Local Attractions
The Gallery is located on the ground floor of a delightful Edwardian home within the conservation area of Whitehead. It is an unusual environment but works very well, the gallery sits well amongst the grace and charm of the house. The Gallery houses the work of the owner a talented artist who specialises in contemporary and abstract work and two rooms of the house are used to display her work. The Conservatory Gallery exhibition space is allotted to other artists with a different artist on show each month, so it is a continually changing exhibition of works. Open daily from 12.00pm to 5.00pm. There is also the opportunity to have a tour of this lovely house for a small charge of €4 per person, tours can be arranged by email or via their Facebook page, full details are on the website. All art on display is available for sale and there is always a great variety of art on sale covering a vast range of styles and subjects. If in the area do call in to see what is on show you won't be disappointed by the great works or the lovely gallery.
Blackhead Path takes you along a route that extends from Whitehead Boat Club to Sunshine House and is about two to three miles in distance along the Antrim Coast. As you meander along this route you come across beach, coastal and woodland, known as the "Magic Wood" that is home to a variety of wildlife. A particular point of interest along the walk is the Blackhead Lighthouse that is reached by climbing up some steep steps. The remainder of the walk is mixed some sections are pretty level and easy going other areas made up of the craggy coastal path. The area is stunning with some picturesque views out over Bangor and on a clear day you can see for miles with views of the Isle of Man and Scotland. The walk includes some information boards along the way that detail the history of the area and some old photos, that are interesting and informative. Blackhead Path is an ideal walk whatever the weather as it has a number of shelters along the route where you can take cover, it also has lots of local wildlife to see and if you look out over the sea you might see a dolphin, a walk with lovely views that everyone can enjoy.
Brown's Bay - 28.6 Miles (45.8 KM)
Brown's Bay Beach extends to 300 metres and is lined with rocks and loose boulders but is mainly sandy. The beach is vast, both long and wide, it is a quiet and peaceful spot and is found at the northern end of Islandmagee and enjoys a rural setting that gives an escape from the hustle and bustle of it all. You get the most fabulous views out across the horizon where you can see five headlands that stretch up along the Antrim coast. The beach is clean and has public toilets that are also clean. It is perfect for swimming in as the waters tend to be calm and are quite shallow. At times you can spot jellyfish here, examine the rock pools and possibly see seals in the waters. There are nice coastal walks that you can take from here. Although it is popular on a nice day it never gets overcrowded. There is a shop located just along the road where you can buy refreshments. Brown's Bay Beach is a perfect day out for all, families can enjoy the amenities here and everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of the area, it is a heavenly place, that has won the Seaside Rural Award.
Whitehead Public Library is located in Whitehead, Antrim, it is a bright and modern building that houses a vast and varied collection of books, media items, research items as well as equipment available for your use. The library is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10.00am closing times vary so best to check the website. They also organise a number of literary and fun events, as well as focusing on historic events that are aimed at the local community and all ages again all details are on the website. It has a lovely welcoming atmosphere and the staff are great, really friendly and helpful. You don't have to be a member to get involved with the events and activities they are available to everyone.
The Bank House is located in a classic historic building that once served as a bank, within the centre of the charming and quaint village of Whitehead. It is home a delightful variety and selection of local art and artisan crafts as well as items of stationery and basketry, paintings, ceramics and much more. It also serves as a gallery and has a good selection of works by local artists. The goods are high quality and there are many unusual and and quirky items for sale, you are sure to find something to appeal to all tastes here. It is well laid out and all items are clearly displayed. The store opens Monday through to Saturday from 9.30 am till 5.30pm with late night opening on a Thursday. There is a lovely coffee shop where you can relax with a nice beverage and one of the delicious cakes they sell, so tasty! They organise a range of different events and classes making it a real part of the community. The Bank House has a lovely welcoming atmosphere and the staff are so friendly and helpful too. The Bank House has lots to offer and should not be missed if you are in the area lots to see and even get involved with a real gem of a shop.
Pickie Family Fun park is a well established family attraction in the town of Bangor, next to the Marina. It is in the process of undergoing a big renovation project to improve its facilities. There is lots to keep the whole family entertained here with a Kid's Electric Car Track, Pedalo Swans, Disco Ducks, 18 Hole Links Mini Golf, Water Walkers, Narrow Gauge Railway, Play Park, Splash Pads, some of the attractions are free and others incur a cost. You can also avail of the delightful coastal walk that can be accessed from the park it extends from Holywood in the west to Orlock in the east where, you will take in coastline and parkland, you might even see some grey seals frolicking in the waves, a lovely walk on a dry day. The park is open Saturday and Sunday from 9.00am through to 4.00pm, there are a number of family pass options and special offers available so it is worth checking the website for these deals. There is a cafe that is warm and comfy and it serves a nice selection of hot and cold meals and accompanying beverages, the food is tasty and home cooked and offers excellent value. Pickie Family Fun Park makes for a great day out for everyone and with its free attractions doesn't have to be expensive, definitely worth a visit if you are in the area and should also look at taking the walk along the coast.
Historical & Heritage Sites
A fascinating priory to visit, with an extremely long and complex history. Built, re-built, restored, converted and added to over almost sixteen centuries, this age old site has seen its share of worship and war and is well worth a visit. The excellent visitor centre provides information on the architecture, history and religion of the priory over the years.
Tower House - 29.8 Miles (47.7 KM)
Tower House is a 17th century tower that together with the connected Tower House serves as Bangors's Tourist Information Centre, it is located on the seafront. The building has a long and varied history, it was first built in 1637 to serve as a Custom House and is an unusual design for the region, it has had many purposes over the years but is now protected and serves as a reminder of the town's sea-faring history. It is a lovely building that has been well preserved and makes for a great photo opportunity. The tourist centre is open daily except during the winter season when it is closed on a Sunday, you will find the staff to be friendly and helpful and will be able to get all the information you need on the town and local area.
