitors who do not have access to a car.
Limited nightlife and entertainment options: Newtownards may not offer a wide range of nightlife activities or entertainment options compared to larger cities, which could be a drawback for travelers seeking a vibrant nightlife scene.
Weather: As with any destination in the United Kingdom, the weather in Newtownards can be unpredictable and rainy, which may affect outdoor activities and sightseeing plans.
Limited dining options: Newtownards may have fewer dining options compared to larger cities, which could be a downside for travelers looking to explore a variety of cuisines.
Limited tourist attractions: While Newtownards has some historical sites and natural attractions, it may not have as many tourist attractions compared to other destinations in the United Kingdom.

Overall, Newtownards may not offer as many amenities and activities as larger cities, which could be a consideration for travelers looking for a more bustling and diverse travel experience.

Please note that these cons are based on general information and individual experiences may vary.

Newtownards is a town located in County Down, Northern Ireland, within the administrative area of Ards and North Down. It has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, with significant events and landmarks that have shaped its development.

Early History

The area around Newtownards has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of prehistoric settlements. The town itself was established in the early 17th century, during the period of the Plantation of Ulster, when English and Scottish settlers were encouraged to colonize the area.

Founding and Development

Newtownards was founded in 1608 by Sir Hugh Montgomery, a Scottish landowner who played a crucial role in the development of the town. Montgomery was granted lands in County Down, and he established Newtownards as a market town, laying out its streets and encouraging settlement and commerce.

Significant Historical Events

Battle of Newtownards (1649): This battle occurred during the Irish Confederate Wars. A force of Royalists was defeated by a Parliamentary army led by Colonel Robert Venables.
19th Century Growth: The 19th century saw significant growth in Newtownards with the expansion of the linen industry, which became a major economic driver for the town and surrounding areas.
World War II: During the Second World War, Newtownards played a role in the war effort, with military installations and airfields in the area.

Landmarks

Scrabo Tower: One of the most prominent landmarks near Newtownards is Scrabo Tower, built in 1857 as a memorial to Charles Vane, 3rd Marquess of Londonderry. The tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and Strangford Lough.
Movilla Abbey: This is a site of historical significance, originally founded in the 6th century by St. Finnian as a monastic settlement. The abbey ruins are a testament to the early Christian history of the area.
Newtownards Priory: The remains of a Dominican priory founded in 1244 by the Savage family. It offers insight into the medieval ecclesiastical history of the region.

Important Figures

Sir Hugh Montgomery: As the founder of Newtownards, he is a central figure in the town's early history. His efforts to develop the town laid the foundation for its future growth.

Modern Era

Today, Newtownards is a thriving town known for its vibrant market, historical sites, and its role as a gateway to the scenic Ards Peninsula. The town continues to develop while preserving its rich historical heritage, making it an important cultural and economic center in County Down.

Newtownards remains a place of historical and cultural significance, with a blend of ancient sites and modern amenities reflecting its diverse past and dynamic present.