Rent a Car in Downtown Newtownards

Newtownards town center is located at the northern tip of Strangford Lough in County Down, Northern Ireland, 16 km east of Belfast. With three rental companies in the town center, you have good options for exploring the Ards Peninsula and the spectacular Strangford Lough coast. Mount Stewart House & Gardens, one of Northern Ireland's finest National Trust estates, is just 8 km south.

Newtownards is home to Ards Shopping Centre and the historic Conway Square market place. Scrabo Tower on Scrabo Hill dominates the town skyline and offers panoramic views over Strangford Lough – just 2 km south. Portaferry at Strangford Lough ferry is reached in 35 minutes south along the eastern coast of the Ards Peninsula.

Drive along the eastern coast of the Ards Peninsula via A20 for a beautiful scenic route with views over the Irish Sea. Visit Castle Espie Wetland Centre on Strangford Lough, 5 km south, for a nature experience. Take the ferry from Portaferry to Strangford to cross Strangford Lough and explore the Lecale Peninsula.

How many car rental companies are in Newtownards town center? There are three rental companies in the town center, providing good competition and variety. How far is it from Newtownards to Belfast?

Approximately 16 km west via A20, which takes 20–25 minutes. Can I visit Giants Causeway from Newtownards on a day trip? Yes, Giants Causeway is about 110 km north via A2 along the coast, approximately 2 hours – a completely feasible day trip.

We compare prices from all major providers at Newtownards Center so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.