Smelt Mill Bay is a small pebble cove on the North Down coast at Bangor in County Down, where the stream from the wooded Stricklands Glen runs down to the sea. It sits on the North Down coastal path between Bangor and Crawfordsburn, a scenic stop on the walk, backed by the trees of the glen. The bay...
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Parking nearby
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Food Spots nearby
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Staycations nearby
Parking:
Food:
Staycations:
2 day, 2 overnight
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FAQ's/Things to Know
Where is Smelt Mill Bay?
County Down's coastline hosts this secluded stony inlet near Bangor. Walkers on the North Down Coastal Path frequently stumble upon the area.
What type of place is Smelt Mill Bay?
Smelt Mill Bay is a beach on the rugged Down shoreline in Northern Ireland.
When is the best time to visit Smelt Mill Bay?
Year-round access means you can enjoy the coastal air in any season. High tide periods offer the absolute best conditions for launching your craft into deeper water.
What can you do at Smelt Mill Bay?
People love to head out into the water for sea swimming or paddle boarding. Exploring the old shale shelves and watching local wildlife also makes for a grand afternoon.
How long should I spend at Smelt Mill Bay?
An hour or two provides plenty of time to enjoy a quiet swim and stroll along the pebbles. Packing a bag for a longer walk along the coastal track expands the trip nicely.
Where do I park at Smelt Mill Bay?
Four spaces are available for vehicles nearby, consisting of two day and two overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.
Where can I eat near Smelt Mill Bay?
There are no food spots recorded immediately near Smelt Mill Bay, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.
Where can I stay near Smelt Mill Bay?
There are no staycation spots recorded immediately near Smelt Mill Bay, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.
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Last Updated:
02 July 2026
