23/06/2026
๐ช๐๐ฅ๐ ๐ฃ๐๐ฅ๐ - ๐๐๐ก๐๐ข๐ฅโ๐ฆ ๐๐ข๐ฅ๐๐ข๐ง๐ง๐๐ก ๐๐๐ ?
Walking through Ward Park on one of the warmest afternoons of the year so far, it was impossible not to be struck by just how beautiful this Edwardian park really is.
The bowling greens looked immaculate, the flower beds were bursting with colour, the mature trees provided welcome shade and the parkland itself looked every bit as impressive as many of the celebrated public parks found elsewhere across these islands.
Yet, despite the sunshine, there were surprisingly few people about.
Of course, it was a weekday afternoon. Schools were still in session and many people were at work. But it still made me wonder; have we started to overlook one of Bangor's greatest community assets?
Social media is often filled with nostalgic conversations about Bangor's "golden years". People fondly remember the putting green at the McKee Clock, the attractions at Kingsland and many other features that have disappeared over time. Yet what is often forgotten is that Ward Park is home to Bangor's longest surviving putting green, a facility that remains available today but is rarely talked about and even less frequently used.
The reality is that facilities only survive when people use them. If they are neglected, they eventually disappear.
And Ward Park has far more to offer than many people realise.
There are the beautifully maintained bowling greens, a well-equipped children's play park, sensory gardens, aviaries, tennis courts and extensive playing fields where everything from football and softball to boules can be enjoyed. For younger families, it remains one of the Borough's finest free days out.
For many visitors, however, the greatest attraction is simply the park itself.
The expansive duck ponds continue to attract a fascinating variety of wildfowl, while the winding pathways, mature landscaping and open green spaces provide the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll, a picnic or simply a quiet moment away from the bustle of everyday life.
Ward Park has always been one of those places where memories are made. Generations of Bangor families have learned to ride bicycles here, fed the ducks, watched bowling matches, played on the grass or simply enjoyed an ice cream on a sunny afternoon.
As the summer holidays approach, perhaps it is time for Ward Park to return to the forefront of people's minds.
Because while we often talk about what Bangor has lost, sometimes we forget to appreciate what we still have.
And on a day like today, Ward Park reminded us that one of Bangor's finest treasures has been hiding in plain sight all along.
๐ Have you visited Ward Park recently? What are your favourite memories of Bangor's much-loved park? Let us know in the comments below. ๐ณ๐ฆโ๏ธ
