Top 4 Natural Monuments around Island Taggart
Best natural monuments around Island Taggart include a variety of natural and geological features within this 92-acre island in Strangford Lough. Owned by the National Trust, the island is characterized by diverse habitats, including pastureland, marsh, and woodland, supporting abundant wildlife. Its landscape features two drumlins, which are elongated, oval-shaped hills of glacial origin, offering elevated perspectives. The island's coastal environment and varied vegetation contribute to its ecological significance.
Best natural monuments around Island Taggart
- The most popular natural monuments…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Strangford Stone
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Ringhaddy Sound
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Corrog Wood
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Delamont Country Park
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Strangford Stone
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Visitors to Corrog Wood will be greeted by a curious wooden sculpture of a Dryad. The sculpture has been affectionately named the ‘Frump in the Stump’. A dryad is a tree nymph in Greek mythology. The Dryad keeps a watchful, protective eye on the new wood standing at the entrance. Continue past the Dryad on through the little kissing gate and a loop pathway will be waiting to lead you around the 14-acre wood, where a mix of approximately 12,000 native trees and 400 metres of hedging have been planted.
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Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day.
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Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day.
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The impressive Strangford Stone that sits inside the Delamont Country Park in Northern Ireland holds the mighty title of the highest megalith stone in Europe! The stone stands at a whopping 12.5 metres tall and was assembles by 1000 people in 1999. It stands in an elevated position, boasting superb views over Strangford Lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mountains of Mourne
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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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Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day. Steamers Coffee Shop Serves a wide variety of refreshments, including full breakfast and lunch menus, great coffee and ice cream in the summer.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main natural features to explore on Island Taggart itself?
Island Taggart features diverse habitats including pastureland, scrub, hedgerows, marsh, foreshore, and woodland. You can also find two distinctive drumlins, which are elongated, oval-shaped hills of glacial origin, offering elevated perspectives of Strangford Lough. The island is also known for its varied vegetation, including a copse of oak, beech, ash, Scots pine, sycamore, elm, and alder trees, and even two 'fairy thorns' with local folklore.
What are some of the most popular natural monuments near Island Taggart?
Visitors frequently enjoy the Strangford Stone, which is the tallest megalith in Ireland and offers superb views over Strangford Lough. Another popular spot is Delamont Country Park, a 200-acre natural monument situated on the shores of Strangford Lough, known for its peace and tranquility.
Are there any historical sites or unique geological formations to see?
Yes, near Island Taggart, you can visit Ringhaddy Sound, which features unusual swollen hills and has a castle ruin and church on its peninsula, offering a glimpse into the area's history. On Island Taggart itself, the two drumlins are significant geological formations.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around Island Taggart?
Island Taggart's diverse habitats support abundant wildlife. You can observe thick hedges teeming with bird life, meadows full of wildflowers, and marshes bright with Yellow Flag iris and orchids. In high summer, the island is particularly vibrant with butterflies like Common Blues and Small Coppers.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments in the area?
Absolutely. Delamont Country Park is a highly recommended family-friendly destination, offering peace, beauty, and tranquility on the shores of Strangford Lough. It's also home to the impressive Strangford Stone.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The area around Island Taggart offers various outdoor activities. You can find easy hiking trails like the Castle Ward Farm Trail or the Delamont Long Walk. For road cycling enthusiasts, there are moderate to difficult routes such as the Ballyhornan Beach – Strangford Stone loop. You can explore more options in the hiking guide or road cycling guide for the region.
Are there hiking trails near the natural monuments?
Yes, there are several hiking trails. For easy walks, consider the Castle Ward Farm Trail or the Delamont Long Walk. If you're looking for moderate options, the Castle Ward Hoof Trail or the Castle Ward Boundary Trail are available. Find more details and routes in the hiking guide around Island Taggart.
What is the best time to visit Island Taggart for nature observation?
High summer is particularly vibrant for observing butterflies like Common Blues and Small Coppers. The marshes are bright with Yellow Flag iris and orchids during this time. Generally, spring and summer offer the best opportunities to see the island's diverse flora and fauna in full bloom.
How can I access Island Taggart?
Island Taggart is owned by the National Trust, and visiting is possible by arrangement with them. It's advisable to contact the National Trust directly for visitor information and access permits.
Are there any viewpoints offering scenic perspectives of Strangford Lough?
Yes, the drumlins on Island Taggart itself offer elevated perspectives of the surrounding Strangford Lough. Additionally, the Strangford Stone, located within Delamont Country Park, stands in an elevated position boasting superb views over Strangford Lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mountains of Mourne.
What do visitors appreciate most about the natural monuments in this area?
Visitors highly appreciate the peace, beauty, and tranquility offered by places like Delamont Country Park. The superb views over Strangford Lough from the Strangford Stone are also a major draw. The varied landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and opportunities for wildlife observation across the region are consistently praised.
Most popular attractions around Island Taggart
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