Northern Ireland

Strangford Lough

A most beautiful landscape of international importance

Strangford, County Down

Opening times
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View over Strangford Lough from Mount Stewart, Northern Ireland

Map
Directions via Google Maps
By road
The A20 runs along the picturesque eastern shore of the lough between Newtownards and Portaferry, before continuing on to Ballyquintin at the very southern tip of the Ards Peninsula. The A22 runs between Comber and Downpatrick to the west of the lough
On foot
Walking routes the Ulster Way, Lecale Way and St Patrick's Way, all take in parts of the Lough. Most of the shoreline is accessible on foot and if you time the tides right, some of the islands can also be explored
By bus
Most of the towns and villages boardering the lough are served by Ulsterbus services. Service 10A takes you from Belfast along the picturesque Ards Pininsula on the East side of the lough terminating in Portaferry. Service 16E goes from Downpatrick to Strangford on the south west of the lough
Cycling
Sustrans National Cycle Network route 99 takes cyclists from Belfast to the Lough shores. The winding, rural coast roads around the lough are very popular with cyclists
By ferry
Strangford Lough can be approached by yacht from the Irish Sea. Mooring available at Portaferry marina. A public car and passenger ferry crosses the southern Narrows between Strangford and Portaferry every half hour. The National Trust runs wildlife watching boat trips during the summer

Opening times for 12 July 2025
Asset	Opening time
Strangford Lough	Dawn - Dusk

The beach in the village of Kearney, County Down, at night

Events at Strangford Lough and the Ards Peninsula

Find out what's on and plan your next adventure in County Down!

Worn steps winding up the side of a hill overlooking the coast at Orlock Point, County Down.

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Things to do at Strangford Lough and beyond

Explore the largest sea lough in the British Isles, home to a variety of rare wildlife. Head out for walk, discover the local towns and villages and soak up dramatic views.

A view over the water of Strangford Lough, County Down, towards a distant hill with a tower just visible on top of it.

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History of Strangford Lough

Strangford Lough is steeped in history spanning back thousands of years. Find out about the Mesolithic hunter gatherers, Vikings and Norman invaders who all left their mark here.

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Wildlife at Strangford Lough

Strangford Lough is one of only three Marine Nature Reserves in the UK and home to a huge variety of wildlife. Here’s what to look out for and where to explore on your next visit.