Top 5 Lakes around Ardkeen

Strangford Lough is Northern Ireland's first Marine Conservation Zone and a Special Area of Conservation, recognized for its exceptional biodiversity. It's a large, shallow sea lough with an indented shoreline, featuring seventy islands, numerous islets, bays, and extensive mudflats. It supports over 2,000 recorded species and is internationally important for wintering waterfowl, including up to 90% of the world's light-bellied brent geese.

Yes, several spots around Strangford Lough are great for families. For instance, Whiterock Harbour is a scenic settlement with public toilets and a cafe, offering a pleasant environment. The Forest Path Along Strangford Lough provides easy, signposted walks through gnarled trees with beautiful views, suitable for all ages. Additionally, Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel is a fascinating historical site that families can explore.

The shores of Strangford Lough are rich in history. You can visit Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel, where the historic LV Petrel lightship, commissioned in 1913, is now a cruising club headquarters. Near Ringhaddy Sound, you'll find a well-preserved 15th-century tower house ruin, though access to the castle and church on the peninsula may require arranging with the landowner. The area also features ancient monastic sites like Nendrum Monastery Ruins and the 15th-century Sketrick Castle near Whiterock Harbour.

For stunning views, head to Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views, which offers expansive vistas from a winding lane. Ringhaddy Sound also provides picturesque scenery with its unusual swollen hills and historical elements. Delamont Country Park, on the lough's shores, offers panoramic views of the lough, drumlins, and the Mourne Mountains from Windmill Hill Viewpoint.

Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. You can explore easy trails like the Castle Ward Farm Trail, the Kearney coastal walk, or the Audley's Castle loop from Portaferry. The Forest Path Along Strangford Lough also offers easy, signposted walks with great views.

Strangford Lough is a hub for water sports. You can enjoy sailing, kayaking, diving, canoeing, fishing, kite surfing, windsurfing, and general boating. The lough's dynamic environment, including the strong currents in the Strangford Narrows, makes it an exciting location for experienced water enthusiasts.

Strangford Lough is particularly notable during the winter months when it hosts significant populations of migratory waterfowl, including light-bellied brent geese. However, its scenic beauty and recreational activities can be enjoyed year-round. For land-based activities like walking and cycling, spring and summer offer milder weather.

At Whiterock Harbour, you'll find a cafe/restaurant/bar, along with public toilets. There is also a pub called Daft Eddy's on Sketrick Island, near Whiterock. Ringhaddy Sound has a boat club with full facilities, which may include refreshments.

Yes, the area offers various cycling routes. You can find moderate road cycling routes such as the Ballycopeland Windmill – Donaghadee Lighthouse loop or the Carrowdore Castle Gate – Mount Stewart Gardens loop. The Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views is also part of a winding lane suitable for cycling, offering stunning views.

Strangford Lough is a haven for wildlife. It's famous for its large populations of wintering waterfowl, especially light-bellied brent geese, as well as various waders and seabirds. The lough is also a crucial breeding ground for common and grey seals, and you might spot porpoises and otters in its waters.

Yes, Strangford Lough holds significant protection designations. It is Northern Ireland's first Marine Conservation Zone and a Special Area of Conservation. It is also designated as a Special Protection Area (SPA) for birds and is part of the Strangford and Lecale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. More information can be found on the DAERA website: Strangford Lough ASSI and Strangford Lough SPA.

Yes, a car ferry operates between the villages of Strangford and Portaferry, providing a convenient way to cross the lough and experience its expanse.