Ards Peninsula

The Ards Peninsula (from Irish: nAird Uladh, meaning "peninsula of the Ulstermen") is a peninsula in County Down, Northern Ireland that separates Strangford Lough from the North Channel of the Irish Sea on the north-east coast of Ireland. Several towns and villages are located on it, including Donaghadee, Newtownards and Portaferry. Newtownards is considered to be the largest conurbation, as the larger town of Bangor, which is also geographically located on the north end of the peninsula, is excluded from the Ards district (part of the larger Borough of Ards). The peninsula has a mild marine microclimate, with dry and fertile soils suitable for extensive agriculture.

History

The Ards peninsula was once known as "The Ards", and was conquered by the Normans in the 12th century. The Norman family Savage built a number of local castles and priories.

The peninsula was the site of a number of airfields during World War II, including RAF Ballyhalbert and a satellite airfield, RAF Kirkistown, both now closed. Kirkistown site is currently used as a car and motorcycle racing circuit.