Top 6 Lakes around Ballyhaft
Lakes around Ballyhaft, a townland in County Down, Northern Ireland, are primarily associated with the broader natural landscape of the Ards Peninsula. While Ballyhaft itself is a small area, the surrounding region offers access to significant water bodies. These include parts of Strangford Lough, a large tidal sea lough, and smaller managed lakes. The area provides opportunities for exploring diverse aquatic environments and their adjacent trails.
Best lakes around Ballyhaft
- The most popular lakes is Whiterock Harbour, a settlement…
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 kind of lakes can I expect to find around Ballyhaft?
Around Ballyhaft, you'll primarily find access to parts of Strangford Lough, which is a large tidal sea lough, as well as smaller managed lakes and wetland areas. These diverse environments offer opportunities for exploration and nature observation.
Are there any family-friendly lake spots near Ballyhaft?
Yes, several spots are great for families. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre is home to a large collection of ducks, geese, and swans, with wide open spaces for observation. The Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields also offers a gravel pathway and wildlife, easily accessible from the Comber Greenway.
Where can I observe wildlife near Ballyhaft's lakes?
For wildlife observation, the WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre is excellent, featuring a large collection of ducks, geese, and swans. The Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields is also known for its diverse wildlife around its gravel pathway.
Are there accessible options for visitors with mobility considerations?
Yes, the Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields is noted for being wheelchair accessible, featuring a gravel pathway around the lake that is easy to navigate.
What historical or cultural sites are located near the lakes?
Near the lakes, you can visit Whiterock Harbour, which features the ruins of Sketrick Castle, a 15th-century tower house. Additionally, at Ballydorn Bay, you can see the historic Lightship LV Petrel, which now serves as the Down Cruising Club headquarters.
What outdoor activities can I do around the lakes near Ballyhaft?
The area around Ballyhaft's lakes offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including the Boundary Walk at Mount Stewart. There are also running trails like the Floodgates run, and mountain biking routes such as the North Down Coastal Path.
Are there specific walking trails near these lakes?
Yes, there are several walking trails. The Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields has a pleasant gravel pathway. You can also enjoy picturesque trails with views of Strangford Lough and Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road. For more options, explore the hiking guide for Ballyhaft.
What amenities are available at Whiterock Harbour?
Whiterock Harbour is well-equipped with public toilets and features a cafe/restaurant/bar. It's also home to two yacht clubs, making it a lively spot on the shore of Strangford Lough.
Can I find cafes or restaurants near the lakes?
Yes, Whiterock Harbour has a cafe/restaurant/bar. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre also includes a cafe and gallery, providing refreshments during your visit.
What are the best viewpoints around the lakes?
Excellent viewpoints include Whiterock Harbour, offering scenic views of Strangford Lough and Sketrick Castle. The View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road provides magnificent vistas of Strangford Lough and Scrabo Tower in the distance.
Is it possible to connect to cycle routes near the lakes?
Yes, the Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields is easily accessed from the Comber Greenway, which is part of the National Cycle Network (Route 99). This traffic-free path offers cycle commuter links to Comber, Dundonald, and Belfast.
What makes Strangford Lough special in this area?
Strangford Lough is a significant natural feature, being a large tidal sea lough. It's a designated 'Dark Skies' area, perfect for stargazing on clear evenings. Its shores, like those at Whiterock Harbour, offer beautiful scenic spots and are appreciated for their natural beauty and historical elements like Sketrick Castle.
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