The Commons

Its easy to miss this spot altogether, I only found it by accident when out for a drive, its a quiet park and really good views out to the Irish sea. Watch the speed bumps on the way in and its hard to see anyone driving out. If your in a lowered car, park on the main road and walk in. One of the best costal parks, even on a rough day its a nice place to sit in the car and have a coffee.

Donaghadee Commons is a fantastic place to stroll and enjoy the beautiful coastline and the panoramic views across the Irish Sea. On a clear day and weather permitting it is quite easy to distinguish the Scottish Coast line with its rugged mountain range. The area is well maintained with walking areas suitable for all so that it is accessible for families with prams or for wheelchair users.
Among its amenities is a play park for the young and Tennis courts and bowling club for enthusiasts.
In the summer months it is a popular place for picnicking and all year round it is a pleasant place to take that blow the cobwebs away jaunt!
There is access from the Millisle Road for vehicles with parking space and there are also parking bays and facilities for camper vans, which makes it an ideal place for tourists exploring the North Down Coast. This is a place close to my heart and anyone who has an affinity for the sea with it’s ever changing moods will love a stroll along the commons.

The Commons is anything but common, it is in fact a rarity, to have such public beauty and sports facilities so close to the sea is special.
The Commons is a public park located on the Shore Road between Donaghadee and Millisle. Its facilities include two Astroturf tennis courts and a grass bowling green. These are accompanied by a clubhouse that overlooks the Irish Sea. As mentioned it is unusual to have such facilities on the waters edge. Serving Aces is not easy when the gusts fly in from the ocean. But in the sun the bowling green is packed with eager sports people urging the salt water to preserve their youth and it looks like it is working.
The public park has scenic walkways and is suitable for a morning jog or a long stroll with mans best friend. The beach at the commons is a mix of sand and shale’s, not really and ideal place to lay a beach towel but perfect for an amble.
The Commons is glorious in the summer and equally spectacular when the winter waves thrash against the rocky coast. Beautifully maintained by the local council it really is something to be proud of.