Shops, houses and other indoor areas are closed, and cafés are takeaway only. The coastline around Strangford Lough is dotted with tower-house castles built by noble Norman families. Saint Patrick famously came up the Narrows of Strangford Lough in a storm and landed outside Downpatrick. Please check the property webpage before you travel. Explore the new and improved Nugent's Wood trail and indulge your inner child with a walk through this incredible setting. It continues on to Ballykinlar finishing at Newcastle having passed through Dundrum. Touring Camping & Caravanning site, an ideal base to discover the many walks Down District has to offer. Mesolithic hunter gatherers, St. Patrick, Vikings, and Norman invaders have all left their mark on Strangford Lough. brigid.watson@btinternet.com Join today and help protect nature at the places in our care, for everyone, for ever. Most of these have a choice of shops, pubs, restaurants and public toilets. ... Castle ward on it’s shores is a national trust property with interesting architectural quirks, great walks and home to Winterfell the Starks family home in HBO series Game of Thrones. I offer guided walks in the Ards Peninsula in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and on the Mourne Coastal route. Strangford Lough’s shores are also home to some of the finest country estates, parklands and walking trails in Northern Ireland. Strangford Lough is a unique and wonderful place of immense international importance for nature conservation. To book guided coach tours and longer walking … 07763898074 We ensure our farmland is managed in a way that encourages wildlife. Ballyquintin is one of the best places to spot Irish Hares and flocks of farmland birds such as finches, linnets, tree sparrows and skylark. The safety of our staff, volunteers and visitors from the nearby community remains our priority and we urge you to book your visits in advance and stay local. Turn left along the shores of Strangford Lough, using a path that can be rough in places. A most beautiful landscape of international importance. Strangford Lough is a wonderful national Marine Nature Reserve and the largest sea lough in these islands. His collection went on to found the base for the British Museum. Strangford Lough Activity Centre currently offer two hill walking skills & techniques courses. Follow the A2 along the coast through Donaghadee, Millisle, Ballywalter, Ballyhalbert, Portavogie and Cloughy. Saint Partrick’s Country begins in Downpatrick and follows the Trail to Armagh. Ballyquintin Farm - This grassland walk is situated at the very tip of the Ards Peninsula at the mouth of Strangford Lough. This makes it over 5,000 years old and the oldest boat in Ireland found in a marine setting. The Strangford Lough property has a series of exciting guided walks, talks and boat trips throughout the year, suitable for all the family Access There are a number of lay-bys and car parks around the lough providing good bird watching positions and access to the shore. 40 Whiterock Road Killinchy County Down BT23 6PT. Tours on and around Strangford Lough Two hour walking tours in the Ards Peninsula and gift vouchers can be booked online. The natural environment has a diverse range of species and is home to rare plants and animals. Posted on May 19, 2020 by Rory Martin. The safety of our staff, volunteers, visitors and supporters is our top concern and in accordance with Government guidelines on social distancing, our houses, shops, cafes, gardens and parks are now closed, and from March 24 all of our car parks will close. The Lecale Way is a long distance 93 km walk that can be taken in sections and extends from the heart of Downpatrick, taking in Strangford Lough and finishing in the seaside resort of Newcastle. Government guidelines around coronavirus are regularly reviewed at short notice. As a young by he foraged the shores of Strangford and began a catalogue of all the wildlife he encountered. There is something for every walker to enjoy but the trails are especially suited to families and those looking for well-signed scenic outings on good surfaces. Under this scheme, if you're not a member you have the choice of two entry tickets: If the place runs Gift Aid on Entry, we'll offer you a clear choice between the Gift Aid Admission prices and the Standard Admission prices at the admission point. Records show the landowner could sell the rights to harvest seaweed from different areas of the shore. 70,000 birds, come here each winter to feed on the rich tidal waters and thousands of common seals also breed in the lough, making this area one of Europe’s most important wildlife sites. Strangford Lough. Day 1 – Downpatrick to Ardglass – 22 miles (35.4 km). Kearney Coastal Walk and Quintin Castle; Cloughey Village and Kirkistown Castle; Strangford … Welcome to the online noticeboard for the Strangford Lough and Lecale Partnership. Strangford Lough covers an area of 57.9 square miles (150 square kilometres) and has a number of towns and villages found along its shores. This 2 day itinerary offers walkers the opportunity to explore tower houses, castles and ancient monuments dotted throughout this landscape. Gardens and indoor places remain closed in line with Welsh Government guidance. For nearly 200 years, farmers around Strangford have transported their livestock to the rich grazing land of the islands in the Lough. The number of estates on the shore have in many instances been used as film locations. It is the largest sea lough in the British Isles, covering an area from Angus Rock at its mouth on the Irish Sea, to the vast sand-flats at its northern end 20 miles (33 kilometres) away. The Lecale Way is part of the Ulster Way tying Downpatrick, Strangford, Ardglass together in a mix of cross country trails and coastal paths. Corrog wood was formerly an area of grazing fields set upon a drumlin in the rolling hills landscape typical of the Ards Peninsula, with gentle slopes down to the nearby lough and farmland. Nugent’s Wood, at Portaferry, is one of the last refuges for the native red squirrel. Killynether, below Scrabo Tower, has a terrific display of woodland flowers every spring. Castle Espie, situated on the shores of Strangford Lough near Comber, County Down. Strangford Stone, views of Strangford Lough and beyond Facilities: Miniature railway, small gift shop and visitor centre, education programme, barbeque area. At 150 km² Strangford Lough is the largest sea Lough in the British Isles and is a haven for wildlife. There is also a wealth of wildlife waiting to be discovered along the contrasting shores of Strangford Lough and the Irish Sea. Sessions last around 2.5 hours. There is a wealth of accommodation in the area. After escaping, he returned to Ireland some years later and was instrumental in converting pagan Ireland to Christianity. Sitting at the mouth of Strangford Lough, Killard is a very special place of sandy bays and rocky foreshores, lush meadows and crumbling cliffs. Sitting in the sands at Grey Abbey Bay, a sample of this amazing archaeological find was radiocarbon dated to between 3499 and 3032 BC. Circular, 1.2 miles Flat, Drumlin Derrynoyd River Trail. DISTANCE. Wet Bouldering. Born in 1660, Sir Hans Sloane grew up in the town of Killyleagh. This walk explores the area's unique geography - from rounded hills to a rock cleft called 'Gurgle Gurgle' - to discover how the stunning scenery was created. Check out Discover Northern Ireland for Accommodation. Strangford Lough Activity Centre offer a variety of courses in Outdoor Activities at different venues throughout Ireland. Strangford Lough BBC Filming for Bloodlands took place on an island in the Strangford Lough, specifically the scenes in which police find the bodies of Goliath’s victims. Ballyquintin farm has a path suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs from the car park to the viewpoint only. They normally last 1 to 2 hours. Our countryside space is open. There are over one hundred islands in the lough. Walkers can cross this turbulent stretch of water on a short ferry crossing (deaprts every 30 minutes) meaning that you can explore both sides of the picturesque Strangford Lough in one day. 4 Comments ... Mournes, Outdoor Activities, Red Bull Foxhunt, Strangford Lough Activity Centre, Walking, Wild Camping. However, many will be grateful for support when they reopen. Donate today and you could help people and nature to thrive at the places we care for. At Gibbs Island, you will see a meadow of wild flowers, teaming with butterflies, bees and other insects. The story of Christianity in Ireland began in Downpatrick and the Lecale area, where Saint Patrick brought his boat ashore on Strangford Lough. Sea Kayaking Skills Courses. Around the shores of the lough, the National Trust manages a number of interesting woodlands. If you prefer a coastal walk with beautiful views this one is for you! Strangford Lough has more than 2,000 species of marine animals, making it one of Europe’s most diverse marine life resources. Here he founded his first Church in a local farmer’s barn in AD432. Strangford Lough With evidence of Vikings and smugglers, the coastal walk at Orlock on Strangford Lough is steeped in archaeology and history. 2 were here. Strangford Lough’s shores are also home to some of the finest country estates, parklands and walking trails in Northern Ireland. Castle Ward offers a variety of trails – some hug the shores of Strangford Lough, others pass through woodland, tower houses, castles and ancient monuments. The area also has many hilltops with windmill stumps, the one above Portaferry offers an excellent vantage point over the Narrows and Lecale to the Mourne Mountains while the one at Ballycopeland has been fully restored. Day 2 – Ardglass to Newcastle – 18 miles (29 km). This coastline provides a stunning outlook over towards the Ards Pennisula and on a clear day further to the UK mainland. It is home to a wealth of wildlife and there was great excitement in May 2020 when two killer whales were spotted in the lough. This walk affords stunning views of the Copeland Islands and out across the Irish Sea towards Scotland, making it one of the best coastal walks in Northern Ireland. The wooden traps were essentially a line of hundreds of posts driven into the sand which were then interwoven with long slender branches. Please bear with us while we work through these changes, and how it might affect your visit. Tag: Walking. We use cookies to provide you with a better service. Kearney is wheelchair accessible for the first mile along a rough grass track, but crosses shingle beach after this point. The kelp industry has significant commercial importance to the area. Island Hill- NEWTOWNARDS/COMBER. The walks are suitable for people of all levels of fitness and are flexible in length and duration. With evidence of Vikings and smugglers, the coastal walk at Orlock on Strangford Lough is steeped in archaeology and history. From Groomsport follow the A2 towards Donaghadee briefly diverting onto the National Trust coastal path round Orlock Point. Strangford Lough Walks, Guided Tours On The Ards Peninsula Guided Tours of the Ards Peninsula, St. Patricks Country & Strangford Lough area We will take you on a journey that is engaging, entertaining and designed to match your interests and needs. We regularly run beginners & improvers 4 week Sea Kayaking Course on Strangford Lough. The Ballyhornan Coastal Path leads to Ardglass and Saint John’s Point where you find Ireland’s tallest onshore lighthouse. 2. It will accommodate about 12 people and has plenty of space for camping, The Strangford Lough property has a series of exciting guided walks, talks and boat trips throughout the year, suitable for all the family. Castle Ward also has a popular camping and caravan park and its basecamp sleeps up to 15 people in dormitory-style accommodation, Salt Island Bothy is a basic stone building offering overnight shelter on Salt Island. Walkers then pass through the picturespue coastal villages of Strangford and Ballyhornan before reaching Ardglass. Circular, 0.7 miles Flat, Drumlin Delamont Long Walk. Circular; Linear; Route Type. The Lecale Way extends from the heart of Downpatrick, taking in Strangford Lough and finishing in the seaside resort of Newcastle. Most of our places run the Gift Aid on Entry scheme at their admission points. SUP is a fun way of exploring beautiful scenery, improving fitness & balance. Hours & Info. Most of the walks are at coastal locations rich in maritime and social history. Slanes Point The wealth of archaeological evidence tells a story of mankind’s dependence on the lough that spans thousands of years. The route passes many parts including Struell Wells, Saul, Castle Ward, and Strangford where you may board Europe’s oldest ferry service dating back to 1180. Full Route Description, Photos and Ordnance Survey Maps. Northern Ireland is full of unique accommodation options. Guided bus tours are available for groups who can provide their own transport. Mount Stewart and Castle Ward have disabled facilities. For peace, beauty, tranquillity and family fun, visit Delamont Country Park, situated on the shores of Strangford Lough. Information on travelling from the Republic of Ireland, General information on how to get to Northern Ireland. The Lecale Way is the iconic long distance coastal walk in this area. One of the most impressive archaeological discoveries in Northern Ireland is the Neolithic log boat at Strangford Lough. We encourage everyone to observe social distancing measures. The Mournes: A Bonsai Playground. This walk affords stunning views of the Copeland Islands and out across the Irish Sea towards Scotland, making it one of the best coastal walks … It's entirely up to you which ticket you choose. If this wasn’t enough, he also invented chocolate! Gift Aid Admission includes a 10 per cent or more voluntary donation. The coastal path passes through farmland, rocky shore and beach owned and managed by the National Trust, and also through a National Nature Reserve owned and managed by the Environment & Heritage Service. From the top of the wood you can see down to Strangford Lough and across the Portaferry House lands. From castles and mountain lodges to coastal lighthouses and glamping there is something for everyone. Up to 75% of the world population of light-bellied brent geese over-winter here with one-third of all Ireland’s terns nesting on the lough’s islands during late spring and early summer. There are a number of lay-bys and car parks around the lough providing good bird watching positions and access to the shore. Strangford Lough is a unique place to visit at any time of the year, and in autumn there's always a wide variety of wildlife to be found by the shore or in the wider countryside. Enjoy woodland and countryside walks, open areas for family picnics, BBQ area and games, an outdoor adventure playground, miniature railway and summer events. Day 2 begins by passing through the village of Killough and rounding St. John’s Point. Wet Bouldering, or Gorge Walking is one of our favourite activities. The Wildlife Wander Walk is a short 0.75 mile loop. Circular, 7 miles All types of terrain Castle Archdale Blue Route. Our Hill Skills – Mountain Confidence course is ideal for beginners – infrequent mountain visitors who want to gain confidence to explore on their own. Strangford Lough. Carrigan Forest – Lough Formal Walk. National Trust holiday cottages are located at Castle Ward and nearby Murlough NNR. The National Trust encourages visitors to walk in its farmland sites, however we would ask you to respect livestock and keep your dogs under close control. From 13 March we'll begin to reopen coast and countryside car parks in Wales for local use. Strangford Lough. We recommend Strangford Lough. Visit website. The villages of Strangford and Portaferry lie only half a mile apart however they sit either side of the narrows, where the waters of Strangford Lough meet the Irish Sea. Gift Aid Admissions let us reclaim tax on the whole amount paid - an extra 25 per cent - potentially a very significant boost to our places' funds. Please stay local if possible to avoid creating hotspots. This week Harvey and I are joined by Rosie and Holly again for a short walk around Gibb's Island on Strangford Lough. The route continues to hug the South Down coastline as far as Ballykinler before heading inland crossing over the Blackstaff bridge. At its heart lies an unusual Georgian mansion, but there's a lot more to discover here. It is one of only three designated Marine Nature Reserves in the United Kingdom. Directory \ EXPLORE Walks all over the UK \ Northern Ireland \ South East of Northern Ireland \ North Down & Ards \ *Strangford Lough *Strangford Lough 'Discover amazing spaces and places around Strangford Lough and the Ards Peninsula. Beginning from the Saint Patrick Centre in Downpatrick, day 1 takes walkers on quiet rural roads to the Strangford coast and National Trust property of Castle Ward. “The Impact of Dog walking and Human Activity on … Everyone needs nature, now more than ever. Situated in Strangford Lough the route is 1.5 miles and follows a … The wealth of wildlife, unrivalled in Europe, is complex, delicately balanced, dependent on tides, and the variety of habitats found between seabed and shoreline, and of course, how we as humans interact with this precious resource. Overlooking the city below and with magnificent views of Lough Neagh, the Mourne Mountains and Strangford Lough there is no better vantage point to … Overlooking the south shores of Strangford Lough, Castle Ward is one of Northern Ireland’s finest demesnes or country estates. Circular, 2.5 miles Flat, Drumlin Delamont Garden Walk. There is something for every walker to enjoy but the trails are especially suited to families and those looking for well-signed scenic outings on good surfaces. As you continue to walk this route you will end up at A National Trust car park on the Lisnabreeny Road. The lough also houses many large seal colonies and its shores are noted for the diversity of the wildflowers. Portaferry At Ardglass you can find six castles in the town. In 2015/16 SLLP carried out a study to monitor effects of dog walking on bird population in Strangford Lough. Short Walks (up to 5 miles) Medium Walks (5 to 20 miles) Long Walks (over 20 miles) Shape. The trails are dotted throughout its landscape and a wealth of wildlife can be discovered. When walking on road sections please observe the Highway Code and it is advised to wear high visibility clothing. An extra £1 paid under the scheme can be worth over £3 to the National Trust as shown below: *Gift Aid Admissions let us reclaim tax on the whole amount paid - an extra 25 per cent - potentially a very significant boost to our places' funds. They are drumlins or low hills formed during the last Ice Age and when sea levels rose they were drowned and appear today as islands.My husband told me that… In England and Northern Ireland, our gardens, parks and countryside remain open for local people to exercise. Beach; Coastal; Forest; Hill; ... Delamont Corbally Walk. Visitors can still walk in Saint Patrick’s footsteps, from Saul Church, said to be the first ecclesiastical site in Ireland, to The Ruins of … Refreshments available weekends April to Oct and daily during the summer season. This area is now known as Saul (meaning barn) and lies along the Lecale Way. This made a barrier that allowed the water through, during the falling tide, but not the fish. The route then follows the Dundrum Coastal Path and off road trail through Murlough Nature Reserve before heading into Newcastle by the the beach. Strangford Lough is the largest sea lough in these islands and it is a Marine Nature Reserve. Carry on browsing if you're happy with this, or find out how to manage cookies. Circular, 0.9 miles Gravel paths Derrynoyd Wood Trail. Most recently Castle Ward has been used as the backdrop for Winterfell in Game of Thrones® and Mount Stewart in Dracula Untold. If you are interested in volunteering, please keep checking for future opportunities. Discover the role our rangers play in helping maintain this traditional form of conservation grazing. Suitable for all ages and abilities. Support special places with National Trust membership. Circular, 2.2 miles ... Delamont Strangford Walk. Most of this day’s walking will be on quiet rural roads with some off road coastal paths. Unique 18th-century mansion, famed for its mixture of architectural styles, A treasure trove of magical gardens and woodlands, Neo-classical house, celebrated gardens and demesne, An extraordinarily beautiful dune landscape, A picturesque walk from wooded glen to hilltop rath, Close to the city, in the heart of the country, Watch the arrival of thousands of light-bellied brent geese, all the way from Arctic Canada, Some of the most beautiful views in Northern Ireland, Volunteers take part in many aspects of our work including coppicing, bird surveys and tree planting, Magical fairy carving on the Nugent's Wood Trail. It leads around a headland and back to the south to join the A25 road, the Castle Ward Road. However, this mobile activity can be delivered at a range of locations throughout the country. 38 Ardminnan Road Saint Patrick was captured from Roman Britain and subjected to slavery from the age of 16 to 22 years old. Hill Walking Skills Course. The area around Strangford Lough and the Lecale Coast offers plenty of walking opportunities for everyone to enjoy
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