By Joe McCann
GROOMSPORT has been crowned Ireland’s Best Kept Small Town, beating off competition from across the island in a major recognition of the North Down community’s pride and volunteer spirit.
The town claimed the 2026 title ahead of fellow finalists Donaghadee, Adare in Co. Limerick and Rosslare Strand in Co. Wexford.
The winners were announced at a ceremony in Riddel Hall, Belfast, attended by Ireland’s Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD and Ards and North Down deputy Mayor, James Cochrane.
Mr Calleary congratulated Groomsport and all the communities that took part, praising the town’s appearance, community pride, environmental stewardship and efforts to maintain a welcoming place for residents and visitors.
Mr Cochrane said the award was recognition for the many volunteers who work throughout the year to maintain and improve Groomsport.
He said: “It’s fantastic to see the hard work and dedication of the many volunteers who spend countless hours helping to keep Groomsport looking so well receive the recognition they deserve. Congratulations also to Donaghadee on being named finalists in the same category.
“The commitment and effort of those who work tirelessly to enhance and maintain the area should be equally celebrated. We are absolutely delighted to see both Donaghadee and Groomsport recognised at these prestigious awards.
“You make us all incredibly proud and showcase the very best of our community spirit,” he added.
The Ireland’s Best Kept Town Competition is an all-island initiative bringing together leading communities from the SuperValu TidyTowns competition and Northern Ireland’s Best Kept Awards.
Towns are judged on criteria including cleanliness, public spaces, buildings, roads, facilities and the quality of the local environment.
Minister Calleary also praised the dedication of volunteers and local communities, describing the competition as a celebration of the community spirit and pride found across towns and villages throughout Ireland.
Now in its 31st year, the competition promotes excellence in towns and villages through community-led environmental improvement and enhancement projects.
Volunteers have said the win will provide a major accolade for the community and all those who helped achieve Ireland’s Best Kept Small Town.
