Overview
Pickie Fun Park sits on the edge of Bangor Marina in County Down, offering a colourful seaside playground that has become one of Northern Ireland’s most‑visited family attractions. The park is built around the historic Marine Gardens, a promenade that stretches along Belfast Lough, and it blends classic amusement‑park rides with modern interactive play areas. With free entry to the adventure playground and splash pads, the site invites families to linger for hours, while individual attractions are ticketed on a pay‑as‑you‑go basis.
Background
The park carries a Four‑Star Quality Assurance rating, signalling a high standard of safety, cleanliness and visitor experience. Its visual identity is anchored by bright Victorian‑style beach huts that house changing facilities and echo the seaside charm of a bygone era. Although the exact date of opening is not listed, the park’s continual investment in new rides – such as electric cars for children and a nautical‑themed 18‑hole mini‑golf course – shows a commitment to keeping the experience fresh for repeat visitors.
What to See & Do
- Pickie Puffer Steam Train – A narrow‑gauge miniature railway that circles the park, offering a gentle ride for all ages.
- Giant Pedal Swans – Iconic swan‑shaped pedal boats that glide across a shallow lagoon, providing a whimsical way to view the marina.
- Splash Pads – Free water play zones that are especially popular in summer; they feature jets, fountains and interactive sprinklers.
- Adventure Playground – A large, free‑access play area with climbing frames, slides and rope structures designed for younger children.
- Children’s Electric Cars – Small electric vehicles that let kids cruise around a safe, paved circuit.
- Pickie Golf – An 18‑hole, nautical‑themed miniature golf course with quirky obstacles and sea‑view backdrops.
- Beach Huts – Brightly painted Victorian huts that double as changing rooms and provide a nostalgic photo backdrop.
- Pickie Café – A glass‑enclosed café overlooking Bangor Marina, serving a family‑friendly menu of sandwiches, salads, ice‑cream and hot drinks. The large windows frame panoramic views of Belfast Lough and the hills of Antrim.
- Candy Shack – A kiosk offering sweets, ice‑cream and refreshing drinks for a quick treat between rides.
Practical Information
Pickie Fun Park is open every day of the year; opening times vary seasonally, so visitors should check the official website for the latest schedule. Admission to the park itself is free, but most attractions require a ticket purchased either online via the ticket page or at the on‑site kiosk.
Ticket Options
| Ticket Type | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Unlimited Pass | £15 | All‑day wristband granting unlimited rides (excludes Hook a Duck and Aqua Blaster). Available on weekends and holidays; height restrictions apply to some attractions. |
| Individual Ride | Varies | Purchase per attraction; see website for current pricing. |
Parking & Transport
A public car park is located on Queen’s Parade, a short walk from the marina and the park entrance. Limited disabled parking spaces are available adjacent to Marine Gardens. The site is easily reachable by bus from Belfast (approximately a 25‑minute journey) and by foot from Bangor town centre.
Getting Here
For visitors arriving by car, the A2 coastal road provides direct access to Queen’s Parade. Regular Ulsterbus services (routes 7 and 7A) run between Belfast and Bangor, stopping within walking distance of the park. Cyclists can follow the Bangor–Newtownards cycle route, which passes close to the entrance.
Accessibility
The park is fully accessible, offering wheelchair‑friendly pathways, accessible toilets and standard changing rooms. Detailed accessibility guidance is provided on the AccessAble page linked above. Wheelchair rental is also available on‑site for visitors who need it.
Facilities
- Toilets – Standard and disabled facilities are located near the beach huts.
- Wi‑Fi – Free public Wi‑Fi throughout the park.
- Café & Snacks – Pickie Café and Candy Shack serve a range of meals and treats.
- Payment – All major credit and debit cards are accepted at ticket kiosks, the café and the gift shop.
Nearby Highlights
While you’re in the area, consider a short stroll to the adjacent Bangor Marina, the historic Bangor Abbey (0.6 mi away) or the scenic Ards and North Down district Coastal Path at Stricklands Glen. All are within a comfortable walking distance and complement a day spent at Pickie Fun Park.
Booking & Contact
Tickets can be booked in advance on the park’s website, which also provides the most up‑to‑date opening hours and any seasonal promotions. For direct enquiries, call +44 (0) 28 9145 0746 or email hello@pickiefunpark.com.
Enjoy a day of laughter, splash‑filled fun and seaside scenery at Pickie Fun Park – the perfect family destination on the north‑eastern coast of Ireland.