Castle Ward Gamekeeper's Lodge

• A classic cottage with a woodburner in the sitting room and a large, secluded garden  

• By Castle Ward’s mansion, trails and lough

• Walk or cycle to vibrant Strangford village for places to eat and drink 

Castle Ward Gamekeeper’s Lodge is surrounded by woodland and meadow in a tucked-away part of the Castle Ward estate. The lodge has distinctive stone details and a porch that catches the sun. You’ll see original features inside too – including ornamental brass gas lamps and the gamekeeper’s gun cupboard. 

One of the many trails that criss-cross the estate passes the cottage, so you can explore it all on foot looking out for red squirrels and other wildlife. There are trails for every level of walking, and it’s also a great place to bring or hire bikes. You could bring a kayak or canoe to launch onto Strangford Lough, to explore its many islands and spot seals and sea birds.  

Castle Ward was once known for its eccentric owners and unusual mansion house, and you’ll have free entry here and at all other National Trust places during your stay. There’s also its clock tower and historic farmyard, now famous as Winterfell in Game of Thrones. The area is steeped in history, with Mesolithic hunter gathers, Vikings and Norman invaders all leaving their mark.  

Strangford village, a 10-minute bike ride away, has lots of family-friendly pubs and restaurants. You can catch the ferry from there to Portaferry for sandy beaches and to visit Mount Stewart with its celebrated gardens. The surrounding countryside and villages have antiques, galleries and cafés. 

You'll find another two holiday cottages - The Potter's Cottage (sleeps four) and Downpatrick's Gate Lodge (sleeps two) - and Castle Ward Caravan Park with pitches and pods on the estate.