Sorry another where to live post!

[WeeWeegieChick]

I posted yesterday but didn't include much info that would let anyone commenting give advice so I've deleted my first post.

I'm looking for suggestions on places to live with my kids who are 12 and 16. It's a long term move for us and we're hoping to have lots to do and public transport is a must as DD has disabilities so won't be driving when she's older.

Need to be able to access Portrush for surfing but that's about it as my work is accessible from home.

So far I've looked at Bangor and Coleraine but I'm getting such mixed reviews about both.

Bangor without a doubt.

You honestly couldn’t pay me to live in Coleraine (or anywhere on the north coast to be perfectly honest). It’s along the NI bible belt and is therefore quite an insular place - not very open minded and religion still plays a heavy influence. Hardly anything to do unless it’s summer (even then if water sports/beach trips aren’t your thing you will be very bored!). The Lough Neagh algae situation is worsening each year to the point that beaches often have to close for pets and swimmers during periods of warm weather as the water quality gets so dangerous. Public transport is practically non existent. Gorgeous scenery but that’s where the pros end for me to be honest.

Bangor has some lovely areas - Ballyholme and Bangor West are beautiful. Brompton Bay in particular is absolutely stunning. Good public transport links via frequent buses and trains to Belfast and neighbouring towns like Newtownards. Cinemas, go karting, mini golf etc for DC plus you’re only 30 mins outside of Belfast if they want go in to the city. Some lovely restaurants and cafes (The Bearded Goat & Jamaica Inn aren’t to be missed!). My only worry would be schools - Bangor doesn’t have a huge range and all are oversubscribed. It’s likely that you’d have to look further afield to Holywood, Ards or Belfast for the DC.

Thank you so much for this!! So helpful

Between Bangor and Coleraine, Bangor without a doubt.
It's an easy route to Belfast as well as the rest of the Ards Peninsula. I live in Greater Belfast but we love Greyabbey for sunny days.
Good shopping, a nice town, good nightlife if you would ever want.
As PP said schools might be more of an issue but you have a lot of places very accessible to Bangor as long as you're willing to travel a little bit.