Attractions and Places To See around Strangford Upper - Top 20

The central natural feature is Strangford Lough, the largest sea lough in the British Isles, recognized for its exceptional biodiversity. It's a Marine Conservation Zone and a UNESCO Global Geopark. You can also enjoy numerous coastal walks and woodland treks, with miles of footpaths along the island-studded coastline.

Yes, the area is rich in history. You can visit Castle Ward Tower, an 18th-century National Trust property known for its unique architectural styles. Also explore Audley's Castle, a 15th-century tower house with commanding views. Other notable sites include Strangford Castle, Sketrick Castle, and Inch Abbey.

Strangford Lough is a vital habitat for diverse wildlife. It's home to over 2,000 marine species, including marine invertebrates and algae. It's also an important winter migration destination for many wading and sea birds, notably three-quarters of the world's population of pale-bellied brent geese. Common seals and basking sharks can also be found here.

Yes, the region is famous for its connections to Game of Thrones. Castle Ward Tower served as Winterfell, and Audley's Castle was used for scenes like King Robert Baratheon's arrival at Winterfell and Robb's camp. Inch Abbey was also a filming location.

Absolutely. Castle Ward Tower offers extensive grounds and Game of Thrones-themed tours suitable for families. Delamont Country Park, home to the Strangford Stone, provides a beautiful 200-acre space for all ages. Many water sports on Strangford Lough, such as paddleboarding and kayaking, can also be family-friendly.

The area offers numerous outdoor activities. You can enjoy easy hikes like the Castle Ward Farm Trail or the Audley's Castle loop. For running, there are routes such as the Castle Ward Hoof Trail. Cycling enthusiasts can explore longer routes like the Kilclief to Ardglass Harbour loop. Find more details on these activities in the easy hikes, running trails, and cycling guides for Strangford Upper.

The Nendrum Monastery Ruins, located on Mahee Island, are a well-preserved monastic site dating back to the 5th century. Founded by Saint Mo-choí, it offers profound insights into early Irish monastic life with its triple enclosure walls, church, and round tower, retaining an aura of sanctity.

The Strangford Ferry provides a convenient car ferry service connecting the villages of Strangford and Portaferry. This short journey offers picturesque views of the lough and is a practical way to explore both sides of the narrows.

For visitors to Castle Ward and its surrounding attractions, the Castle Ward Shore Car Park is available. It's conveniently located for accessing trails and Game of Thrones filming spots within the estate.

Strangford Lough is ideal for various water sports. You can enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and sea safaris. These activities offer unique opportunities to see seals, explore the numerous islands, and experience the lough's distinct marine environment up close.

The area is beautiful year-round, but for outdoor activities like hiking and water sports, the warmer and drier months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) are generally most pleasant. This period offers longer daylight hours and more favorable weather conditions for exploring the coastal paths and the lough.

Beyond the main castles, consider visiting the Strangford Stone, the tallest megalith in Ireland, located within Delamont Country Park. The ancient Nendrum Monastery Ruins on Mahee Island offer a serene glimpse into early Christian heritage, and Sketrick Castle, a large tower house on Sketrick Island, provides a sense of discovery.