Dundonald Old Mill Coffee House & Gift Shop

Heading east out of Belfast, past Stormont and before Newtownards, you'll see a sign for this unique cafe and gift shop. What makes it so special is the large wooden water wheel which, at 32ft in diameter, is said to be one of Ireland's largest, and certainly the largest in NI. Originally built in 1752, the Old Mill once powered a linen bleaching mill before conversion in 1850 to a corn mill powered by the wheel you see today. After closure in 1920, the mill fell into decline but was restored to its former glory in 1987. Today's wheel turns with electricity but still makes a magnificent first impression before you head into the cute gift shop and equally cottage-like two-storey cafe - the downstairs area of which is very dog friendly. Grab a home-cooked lunch or coffee and scone before purchasing a posh pressie or two and heading onwards for a daytrip down the picturesque Ards Peninsula... nothing could be quainter.