Top 6 Lakes around Longlands
Lakes around Longlands offer diverse natural and historical experiences, primarily centered around the shores of Strangford Lough in Northern Ireland. This area is characterized by its coastal landscapes, rich wildlife habitats, and historical sites reflecting maritime heritage. Visitors can explore a mix of natural wetlands, accessible walking paths, and viewpoints overlooking the lough. The region provides opportunities for observing various bird species and experiencing tranquil waterside environments.
Best lakes around Longlands
- The most popular lakes is Whiterock Harbour, a…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Whiterock Harbour
Highlight • Settlement
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WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre
Highlight • Natural
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View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
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Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields
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Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel
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Ballydorn, or 'The Dorn' as it is locally known, is a beautiful and popular mooring ground with a short-stay pontoon attached to a permanently moored lightship called The LV Petrel that is now the Down Cruising Club headquarters. The LV Petrel was commissioned by the Commissioners of Irish Lights in 1913, and built by the Dublin Drydocks Company. This Lightship spent most of its previous working life at Blackwater Bank on the River Blackwater, Wexford. It was then sold in 1968 to Hammond Lane foundries in Dublin, before being saved to use as the cruise club HQ. The boat is registered as a national historic ship in the UK.
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WWT Castle Espie is home to the largest collection of ducks, geese and swans in Ireland. Wide open spaces, and wetlands full of the sights and sounds of nature. Surprised by just how much there is to see and do including a Cafe / Gallery, plenty of walks, and places to just sit and take it all in.
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It's home to two yacht clubs: Strangford Lough Yacht Club and 1.5 kilometres (0.95 mi) to the north, Down Cruising Club. Between the two yacht clubs is Sketrick Castle, a 15th-century tower house on Sketrick Island, now in a state of ruin. To the south of Whiterock is Ballymorran Bay.
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If you get caught in a rain shower, there is decent shelter to be had, just opposite the moorings around the same position as this Highlight. The view will keep you settled.
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Picturesque rolling trail through Barley fields, and vistas of the beautiful Strangford Lough always present. Hosts great views of Scrabo Tower in the distance, and if you catch this trail at twilight on a clear summers eve, you will be rewarded with such magnificent colours. Strangford Lough is also a designated 'Dark Skies' area for you star gazers.
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In the Caravan / Car park just on the shoreline you will find Toilets, and if you fancy a bit of refreshment there is a Pub called Daft Eddy's on Sketrick Island, just to your left.
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The Route 99 of the National Cycle Network leads from Belfast along the Comber Greenway. The 11.5-mile (18.5 km) long, traffic-free path is a wonderful ride towards the mouth of the Comber River. Watch your speed, as the Greenway is shared with walkers.
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Beautiful little lake with a gravel pathway around it, lots of wildlife around the lake, easily accessed from the Comber Greenway with cycle commuter links to Comber, Dundonald and Belfast
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I explore around Longlands?
The Longlands area, primarily centered around Strangford Lough in Northern Ireland, offers a diverse range of coastal lakes, expansive wetland areas, and smaller inland lakes. These environments provide opportunities to experience everything from tranquil waterside settings to rich wildlife habitats.
Are there any family-friendly lake destinations in Longlands?
Yes, several spots are great for families. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre is particularly family-friendly, offering wide-open spaces and wetlands to observe a large collection of ducks, geese, and swans. Whiterock Harbour is also suitable, with public toilets and a cafe nearby.
Where can I find accessible walking paths around the lakes?
The Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields features a gravel pathway around it, making it easily accessible. This path is also connected to the Comber Greenway, offering further accessible routes for walking and cycling.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see near the lakes?
The lakes and wetlands around Longlands are rich in wildlife. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre is home to the largest collection of ducks, geese, and swans in Ireland. You can also observe abundant wildlife around the Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields.
Are there historical sites or landmarks near the lakes?
Yes, the area has historical significance. At Whiterock Harbour, you can see the ruins of 15th-century Sketrick Castle. Additionally, Ballydorn Bay is home to the historic Lightship LV Petrel, which now serves as the Down Cruising Club headquarters and is registered as a national historic ship.
What outdoor activities are popular around the Longlands lakes?
The area is popular for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy running on trails like the 'Floodgates run' or 'Running loop from Newtownards' (Running Trails around Longlands). Easy hikes are also available, such as the 'Floodgates Walk' or 'Killynether Wood and Scrabo Tower' (Easy hikes around Longlands). Cycling is also a great option, with routes like 'Bike Path to Belfast' (Road Cycling Routes around Longlands).
Where can I find amenities like cafes or public toilets near the lakes?
For amenities, Whiterock Harbour offers public toilets and a cafe/restaurant nearby. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre also has a cafe and gallery on site.
Are there good viewpoints to see Strangford Lough?
Yes, the region offers excellent viewpoints of Strangford Lough. The View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road provides picturesque vistas of the lough, and if you visit at twilight on a clear summer evening, you can witness magnificent colors. Strangford Lough is also a designated 'Dark Skies' area, perfect for stargazers.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Longlands?
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. Many enjoy the rich wildlife, the accessible paths for walking and cycling, and the historical context provided by sites like Sketrick Castle and the Lightship LV Petrel. The scenic views of Strangford Lough are also a major draw.
Can I cycle around the lakes in Longlands?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. The Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields is easily accessed from the Comber Greenway, which offers traffic-free paths for cycling. You can find more cycling routes in the area, such as 'Bike Path to Belfast' (Road Cycling Routes around Longlands).
Is the Longlands area suitable for nature observation?
Absolutely. The region is a haven for nature observation, especially for birdwatching. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre is specifically designed for observing a wide variety of waterfowl. The general wetland areas and smaller lakes also attract diverse flora and fauna.
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Still not found your perfect lake around Longlands? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
