By Surging Sea and Quiet Lough, Exploring the Maritime Heritage of Ards and North Down

Our 115 mile coastline is one of the longest in Northern Ireland, with Belfast Lough to the north, the Irish Sea to the east, and Strangford Lough with its many islands forming the internal coastline of the Ards Peninsula. It has been inhabited for at least 7,000 years and even today a  significant proportion of the Borough’s population live in 17 coastal settlements. The coast as a resource allowed industries such as fishing, trading, and boat-building to flourish as well leisure sailing and even smuggling; the aim of this conference is to highlight these activities and showcase the valuable work carried out by local researchers and heritage interest groups.

The Ards and North Down Heritage Cluster, which has prompted this Conference, is an informal gathering of heritage interest groups across the Borough, set up in June 2022. The Cluster meets quarterly to discuss heritage issues and potential partnership projects; and to network and share research ideas and identify training needs.

Anyone with an interest in the Borough’s rich maritime heritage is welcome. Places are limited so early booking is advisable. The cost of £10 includes refreshments.