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The lake in the garden at Mount Stewart, County Down, Northern Ireland
The lake in the garden at Mount Stewart, County Down | © National Trust Images/David Armstrong
Northern Ireland

Mount Stewart lake walk

Mount Stewart in County Down is one of the most unique and unusual gardens managed by the National Trust, enjoying the mild climate of the Ards Peninsula. This circular walk takes in the majestic views around the lake.

Total steps: 6

Total steps: 6

Start point

Reception area, Mount Stewart. Grid ref: NW671233

Step 1

From the reception area, walk along the wide, gravelled path to the north front of the mansion, then head left around the seven-acre lake. The banks are planted with primulas, irises and other water-loving plants, as well as gunneras, known for their large leaves.

Step 2

You'll pass the private burial ground known as Tir N’an Òg, which translates as Land of the Ever Young. On the slopes of the hill, there are paths and steps running through a variety of shrubs and plants that favour a hotter climate. Take the time to explore them before returning to the original trail path.

Tir N'An Og, Mount Stewart, County Down, Northern Ireland
Tir N'An Og | © National Trust

Step 3

At this point, you can either follow the lakeside grass path known as the Rock Walk, or the gravel path alongside Jubilee Avenue.

Step 4

No matter which of the two paths you chose to take in step 3, you'll end up at a little stone bridge over a stream. Crossing this will bring you to the Ladies’ Walk.

Step 5

To the left rises Rhododendron Hill – once you've explored it, return to the main trail route. Follow it past the lake, under the great cork oak and back to the front of the mansion house.

Rhodendron at Mount Stewart, County Down
Enjoy the sweet smell of rhododendrons | © National Trust

Step 6

If you want to finish your walk off the beaten path, follow the Himalayan Walk to Clark's Hill, where you can wander among some of the plants brought back by renowned collectors Forrest, Rock and Kingdon-Ward.

End point

Reception area, Mount Stewart. Grid ref: NW671233

Trail map

Ordnance Survey map of Mount Stewart walking route, Northern Ireland
A map of the Mount Stewart lake walk | © Land and Property Services permit no 120099, Crown Copyright 2012

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Get in touch

Portaferry Road, Newtownards, County Down, BT22 2AD

Our partners

Cotswold Outdoor

We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.

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