Ards Arts Centre

Ards Arts Centre is run by the arts service of Ards and North Down Borough Council and occupies the restored Georgian Town Hall in the centre of Newtownards. Two galleries show changing exhibitions by local, national and international artists, so there is usually something new to look at on each visit. The building also hosts live music, dance and drama, and an annual programme of festivals, including a puppet festival that suits younger children. Alongside the galleries, the centre runs creative art and craft classes and one-day workshops, with a children's art class strand for young people as well as adult courses. The ground and first floors are accessible by lift, and the building is a calm, indoor option for a rainy afternoon in town. Families are best to check the opening pattern before travelling, as the centre keeps shorter weekday and Saturday hours and closes on Sundays and Mondays.