Paddling near Newtownards, Northern Ireland

Newtownards sits at the head of Strangford Lough in County Down, and that vast sea lough is the defining water for paddlers in the area. Strangford Lough's maze of bays, islands and narrow channels suits kayakers and canoeists of varied abilities, and the surrounding coastline — including spots near Donaghadee on the Ards Peninsula — draws SUP and sea kayak sessions alike.