Top 6 Natural Monuments around Ardmeen
Best natural monuments around Ardmeen are primarily found within the wider County Donegal region, known for its diverse natural landscapes. While Ardmeen itself is a townland with Ardmeen Lough as a natural feature, the area is part of a region rich in geological formations and significant natural sites. The broader County Donegal offers a variety of natural monuments, including coastal cliffs, mountains, and national parks. These sites provide opportunities for outdoor exploration and observation of unique natural features.
Best natural…
Last updated: October 3, 2026
Strangford Stone
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Ballynoe Stone Circle
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Annadorn Dolmen
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Delamont Country Park
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
St Patrick's Well
Highlight • Historical Site
Saint Patrick founded Ardtole Church which …
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Ardmeen.
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Tips from the Community
This impressive stone circle, dating from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age, consists of over 50 upright stones enclosing a diameter of around 35 metres. Access is via a narrow hedge-lined path that takes you directly to the entrance of the circle
1
0
One of the best kept Circles I know of. The late Neolithic to earlier Bronze Age monument was excavated in 1937–1939 but its development and date are still not entirely clear. Excavation uncovered a slab feature with three compartments at the west end of the cairn, which could suggest the court tomb tradition, and a single stone cist at the east end which could point to the passage tomb tradition. Cremated remains representing at least seven individuals and some Neolithic pottery were found. Parallels for the outer stone circle with sites in Cumbria have been suggested.
1
0
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.
0
0
The Dolmen can be found on the north east shore of Loughinisland Lake, within sight of Loughinisland Church. A slightly displaced capstone covers a rectangular chamber of which three side stones survive. An early account suggests that this was formerly inside a large circular cairn and approached through a lintelled passage, so it may be the remains of a passage tomb. It is famous as the platform from which Thomas Russell addressed a crowd of United Irishmen in 1803, after the main 1798 rising.
0
0
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.
1
0
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.
1
0
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.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular natural monuments around Ardmeen?
While Ardmeen itself is a townland in County Donegal, the guide highlights several popular sites in the broader region. Visitors frequently appreciate the Strangford Stone, which is the tallest megalith in Ireland, and Delamont Country Park, a 200-acre park offering peace and tranquility on the shores of Strangford Lough. Another impressive site is Ballynoe Stone Circle, an ancient historical monument.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments near Ardmeen?
Yes, several sites are suitable for families. Delamont Country Park is explicitly listed as family-friendly, offering a great day out for all ages with its expansive grounds and activities. The Strangford Stone, located within Delamont Country Park, is also considered family-friendly, as is the historical Ballynoe Stone Circle.
What kind of historical or man-made monuments can I explore?
The region around Ardmeen is rich in historical and man-made monuments. You can visit the impressive Strangford Stone, the tallest megalith in Ireland, located in Delamont Country Park. Another significant site is the Ballynoe Stone Circle, an ancient monument dating from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age. Additionally, the Annadorn Dolmen, a prehistoric burial site, offers a glimpse into ancient history.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The area offers various outdoor activities. For road cycling, you can explore routes like the 'Downpatrick to Ballynahinch loop' or the 'Picnic Café – Daft Eddy's Coffee Shop loop'. If you prefer running, trails such as the 'Quoile River run' or routes around Castle Ward are available. For easy hikes, consider the 'Castle Ward Farm Trail' or the 'Delamont Long Walk'. You can find more details on these activities in the Road Cycling Routes around Ardmeen, Running Trails around Ardmeen, and Easy hikes around Ardmeen guides.
Are there hiking opportunities near the natural monuments?
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. For easy walks, you can explore the 'Castle Ward Farm Trail' (4.6 km) or the 'Delamont Long Walk' (5.2 km). Another option is the 'Strangford Stone – Delamont Country Park loop' (5.7 km), which allows you to see the famous megalith. These routes are detailed in the Easy hikes around Ardmeen guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in this region?
Visitors frequently highlight the peace, beauty, and tranquility offered by sites like Delamont Country Park, especially its location on the shores of Strangford Lough. The impressive scale of the Strangford Stone and the historical significance of the Ballynoe Stone Circle are also highly appreciated, with many noting the well-preserved nature of the ancient sites.
Are the natural monuments dog-friendly?
Yes, some of the sites are dog-friendly. Both the Ballynoe Stone Circle and the Annadorn Dolmen are listed as dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your canine companion along for exploration. Always ensure dogs are kept on a leash and follow local regulations.
What are the unique geological features in the wider County Donegal region?
While the specific highlights mentioned in this guide are primarily historical or park-based, the wider County Donegal region (where Ardmeen is located) is renowned for its dramatic natural geology. This includes the towering Slieve League Cliffs, among the highest sea cliffs in Europe, and the distinctive quartzite peak of Errigal Mountain, known for its striking outline and pink glow at sunset. Glenveagh National Park also features rugged mountains and pristine lakes.
Are there any viewpoints offering scenic vistas?
Yes, several locations offer excellent views. The Strangford Stone is situated in an elevated position within Delamont Country Park, providing superb views over Strangford Lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mountains of Mourne. Delamont Country Park itself, being on the shores of Strangford Lough, offers beautiful scenic vistas.
What is the terrain and difficulty like for trails near these monuments?
Many of the trails around the natural monuments, particularly within Delamont Country Park, are generally easy, such as the 'Delamont Long Walk'. The Ballynoe Stone Circle is accessible via a narrow path, and some routes like 'Castle Ward Farm Trail' are also easy. For more challenging options, some road cycling routes are rated 'moderate' or 'difficult', and running trails vary from 'easy' to 'moderate'.
Where can I find hidden natural gems in the broader region?
While the guide focuses on established sites, the wider County Donegal region is known for its hidden natural beauty. For more inspiration on lesser-known spots and unique natural features, you might explore resources like Donegal's hidden gems, which can lead you to discover more secluded natural wonders beyond the main attractions.
Most popular routes around Ardmeen
Most popular attractions around Ardmeen
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Ardmeen:
