Ards and North Down district occupies the east coast of Northern Ireland, running from the mouth of Belfast Lough along the North Down coast and down the Ards Peninsula. Principal towns include Bangor, Holywood, Newtownards, Donaghadee and Portaferry. The coastline alternates between harbours, marinas and agricultural shoreline; Bangor Marina and the stone piers at Donaghadee are local landmarks. The district includes the eastern approaches to Strangford Lough, whose tidal flows shape shoreline use and local fisheries. Road and rail links connect the district with Belfast and other regional centres.
At the southern end the Portaferry crossing spans the narrow entrance to Strangford Lough, carrying a short vehicle and passenger service across strong tidal currents. Cultra houses the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, and Newtownards retains a market square and long-established town centre. Aquaculture and shellfish beds are found in sheltered waters of the lough, while small harbours support fishing and leisure craft. Local planning balances coastal access, farming on the Ards Peninsula and conservation around the lough.
