Downpatrick Gate Lodge

Downpatrick Gate Lodge is a secluded period cottage, built in the late 1700s. It sits beyond gothic, wrought-iron gates, on a quiet avenue on the Castle Ward estate; you’ll see the Ward arms on its western gable. There’s a woodburning stove in the sitting room, a view of the stars from the bed, and a roll-top bath for a relaxing soak. The cottage is surrounded by woodland and grazing land, with bay windows to take in the rolling views.

You’ll have free entry to explore the Castle Ward estate, which has 820 acres of woodland, miles of footpaths, an 18th-century mansion and formal gardens, all on the shores of Strangford Lough. Wander the grounds once other visitors have gone home for the day. The area is home to the Irish hare, pine marten and red squirrel, and look out for seals and terns as you explore to the water’s edge. Castle Ward is also well known as a filming location for Game of Thrones when the historic farmyard was transformed into ‘Winterfell’. In spring and summer 2025, you'll find an independently-run traditional Finnish sauna on the estate.

Layout

Ground floor: Tiny, decorative porch. Sitting room with log burner. Dining kitchen. Utility area.

First floor: Double bedroom. Dressing room. Bathroom with roll-top bath and free-standing shower.