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House on the Kearney coast, Strangford Lough, Northern Ireland
Explore the windswept Kearney coast on this short walk | © National Trust/David Armstrong
Northern Ireland

Kearney coastal walk at Strangford Lough

Sitting on the southern tip of the famous Ards Peninsula, Kearney is a picturesque fishing village full of unspoilt, timeless character. On this short coastal walk from the village car park, look out for quaint, whitewashed cottages and an abundance of wildlife, from oystercatchers, rock pipits and shelducks, to winter waders and turnstones.

Take precautions

Waterproof and windproof clothing are essential, as the weather on the peninsula can be wild at times. Also take care when walking through the rocky shoreline areas. Though this is a short trail, you're advised to inform someone of your intended route before you leave.

Total steps: 9

Total steps: 9

Start point

Village car park, Kearney. Grid ref: J649517

Step 1

From the car park, walk through the stone wall and follow the path running south until you come to a traditional cast-iron gate.

Step 2

Walk through the gateway and continue along the grass path, passing blackthorn hedges.

Step 3

At the crossroads, follow the grass path to your right, passing through areas of dog rose and elderberry.

Step 4

Keep right, continuing through coastal grassland.

Step 5

Take in the beautiful views from the wooden bench, then turn left to walk along the shore.

Step 6

Continue along the shore.

Step 7

Stay right to continue along the shore path.

Step 8

At this point, you can loop back round through the village to the car park or continue straight ahead along the coastal path.

Step 9

When the path finishes, head back the way you came.

End point

Village car park, Kearney. Grid ref: J649517

Trail map

Ordnance Survey map of Kearney coastal walk, Strangford Lough, Northern Ireland
Map of the route | © Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey

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