Part of Experience Ards and North Down 2025 Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Ireland's patron saints at North Down Museum. Upon arrival you will savour traditional refreshments associated with Saint Brigid, including homemade pancakes, delicious oatcakes, and local honey. Brigid Watson will guide you through the art of crafting Saint Brigid's crosses using sustainable materials gathered on her farm offering a hands-on experience that connects you to centuries-old traditions. As you create your own cross, discover the enduring significance of this practice in Irish culture. The experience then delves into the life of Saint Columbanus, Bangor's revered Christian leader, exploring the shared qualities of these two influential figures. Reflect on their lasting impact and relevance in today's world, gaining insights that bridge ancient wisdom with contemporary life. This engaging journey through Celtic spirituality promises a meaningful exploration for adults seeking connection with Ireland's rich cultural tapestry. Light refreshments will be provided on arrival Things to note All materials provided This experience is suitable for those aged 10 years and over. Dietary requirements Please ensure that you check with all members of your party regarding food allergies, intolerances, and dietary requirements prior to booking tickets. Please inform the host venue about food allergies, intolerances and specific dietary requirements at time of booking, or at least 72 hours in advance. Dietary requirements and allergies to be provided to Brigid Watson by phone: 07763 898 074 Tickets close 4 February 2026 Getting there By car: from Belfast follow A2 to Bangor Town Centre. Car Parking available on Abbey Street (charged), a few minutes walk uphill to the venue, and parking available at venue off Castle Park Avnue (free, but limited). Car parking | Ards and North Down Borough Council By public transport: Train or bus to Bangor Station. From the main entrance of the station, turn right, cross pedestrian lights on Abbey Street and walk a few minutes uphill towards Bangor Castle/Bangor City Hall. Make your way to the back end of the building, following signage to North Down Museum. See Translink for timetables. Accessibility North Down Museum Accessibility information is available here https://andculture.org.uk/visit-us/north-down-museum/museum-opening-hours-and-accessibility For accessibility information for this event, please contact Brigid Watson by telephone on +44 (0)7763 898 074 Carers Carers are welcome, however tickets must be purchased if they wish to participate. Where practicable providers within the Experience AND Programme will aim to accommodate carers and be as inclusive as possible. With such a diverse range of activities, operated by a number of providers, it is necessary for this to be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Bangor Visitor Information Centre on +44(0)28 9127 0069, and the team will assist with your enquiry. Terms and conditions apply

Tour Title: Tour of Bangor Castle Grounds and Walled Garden Date: Sunday 21st September2025 | Sunday 28th September 2025 Time: 2.30pm Meeting Point: Caf Kiosk in Walled Garden Description: John will lead you on a tour of the formal gardens and arboretum taking account of the history of the Castle and the features within the parkland, formal gardens, and Walled garden. Learn about the Ward family and how through an interest in horticulture the arboretum and walled garden came into being. The tour will also highlight the journey of the Walled Garden and the restoration to its current form. Terrain that will be covered: parkland paths and formal paths. Duration of tour: 1 - 1.5 hrs

Tour Title: Bangor Castle Walled Garden Walking Tour Dates: Monday 21st July | Monday 28 July Time: 11am Meeting point: Caf Kiosk in Walled Garden Description: Join William on this walking tour for an insight into the award-winning gardens history. The Ward family designed the Bangor Castle Walled Garden in the 1840s with the South Garden remaining true to its Victorian roots to this day. It is divided into four quadrants kitchen garden, topiary garden, swamp garden and flower garden. These four areas are separated by avenues of spectacular pleached lime trees and rose covered arches of which the tour will explore. The North Garden includes a bandstand, cafe, toilets and grassed area. Terrain that will be covered: formal paths around the walled garden. Duration of tour: 1.5 hrs

Step into a world of timeless beauty at the Walled Garden at Bangor, where Victorian-era flowers still bloom with grace on this guided tour with Laura. Discover the stories behind beloved heritage plants that have charmed gardeners for over a centuryfrom fragrant roses to posh dahlias. Learn how these floral treasures shaped garden design then and continue to enchant today, blending history, horticulture, and natural splendour in a truly unique experience. Terrain that will be covered: Paths of the Wall Garden, Bangor, Co. Down Duration of tour: 45 minutes Meeting Point: Cafe Kiosk in Walled Garden This tour is part of a new range of Taster Tours delivered by the latest ONC Level 2 Tour Guiding Graduates. SERC and Ards and North Down Borough Councils Tourism Department have partnered to enable knowledgeable locals to gain the skills to share some of the history and heritage of the region. The Taster Tours will take place from July - October, please look out for other tours in the programme on visitardsandnorthdown.com All proceeds are going towards the Mayors chosen Charities of 2025, St Vincent De Paul, Womens Aid and Orchardville.