Renowned for one of Ireland's largest and Blue Flag Award-winning marinas, Bangor is also home to Pickie Family Fun Park and an abundance of seafront hotels and B&Bs - the delightful Cairn Bay Lodge is one of our favourites.

The town's North Down Museum features the history of the town, the life of Irish songwriter Percy French and a programme of events and exhibitions. And the Aurora Aquatic and Leisure Complex contains NI's only 50m swimming pool and a second family-friendly pool with flumes, slides, wave machine and other fun water features. In the summer, the seafront McKee Clock and Sunken Gardens provide an al fresco venue for a funfair, street theatre and events including the maritime-inspired Sea Bangor.

Holywood is one of NI's prettiest towns and home to Ireland's only Maypole. It is also the proud birthplace of golfer Rory McIlroy who crafted his game at Holywood Golf Club. Treat yourself to a tootle around the town's cutsie shops, deli cafes and some fine pubs and restaurants. And head to Seapark to enjoy the beach scenes or begin the stunning coastal path walk to Bangor. The drive over the Craigantlet Hills, with Belfast Lough stretching before you, has to be one of NI's most magnificent views. And an overnight at Rayanne House completes your upmarket Hollywood experience.

The small village of Groomsport is equally charming with its seaside setting and Cockle Row thatched fishermen's houses. The cottages are home to a summer Visitor Information Centre with craft demonstrations and seasonal events.