With 1st Klass City Tours
Embark on a captivating journey with 1st Klass City Tours to uncover the breathtaking landscapes of Ards Peninsula and the historical wonders of Inch Abbey.
Your adventure begins at the charming Strangford Lough, where you'll cruise across the Narrows, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the waters. As you reach the idyllic countryside of the Ards Peninsula, prepare to be mesmerised by its picturesque scenery and the tranquil atmosphere of this rural gem.
The Ards Peninsula Tour
This tour offers an unforgettable 8-hour excursion around the Ards Peninsula, a haven of natural splendour and rich biodiversity. Immerse yourself in an enchanting world of rolling hills, meandering coastal paths, and charming villages nestled in serene landscapes. This tour is a perfect escape for anyone yearning to experience picturesque vistas against a peaceful atmosphere.
Strangford Lough Ferry
Your tour starts with a scenic ferry ride from Portaferry to Strangford, connecting the Ards and Lecale Peninsulas and avoiding a 50-mile drive. This 10-minute journey across the "Narrows" showcases the dynamic flow of the sea in Strangford Lough. You’ll also get the chance to see a beautiful mix of wildlife and enjoy stunning views in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s the perfect start to a nature-filled adventure.
Ards Peninsula and Inch Abbey Tour Details
Passengers numbers that we can accommodate for on private shore excursions as follows: 4, 8, 11, 16, 22, 32, 49, 53 Passengers (we can accommodate larger groups upon request.)
Ards Peninsula Crossing the ferry tour price: For up to 4 passengers - £720.00 / 5 to 8 passengers - £995.00Executive Vehicles and wheelchair-accessible vehicles, Mini Buses from 11 seats and Coaches Up to 53 seats priced separately on request.
What's included
Tea
Coffee
Scone
Soft Drinks / Bottled Water
Pack Lunch
Selection of Fruit
Tickets into Mount Stewart Gardens
Tickets on the Ferry
Tickets for Castle Ward Game of Thrones (Winter Fell) not included
Ards Peninsula
The Ards Peninsula is a picturesque region located in County Down, Northern Ireland. It extends into the Irish Sea and is flanked on the east by the North Channel and to the west by Strangford Lough.
History
Historically, the area has been important both for agriculture and maritime activities. Its fertile lands have supported farming communities for centuries, while the coastline has facilitated fishing and trade. The region's cultural and historical richness is evident in its numerous historical sites, including ancient monasteries and castles.
Towns
One of the key towns on the Ards Peninsula is Newtownards, situated at the northern end of Strangford Lough. This town serves as a commercial and cultural hub for the peninsula, boasting a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural events. Another notable town is Portaferry, located at the southern tip of the peninsula. It's known for its charming streets, maritime heritage, and as the gateway to the Exploris Aquarium, which highlights local marine life.
Ards Peninsula Restaurants
These are just a few of the many great restaurants on the Ards Peninsula. With its focus on fresh, local seafood and beautiful surroundings, the Ards Peninsula is a great place to enjoy a delicious meal.
The Artisan Cookhouse, Strangford: A contemporary bistro celebrated for its dedication to seasonal ingredients. The Artisan Cookhouse stands out for its modern European cuisine, especially its exquisite, locally sourced seafood dishes.
Saltwater Brig, Portaferry: Nestled between Kircubbin and Portaferry, this rustic yet elegant pub and restaurant offers breathtaking views of Strangford Lough. Their menu, rich in fresh seafood, steaks, and vegetarian delights, caters to a variety of tastes.
The Lobster Pot, Killyleagh: Positioned right by the harbour, this restaurant specialises in freshly caught seafood from local waters. Alongside their seafood offerings, they also serve succulent steaks, flavorful curries, and vegetarian options.
Harrisons of Greyabbey, Greyabbey: An award-winning eatery housed in a stunning 18th-century courthouse. Harrisons is known for its modern European menu, emphasising fresh, local produce and offering a refined dining experience.
Ards Peninsula-Beautiful beaches and scenery
Whether you're an adrenaline seeker looking to ride the waves, or a family in search of a fun-filled beach day, These Ards Peninsula beaches offer something for everyone.
Groomsport Beach: This beach is a popular spot for water sports like surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. There are also a few shops and cafes in the village of Groomsport.
Ballywalter Beach: This beach is a long stretch of golden sand with stunning views of the Irish Sea. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and walking. There are also a few rock pools to explore at low tide.
Millisle Beach Park: This beach is a great spot for families with young children. It has a large, sandy beach, a paddling pool, a play area, and a jetty. It's also a popular spot for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
Explore Castle Ward
Castle Ward is an 18th-century mansion located near the village of Strangford in County Down, Northern Ireland. Here are some key details about it:
Architectural Styles: Castle Ward is renowned for its blend of architectural styles. One half of the mansion is built in the classical Palladian style, while the other half, which overlooks Strangford Lough, features a more elaborate Gothic style.
Opening Times (as of June 6, 2024):
Mansion: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Garden: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Grounds: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Second-hand bookshop, shop, and stableyard tea-room: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Prices (for non-National Trust members):
Adult: £13.00 (standard) or £14.30 (gift aid)
Child: £6.50 (standard) or £7.20 (gift aid)
Family: £32.50 (standard) or £35.80 (gift aid)
Group rates available.
Facilities:
Second-Hand Bookshop (open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM)
Gift Shop
Tea-Room (serving hot and cold drinks and light snacks)
Dog-friendly cafe (dogs on leads welcome in the wider estate and tea-room)
Guided Tours:
February to May: Hourly tours on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays (11:00 AM to 3:00 PM). Self-guided tours on weekends (11:00 AM to 4:00 PM).
Accessibility: Wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and sensory backpacks available. Contact castleward@nationaltrust.org.uk for specific access requirements.
Castle Ward’s unique history and its role as a Game of Thrones filming location make it a fascinating place to explore!
Inch Abbey
Inch Abbey is a significant historical site located in County Down, Northern Ireland, near the town of Downpatrick. It's a ruined monastic site known for its picturesque setting and rich history. Here are some key aspects of Inch Abbey:
Historical Background
Inch Abbey was founded in the 12th century by John de Courcy as part of the Cistercian Order, which followed a strict routine of prayer and manual labour. De Courcy, an Anglo-Norman knight, established the abbey as an act of penance for his role in the conquest of Ulster.
Architecture and Ruins
The remains of Inch Abbey are a fine example of early Gothic architecture. Visitors can see the remains of the church, cloister, chapter house, and other monastic buildings. The site showcases the typical layout of a Cistercian monastery, allowing visitors to imagine monastic life during the Middle Ages.
Setting and Scenery
The abbey is situated on the north bank of the River Quoile, with scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The peaceful and picturesque setting makes it a popular spot for photography, picnics, and leisurely walks.
Cultural References
Interestingly, Inch Abbey has gained contemporary fame as a filming location for the popular television series "Game of Thrones", where it was used to depict various scenes, adding to its appeal for fans of the series.
Book Your Ards Peninsula and Inch Abbey Tour
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with us! Secure your spot on the Ards Peninsula and Inch Abbey Tour easily through our convenient booking options:
Call to Book: Reach out to us at +447831336950 for an immediate reservation.
Email Booking: Prefer to book via email? Send your request to 1stklasscitytours@gmail.com and we'll handle everything for you.
Online Booking: For instant access and easy online booking, visit our website and navigate to the booking page.
Don't miss this opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of the Ards Peninsula and Inch Abbey. Book now and get ready for an experience you'll cherish forever!
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