Attractions and places to see around Whigamstown include a variety of historical sites, coastal features, and natural viewpoints. The region offers opportunities to explore ancient monuments, observe maritime landmarks, and enjoy scenic landscapes. Whigamstown is a destination where historical significance meets natural beauty, providing diverse points of interest for visitors.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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The vast coastline stretches out endlessly before you, and the panorama with the majestic Mourne Hills in the background creates a scene that is hard to put into words. The gentle waves touching the sand and the silence of the surroundings make you feel the vastness and freedom of this place.
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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
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This historic 12th century building is a typical example of an Anglo-Norman motte with a kidney-shaped bailey. The 7.6m high mound, which once housed a wooden tower, was later replaced by a stone tower house, the ruins of which can still be seen today. Access is via Clough's main road; there is a small car park, but it is not always well signposted. Access is usually permitted. The surrounding countryside, with views of the Mourne Mountains, offers a tranquil atmosphere that invites you to linger.
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The motte and bailey dates to c.1200 and is an excellent example of an Anglo-Norman earthwork castle. The taller mound, the motte, was built of earth to provide a look-out position and the central defence. Excavations at the top of the motte during the 1950s uncovered a wooden palisade which originally extended around the summit. When you climb the motte you realise what an important position the castle is in, over looking the routes east to Downpatrick, south to Dundrum and north to Belfast Lough. The views from the top of the motte west to Slieve Croob are particularly fine.
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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.
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Also known as Phennick Cove Marina, in Ardglass, County Down, one of three major fishing ports in Northern Ireland. Ardglass is now one of the safest small harbours on the east coast of Ireland, following improvements made in recent years.
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Wikipedia (Saint John's Point, County Down, 2022-09-25): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_John%27s_Point,_County_Down Tripadvisor (St. John's Point Lighthouse, 2022-09-25): https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g6913948-d12794915-Reviews-St_John_s_Point_Lighthouse-Killough_County_Down_Northern_Ireland.html Commissioners of Irish Lights (St John’s Point (Co Down), 2022-09-25): https://www.irishlights.ie/tourism/our-lighthouses/st-john%E2%80%99s-point-(down).aspx YouTube (Drone Video, RODPIKER DRONES UK, 2022-09-25): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5oF5yZPc_Q4
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Whigamstown is rich in history. You can visit the ancient Clough Castle Ruins, a 12th-century Anglo-Norman motte and bailey castle offering insights into the region's past. Another significant historical site is the Ballynoe Stone Circle, an impressive late Neolithic to early Bronze Age monument with over 50 upright stones.
Absolutely. The View of the Mourne Mountains from Strangford & Lecale Beach offers expansive coastal vistas, where you can see the majestic Mourne Hills across the bay from a fine sandy beach. Additionally, the St. John's Point Lighthouse (County Down) is not only a historical landmark but also provides scenic views of the coastline.
The area around Whigamstown is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for cycling, running, and hiking. For cycling, explore routes like the 'Saint John's Point loop' or 'Tyrella Beach to Annadorn Dolmen loop' which are part of the Cycling around Whigamstown guide. Hikers can enjoy trails such as the 'Lecale Way' or the 'Dundrum Coastal Path loop' from the Hiking around Whigamstown guide.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The View of the Mourne Mountains from Strangford & Lecale Beach is a great spot for a family outing, offering a sandy beach and beautiful views. Clough Castle Ruins and Ballynoe Stone Circle are also considered family-friendly historical sites where children can explore and learn.
Yes, some attractions are dog-friendly. Both Clough Castle Ruins and Ballynoe Stone Circle welcome dogs, allowing you to explore these historical sites with your canine companion. Always ensure your dog is kept on a leash and follow any local guidelines.
Ardglass Harbour, also known as Phennick Cove Marina, is one of the three major fishing ports in Northern Ireland. It's a good place to stop, refuel, and enjoy the atmosphere of a working fishing village. Recent improvements have made it one of the safest small harbours on the east coast of Ireland.
Yes, there are several easy hiking options. The 'Lecale Way' is a short and easy trail, and the 'Dundrum Coastal Path loop from Clough' is another accessible option. You can find more details and other easy routes in the Hiking around Whigamstown guide.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The vast coastline and panoramic views, especially from the Strangford & Lecale Beach, are often highlighted for their tranquility and freedom. The well-preserved historical sites like Ballynoe Stone Circle are also highly regarded for their impressive nature.
Yes, there are dedicated running trails. You can explore routes like the 'Quoile River run' or the 'Running loop from Ardglass'. These and other options are detailed in the Running Trails around Whigamstown guide.
The region around Whigamstown offers diverse natural landscapes, from fine sandy beaches with views of the Mourne Mountains to coastal areas surrounding maritime landmarks like St. John's Point Lighthouse. You'll encounter scenic coastal paths and the tranquil settings of ancient monuments like the Ballynoe Stone Circle.
For Clough Castle Ruins, there is a small car park, though it may not always be well signposted. For other attractions like Ardglass Harbour, parking is generally available within the village. It's always a good idea to check local signage upon arrival.


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