Top 6 Lakes around Ballyewry
Lakes near Ballyewry include Ballynewry Lake, a historical body of water, and Marlacoo Lake, a larger site. Ballynewry Lake offers a serene natural setting and historical context. Marlacoo Lake is known for fishing and its historical crannog. Both lakes provide opportunities for natural beauty and outdoor activities in the Ballyewry area.
Best lakes around Ballyewry
- The most popular lakes is Whiterock Harbour, a settlement that features yacht clubs and historical sites like Sketrick Castle. It offers scenic views on…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Whiterock Harbour
Highlight • Settlement
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WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre
Highlight • Natural
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View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
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Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel
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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.
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WWT Castle Espie is home to the largest collection of ducks, geese and swans in Ireland. Wide open spaces, and wetlands full of the sights and sounds of nature. Surprised by just how much there is to see and do including a Cafe / Gallery, plenty of walks, and places to just sit and take it all in.
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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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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.
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Picturesque rolling trail through Barley fields, and vistas of the beautiful Strangford Lough always present. Hosts great views of Scrabo Tower in the distance, and if you catch this trail at twilight on a clear summers eve, you will be rewarded with such magnificent colours. Strangford Lough is also a designated 'Dark Skies' area for you star gazers.
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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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The Route 99 of the National Cycle Network leads from Belfast along the Comber Greenway. The 11.5-mile (18.5 km) long, traffic-free path is a wonderful ride towards the mouth of the Comber River. Watch your speed, as the Greenway is shared with walkers.
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Beautiful little lake with a gravel pathway around it, lots of wildlife around the lake, easily accessed from the Comber Greenway with cycle commuter links to Comber, Dundonald and Belfast
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular lakes to visit around Ballyewry?
Visitors often enjoy Whiterock Harbour for its scenic views on Strangford Lough and historical sites like Sketrick Castle. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre is also popular for its diverse birdlife and nature observation. For a more active visit, the Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields offers a pleasant gravel pathway and wildlife spotting.
What makes Ballynewry Lake unique?
Ballynewry Lake is notable for its historical significance, documented as early as 1609. It offers a serene natural setting, ideal for quiet contemplation and appreciating the region's heritage.
What is Marlacoo Lake known for?
Marlacoo Lake is a popular spot for fishing, particularly for Northern pike and European perch. It also has historical significance due to a crannog (ancient artificial island dwelling) that existed there, and it's gaining popularity among drone enthusiasts for its scenic views.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Ballyewry?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre is excellent for nature observation with wide open spaces. The Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields features an easy gravel pathway and abundant wildlife, making it great for walks with children. Whiterock Harbour and Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel also offer family-friendly viewpoints and historical interest.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Ballyewry's lakes?
You can expect diverse natural beauty, from the wetlands and birdlife at WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre to the wildlife around the Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields. Many areas, like Whiterock Harbour, offer beautiful scenic views of Strangford Lough, which is also a designated 'Dark Skies' area for stargazing.
Are there any historical sites or points of interest near the lakes?
Yes, the region is rich in history. Ballynewry Lake itself has historical documentation dating back to 1609. Marlacoo Lake was once home to a significant crannog. Near Whiterock Harbour, you can find the ruins of Sketrick Castle, a 15th-century tower house. Additionally, Ballydorn Bay features the permanently moored Lightship LV Petrel, which serves as the Down Cruising Club headquarters and is a registered national historic ship.
Are there accessible lakes for all visitors?
The Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields is noted for its wheelchair accessibility, featuring a gravel pathway around the lake that is easy to navigate.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Ballyewry?
The area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking opportunities, including easy trails like the Boundary Walk at Mount Stewart or the Floodgates Walk. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes such as the Strangford Lough loop. You can explore more options on the hiking guide and road cycling guide for Ballyewry.
Are there hiking trails near the lakes around Ballyewry?
Yes, there are several hiking trails available. Easy options include the 7.5 km Boundary Walk at Mount Stewart and the 6.5 km Floodgates Walk. For more details and other routes, refer to the easy hikes guide around Ballyewry.
Where can I find amenities like cafes or toilets near the lakes?
Near Whiterock Harbour, you'll find public toilets and a pub called Daft Eddy's on Sketrick Island. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre also has a cafe and gallery on-site.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Ballyewry?
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Many enjoy the tranquil environments for nature observation and walks, the scenic views, and the opportunities for activities like fishing. The presence of historical sites like Sketrick Castle and the Lightship LV Petrel also adds to the appeal.
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