Top 4 Natural Monuments around Strangford Upper
Natural monuments around Strangford Upper are found within the Strangford Lough and Lecale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a region known for its distinctive drumlin hills and island landscapes. This area encompasses Strangford Lough, the largest sea lough in the British Isles, which is dotted with numerous islands and islets. The landscape reflects its glacial past and supports significant biodiversity, including important sites for migratory birds and diverse marine life. Visitors can explore a variety of natural features, from coastal paths to wetland habitats.
Best natural monuments around Strangford Upper
- The most popular natural monuments is Strangford Stone, a man-made monument and natural monument that is recognized as the highest megalith stone in Europe. It stands at 12.5 meters tall and offers views over Strangford Lough.
- Another must-see spot is Delamont Country Park, a natural monument. This 200-acre park provides a tranquil environment on the shores of Strangford Lough and is home to the Strangford Stone.
- Visitors also love St Patrick's Well, an ancient site of pilgrimage. Legends of Saint Patrick are associated with the well, and its waters are said to cure ailments.
- Strangford Upper is known for its diverse natural monuments, including significant loughs, historical wells, and megalithic structures. The area offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, from coastal features to parklands.
- The natural monuments around Strangford Upper are appreciated by the komoot community, with 8 upvotes and 7 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Strangford Stone
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Corrog Wood
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Delamont Country Park
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St Patrick's Well
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Saint Patrick founded Ardtole Church which can be seen on the horizon. In the next field at low tide Saint Patrick's Road becomes visible. This was to be his route to the Isle of Man but when a red haired woman crossed his path he seen it as a bad omen and didn't make the journey.
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Strangford Stone
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The stone stands at a whopping 12.5 metres tall and was assembles by 1000 people in 1999. It stands in an elevated position, boasting superb views over Strangford Lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mountains of Mourne
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Visitors to Corrog Wood will be greeted by a curious wooden sculpture of a Dryad. The sculpture has been affectionately named the ‘Frump in the Stump’. A dryad is a tree nymph in Greek mythology. The Dryad keeps a watchful, protective eye on the new wood standing at the entrance. Continue past the Dryad on through the little kissing gate and a loop pathway will be waiting to lead you around the 14-acre wood, where a mix of approximately 12,000 native trees and 400 metres of hedging have been planted.
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The Well is an ancient site of pilgrimage with legends of Saint Patrick. The waters of the well are said to cure any ailment. Saint Patrick founded Ardtole Church which can be seen on the horizon. In the next field at low tide Saint Patrick's Road becomes visible. This was to be his route to the Isle of Man but when a red haired woman crossed his path he seen it as a bad omen and didn't make the journey.
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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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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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The impressive Strangford Stone that sits inside the Delamont Country Park in Northern Ireland holds the mighty title of the highest megalith stone in Europe! The stone stands at a whopping 12.5 metres tall and was assembles by 1000 people in 1999. It stands in an elevated position, boasting superb views over Strangford Lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mountains of Mourne
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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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Delamont Country Park is located on the shores of Strangford Lough in County Down, Northern Ireland. It covers an area of approximately 200 acres 2 km south of Killyleagh.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most prominent natural monuments to visit around Strangford Upper?
The region is rich in natural beauty. Key natural monuments include the vast Strangford Lough itself, a Marine Conservation Zone and Special Area of Conservation. Within its shores, you'll find Delamont Country Park, home to the impressive Strangford Stone, the tallest megalith in Ireland. Another significant site is St Patrick's Well, an ancient pilgrimage site with historical significance.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Strangford Lough?
Strangford Lough is an internationally important site for wildlife. It provides wintering grounds for thousands of migratory birds, including brent geese, curlews, and redshanks. You might also spot common and grey seals, basking sharks, and occasionally bottlenose dolphins and otters. The lough supports over 2,000 animal and plant species, many unique to the area.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments around Strangford Upper?
Yes, several natural monuments are ideal for families. Delamont Country Park is a beautiful 200-acre park offering a tranquil environment with plenty of space for children to explore, and it's home to the Strangford Stone. The wider Strangford Lough area also offers numerous coastal walks suitable for all ages.
What historical or cultural significance do these natural monuments hold?
The region is steeped in history. Strangford Stone, located in Delamont Country Park, is recognized as the tallest megalith in Ireland, assembled in 1999. St Patrick's Well is an ancient site of pilgrimage, associated with legends of Saint Patrick, where its waters are said to cure ailments. The entire Strangford Lough area has a rich heritage, with its geological formation dating back to the last ice age.
What outdoor activities can I do near the natural monuments?
The area around Strangford Upper offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy easy hikes like the Castle Ward Farm Trail or the Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop. For road cycling, routes like the Ballyhornan Beach – Strangford Stone loop are popular. Running enthusiasts can explore trails such as the Castle Ward Hoof Trail. Find more details on these activities in the easy hikes, road cycling routes, and running trails guides.
Are there good viewpoints to appreciate the natural beauty of Strangford Lough?
Yes, there are several excellent viewpoints. The Strangford Stone, situated in an elevated position within Delamont Country Park, offers superb views over Strangford Lough, Slieve Croob, and the Mountains of Mourne. Additionally, View of Castle Ward and Strangford & Lecale AONB provides another great perspective of the lough and its surrounding Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Strangford Upper?
The Strangford Lough area is beautiful year-round. For birdwatching, the winter months are excellent for observing migratory birds like brent geese. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for coastal walks, sailing, and kayaking. The parks and trails are accessible in most seasons, but always check local weather conditions before your visit.
What makes Strangford Lough unique as a natural monument?
Strangford Lough is unique as the largest sea lough in the British Isles, covering 150 km². It's almost entirely enclosed by the Ards Peninsula and is dotted with over seventy islands and numerous islets. Its status as a Marine Conservation Zone and Special Area of Conservation highlights its exceptional biodiversity, supporting a vast array of marine life and providing a crucial habitat for migratory birds.
Are there opportunities for birdwatching near Strangford Upper?
Absolutely. Strangford Lough is a prime location for birdwatching, especially during winter when thousands of wildfowl and waders, such as brent geese, curlews, and redshanks, migrate to the area. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, located on the banks of Strangford Lough, is also an excellent destination for observing a vast collection of ducks, geese, and swans in their natural wetland habitat.
What is the geological background of the Strangford Upper region?
The landscape of Strangford Upper, particularly the Strangford Lough and Lecale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a testament to its glacial past. Its distinctive drumlin hills and island landscapes were formed at the end of the last ice age. The entire area is part of the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark, reflecting its significant geological heritage.
Can I find woodland walks near the natural monuments?
Yes, in addition to coastal paths, the wider Strangford and Lecale AONB offers opportunities for woodland treks. While specific natural monuments might be more open, areas like Nugent's Wood and Killynether Wood provide diverse walking experiences amidst natural woodlands.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Strangford Upper?
Visitors consistently appreciate the peace, beauty, and tranquility offered by the natural monuments. Many highlight the stunning views over Strangford Lough from elevated points like the Strangford Stone. The opportunity for scenic coastal walks, observing diverse wildlife, and the family-friendly environment of places like Delamont Country Park are also frequently mentioned as highlights.
Most popular attractions around Strangford Upper
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