Top 5 Natural Monuments around Ballintlieve
Natural monuments around Ballintlieve offer a diverse landscape for exploration, featuring historical sites and natural parks. The region is characterized by its proximity to significant natural features like Strangford Lough, providing a blend of historical and natural attractions. Visitors can explore ancient megaliths, stone circles, and expansive country parks. These sites collectively showcase the area's geological and historical significance.
Best natural monuments around Ballintlieve
- The most popular natural monuments is Strangford Stone, a man-made monument situated on the shores of Strangford Lough. This megalith is noted as the tallest in Ireland, located within a 200-acre Country Park.
- Another must-see spot is Delamont Country Park, a natural monument located on the shores of Strangford Lough. This 200-acre park offers a setting for walking and nature appreciation.
- Visitors also love Ballynoe Stone Circle, a historical site dating from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age. This impressive stone circle consists of over 50 upright stones enclosing a diameter of around 35 meters.
- Ballintlieve is known for ancient stone monuments, historical sites, and country parks. The variety of natural monuments to see and explore includes both man-made structures with natural settings and expansive natural areas.
- The natural monuments around Ballintlieve are appreciated by the komoot community, with 8 upvotes and 7 photos shared.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Strangford Stone
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Ballynoe Stone Circle
Highlight • Historical Site
Excavation uncovered a slab feature with three compartments at the west end of the cairn, which could suggest the court tomb tradition, and a single stone cist at the east end which could point to the passage tomb tradition.
Cremated remains representing at least seven individuals and some Neolithic pottery were found. Parallels for the outer stone circle with sites in Cumbria have been suggested.
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Corrog Wood
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Delamont Country Park
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St Patrick's Well
Highlight • Historical Site
Saint Patrick founded Ardtole Church which can be seen on the horizon. In the next field at low tide Saint Patrick's Road becomes visible. This was to be his route to the Isle of Man but when a red haired woman crossed his path he seen it as a bad omen and didn't make the journey.
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This impressive stone circle, dating from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age, consists of over 50 upright stones enclosing a diameter of around 35 metres. Access is via a narrow hedge-lined path that takes you directly to the entrance of the circle
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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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One of the best kept Circles I know of. The late Neolithic to earlier Bronze Age monument was excavated in 1937–1939 but its development and date are still not entirely clear. Excavation uncovered a slab feature with three compartments at the west end of the cairn, which could suggest the court tomb tradition, and a single stone cist at the east end which could point to the passage tomb tradition. Cremated remains representing at least seven individuals and some Neolithic pottery were found. Parallels for the outer stone circle with sites in Cumbria have been suggested.
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The Well is an ancient site of pilgrimage with legends of Saint Patrick. The waters of the well are said to cure any ailment. Saint Patrick founded Ardtole Church which can be seen on the horizon. In the next field at low tide Saint Patrick's Road becomes visible. This was to be his route to the Isle of Man but when a red haired woman crossed his path he seen it as a bad omen and didn't make the journey.
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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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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural monuments can I explore around Ballintlieve?
Around Ballintlieve, you can explore a diverse range of natural monuments that blend natural beauty with historical significance. These include impressive megaliths like the Strangford Stone, ancient sites such as the Ballynoe Stone Circle, and expansive natural areas like Delamont Country Park, all set against the backdrop of Strangford Lough.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments near Ballintlieve?
Yes, several natural monuments around Ballintlieve are suitable for families. Delamont Country Park is a 200-acre park offering plenty of space for walking and nature appreciation, and it's home to the Strangford Stone. The Ballynoe Stone Circle is also considered family-friendly, providing an engaging historical experience.
What historical or archaeological sites are considered natural monuments in this area?
The region features significant historical and archaeological sites that are also recognized as natural monuments. The Ballynoe Stone Circle, dating from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age, is an impressive example with over 50 upright stones. Additionally, St Patrick's Well is an ancient pilgrimage site with historical legends.
Can I bring my dog to the natural monuments around Ballintlieve?
Yes, the Ballynoe Stone Circle is noted as dog-friendly, allowing you to explore this ancient site with your canine companion. For other locations, it's always advisable to check specific park rules regarding dogs.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The area around Ballintlieve offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling with routes like 'Kilclief to Ardglass Harbour loop' or 'Ballyhornan Beach – Strangford Stone loop from Delamont'. For running, trails such as 'Castle Ward Hoof Trail run from Strangford' are available. Find more details on these activities in the cycling and running guides for Ballintlieve.
Are there hiking trails near the natural monuments?
Yes, there are several hiking and running trails in the vicinity. Delamont Country Park itself offers trails for walking and nature appreciation. For more structured routes, you can explore options like 'Castle Ward Hoof Trail run from Strangford' or 'Audley's Castle – Audleystown Wood loop'. You can find more hiking and running routes in the running trails guide for Ballintlieve.
What are the geological features of the natural monuments in this region?
The natural monuments around Ballintlieve are primarily characterized by their historical and cultural significance within natural settings. While specific geological formations are not detailed, the presence of ancient megaliths like the Strangford Stone and the Ballynoe Stone Circle highlights the use of local stone in constructing these impressive structures, often situated in areas of natural beauty like the shores of Strangford Lough.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Ballintlieve?
Visitors frequently praise the peace, beauty, and tranquility offered by sites like Delamont Country Park, which provides a great day out for all ages. The impressive scale of the Strangford Stone and the historical depth of the Ballynoe Stone Circle are also highly appreciated.
Are there cafes or refreshment options near the natural monuments?
Yes, for instance, Steamers Coffee Shop is located within Delamont Country Park. It offers a variety of refreshments, including breakfast and lunch menus, coffee, and ice cream during the summer, making it convenient for visitors to the Strangford Stone and the park.
What is the significance of the Strangford Stone?
The Strangford Stone, located within Delamont Country Park, is notable as the tallest megalith in Ireland, standing at 12.5 meters. It was assembled in 1999 and offers superb views over Strangford Lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mountains of Mourne, making it a significant landmark and viewpoint.
Is public transport available to reach the natural monuments?
While specific public transport routes directly to each natural monument are not detailed, the monuments are generally located in areas accessible by road. It is recommended to check local bus services or plan for car travel to reach these sites, especially those in more rural settings like the Ballynoe Stone Circle.
Are there any viewpoints among the natural monuments?
Yes, several natural monuments offer excellent viewpoints. The Strangford Stone, situated in an elevated position within Delamont Country Park, provides superb views over Strangford Lough and towards the Mountains of Mourne. Delamont Country Park itself also offers various scenic vistas.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Ballintlieve?
The natural monuments around Ballintlieve, particularly those in Delamont Country Park and along Strangford Lough, are enjoyable throughout the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking and outdoor activities, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Winter visits can be peaceful, though some facilities might have reduced hours. Always check local conditions before your visit.
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