Parks Activities and Events
Our Parks service offers a varied programme of activities and events throughout the year in our parks and open spaces. These activities and events are usually free of / minimal charge and aim to encourage residents and visitors to spend time in our borough, making the most of nature and its benefits for our health and wellbeing.
From educational walks and talks to opportunities for play, there is something for everyone.
Some of these events are ticketed via Ards and North Down Borough Council - Parks Events | Eventbrite
If you have any queries about these events, please contact andparks@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk
This section is updated regularly so please check back!
October 2026
Autumn Walk Series | Wednesday 7 October, 10-12 noon | Ballywalter beach and car park
Join us for our Autumn Walk series, Sand Dunes - Understanding the benefits of coastal habitats
Full details and to book - Ards and North Down Borough Council - Parks
Autumn Walk Series | Wednesday 21 October, 10-12 noon | Cloughey Park beach car park
Join us for our Autumn Walk series, Sand Dunes - Understanding the benefits of coastal habitats
Full details and to book - Ards and North Down Borough Council - Parks
Halloween Haunted Harvest Trail | Saturday 24th October - Sunday 1st November | Bangor Castle Walled Garden
Update: closures due to weather
- The Haunted Harvest Trail will not be available on Tuesday 27 October. This is due to the closure of the Walled Garden due to the yellow weather warning in place for strong winds and rain. Reopening Wednesday 28 October 2026.
- The Haunted Harvest Trail will not be available on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 October. This is due to the closure of the Walled Garden during #StormBoelo and the yellow weather warning in place for strong winds and rain. Reopening Monday 26 October 2026.
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Join the Halloween Haunted Harvest Trail for a spooktacular and fun-filled experience for all the family to enjoy.
Enjoy our take on a pumpkin patch, take a wander through the spooky tunnels and snap a picture to capture the memories and collect your sweet treat.
This Free Family Event will run from Saturday 24th October - Sunday 1st November, 10-4pm daily. Last entry is 3:30pm.
No booking required | Suitable for all age ranges | Parental supervision is required at all times | Fancy Dress encouraged
Free parking | Wheelchair & pram accessible
November 2026
Autumn Walk Series | Wednesday 4 November, 10-12 noon | Anchor Park, off Springfield Road, Portavogie
Join us for our Autumn Walk series, Sand Dunes - Understanding the benefits of coastal habitats
Full details and to book - Ards and North Down Borough Council - Parks
Autumn Walk Series | Wednesday 18 November, 10-12 noon | Groomsport Harbour car park
Join us for our Autumn Walk series, Sand Dunes - Understanding the benefits of coastal habitats
Full details and to book - Ards and North Down Borough Council - Parks
Woodland Wellness Walk (National Tree Week Special) | Stricklands Glen | Tuesday 24 November, 12pm - 1pm
Celebrate National Tree Week (21-29 November) by stepping away from screens, traffic and the noise of everyday life to enjoy a gentle, guided walk through the woodlands of Ards and North Down. These special Woodland Wellness Walks are an opportunity to connect with nature, appreciate the benefits that trees provide for our wellbeing, and spend time with like-minded people in a peaceful woodland setting.
Free | Booking required
Woodland Wellness Walks (National Tree Week Special) | Cairn Wood | Thursday 26 November, 12pm - 1pm
Celebrate National Tree Week (21-29 November) by stepping away from screens, traffic and the noise of everyday life to enjoy a gentle, guided walk through the woodlands of Ards and North Down. These special Woodland Wellness Walks are an opportunity to connect with nature, appreciate the benefits that trees provide for our wellbeing, and spend time with like-minded people in a peaceful woodland setting.
Free | Booking required
