Search Hotels Near Exploris Aquarium, Portaferry

Top reasons to visit Exploris Aquarium

• Interactive Marine Exhibits: Explore vibrant marine life, including colourful fish and fascinating underwater ecosystems in a friendly environment.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy dedicated play areas for children and educational experiences tailored for school groups.
• Proximity to Local Attractions: Discover nearby castles, serene lakes, and historic houses, perfect for outdoor adventures.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, catering to all traveller needs.
• Welcoming Community: Experience the charm of Portaferry with its friendly locals, enhancing your relaxing getaway.

Find great hotels near Exploris Aquarium

Discover a delightful selection of accommodation options near Exploris Aquarium, ideal for families, adventurers, and business travellers alike. From charming bed and breakfasts to comfortable hotels, you'll find facilities that cater to your needs, including touch pools and sanctuary pools. Whether you prefer a cosy cabin stay or a more luxurious hotel experience, the area offers a perfect base for exploring the wonders of Portaferry and beyond.

• Slieve Donard: Nestled along the stunning coastline, Slieve Donard is a luxurious 4-star hotel that promises a rejuvenating beach getaway. Located 11.2km from Exploris Aquarium, this property is perfect for those seeking a spa-themed retreat. Guests can enjoy direct access to the beach and indulge in a variety of spa services, including massages, body treatments, and a sauna. The hotel features an exquisite pool area, complete with a hot tub, ensuring relaxation is at the forefront of your stay.
• Stormont Hotel: Ideally situated in the heart of the city, Stormont Hotel offers a sophisticated environment tailored for business travellers. Just 11.8km from Exploris Aquarium, this 4-star accommodation boasts a range of facilities including a conference centre, business centre, and meeting rooms, making it an excellent choice for corporate stays. The hotel’s contemporary design and convenient city centre location ensure that guests have all the amenities needed for a productive visit, while still being close to local attractions.
• La Mon Hotel And Country Club: A family-friendly haven located 9.9km from Exploris Aquarium, La Mon Hotel And Country Club is a 4-star retreat that combines relaxation with recreation. This property is perfect for families seeking a spa-themed experience, offering amenities specifically designed for children, including a children's pool. Guests can unwind with a variety of spa treatments, enjoy the steam room, and take advantage of the hot tub, while ensuring the little ones are entertained and well-catered for during their stay.

Where to stay near Exploris Aquarium

Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry offers an enchanting experience for visitors, showcasing vibrant marine life and colourful fish in a friendly environment. This hidden gem invites families and culture enthusiasts alike to explore its fascinating exhibits. Nearby, you can enjoy the charm of the town and its welcoming locals, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Whether you're seeking luxury or a family-friendly atmosphere, the region surrounding Exploris is sure to captivate and delight every traveller.

• Portaferry: Nestled a mere 62m from the Exploris Aquarium, Portaferry is a picturesque coastal town that offers a delightful mix of adventure and scenic beauty. With its charming harbour and stunning views of the Strangford Lough, it's an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The town's recreational areas and golf courses attract visitors year-round, though the peak seasons are in April and during the summer months. Notable local attractions include the nearby national park and a beautiful beach, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration.
• Strangford: Located just 1.2km from the aquarium, Strangford is a quaint village renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities. Visitors flock here for its serene parks and engaging recreational facilities, particularly popular during the spring and summer. The village is surrounded by natural beauty, with easy access to the national park and a picturesque beach, making it a perfect destination for those seeking adventure and tranquillity. Strangford's charm lies in its close-knit community and stunning vistas of the lough, promising a memorable experience.
• Downpatrick: Situated 2.5km from Exploris Aquarium, Downpatrick is a historic city steeped in heritage and natural splendour. Known for its outdoor activities and scenic surroundings, it attracts visitors throughout the year, especially during the warmer months. Downpatrick features excellent golf courses and recreational areas, alongside significant landmarks such as the ancient castle and expansive parks. The nearby national park offers additional opportunities for exploration, making it a fantastic base for those eager to dive into Northern Ireland's rich history and beautiful landscapes.

Things to do near Exploris Aquarium

At Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry, visitors can enjoy a range of activities including free experiences, exciting school tours, and a dedicated play area for children. For those seeking new adventures, the aquarium is surrounded by opportunities for horseracing and golf, making it a versatile destination for families and tourists alike. Explore the wonders of marine life while indulging in the local attractions.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spot is Portaferry Country Market, a vibrant public market just 62m from Exploris Aquarium, offering local crafts and produce. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting Victoria Square Shopping Centre and St. George's Market, both 13.0km away, featuring a variety of shops and eateries.

Recreation

Explore Delamont Country Park for tranquil walks and picnics amidst nature’s beauty, only 3.1km from Exploris Aquarium. For sport enthusiasts, Downpatrick Golf Club, 4.3km away, offers a lovely golfing experience. For a bit of fun, the Dundonald International Ice Bowl, 11.2km away, provides ice skating adventures.

Adventure

At Exploris Aquarium, embark on an adventure at Mourne Archery Centre, located 10.6km away, where you can hone your archery skills. Alternatively, experience the thrill of karting at Eddie Irvine Sports, 11.8km away, or enjoy water sports with Jetpack Adventures, 12.4km away, for an exhilarating day out.

Nightlife

After visiting Exploris Aquarium, enjoy the family-friendly vibes at Clearsky Adventure Centre, just 1.6km away, or catch a film at Newcastle Community Cinema, 11.8km distant, perfect for a romantic evening. For more excitement, head to Battlefield CQB, 11.2km away, for thrilling arcade adventures.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Exploris Aquarium

To save money during your visit to Exploris Aquarium, consider travelling between December and February when accommodation prices are lower. Booking a hotel about a month in advance or checking last-minute deals on Expedia can also yield savings. Aim to stay on a Monday, the cheapest day, avoiding Saturday when prices peak. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter options by budget and look for package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Additionally, keep an eye out for ticket deals and discount codes for the aquarium itself.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Exploris Aquarium are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Exploris Aquarium is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Exploris Aquarium is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Exploris Aquarium is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Make use of Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To uncover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking for Exploris Aquarium with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Exploris Aquarium

Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry offers a delightful mix of attractions, including nearby castles, serene lakes, and historic houses, perfect for outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the fascinating underwater world at the aquarium, while also enjoying romantic spots in the area. Be sure to check for ticket availability and read reviews to enhance your visit to this enchanting destination.

• Castle Ward: A stunning 18th-century mansion set within a sprawling estate, Castle Ward is renowned for its picturesque architecture and beautiful gardens. Enjoy a romantic stroll through the grounds and immerse yourself in the rich history that inspired scenes from Game of Thrones.
• Portaferry Castle: This historic ruin offers a glimpse into the past, standing proudly on the banks of Strangford Lough. Explore the remnants of this medieval structure and appreciate the cultural significance it holds for the local area.
• Kearney Beach: A tranquil spot to unwind, Kearney Beach boasts golden sands and stunning coastal views. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore or simply relax and soak up the beach vibes amidst the natural beauty.

Best time to go to Exploris Aquarium

The best time to visit Exploris Aquarium can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Exploris Aquarium falls in August and August. August has average visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather. The coolest average temperature around Exploris Aquarium falls in January, January, February and February. February has slightly high visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
January	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
February	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
March	44.2°F (6.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	44.2°F (6.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
April	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
May	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly High
June	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly High
July	58.5°F (14.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	58.5°F (14.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
August	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
August	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
September	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
September	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
October	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
December	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Exploris Aquarium

If you're planning to visit Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry, you have a couple of major airports to consider. George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD) is situated 13.0km away, with excellent nearby hotels like The Fitzwilliam Hotel and The Merchant Hotel, both rated 5 stars and conveniently located 3 and 1.2km from the airport, respectively. Alternatively, Belfast International Airport (BFS) is located 20.5km from the aquarium, with quality accommodation options such as Doubletree by Hilton Belfast Templepatrick and Dunadry Hotel and Gardens, both 4-star hotels within 6 and 2.5km of BFS. These hotels provide easy access to their respective airports, making your journey smooth and enjoyable.