Comber: Strangford’s Gateway and Rural Charms
Comber, a historic market town nestled in County Down, Northern Ireland, offers a delightful blend of rural charm, fascinating local history, and convenient access to some of the region’s most captivating natural beauty. For motorbike tourists, it’s a perfect gateway to the stunning Strangford Lough area, promising scenic rides and a welcoming atmosphere.
The town itself boasts a rich heritage, perhaps most notably as the birthplace of Thomas Andrews, the chief designer of the Titanic. You can find a memorial to him in the pretty town square. The square also features the impressive Rollo Gillespie Monument, commemorating a local hero. For a leisurely stroll, the Comber Town Trail guides you through historical buildings and streetscapes. While the Comber Greenway is primarily a cycling and walking path, its presence highlights the town’s connection to scenic routes and provides glimpses of the surrounding countryside as it follows an old railway line towards Belfast.
Comber’s real appeal for motorcyclists often lies in its strategic position for exploring the larger region. Just a short, picturesque ride away lies Strangford Lough, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the largest sea lough in the British Isles. The roads around the lough offer fantastic coastal cruising, with views of countless drumlin islands, ancient monastic sites like Nendrum Monastery on Mahee Island (accessible via causeways), and abundant wildlife, especially diverse bird species at places like the WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre.
When it comes to dining, Comber provides a range of welcoming options. McBride’s on The Square is a popular local pub and restaurant known for its friendly atmosphere and quality food. North Down House is another well-regarded establishment, offering both a pub and a bistro. You’ll also find charming cafes within the town, perfect for a coffee and a scone. Comber offers a comfortable and engaging stop, combining local history with easy access to some of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful and enjoyable riding country, making it a valuable addition to your motorbike adventure.
Comber: Strangford’s Gateway and Rural Charms
Comber, a historic market town nestled in County Down, Northern Ireland, offers a delightful blend of rural charm, fascinating local history, and convenient access to some of the region’s most captivating natural beauty. For motorbike tourists, it’s a perfect gateway to the stunning Strangford Lough area, promising scenic rides and a welcoming atmosphere.
The town itself boasts a rich heritage, perhaps most notably as the birthplace of Thomas Andrews, the chief designer of the Titanic. You can find a memorial to him in the pretty town square. The square also features the impressive Rollo Gillespie Monument, commemorating a local hero. For a leisurely stroll, the Comber Town Trail guides you through historical buildings and streetscapes. While the Comber Greenway is primarily a cycling and walking path, its presence highlights the town’s connection to scenic routes and provides glimpses of the surrounding countryside as it follows an old railway line towards Belfast.
Comber’s real appeal for motorcyclists often lies in its strategic position for exploring the larger region. Just a short, picturesque ride away lies Strangford Lough, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the largest sea lough in the British Isles. The roads around the lough offer fantastic coastal cruising, with views of countless drumlin islands, ancient monastic sites like Nendrum Monastery on Mahee Island (accessible via causeways), and abundant wildlife, especially diverse bird species at places like the WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre.
When it comes to dining, Comber provides a range of welcoming options. McBride’s on The Square is a popular local pub and restaurant known for its friendly atmosphere and quality food. North Down House is another well-regarded establishment, offering both a pub and a bistro. You’ll also find charming cafes within the town, perfect for a coffee and a scone. Comber offers a comfortable and engaging stop, combining local history with easy access to some of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful and enjoyable riding country, making it a valuable addition to your motorbike adventure.