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Exploring the estate at Castle Ward

An adult and two children are walking a dog at at Strangford Lough, County Down. They're standing on a raised wall above the lough and there are rolling yellow crop fields in the background.
Visitors walking their dog at at Strangford Lough | © National Trust Images/John Miller

If you're looking for fresh air and open space, explore over 34km of trails at Castle Ward. Wander through woodland paths to the water’s edge, keep an eye out for wildlife, and take in the ever-changing beauty of the landscape.

Which trails are open?

Almost all the trails at Castle Ward have re-opened after storm damage. The "deer park" area between points 23 and 24 on the map remain closed March to September due to grazing cattle and alternative routes will be signposted.

Summer Walks

With acres of woodland, meadows, and shoreline, Castle Ward is the perfect place for a scenic walk. Explore miles of trails with six distinct routes, each offering a unique way to experience the estate.

Take in stunning coastal views along the Shore Trail or wander through the sheltered paths of Mountain Wood. The Boundary Trail offers a peaceful woodland escape, perfect for a quiet stroll. Dogs on leads are welcome, and downloadable maps and step-by-step guides are available for each walk. Plan your next adventure at Castle Ward!

Download the trails map to find out more.

Who can use the trails?

The trails at Castle Ward are multi-use, meaning that walkers, wheelchair users, cyclists, horse riders and dogs can all enjoy the scenic paths. With tracks to suit all abilities, the routes are perfect for little legs and older ones too.

 

Trails to Explore at Castle Ward

Boundary Trail
13km, circular - this trail encompasses the entire estate traversing a range of terrains and is perfect for cycling.Boundary Trail
Shore Trail
2km, linear - a flat walk along the shore line to the base of Audley's Castle.Shore Trail
Hoof Trail
12km, circular (horses clockwise) - A wide path encompassing the estate on varied terrains.Hoof Trail
Castle Trail
3km, circular - a loop around Audley's castle along the shore line - look out for seals!Castle Trail
Farm Trail
4km, circular - A looped trail via Temple Water and passing the Standing Stone.Farm Trail
The Starks during Game of Thrones filming at Castle Ward
Explore Westeros at Castle Ward! | © Helen Sloan/ HBO

Game of Thrones filming locations at Castle Ward

Step into a fantasy world of castles and dragons as you explore the enchanting farmyard and lough shore at Castle Ward. Renowned for its role as a key filming location in the first series of Game of Thrones, the historic farmyard was transformed into 'Winterfell,' the ancestral seat of the Stark family.

As you wander the grounds, you'll encounter the Whispering Wood, where pivotal scenes were filmed, including Robb Stark’s Camp, the intense Baelor battle, and Brienne's dramatic confrontation with the Stark men. Immerse yourself in the magic of the series and discover the real-life settings behind your favourite scenes. Enjoy the autumn colours and dramatic landscapes that make this historic site a must-visit for fans and nature lovers alike.

 

 

Two members of National Trust staff looking up and discussing the ornate plaster ceiling in the Gothic Boudoir at Castle Ward, County Down

Discover more at Castle Ward

Find out when Castle Ward is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

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Visiting Castle Ward with your dog 

Castle Ward is a three pawprint rated place. Discover Castle Ward with your dog. With miles of trails to explore there's plenty of space for them to bound, sniff, jump and splash.

A family  of three walking their dog in the grounds of Castle Ward, County Down, with the Classical front of the house in the background.

History of Castle Ward 

Unique and unusual, this eccentric 18th-century house is famed for having been built with two completely different architectural styles, both inside and out. Find out why.

A small girl with a man in c18th costume, he is pointing out something to her with a cane, in front of the house at Castle Ward

Eating and shopping at Castle Ward 

Tuck into a delightful menu and treat yourself or someone special in the shops. Watch artists in action or pick up a Game of Thrones memento.

Family ordering in Tea-Room

Countryside and woodland 

Plan a visit to one of the special countryside places in our care and discover the benefits of being in the great outdoors. Pack your walking boots and get ready to explore woodlands, valleys and rivers.

A family and their dog walking through the woodlands at Great Wood

Walking 

Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.

Visitors walking in the parkland at Lyme Park, Cheshire

Countryside areas in Northern Ireland 

Whether you're looking for a heart-raising hike up Northern Ireland's highest mountain or a ramble by the river at The Argory, there are many countryside and woodland places to experience in Northern Ireland. Enjoy woodland respite at Minnowburn with the forest bathing beds or escape to the wild landscape of County Fermanagh with the countryside adventures at Florence Court, Castle Coole and Crom.

A view across water to the Mourne Mountains in the distance surrounded by foothills and trees