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
Activities and events: June 2025
UK Bike Week | 9-15 June | Various locations
Whether you ride every day or haven't cycled in years, Bike Week is all about showcasing how cycling can fit into daily life - for everyone. It's a week to celebrate the simple joy of getting on a bike and to inspire others to give it a go. Details below or on AND Bike Week 9-15 June 2025 by Ards and North Down Borough Council - Parks | Eventbrite
BMX taster sessions |Tuesday 10 June 6-8pm (Newtownards) and Wednesday 11 June 6-8pm (Comber)
Join us at Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex, Pump Track or at the Skate Park, Muckers field, Comber for a fully equipped 2-hour taster session —perfect for beginners or anyone looking to build confidence on a BMX. We provide bikes and helmets for those taking part, along with expert instruction from professional coaches.
Matt and his team from Thunder will offer rolling workshops to groups across the 2 hour session.
During the session, you'll learn:
- Basic bike control skills
- How to safely use skateparks and pump tracks
- Proper etiquette when riding at these facilities
All abilities welcome! Open to aged 9 years and up, accompanied by an adult. Come ride, learn, and have fun in a supportive environment.
Booking is not essential but helps guarantee a place. Book via Eventbrite: AND Bike Week 9-15 June 2025 by Ards and North Down Borough Council - Parks | Eventbrite
Guided cycle tour of Heritage Trail route | Thursday 12 June 3.30pm | The Courthouse, Bangor
With Ards and North Down Cycle Campaign (ANDCC)
Join us for the launch of the new Bangor Cycling and Walking Heritage Trail with our knowledgeable guide. The ride is a circular loop of 8km and will suit you if you're a seasoned cyclist or just enjoy a leisurely ride. We will stop at 8 locations and hear about the fascinating history of the City. Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience the great outdoors in Bangor!
Open to adults with their own bicycle. Route includes sections on road and traffic free - riders will be in a group of 12. Helmets must be worn.
Booking is not essential but helps guarantee a place as numbers are limited.
Introduction to the new Heritage Trail Map; 'The Engine Within' film; A discussion panel | Thursday 12 June 7-9pm | The Court House, Bangor
New Heritage Trail Map; Film: 'The Engine Within'; A discussion panel with Ards and North Down Cycle Campaign (ANDCC). Tickets £4, available through The Court House.
Park Pedal for all ages, with bike clinic and PSNI bike registration | Saturday 14 June 2-4pm | Castle Park, Bangor
In association with Cycling Ireland and Ards and North Down Cycle Campaign (ANDCC).
Park Pedal is a fun, traffic-free Community Bike Ride designed for everyone- whether you're new to cycling or a regular rider.
Taking place in Castle Park, Bangor at 2pm, 2.30pm and 3pm on Saturday 14 June, this relaxed, social ride offers a safe way to enjoy cycling off road, meet new people, and build confidence on your bike.
Open to all ages, from balance bikes to experienced cyclists, Park Pedal is all about easy, friendly cycling at your own pace.
Find out more Bike Week - Park Pedal Bangor - Castle Park Tickets, Sat, Jun 14, 2025 at 1:30 PM | Eventbrite
Swift Walk and Talk |Castle Park, Bangor | Friday 13 June, 7pm to 9pm | Free event
Join the North Down Swift Conservation Group to discover the fascinating life of our local Swift population in Bangor.
The event will start with a one hour talk, followed by a walk to watch the evening display of Swifts and see them dropping in to their nests as darkness falls.
Pick up top tips on how you can identify these incredible birds, learn about their life and how you can help reduce the decline of this wonderful bird.
Following the walk we'll return to the start point at Marquis Hall by 9.30pm.
Not suitable for dogs. Please wear appropriate outdoor clothing and shoes. This is a free family friendly event but to manage numbers registration is required in advance: Swift walk and talk around Castle Park, Bangor Tickets, Fri, Jun 13, 2025 at 7:00 PM | Eventbrite
The workshop is interactive and suitable for everyone. Please advise if you have any mobility/access requirements by emailing outdoor@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk
**Now Sold Out** |Outdoor Mindfulness Sessions | Bangor Castle Walled Garden | Various dates June and July
Join us for *free* outdoor mindfulness sessions throughout June and July in Bangor Castle Walled Garden.
Follow the breath, body, and the beat of the music to uncover new layers of self-understanding, in this guided musical, meditative journey all held in the borough's beautiful outdoor spaces.
Each free 1-hour session includes live music played on a melodic RAV drum, plus carefully curated playlists of pre-recorded music supported by hand-made drums, shakers, and other musical instruments.
Meditation is guided with a focus on mind-body connection, to support emotional regulation. Perfect for both newcomers and the experienced alike, offering either a first feel for this kind of practice, or an opportunity to let go and immerse deeply in a guided outdoor session.
Register for free on www.TimeSpaceAttention.com/bangor
Activities and events - July 2025
Love Parks Week | 25 July - 2 August | Various locations
Celebrate Nature, Community and Wellbeing across Ards and North Down
This summer, join us for Love Parks Week 2025, a vibrant programme of free events celebrating the natural beauty, biodiversity, and community spirit of our local parks and green spaces.
Whether you're a nature lover, a creative soul, a young explorer, or simply looking to get outdoors and feel good, there's something for everyone — from ranger-themed activities and nature walks, to beach art, biodiversity workshops, plant swaps, and outdoor empowerment sessions for women and girls.
- Coastal foraging and citizen science
- Inclusive and dementia-friendly gatherings
- Creative workshops inspired by the outdoors
- Hands-on volunteering opportunities
- Try-it taster sessions and movement in nature
Join us in connecting with nature, caring for our parks, and discovering new ways to enjoy the outdoors — together. Events are happening in Bangor, Portavogie, Holywood, Kircubbin, Killinchy, Ballywalter, Groomsport, and more.
For full programme details visit our dedicated Love Parks page: Love Parks Week - Ards and North Down Borough Council
Activities and events: August 2025
Wild Days Out - Nature Adventures for Kids| Fridays in August 8th, 15th and 22nd | Various locations
Looking for free, fun, and educational outdoor activities for the kids this August? "Wild Days Out" is a series of exciting, hands-on nature sessions designed especially for children across Ards and North Down!
Each event offers a chance to explore the outdoors, learn about local wildlife, and get creative with natural materials.
Ideal for children and their families: just drop in anytime between 10am and 2pm.
Friday 8 August - Feasts for Feathers
Location: Kiltonga Nature Reserve, Newtownards
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Get your binoculars ready! We'll go on a gentle guided walk to spot and identify native birds. Kids will also get to make eco-friendly bird treats using natural and recycled materials a fun way to support our feathered friends!
Friday 15 August - Coastline Biodiversity
Location: Coastal Playpark, Millisle
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Explore the shoreline and learn all about the animals and plants that call our coast home. This hands-on session will have kids discovering shells, seaweed, and even tiny sea creatures!
Friday 22 August - Tremendous Trees and Plants
Location: Walled Garden (Playpark), Bangor
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Learn how to identify native trees and wildflowers, then try 'Hapa Zome' a creative Japanese technique of leaf dyeing. Kids can make their own natural artwork to take home!
What to Bring:
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Your curiosity and creativity!
For more information, please contact ANDparks@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk
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