Top 6 Lakes around Ballymacreelly
Best lakes around Ballymacreelly offer a variety of natural attractions and scenic viewpoints. The area is characterized by its proximity to Strangford Lough, a large sea lough known for its diverse natural features and coastal settings. Visitors can explore locations that combine natural beauty with historical elements and wildlife. The region provides opportunities for appreciating the local landscape and its connection to the water.
Best lakes around Ballymacreelly
- The most popular lakes is Whiterock Harbour, a settlement that features…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Whiterock Harbour
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WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre
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View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road
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Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel
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Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views
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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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A winding and undulating narrow leafy lane alongside the bays of Strangford Lough, that climbs up towards Killinchy for some stunning views.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main natural attractions to visit around Ballymacreelly?
The area around Ballymacreelly is primarily known for its connection to Strangford Lough, a large sea lough. A key natural attraction is the WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, which is home to a vast collection of ducks, geese, and swans, offering wide open spaces and wetlands for nature observation. You can also enjoy the scenic views and diverse flora and fauna along the lough's shores.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks near the lakes around Ballymacreelly?
Yes, there are. Whiterock Harbour features the historic Sketrick Castle, a 15th-century tower house on Sketrick Island. Additionally, Ballydorn Bay is home to the Lightship LV Petrel, a national historic ship that now serves as the Down Cruising Club headquarters.
What kind of viewpoints can I find overlooking the lakes in this region?
You can find several excellent viewpoints. Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views offers stunning vistas towards Killinchy. Another spot, View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road, provides picturesque views of Scrabo Tower in the distance, with Strangford Lough always present in the background.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes near Ballymacreelly?
Absolutely. Many locations are suitable for families. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre is particularly family-friendly, offering plenty to see and do for all ages. The general areas around Whiterock Harbour and Ballydorn Bay are also considered family-friendly, with scenic spots for picnics and gentle exploration.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, can I do near the lakes?
The area offers various outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore easy trails like the 'Sketrick Island loop via Sketrick Castle' or 'Delamont Long Walk'. For cycling, the 'Strangford Lough Cycle Trail' is a popular option, with routes of varying difficulty. You can find more details on these and other routes in the easy hikes, road cycling, and general cycling guides for Ballymacreelly.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the lakes?
Yes, there are. At Whiterock Harbour, you'll find a cafe/restaurant/bar within less than a mile of the yacht clubs. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre also has a cafe/gallery on-site, perfect for refreshments after exploring the wetlands.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Ballymacreelly?
Visitors particularly enjoy the beautiful scenic spots along Strangford Lough, the opportunities for nature observation at places like the WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, and the stunning views from various points like Quarterland Road. The combination of natural beauty, historical elements, and wildlife makes the area appealing.
Is it possible to find easy walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, there are several easy walking options. For example, the 'Sketrick Island loop via Sketrick Castle' is an easy hike of under 2 km. The 'Delamont Long Walk' is another easy option at just over 5 km. You can find more easy hikes in the easy hikes guide for the area.
Are the lakes around Ballymacreelly dog-friendly?
While specific dog-friendly policies can vary by individual location, many outdoor areas around the lakes, especially trails and open spaces, are generally welcoming to dogs, often requiring them to be on a leash. It's always best to check specific rules for nature reserves or private facilities like the WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre before visiting with your dog.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Ballymacreelly?
The best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walking, cycling, and enjoying the wildlife, especially at the wetland centre. Autumn provides beautiful colours, and if you catch a clear summer's eve, the views of Strangford Lough can be magnificent, particularly from trails like the View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road, which is also a designated 'Dark Skies' area for stargazers.
Are there public toilets available near the lake attractions?
Yes, public toilets are available. For instance, at Whiterock Harbour, you'll find public toilets in the caravan/car park just on the shoreline.
Most popular attractions around Ballymacreelly
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