The best walks and hikes around Island Taggart

Access to Island Taggart is by private boat or kayak, as there is no public ferry service. You must make arrangements with the National Trust before your visit. They manage the island and can provide information on access. Good anchorages are available, but be cautious during a falling tide.

Yes, the area is great for beginners. While Island Taggart itself has no formally marked trails, the terrain consists of rolling hills and shoreline that you can explore at your own pace. Nearby, you can find very accessible routes like the Castle Ward Shore Trail — Strangford & Lecale, which is an easy 2.9-mile (4.7 km) walk along the lough.

The hikes around Island Taggart are generally easy to moderate, focusing on low-level coastal and parkland paths. There are no difficult, high-altitude climbs. For a longer, more substantial walk, consider the Castle Ward Hoof Trail — Strangford & Lecale, a moderate 7.6-mile (12.2 km) route that offers a bit more of a challenge.

Dogs are welcome on many trails in the surrounding area, but they must be kept on a lead, especially in places like Delamont Country Park and the Castle Ward estate. On Island Taggart itself, livestock may be grazing, so it is crucial to keep dogs under close control at all times to protect both the farm animals and local wildlife.

The region is very family-friendly. A great option is the Delamont Country Park Long Walk loop — Strangford & Lecale. It's a pleasant 3.3-mile (5.3 km) trail through parkland with plenty of open space for kids to enjoy.

Hiking here is defined by the beautiful shores of Strangford Lough, rolling drumlin hills, and historic estates. You can expect panoramic views across the lough and its many islands, walks through mature woodland, and paths that take you past historical ruins like Audley's Castle.

There are over 30 hiking routes to explore in the immediate vicinity of Island Taggart. The majority are rated as easy, with a good selection of moderate trails also available, offering plenty of choice for different fitness levels.

The trails around Island Taggart are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning lough-side views, the well-maintained paths within the country parks, and the peaceful atmosphere of the region.

Yes, many of the best routes are loops. The Castle Ward & Audley's Castle loop — Strangford is a popular moderate circular walk that is just under 5 miles (7.7 km) and takes you through varied scenery including woodland and shoreline with a historic castle.

The area is a haven for wildlife. The mudflats and shores of Strangford Lough are important feeding grounds for waders and waterfowl. On Island Taggart and in the surrounding parks, you can spot various birdlife in the hedgerows, and in summer, the meadows are full of butterflies. Keep an eye out for breeding black guillemots and even short-eared owls in winter.

Since there are no facilities on the island, you must be self-sufficient. Pack plenty of water, food, and snacks. Wear sturdy walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain. Waterproof clothing is essential, as the weather can change quickly. Also, bring a bag to carry out all your rubbish to leave the island as you found it.

Absolutely. Island Taggart itself features the ruins of a farmhouse, cottages, and a historic kelp kiln. A nearby hike, View of Castle Ward Main House – Audley's Castle loop from Strangford, takes you past the 15th-century Audley's Castle and offers views of the impressive Castle Ward mansion.