Strangford Lough Circuit

Strangford Lough is Ireland's largest sea lough and one of Europe's most important wildlife habitats. This circuit reveals Norman castles, monastic islands, seal colonies, and thousands of wintering birds - all within an hour of Belfast.

Why This Route?

Strangford Lough is a hidden gem:

Wildlife haven - 2,000 species in a Marine Conservation Zone
Historic riches - More castles than anywhere in Ireland
Island hopping - Boat trips to historic islands
Seal watching - Large colonies at the lough entrance
Year-round appeal - Wintering birds make this special in all seasons

The Wildlife

Strangford Lough supports remarkable biodiversity:

Seals - Common and grey seals at the Narrows
Brent geese - 75% of the world's light-bellied population winters here
Waders - Oystercatchers, curlews, redshanks by the thousand
Marine life - Seahorses, basking sharks, and rare sponges

The Route

Starting from Belfast

Head south on the A20 through Comber, famous for its potatoes (Comber Earlies have PGI status).

Nendrum Monastic Site

Cross the causeway to Mahee Island and explore this remarkable 5th-century monastery. The round tower stump, church ruins, and ancient sundial overlook the lough.

Whiterock Bay & Sketrick Island

Birdwatching hotspots on the western shore. Sketrick Castle ruins are visible on their island.

Castle Ward

A National Trust gem - an 18th-century mansion with two architectural facades (Classical and Gothic, because the owners couldn't agree!). Game of Thrones fans know it as Winterfell. The grounds are extensive and family-friendly.

Strangford Village

A pretty estate village at the Narrows, where fierce tidal currents rush between the lough and the sea. The ferry to Portaferry takes 8 minutes.

Portaferry

The ferry crossing is a highlight. Portaferry has excellent seafood restaurants and Exploris Aquarium - perfect for families.

Ards Peninsula (Eastern Shore)

Return via the quieter eastern shore through Kircubbin and Greyabbey (with its ruined Cistercian abbey).

Mount Stewart

One of Ireland's finest historic houses with world-famous gardens. The microclimate allows plants from around the globe to thrive.

Wildlife Watching

Best for Seals

Angus Rock - Viewable from boat trips
Strangford Narrows - Both sides of the ferry crossing

Best for Birds

Castle Espie - WWT wetland centre (hides and feeding stations)
Whiterock Bay - Winter waders
Islands - Terns nest in summer

Boat Trips

Several operators offer wildlife cruises, particularly from Strangford and Portaferry.

Family Highlights

Castle Ward - Adventure playground, walks, Game of Thrones experiences
Exploris Aquarium - Touch tanks, seal sanctuary
Castle Espie - Ducks, geese, and nature discovery
Strangford Ferry - Short but exciting crossing

Practical Tips

Ferry runs every 30 minutes - No need to book
Castle Ward is huge - Allow half a day
Mount Stewart gardens are spectacular - Don't miss them
Winter birding is exceptional - November-February for geese
Seafood in Portaferry - Book restaurants in advance

Year-Round Appeal

Spring - Nesting birds, lambs, garden flowers
Summer - Boat trips, outdoor activities
Autumn - Brent geese arriving, harvest produce
Winter - Peak bird populations, atmospheric light