Top 5 Lakes around Lisbane
Best lakes around Lisbane are primarily centered around Strangford Lough, a significant sea lough located near the village in County Down, Northern Ireland. This large inlet of the Irish Sea is recognized as a Special Area of Conservation and a Marine Protected Area. It provides a habitat for diverse wildlife, including Brent geese, and offers opportunities for water-based activities and scenic walks. The area's natural beauty and historical sites make it a notable destination.
Best lakes around Lisbane
- The most…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Whiterock Harbour
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
Forest Path Along Strangford Lough
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Ringhaddy Sound
Highlight • River
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Lisbane.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Ballydorn, or 'The Dorn' as it is locally known, is a beautiful and popular mooring ground with a short-stay pontoon attached to a permanently moored lightship called The LV Petrel that is now the Down Cruising Club headquarters. The LV Petrel was commissioned by the Commissioners of Irish Lights in 1913, and built by the Dublin Drydocks Company. This Lightship spent most of its previous working life at Blackwater Bank on the River Blackwater, Wexford. It was then sold in 1968 to Hammond Lane foundries in Dublin, before being saved to use as the cruise club HQ. The boat is registered as a national historic ship in the UK.
0
0
Ringhaddy Sound is located on the western shore of Strangford Lough to the west of Islandmore. With its unusual swollen hills it is a real joy to cycle. Descend into the sound, and enjoy the atmosphere. A Castle ruin and Church sit further on the Peninsula, but alas they are on private land. It is possible to arrange access from the land owner however. There is also a Beautiful mooring with a Boat Club that has full facilities if needed. Heres a bit about the Castle. This is one of the most completely surviving tower houses in the county, retaining its gables and formerly an original wooden window. There were at least two main phases of construction at this site. The ground floor, which had a stone vault, dates from the 15th century, while the upper parts were rebuilt in about 1600. It is rectangular in plan with small turrets at the north-east and south-west angles, one with the stair and the other with a latrine chute. There are large fireplaces on the first and second floors, and an attic in the roof. A distinctive stone rainwater spout projects from the east side. The castle seems to have changed hands between Bryan McArt and the English in the early 16th century, and it is likely that the earlier castle was McArt’s stronghold, slighted when he withdrew, and rebuilt by the new English owner. Underwater investigation has confirmed the presence of a stone slipway beside the castle, and water transport was clearly of great importance in this location.
0
0
It's home to two yacht clubs: Strangford Lough Yacht Club and 1.5 kilometres (0.95 mi) to the north, Down Cruising Club. Between the two yacht clubs is Sketrick Castle, a 15th-century tower house on Sketrick Island, now in a state of ruin. To the south of Whiterock is Ballymorran Bay.
0
0
Just about 100 metres further up the road is a mooring with a Boat Club, with facilities if needed.
0
0
If you get caught in a rain shower, there is decent shelter to be had, just opposite the moorings around the same position as this Highlight. The view will keep you settled.
0
0
In the Caravan / Car park just on the shoreline you will find Toilets, and if you fancy a bit of refreshment there is a Pub called Daft Eddy's on Sketrick Island, just to your left.
0
0
Nice forest with great views of Strangford Lough. Easy signposted walks.
3
1
The path leads you through a wall of gnarled, ancient trees - and the sea water flashes again and again between the trunks.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural features and wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes near Lisbane?
The primary natural feature is Strangford Lough, a large sea lough renowned for its extensive mudflats, islands, and diverse marine life. It's a vital habitat for many bird species, especially Brent geese, which use it as an early wintering site. You can also find scenic viewpoints like Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views, offering vistas of the lough, and the Forest Path Along Strangford Lough, which provides great views through ancient trees.
Are there historical sites or points of interest near the lakes around Lisbane?
Yes, the area is rich in history. At Whiterock Harbour, you can see Sketrick Castle, a 15th-century tower house. Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel features a permanently moored lightship, The LV Petrel, commissioned in 1913, which now serves as the Down Cruising Club headquarters. Additionally, Mahee Island in Strangford Lough, a short distance from Lisbane, hosts historical ruins including Mahee Castle and Nendrum Monastery.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Lisbane?
The area around Strangford Lough offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy water-based activities such as kayaking, sailing, and boat tours. For land-based exploration, there are numerous scenic walks and cycling routes. Komoot users particularly enjoy the easy hikes around Lisbane, including the Sketrick Island loop, and road cycling routes that offer stunning views.
Are there family-friendly options for visiting the lakes near Lisbane?
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Whiterock Harbour is a family-friendly settlement with a coastal area. The Forest Path Along Strangford Lough offers easy, signposted walks. Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel is also considered family-friendly, providing an interesting historical site. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, a short drive away, is an award-winning reserve perfect for families to observe wild birds.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Lisbane?
Visitors appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of Strangford Lough. The scenic views, especially from places like Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views, are highly praised. The historical elements, such as Sketrick Castle and the Lightship LV Petrel, also add to the appeal. Many enjoy the opportunities for walking and cycling along the lough's shores.
Are there specific walking trails or routes recommended near the lakes?
Yes, there are several walking opportunities. The Forest Path Along Strangford Lough offers easy, signposted walks with great views. For more options, you can explore easy hikes around Lisbane, which include routes like the Sketrick Island loop via Sketrick Castle.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Lisbane?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. For birdwatching, especially to see Brent geese, the early winter months are ideal. The spring and summer offer pleasant weather for water-based activities, walking, and cycling, with longer daylight hours. The natural beauty of Strangford Lough can be enjoyed year-round.
Can I go cycling near the lakes around Lisbane?
Absolutely! The area offers excellent cycling opportunities. Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views is a winding and undulating lane popular with cyclists, offering stunning lough views. You can find more detailed routes and guides for road cycling around Lisbane, catering to various difficulty levels.
Are there any unique or hidden gems among the lakes near Lisbane?
While Strangford Lough itself is a major attraction, a unique spot is Ringhaddy Sound. Located on the western shore of Strangford Lough, it features unusual swollen hills and a castle ruin, offering a distinctive atmosphere for exploration, particularly by bike.
What facilities are available at Whiterock Harbour?
Whiterock Harbour is a well-equipped settlement. It is home to two yacht clubs, the Strangford Lough Yacht Club and the Down Cruising Club. You'll find public toilets and a cafe/restaurant/bar, such as Daft Eddy's on Sketrick Island, making it a convenient spot for visitors.
Is there a place to see a large collection of birds near Lisbane?
Yes, the WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre is located a short distance from Lisbane. This award-winning wetland reserve is home to the largest collection of ducks, geese, and swans in Ireland, offering nature walks and opportunities to observe wild birds in a beautiful setting.
Most popular routes around Lisbane
Most popular attractions around Lisbane
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Lisbane? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
