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Helen's Tower. 19th-century folly and lookout tower in Bangor, County Down, Northern Ireland 24.04.2021

Last updated: 15 November, 2022

Built in 1848, this enchanting 3-storey stone tower rich in local legend, sleeps just 2.

Stone walls, spiral staircases, panelled ceilings and single-floor octagonal rooms combine to create a homely, castle-esque atmosphere.

Stand on the parapet for spectacular views of the surrounding rolling hills, home to some excellent walks.

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Key facilities

Airport transfers: Not available
Beach: None
Creche
Fitness centre
Fitness classes
Golf course
Hot tub
Parking: On-site (free)
Pool (adults only)
Pool (indoor)
Pool (outdoor)
Pool (kids)
Spa
Tennis courts
WiFi: Free
Yoga

Food & drink

All inclusive
Kids menu
Restaurant on-site
Self catering
*
Additional charge

Room types

Apartments
Bedrooms
Cabins
Suites
Tents
Villas
Yurts

Room facilities

Air conditioning
Flat screen TV
Jacuzzi (private)
Pool (private)
Tea & coffee making facilities
WiFi

Bedding options

2+ bedrooms
3+ beds
Connecting rooms
Rollaway/sofa bed

Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Titanic Belfast

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[13.9 miles]

Standing where the Titanic was built, this moving, interactive exhibition tells the story of the giant cruiser’s construction and sinking.

Best for ages: 4+ | £20

Belfast’s Street Art

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[15.1 miles]

Discover Belfast’s vibrant and fascinating street art, and the stories behind them, on tours led by local artists.

Best for ages: 8+ | £15 | 1 hour

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Crumlin Road Gaol

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[16 miles]

Belfast’s imposing former prison offers a haunting peek into the city’s tumultuous history, from famous inmates to infamous riots.   

Best for ages: 13+ | £12

Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first

St George’s Market

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[14.9 miles]

This historic Victorian market is filled with local crafts, the best Belfast produce and a jostling gaggle of local food-lovers.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

Duke of York Pub
Experience

Duke of York Pub

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[15.1 miles]

One of the oldest pubs in Belfast, the Duke of York is a traditional boozer found down a cobbled alleyway, with well-worn seats, antique memorabilia and an old printing press in the corner. On sunny days, people take their drinks out to the flower-lined courtyard.

Best for ages: 18+ | Free

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Overview >
External view of the cathedral during the daytime
Experience

Belfast Cathedral

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[15.2 miles]

This Romanesque cathedral is one of the city’s finest architectural feats – take a tour to admire the stained glass, and the 40-foot glass spire, named the ‘Spire of Hope’.

Best for ages: 18+ | £5

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Overview >
Side view of the city hall during the day
Experience

Belfast City Hall

Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)[15.4 miles]

Take a free tour of Belfast’s baroque City Hall, dating back to 1906, with impressive interiors to match the elegant, Edwardian frontage.

Best for ages: 18+ | Free

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Overview >

Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay

Belfast

Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK)

Northern Ireland’s capital makes for a surprisingly arty city break, with convivial and cosy pubs, elegant architecture and cutting-edge cuisine.

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Round-ups that include this placetostay

30 Great castles you can stay in

Multiple countries

From hilltop-smothering fortifications to simple one-room towers, here’s our round-up of the best ‘real castles’ for a unique heritage stay, and an authentic experience of life from a bygone era.

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