Top 4 Lakes around Ardquin
Lakes near Ardquin, a civil parish in County Down, Northern Ireland, are primarily defined by Strangford Lough, a large sea lough covering 150 km². This area is recognized as Northern Ireland's first Marine Conservation Zone and a Special Area of Conservation due to its diverse ecosystem and significant wildlife. The lough features extensive mudflats, sandflats, saltmarsh, and rocky shores, with numerous islands formed by drowned drumlins. Ardquin also contains Lough Cowie, a freshwater lake.
Best lakes around Ardquin
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Last updated: October 30, 2026
Whiterock Harbour
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Forest Path Along Strangford Lough
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Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views
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Ringhaddy Sound
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View of Portaferry Harbor
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The Marina is a nature reserve of unparalleled beauty, it is a good starting point on which to explore the Lough.
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Portaferry ( from Port an Pheire 'landing place of the ferry' ) is a small town in County down, at the southern end of the Ards Peninsula, near the Narrows at the entrance to Strangford Lough. It hosts its own small Marina, From where the The Ferry service operates daily at 30-minute intervals (7.45 am to 10.45 pm) between the villages of Portaferry and Strangford. The Lough being one of the world's most important marine sites with over 2,000 marine species. There are fine Georgian buildings in the town square, including a Market House, now used as a community centre. Portaferry Castle, a 16th-century townhouse ruin, sits atop a slope overlooking the Harbour.
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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.
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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.
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Just about 100 metres further up the road is a mooring with a Boat Club, with facilities if needed.
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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.
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Nice forest with great views of Strangford Lough. Easy signposted walks.
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The path leads you through a wall of gnarled, ancient trees - and the sea water flashes again and again between the trunks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes and viewpoints around Ardquin?
Visitors frequently enjoy Whiterock Harbour, a scenic spot on Strangford Lough known for its yacht clubs and proximity to Sketrick Castle. Another favorite is the View of Portaferry Harbor, offering picturesque scenes of the lough and the town's marina. For expansive vistas, Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views provides stunning panoramas along the lough's bays.
What makes Strangford Lough a significant natural area?
Strangford Lough is Northern Ireland's first Marine Conservation Zone and a Special Area of Conservation, recognized for its unique and diverse ecosystem. It's a crucial winter migration destination for numerous bird species, including three-quarters of the world's pale-bellied brent geese. The lough features extensive mudflats, sandflats, saltmarsh, rocky shores, and many islands formed by drowned drumlins.
Are there historical sites to explore around the lakes?
Yes, the area around Strangford Lough is rich in history. Near Whiterock Harbour, you can find the ruins of Sketrick Castle, a 15th-century tower house. The town of Portaferry, visible from the View of Portaferry Harbor, also features Portaferry Castle. Further afield, the shores are dotted with sites like the Nendrum Monastic Site on Mahee Island and the castle ruin at Ringhaddy Sound.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Strangford Lough offers a wide array of activities including sailing, kayaking, canoeing, bird watching, fishing, kite surfing, windsurfing, boating, paddling, and swimming. For land-based activities, you can find numerous routes for hiking and running. Explore options in the Hiking around Ardquin and Running Trails around Ardquin guides.
Are there easy walks suitable for families around Ardquin's lakes?
Yes, several areas offer family-friendly walks. The Forest Path Along Strangford Lough provides easy, signposted walks through ancient trees with views of the water. The areas around Whiterock Harbour and View of Portaferry Harbor are also suitable for family strolls. You can find more options in the Easy hikes around Ardquin guide.
What kind of views can I expect around Ardquin's lakes?
The lakes around Ardquin, particularly Strangford Lough, offer dramatic and diverse views. You can expect coastal vistas, glimpses of fairy-tale castles, and panoramic scenes from elevated points like Quarterland Road. The lough's unique landscape, with its drowned drumlins forming numerous islands, provides a constantly changing and picturesque backdrop.
What facilities are available at popular lake spots?
At Whiterock Harbour, you'll find public toilets and a cafe/restaurant/bar. The town of Portaferry, near the View of Portaferry Harbor, offers a marina, cafes, and a hotel, providing refreshment and services for visitors.
How can I travel between Portaferry and Strangford?
A daily ferry service operates between the villages of Portaferry and Strangford, connecting the two sides of the lough. This service runs at 30-minute intervals from 7:45 am to 10:45 pm, offering a convenient way to explore both areas.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Ardquin?
The lakes around Ardquin can be enjoyed year-round. For birdwatching, the winter months are particularly rewarding as Strangford Lough serves as a crucial destination for migrating birds. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for water sports and exploring the many islands, while autumn provides beautiful scenic views with changing foliage.
Are there opportunities for birdwatching around Strangford Lough?
Absolutely. Strangford Lough is recognized as an Important Bird Area and is a vital winter migration destination for numerous wading and sea birds, including a significant portion of the world's pale-bellied brent geese population. Its diverse habitats make it an excellent spot for birdwatching throughout the year.
What is Lough Cowie, and what can I expect there?
Lough Cowie is a freshwater lake located within the Ardquin parish. While it is a lake of considerable extent, specific details regarding its features, attractions, or notable aspects are not as widely documented as Strangford Lough. It offers a quieter, more secluded natural experience compared to the larger, more active sea lough.
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