Northern Ireland is full of charming villages, each with its own unique character, history and scenery. Growing up and living there has given me the opportunity to visit many of them, and over the next few posts I would love to share some of my favourites. Whether they are nestled along the coast, surrounded by rolling countryside or steeped in history, these villages all have something special to offer. I thought I would begin with one that’s always worth a visit and that is Crawfordsburn.

Crawfordsburn is proof that you do not need a bustling city to make a lasting impression. Situated between Bangor and Holywood in County Down, this peaceful village combines history, woodland walks and stunning coastline in one picturesque package.

Dating back centuries, Crawfordsburn is home to The Old Inn, a coaching inn that has welcomed travellers since 1614 (one of the oldest Inns in Ireland). Back in the day, it became a popular stopping place for well-known figures, including Jonathan Swift, Charles Dickens and Alfred, Lord Tennyson. Today, The Old Inn is a luxury hotel with a restaurant, the 1614 Bar and a treetop spa, but it still retains much of its historic character. 

Today, many visitors come to the village for Crawfordsburn Country Park, where woodland trails and beautiful beaches offer the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Whether you are stopping for lunch, stretching your legs on a coastal walk or simply soaking up the scenery, Crawfordsburn is one of those places that reminds you just how beautiful Northern Ireland really is, even more so when you have sunshine and blue skies! We were very lucky with the weather.