Attractions and Places To See around Ballystrew - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Ballystrew encompass a range of historical sites, natural monuments, and coastal features. This region offers 20 hidden gems for exploration, including options for easy walking trails and family friendly walks. Visitors can discover diverse landscapes from lough shores to elevated viewpoints, providing opportunities for various outdoor activities.
Best attractions and places to see around Ballystrew
- The most popular attractions is St. John's Point Lighthouse (County Down), a man-made monument that serves as…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
St. John's Point Lighthouse (County Down)
Highlight • Monument
en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_John%27s_Point,_County_Down
Tripadvisor (St. John's Point Lighthouse, 2022-09-25):
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):
irishlights.ie/tourism/our-lighthouses/st-john%E2%80%99s-point-(down).aspx
YouTube (Drone Video, RODPIKER DRONES UK, 2022-09-25):
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Strangford Stone
Highlight • Monument
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Ardglass Harbour
Highlight • Structure
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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Clough Castle Ruins
Highlight • Castle
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Dundrum Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
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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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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 beautiful Dundrum Castle is located on a hilltop near Dundrum village. Its elevated position provides fantastic panoramic views across Dundrum, the Carrigs Estuary, the Mourne Mountain range and out to the Irish Sea. The castle itself was constructed by John de Courcy at the beginning of the 13th century. It's a fine example of a historic medieval castle of its time.
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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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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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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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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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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there easy walking trails or family-friendly walks near Ballystrew attractions?
Yes, Ballystrew offers several easy and family-friendly walking options. For example, you can explore the 200-acre Country Park around Strangford Stone, which is situated on the shores of Strangford Lough. Additionally, komoot features a guide for Easy hikes around Ballystrew, including routes like the Delamont Long Walk and the Dundrum Coastal Path loop.
What historical sites can I visit around Ballystrew?
Ballystrew is rich in history. You can visit Dundrum Castle, a 13th-century Norman castle offering panoramic views. Another significant historical site is Clough Castle Ruins, an excellent example of an Anglo-Norman motte and bailey castle from around 1200.
Are there any dog-friendly attractions or trails in the Ballystrew area?
Yes, Clough Castle Ruins is listed as a dog-friendly historical site where you can explore the motte and bailey. When visiting other outdoor areas, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead and check local regulations.
Where can I find natural monuments or scenic viewpoints in Ballystrew?
For natural beauty and viewpoints, head to St. John's Point Lighthouse (County Down), which offers stunning coastal views. Strangford Stone, a megalith located within a 200-acre Country Park on the shores of Strangford Lough, is another natural monument with beautiful surroundings.
What outdoor activities, besides hiking, can I do near Ballystrew attractions?
Beyond hiking, you can enjoy running and cycling. Komoot offers guides such as Running Trails around Ballystrew, featuring routes like the Quoile River run. For cyclists, there's Cycling around Ballystrew, with routes like the Saint John's Point loop.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments near the attractions?
Yes, near Strangford Stone in Delamont Country Park, you'll find Steamers Coffee Shop, which offers a variety of refreshments, including full breakfast and lunch menus. Ardglass Harbour is also a good spot to stop for ice cream and refuel.
What is the best time to visit Ballystrew attractions?
The Ballystrew area, with its coastal and outdoor attractions, is generally pleasant to visit during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September), when the weather is milder and more conducive for outdoor activities. However, historical sites like Dundrum Castle can be visited year-round.
Can I spot wildlife around Ballystrew?
Yes, the area around Strangford Lough, particularly near Strangford Stone in Delamont Country Park, is known for its natural beauty and is an excellent spot for nature lovers and wildlife spotting, especially birds.
What kind of views can I expect from the attractions?
Many attractions in Ballystrew offer spectacular views. From Dundrum Castle, you can enjoy panoramic views across Dundrum, the Carrigs Estuary, and the Mourne Mountain range. St. John's Point Lighthouse (County Down) provides expansive coastal vistas, and Clough Castle Ruins offers views towards Downpatrick, Dundrum, Belfast Lough, and Slieve Croob.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known outdoor spots in Ballystrew?
While the main attractions are well-loved, exploring the smaller coastal villages like Ardglass, with its historic Ardglass Harbour, can offer a charming, less-crowded experience. The various loop trails and easy hikes listed in komoot's guides also lead to many serene and beautiful spots off the main tourist path.
Is parking available at Ballystrew attractions?
Parking availability varies by attraction. For instance, Clough Castle Ruins has a small car park. For other locations, especially in rural areas, roadside parking might be available, but it's always advisable to check specific location details or local signage upon arrival.
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Most popular attractions around Ballystrew
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