Discover more at Castle Ward
Find out when Castle Ward is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Things to do in Castle Ward house
Castle Ward is famed as a house of contrasts both inside and out. One side is Gothic, one side is classical Palladian – allegedly all because of a marital disagreement – but is that the whole story about this eccentric 18th-century house overlooking Strangford Lough? Wander through the Georgian rooms to see the historic interiors and collection, and uncover the stories of the people who lived and worked here.
House Tours
Guided House Tours have recommenced, and will run into Spring. Visit Castle Ward for your house tour today!
Go on a self-guided audio tour of the house (Weekends only)
Take a self-guided audio tour of the mansion house to discover the story behind the unusual architecture, see the Georgian interiors and uncover the stories of the people who lived and worked here.
You'll see some of the more unusual items in the collection like the stuffed Kodiak bear which is named after one of Lord Bangor's daughters, the boxing squirrels and the large Gothic wardrobe.
In the dining room, look out for the intricately carved panel depicting Demeter, the goddess of agriculture and harvests. Demeter is surrounded by four putti, who symbolise the celebration of a good harvest and the abundance of the first fruits of the season. It's a beautiful reminder that the Ward family relied on a good harvest so that they could provide a table of plenty for themselves and their guests.
See the servants' quarters below stairs
At its peak, Castle Ward estate would have employed around 40 staff to keep the house and grounds running through its 200-year history. From the laundry maids and boot boys to the butler and the scullery maids, everyone had their own job and learnt the hierarchy of life in service.
Explore the laundry at your own leisure and learn about the inner workings and the activities undertaken by the staff and servants who worked there.
Please note that the dairy and the servants' quarters are currently closed to visitors while they undergo important conservation works.
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History of Castle Ward
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Things to do in the garden at Castle Ward
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Houses and buildings
Historic buildings are a treasure trove of stories, art and collections. Learn more about their past and plan your next visit.
Houses and buildings in Northern Ireland
Whether built through a martial disagreement, family rivalry or even a quirky stipulation in a will, each of the houses and buildings in our care has its own unique story to share. From Castle Coole, one of the greatest Neo-classical country houses in Ireland, to The Crown Bar, a masterpiece in pub architecture, intriguing items and fascinating finds speak of centuries ceased and capture a snapshot in time.
Project
Project
The Portrait of Lady Ann Bligh: A Conservation Journey
The portrait of Lady Ann Bligh is the only known depiction of this rather elusive 18th-century doyenne of Castle Ward, making it an invaluable addition to the house collection. Ann, the wife of Bernard, 1st Viscount Bangor (1719–1781), is likely to have been closely involved in the project to design Castle Ward’s distinctive house and its landscape setting in the 1760s. While portraits of her husband and three of her children have long been on view in the house, Lady Ann herself has been absent until now. This newly-acquired painting offers fresh insight into women’s history at Castle Ward, enriching our understanding of a woman whose contributions to the place have been marginalised over the past 250 years. To ensure its preservation, the painting and its frame have undergone a programme of conservation at the National Trust’s Royal Oak Foundation Conservation Studio, located at Knole House, Sevenoaks. This meticulous work allows for full appreciation and safe display of the portrait, bringing Lady Ann’s story to life for visitors. Her arrival at Castle Ward marks a momentous occasion, reconnecting the house with one of its most significant characters.