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!
February 2026
We're going on a trail hunt: Winter Walk Series 2026 | Wednesday 11 and Wednesday 25 February, 10am-12noon
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 | Where to meet |
Wednesday 11 February 10am-12noon | Mindful walks on Coastal Path from Helen's Bay | Helen's Bay beach and car park off Grey Point, Helen's Bay, BT19 1JX ///ownership.mouse.branching |
Wednesday 25 February 10am-12noon | Mindful walks on Coastal Path from Pickie Park | Pickie Park café, Marine Gardens, Bangor BT20 3JR ///prove.toast.form |
March 2026
SparkHer Series Overview | Various dates and locations | March/April events
Introducing SparkHer - A Series of Events for Women & Girls: Ignite, Inspire, Empower
This spring and summer, we're creating more opportunities for women and girls to get active, feel safe, build confidence and connect with each other in our parks and shared spaces.
From March to June, come along and try something new, meet new people and be part of a supportive, welcoming atmosphere.
All events are free and funded by the NI Executive Office.
Tickets available from Ards and North Down Borough Council - Parks Events - Upcoming Activities and Tickets | Eventbrite
Woodland Wellness Walks | Stricklands Glen, Bangor | Thursday 5 and Thursday 19 March, 11am
Step away from screens, traffic, and the noise of everyday life and join us for a gentle, guided walk through the woodlands of Ards and North Down. These sessions are designed to help you relax, breathe, and reconnect with nature, with yourself, and with like-minded others.
Our Woodland Wellness Walks are slow‑paced, social, and welcoming. Each session blends mindful walking, simple breathing and awareness practices, and light conversation to help you feel more present, grounded, and refreshed.
Sessions usually include:
• A warm welcome and gentle arrival
• Simple breathing and mindfulness exercises
• A guided woodland walk focused on sights, sounds, and sensations
• Opportunities to chat in pairs or small groups
• Gentle music or sound (guitar or hand‑pan) along the way
• A relaxed group closing to bring everyone back together
Everything is optional, there's no pressure to speak, share, or move faster than feels comfortable. These sessions are all about slowing down, enjoying the outdoors, and finding ease in good company.
How to book your place
All upcoming dates and ticket options are available on our Eventbrite page: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/ards-and-north-down-borough-council-parks-91965099733. Simply scroll through the list to find the Woodland Wellness Walk session that suits you and select the ticket for that date.
SparkHer Series | Twilight Walk with Community PSNI | Tuesday 10 March 6-7pm | Donaghadee
Join us for a relaxed in-person evening stroll with local PSNI Community Officers for a gentle twilight walk to talk about women's safety on local walking routes. It's a great chance to connect, share your experiences, highlight areas of concern, and help shape practical improvements for our community.
Meeting/Start point: The Commons Car Park, Donaghadee | 5.45pm
Your voice matters — come walk and talk with us.
Free event | Book your place here: Twilight Walk with Community PSNI Tickets, Tue, 10 Mar 2026 at 18:00 | Eventbrite
Don't miss out—come along and be part of the fun!
We're going on a trail hunt: Winter Walk Series 2026 | Wednesday 11 March, 10am-12noon
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 | Where to meet |
Wednesday 11 March 10am-12noon | Mindful walks on Coastal Path from Groomsport Harbour | Groomsport Harbour car park and Community Centre, Groomsport, BT19 6JP ///junction.syndicate.proceeds
|
SparkHer Series: Park Pedal | Saturday 21 March | Ward Park, Bangor | From 1.30pm onwards
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 on the third Saturday of each month.
Saturday 21st March 2026, Ward Park Bangor from 1.30pm, with rides starting at 2pm, 2.30pm and 3pm.
More details on Eventbrite: Park Pedal | Eventbrite
We look forward to welcoming all cyclists!
SparkHer Series: Tai Chi, Connecting with Nature and Women's Safety | Tuesday 24 March, 6.30-9.30pm | Bangor Castle Walled Garden
Details to follow.
April 2026
Woodland Wellness Walks | Ballymenoch Park, Holywood | Thursday 2 and Thursday 16 April, 11am
Step away from screens, traffic, and the noise of everyday life and join us for a gentle, guided walk through the woodlands of Ards and North Down. These sessions are designed to help you relax, breathe, and reconnect with nature, with yourself, and with like-minded others.
Our Woodland Wellness Walks are slow‑paced, social, and welcoming. Each session blends mindful walking, simple breathing and awareness practices, and light conversation to help you feel more present, grounded, and refreshed.
Sessions usually include:
• A warm welcome and gentle arrival
• Simple breathing and mindfulness exercises
• A guided woodland walk focused on sights, sounds, and sensations
• Opportunities to chat in pairs or small groups
• Gentle music or sound (guitar or hand‑pan) along the way
• A relaxed group closing to bring everyone back together
Everything is optional, there's no pressure to speak, share, or move faster than feels comfortable. These sessions are all about slowing down, enjoying the outdoors, and finding ease in good company.
How to book your place
All upcoming dates and ticket options are available on our Eventbrite page: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/ards-and-north-down-borough-council-parks-91965099733. Simply scroll through the list to find the Woodland Wellness Walk session that suits you and select the ticket for that date.
SparkHer Series | Teen Girls on Wheels and Healthy Relationships |Tuesday 14 April 6pm to 9pm | Queen's Hall Newtownards
Join us in person for an engaging and empowering event focused on getting active on wheels and exploring what makes a healthy relationship.
Whether you enjoy cycling, skating, or are curious to try something new, this is a great opportunity to connect with others, take part in activities, and enjoy meaningful conversation in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Thunder Action Sports will deliver BMX taster sessions and showcase a range of exciting stunts. Women's Aid will also be in attendance, providing information and guidance on building healthy, respectful relationships and the supports available.
Age 12+
Parental/guardian consent is required for young people and must be provided at drop-off.
We encourage you to bring your friends, get involved, and discover practical tools for staying active while developing strong, positive connections.
Free event | Book your space now at Teen Girls on Wheels and Healthy Relationships Tickets, Tue, 14 Apr 2026 at 18:00 | Eventbrite
SparkHer Series: Park Pedal | Saturday 18 April | Londonderry Park, Newtownards | From 1.30pm onwards
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 on the third Saturday of each month.
Saturday 18th April Londonderry Park, Portaferry Road, Newtownards from 1.30pm, with rides starting at 2pm, 2.30pm and 3pm.
More details on Eventbrite: Park Pedal | Eventbrite
We look forward to welcoming all cyclists!
May 2026
Woodland Wellness Walks | Castle Park, Portaferry | Thursday 7 and Thursday 21 May, 11am
Step away from screens, traffic, and the noise of everyday life and join us for a gentle, guided walk through the woodlands of Ards and North Down. These sessions are designed to help you relax, breathe, and reconnect with nature, with yourself, and with like-minded others.
Our Woodland Wellness Walks are slow‑paced, social, and welcoming. Each session blends mindful walking, simple breathing and awareness practices, and light conversation to help you feel more present, grounded, and refreshed.
Sessions usually include:
• A warm welcome and gentle arrival
• Simple breathing and mindfulness exercises
• A guided woodland walk focused on sights, sounds, and sensations
• Opportunities to chat in pairs or small groups
• Gentle music or sound (guitar or hand‑pan) along the way
• A relaxed group closing to bring everyone back together
Everything is optional, there's no pressure to speak, share, or move faster than feels comfortable. These sessions are all about slowing down, enjoying the outdoors, and finding ease in good company.
How to book your place
All upcoming dates and ticket options are available on our Eventbrite page: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/ards-and-north-down-borough-council-parks-91965099733. Simply scroll through the list to find the Woodland Wellness Walk session that suits you and select the ticket for that date.
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