Bangor – Ulster Scots Walk
This 3mile coastal walk goes from Bangor’s Ballyholme Beach to Groomsport and back. Both settlements were developed by Sir James Hamilton and his Scottish tenants in the early 1600’s, so the area has strong Ulster-Scots connections.
County Down
Distance 3.34 miles
OS Map 15
Terrain Rocky coastal path and footpath
Nearest Town Bangor
Route Shape Circular
Grid Reference J52500 82500
Route Type Coastal
A path at the eastern end of the beach skirts around Ballymacormick Point and along the short to Groomsport harbour. It’s mostly flat but certain sections may not be accessible for all users. The Ballymacormick carpark is off the Groomsport road and is the starting place for this dander. Take the steps down to the beach and turn right following the curve of the shore all the way. The beach ends in a line of boulders but the walk continues along a thin path. There is a bench which is a good place to pause, looking back across the bay at the town. Continue along the path between fields and rocky shore. Thick gorse bushes soon flank the trail – a feature of so much of the coast both here and in Scotland, and a feature too of much Ulster-Scots poetry. The trail continues above calm little coves and inlets. On a clear day you can see Scotland. You’ll have to turn back once you reach the harbour. Retrace your steps to return to Bangor. Check out the additional videos with more Ulster-Scots details about the area. The videos are designed for smart phones or tablets so you can listen while you walk: https://vimeo.com/657554550/1c7896d9ae Additional Content: https://vimeo.com/692186162 "
Grade
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Walk Route
Bangor – Ulster Scots Walk