Bangor Independent Methodist Church

The Independent Methodist Church in Bangor is one of those places you stumble past without thinking twice - a red-brick Victorian building tucked into the town centre just a short walk from Newtownards. But if you're interested in Northern Irish religious history or simply appreciate solid 19th-century architecture, it's worth a proper look inside.

The interior is all original woodwork and period features - high ceilings, timber galleries, that particular smell of old hymn books and polish that you don't get anywhere else. Independent Methodism split from the Wesleyan movement back in the 1840s, and this congregation built their church to last. The craftsmanship shows.

It's not a major attraction in the way that, say, Bangor Abbey might be - you're not looking at ruins or centuries of history. This is more for folk with a genuine interest in religious architecture or anyone doing the rounds of Victorian nonconformist churches. A decent walker combining this with a stroll along Bangor's seafront would make a morning of it.

If you're based at Dunroamin Caravan Park over in Millisle, it's a fifteen-minute drive, and frankly worth the journey if churches are your thing. Opening hours can be tricky - best to check locally before making the trip, as many of these buildings only open for services or by arrangement. Free admission typically, but nothing confirmed.

Rather lovely spot if you know what you're looking at.