The Comber Town Trail offers a captivating journey through the historical and cultural heart of Comber, a town in County Down, Northern Ireland. This 1.5-mile circular route, navigable in about an hour, reveals the architectural heritage and stories that define the town. Starting and ending at grid reference J458694, the trail weaves through streetscapes and landmarks that trace Comber's evolution from a 17th-century port to an industrial hub known for its linen mills. While accessible for most walkers, one steep hill highlights the town's topography, and signage ensures navigation is straightforward. The downloadable Comber Walking Guide enhances the experience with context about each stop, making it ideal for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Comber's significance lies in its layered history and natural setting. The name An Comar derives from the Irish for "confluence", reflecting its position where the Glen and Enler Rivers meet. By the 18th century, the town thrived as a center for linen production, driven by families like the Andrews, whose legacy is etched into the trail. Thomas Andrews, the Titanic's chief designer, was born here, and his connection to the ship is commemorated at the Non-Subscribing Presbyterian Church and the Andrews Memorial Hall. The trail also passes St Mary's Parish Church, housing the 15th-century Comber Stones-carved remnants of a Cistercian abbey-and the striking Gillespie Memorial, a 55-foot tribute to Major General Rollo Gillespie, erected in 1845. These landmarks, alongside the restored Andrews Spinning Mill, underscore Comber's blend of medieval roots and industrial ambition.
Walking the trail feels like stepping into Comber's past and present. Visitors can admire Georgian architecture at the eponymous Georgian House, stroll through the bustling town square with its Titanic memorial, and pause at the Farmers' Market on the first Thursday of every month for local produce, including the celebrated Comber Earlies potatoes-protected by the EU's PGI designation since 2012. The trail's proximity to the Comber Greenway, a tranquil 7-mile cycling route along a former railway, and Castle Espie Wetland Centre, a haven for migratory birds, adds outdoor appeal. Spring and summer offer optimal conditions to explore the trails, enjoy the annual Comber Earlies Food Festival, and witness the vibrant markets. Yet even in quieter seasons, the town's unassuming charm and the echoes of its maritime, industrial, and Titanic-linked history make it a compelling destination. From the whispers of the past in its ancient stones to the lively pulse of its community, Comber invites visitors to uncover its stories at every turn.
Getting There
By Air
The nearest airports are Newtownards Airport (5 km/3.1 miles) and George Best Belfast City Airport (12 km/7.5 miles). Belfast International Airport is further away (35 km/22 miles from Holywood, the gateway to the area), but still accessible by car. From Belfast City Airport, Comber is a 20-30 minute drive, while Belfast International adds around 45 minutes to the journey. Flights from London and Amsterdam take roughly 90 minutes, placing Comber within easy reach of international travelers.
By Train
Comber railway station closed in 1950, so train travel isn't an option. However, the old railway line has been repurposed as the Comber Greenway, a 7-mile (11 km) traffic-free cycle and walking route linking Belfast to Comber. This scenic route is ideal for exploring on two wheels or foot.
By Bus
Buses connect Comber to Belfast and Newtownards frequently. Services are operated by Translink; check timetables or plan your journey online at www.translink.co.uk or by calling +44 (0)28 90 66 66 30. The journey from Belfast takes about 30 minutes, while Newtownards is a quick 10-minute ride.
By Car
Comber is easily accessible by road:
- From Belfast: Take the A2 towards Newtownards for 13.9 km (8.6 miles); the drive takes ~30 minutes.
- From Bangor: Follow the A26 toward Dundonald, then the A2 to Comber-approximately 13.6 km (8.5 miles) in 20-25 minutes.
- From Newtownards: Head south on the A2 for 6.3 km (3.9 miles), a 10-minute drive.
The Comber Bypass (Phase Two) improves traffic flow, especially from Newtownards, via the dual carriageway and Killinchy Street roundabout.
By Bike or Foot
The Comber Greenway is a highlight for cyclists and walkers. Starting at Dee Street in East Belfast, this flat, traffic-free path follows the old railway line and passes landmarks like the CS Lewis Statue and Bloomfield Walkway. The route takes ~1-1.5 hours to complete, depending on pace. Parking at Comber Leisure Centre (mentioned in sources) is available for those driving to the trailhead.
Parking
Visitors to Comber Town Trail are advised to park at the nearby Comber Leisure Centre, the most convenient and accessible option. Parking here is free of charge and offers ample space for cars, with designated disabled parking spots available. The trail's starting point is just a short walk from the leisure centre, making it an ideal base to begin your exploration.
While there are no dedicated parking fees, note that the leisure centre operates from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, though parking access hours may vary. Street parking in the town centre is another option, though spaces can fill quickly during peak seasons or weekends. For busy periods, arrive early or seek alternative spots in the town's central area.
The leisure centre's parking is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible, ensuring easy access to the trail's entrance. With its free parking and proximity to the start of the walk, the Comber Leisure Centre remains the recommended choice for visitors.
Comber Town Trail Promo Code & Special Offers
Comber Town Trail is free to access with no entrance fees. Nearby cafes and shops may occasionally offer promotions, but no specific discounts or promo codes are available for the trail itself. Contact the Comber Tourism Office for local deals.
Nearby Attractions
Comber Earlies Food Festival
The Comber Earlies Food Festival is a vibrant celebration of Northern Ireland's culinary heritage, centered around the world-renowned Comber Earlies potato, a variety granted Protected Geographical In...
Distance: 0.3 km
Castle Espie Wetland Centre
Found on the shores of Strangford Lough, Castle Espie Wetland Centre is a haven for wildlife and a great place to learn about Ireland's wetlands. Run by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT) since 199...
Distance: 0.6 km
Colin Glen Forest Park
Colin Glen Forest Park, covering 200 acres on the edge of Belfast, is known as Ireland's top adventure park, mixing beautiful natural surroundings with exciting activities. It's a place with two sides...
Distance: 13.5 km