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The seaside town lies on the eastern coast of Northern Ireland. Beannchar was the original Irish name for the location, which roughly translated means horned curve. Many believe the name refers to the shape of the bay, which resembles the horns of a bull.
The Bronze Age peoples developed the first settlement here. St. Corngall constructed the first monastery in Bangor around 555 AD. Corngall was a soldier who believed he received a divine calling to enter the monastery. He presided over a strict order that required a minimum of seven hours of prayer a day. He later developed a centre for higher learning.
Corngall not only trained monks for local service, but many went on to become missionaries, establishing monasteries in other countries. His disciples travelled to France, Germany and Switzerland. Upon his death, 3,000 monks provided testimony-expressing gratitude for his guidance. The Vikings landed in Bangor Bay and rampaged the monastery in the 8th and 9th centuries. The monastery repaired the damages and continued on their mission.
The modern community of Bangor began in 1605, when a Scot named James Hamilton acquired land from James I. Besides helping establish the town, Hamilton constructed a port in 1620 and a Custom House in 1637. Bangor soon became the second busiest port in the country. Colonel Robert Ward acquired the land in the latter 1700s. He improved the port and introduced the cotton industry. He developed cotton plantations and constructed cotton mills, powered by the force of the local waters. The political and religious upheaval experienced by the rest of the country did not have a damaging effect on Bangor.
The cotton industry began declining, but the introduction of the rail service gave birth to the tourist industry. Inexpensive railway travel allowed many to venture to Bangor on holiday and the community soon emerged as a popular resort town.
Activities and Attractions
The original site of the Bangor monastery now houses the Elizabethan/Jacobean mansion known as Bangor Castle. The structure belongs to the borough council. Visitors find the North Down Museum on the first floor of the castle. Exhibits include archaeology, marina history and the Vikings. Displays also explain Bangor history from the pre-Christian era to the infamous Plantation. The castle park has nature trails and paths for cycling and walking along tree lined avenues and formal gardens.
Venture down to the scenic marina, the second largest in Ireland. Walkways traverse around the harbour, enabling great views from all angles. Visitors see all types of vessels here, from small powerboats to grand tall ships. The harbour lights at night provide quite a picturesque display. Guests have the option of taking cruises along the coast or boarding charter boats for deep sea fishing adventures.
Along the shores of the marina lies the Pickie Fun Park. The location features a themed play area for younger guests and the chance to ride a narrow gauge train. A specially designed lagoon offers the opportunity for visitors of all ages to paddle a swan in the shallow waters. The park also features a café for refreshments.
Around the corner from the marina lies the Ballyholme Beach. Lie in the sun or take a leisurely walk in the sand along the coast. Popular water sports here include canoeing and kayaking, along with windsurfing.
Stroll down to the Bangor Abbey. Constructed in the 1300s, most of the original building fell to ruin, but the tower, with its octagonal spire, remains. Inside the church, guests see a large collection of carved medieval stones and elaborate memorials. For the shopaholic, Bangor features a mall and a number of shopping centres. Visitors find everything from brand name stores to unusual boutique shops.
Places to Stay and Dining
Waterfront hotels provide guests with the option of choosing a room with a fantastic view of the bay. Families also may reserve adjoining rooms or indulge in a full sized suite. Some facilities having fitness centres offering special work out classes.
The Teddy’s Bar and Restaurant offers an appealing array of seafood dishes. Enjoy a large bowl of freshly made seafood chowder with a salad and homemade bread. Try fried hake, served with pea risotto and crispy leeks.
Accommodation in Bangor
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