Best attractions and places to see around Magheracranmoney include a variety of historical sites, castles, and natural features. The region offers diverse landmarks and viewpoints, many of which are family-friendly. Located near Strangford Lough, the area provides opportunities to explore both cultural heritage and natural landscapes. Visitors can find popular trails and routes suitable for various outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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This historic 12th century building is a typical example of an Anglo-Norman motte with a kidney-shaped bailey. The 7.6m high mound, which once housed a wooden tower, was later replaced by a stone tower house, the ruins of which can still be seen today. Access is via Clough's main road; there is a small car park, but it is not always well signposted. Access is usually permitted. The surrounding countryside, with views of the Mourne Mountains, offers a tranquil atmosphere that invites you to linger.
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National Trust (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl_SVBg9R8U Wikipedia (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward “… The most interesting aspect of Castle Ward is that of its dual architecture, representing the differing tastes of Lord Bangor and his wife, Lady Ann Bligh. While the entrance side of the building is done in a classical Palladian style with columns supporting a triangular pediment, the opposite side is Georgian Gothic with pointed windows, battlements and finials. …”
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Great place for a run along the coastline.
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Best known for its role as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property located in Strangford. With its distinctive blend of classical and gothic styles, the castle and its estate grace the picturesque shores of Strangford Lough. Tours of the castle and estate are available year-round. For more information, visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward
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The motte and bailey dates to c.1200 and is an excellent example of an Anglo-Norman earthwork castle. The taller mound, the motte, was built of earth to provide a look-out position and the central defence. Excavations at the top of the motte during the 1950s uncovered a wooden palisade which originally extended around the summit. When you climb the motte you realise what an important position the castle is in, over looking the routes east to Downpatrick, south to Dundrum and north to Belfast Lough. The views from the top of the motte west to Slieve Croob are particularly fine.
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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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Best known for its place as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property in Strangford. With two unique styles of classical and gothic, the castle & its estate is located in a beautiful location near the shore of Strangford Lough. Tours are available year round of the castle and estate.
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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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The region is rich in history. You can explore Castle Ward Tower (Winterfell Filming Location), an 18th-century National Trust property known for its unique classical and gothic architecture and its role in Game of Thrones. The wider Castle Ward estate also offers historical insights and scenic views. Additionally, visit the ancient Clough Castle Ruins, an excellent example of an Anglo-Norman motte and bailey castle dating back to c.1200.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Both Castle Ward Tower and the broader Castle Ward estate are family-friendly, offering tours and activities like archery. Strangford Stone, located within Delamont Country Park, is also a great family destination with its natural beauty and the tallest megalith in Ireland. The Clough Castle Ruins are also considered family-friendly.
The area boasts beautiful natural landscapes and viewpoints. The Castle Ward estate offers scenic views of Strangford Lough. Within Delamont Country Park, you'll find the impressive Strangford Stone, situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty. From the top of Clough Castle Ruins, you can enjoy fine views west towards Slieve Croob and overlook routes to Downpatrick and Dundrum.
Absolutely. The Castle Ward estate itself features trail walks with scenic views. For more extensive options, you can explore various hiking routes around Magheracranmoney, including the Delamont Long Walk and the Lecale Way. You can find detailed guides for hiking in the area on the Hiking around Magheracranmoney page.
For easy walks, consider routes within Delamont Country Park, such as the 'Delamont Long Walk' or the 'Strangford Stone – Delamont Country Park loop'. These are generally flat and suitable for a leisurely pace. More easy hiking options are available on the Easy hikes around Magheracranmoney guide.
The region offers several road cycling routes. Options range from moderate loops like the 'Killough–Strangford Loop' to easier rides such as the 'Picnic Café – Café Vélo, Killyleagh loop'. You can discover more detailed routes and plan your cycling adventure by visiting the Road Cycling Routes around Magheracranmoney guide.
Yes, parking is generally available. For instance, the Castle Ward Shore Car Park is conveniently located for accessing the trails and Game of Thrones filming spots within the Castle Ward estate. Clough Castle Ruins also has a small car park, though it might not always be well signposted.
Some attractions offer accessibility. The Castle Ward estate, including its facilities, is noted as wheelchair accessible. The Castle Ward Shore Car Park is also listed as wheelchair accessible, providing easier access to parts of the estate.
Many outdoor areas are dog-friendly. For example, the Clough Castle Ruins are noted as dog-friendly. When visiting estates or parks, it's always best to check specific rules regarding dogs, especially if they need to be on a lead.
The region offers beauty year-round. For walking and cycling, spring and summer provide milder weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring the trails and enjoying the scenic views of Strangford Lough. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer crisp, quiet walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
At Castle Ward, you'll find a coffee shop on the estate. Delamont Country Park, home to Strangford Stone, also features Steamers Coffee Shop, which serves a variety of refreshments, including breakfast, lunch, and ice cream in the summer.
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty. The Game of Thrones connection at Castle Ward Tower is a major draw, with many enjoying the tours and archery experiences. The scenic views of Strangford Lough from various points, the extensive trail walks, and the tranquil atmosphere of places like Delamont Country Park are also highly valued.


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