What Can You Do in Banbridge?

Banbridge is one of Northern Ireland’s most popular towns. It’s easy to see why – the town has a great selection of shops, pubs, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It’s also a popular tourist destination as it’s situated close to the Mournes and Lurgan, making it a great starting point to explore the area. But what can you do when you visit Banbridge? In this guide, we’ll be exploring all the best attractions and activities this town has to offer.

Visiting the Park

Banbridge boasts a pleasant town park. Within this park, you’ll find tennis courts, a children’s play area, and plenty of space for picnicking with friends and family on the grass. The park is a great place for all ages to enjoy the fresh air and scenic views, and also provides a nice spot to relax with a book.

Exploring the Shops

For shopping, you can visit the many independent stores at the main high street. These stores include specialist gifts shops, clothing boutiques and jewellery stores. You’ll also find plenty of shops selling souvenirs so you can remember your visit to Banbridge for many years to come. There are also some larger chain stores in the town centre which have everything from books to kitchenware.

Pubs, Bars and Restaurants

If you’re looking for places to eat or drink, Banbridge has plenty to choose from. You’ll find traditional Irish pubs where you can enjoy a pint, listen to live music and take part in traditional Irish dancing. There are also contemporary bars where you can eat small plates of delicious food in a sophisticated atmosphere. For those looking for an upmarket dining experience there are plenty of sophisticated bistros and restaurants serving locally sourced ingredients and inventive dishes.

Entertainment Venues

Banbridge is also home to several entertainment venues for those looking for something more than just shopping or eating in the town centre. For live music, there are several venues close by including The Tavern Bar in Markethill, which hosts regular acoustic sessions on Sunday afternoons. For theatre, The Town Hall promises nights of incredible culture including musicals, dramas and comedies from local and touring theatre companies. The nearby Eden cinema is also a great spot for film buffs, showing classic films along with modern blockbusters and releases from independent distributors.

Outdoor Activities

Banbridge offers a range of outdoor activities too. Among the most popular are fishing and boating on the Mournes. Here, waders can take advantage of an excellent range of sea trout and salmon fishing spots, while boaters can explore the beautiful scenery on the river and surrounding lakes. Other activities nearby include hill walking, golf and horse riding.

Visiting the Local Castles

Lurgan is home to a wonderful collection of well-preserved historical castles, many of which are open to visitors. Among these is Lurgan Castle – an impressive Elizabethan mansion with impressive views across down below. To explore even further into history you can take a trip to Kirk Arbory – a medieval church site dating back to around 1400 AD. These hidden gems will give visitors a unique insight into the past of northern Ireland. Whether you’re looking for something peaceful or some adrenaline-filled activities, Banbridge is one of Northern Ireland’s most popular towns for good reason. With so much to do it can be hard to decide which activity is best for you. However, hopefully this guide has given you some guidance on what there is available and it won’t take long before you’re out exploring all that Banbridge has to offer! For more information on Banbridge, please visit discovernorthernireland.com.

An Insider’s Guide to Banbridge: Uncovering the Hidden Gems

When you hear “Northern Ireland,” you might think of Belfast, the Giant’s Causeway, or the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. However, Banbridge, a small town halfway between Belfast and Dublin, has its fair share of attractions that are worth exploring. As a local, I am excited to take you on a journey through my town, and reveal some hidden gems that only the insiders know.

Discovering the Local Attractions Beyond the Obvious

While it is tempting to visit the go-to tourist spots, there are many lesser-known places to discover in Banbridge. One of the best-kept secrets is the Loughbrickland Courthouse, a beautiful Georgian building that boasts stunning architectural features. If you enjoy nature walks, a visit to the Castlewellan Forest Park will provide breathtaking scenery, adventure, and education. Another hidden gem is the Down County Museum, with plenty of interactive exhibits and historic gems.

Tasting the Local Cuisine

Banbridge has a thriving local food culture, with a wide range of eateries to choose from. One must-visit restaurant for locals and visitors alike is Brick’s Bistro, a warm and welcoming spot that serves up a mix of traditional and contemporary cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. For dessert, nothing beats the famous Portadown Creamery Ice Cream, available at Scoops Ice Cream & Coffee Cafe. It’s one of the few remaining traditional ice-cream makers, and its natural flavors are to die for.

Cultural Experiences for All

For those who want to immerse themselves in the culture, a great place to start is with the local festivals. The Sprucefield and District farmers’ market, held on the last Saturday of every month, is a great place to sample some of the region’s award-winning produce and to enjoy local live music performances. Another cultural must-see is the Gormley Gallery, a family-owned art gallery that features an impressive collection of European and Irish art.

Unearthing the City’s History

Banbridge has a rich and varied history that takes visitors back to the early medieval era. An essential stop on any trip is the Solitude Park, which has undergone significant regeneration and now houses a memorial garden, water feature, and play area. If you are a history buff, the nearby Enniskillen Castle Museum is worth a visit. The museum is set in a fascinating building that has played a key role in the town’s history, with exhibits detailing the fascinating stories of the medieval town and the famous Williamite War.

Going Off The Beaten Path: Must-Do Activities

If you’re looking for a unique Banbridge experience, head to the locally-owned Bleary Outdoor Centre for watersports, rock climbing, and caving, all great ways to experience the local nature and terrain. You can also visit Banbridge Skate and BMX Park, a recently upgraded parklet designed, and built by locals, that caters to skaters, BMX enthusiasts, and scooter riders of all ages and skill levels.

In conclusion, Banbridge is a city that is often overlooked by tourists, but it has so much to offer its visitors. From the hidden gems, stunning natural scenery to delicious local cuisine, there is something for everyone. So, it’s time to pack your bags and discover the unique side of Banbridge for yourself, and hopefully, steal some local secrets you can enjoy for the rest of your life.