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

November 2025

We're going on a trail hunt: Autumn Walk series | Various dates locations | 30 October to 4 December 2025

Free events | Any queries call: 0300 013 3333 Ext: 40451

Registration will be via Eventbrite: Ards and North Down Borough Council - Parks Events - | Eventbrite

When:	What's happening:	Meet point where///whatthreewords
Wednesday 12 November 10am-12noon	Wellbeing walk and sing with Body Song Ireland in Corrog Wood	Corrog Wood, Deerpark Road Portaferry ///tablet.ditching.hurtles
Thursday 27 November 10am-12noon	To the Trees celebrating National Tree Week with a walk lead by Dylan Freeburn	Cairn wood car park, Craigantlet Road ///asteroid.modest.twit
4^th Sunday each month 2-4pm	BTO volunteers head out to enjoy the local wildlife in a relaxed group.	Location varies each month. Email: wanders@bto.org to find out more.

New Tale Trail Launch at Cairn Wood | Saturday 15 November, 10am-3pm (Craigantlet Road Car Park).

Enjoy a family-friendly day exploring nature through stories, art, and activities. Explore the two themed woodland walks:

Red Squirrel Trail - 1.6km loop, 45 mins, fully accessible
Pine Marten Trail - 3km return, 1.5-2 hours to the summit and back

Follow storyboards, spot wildlife clues, and meet the woodland characters, and join the willow weaver to complete the Pine Marten sculpture at the end of long trail by the fabulous top viewpoint.

Bring walking shoes, a picnic, and your imagination!

Free parking, refreshments and accessible trails available.

Please note:

Limited car park capacity (approx. 50 spaces) - please car share where possible.
There is no overflow parking and cones will be in place along Craigantlet Road, by PSNI and Council - for everyone's safety, no roadside parking please.
Onsite staff will display a "Car Park Full" sign if necessary if there are periods during the day when the car park is at capacity.