Exploring the estate at Castle Ward

A woman walking down Lime Tree Walk at Castle Ward — With 826 acres to explore, there's something new at every turn! | © James Beck

If you’re craving some fresh winter air, come explore over 34km of trails at Castle Ward. Enjoy the crisp, cool views as you breathe in the quiet stillness of the season. Wander through the frosty woodland paths to the water’s edge, keeping an eye out for seals and terns, and take in the stark beauty of the landscape as winter casts a serene and peaceful ambiance across the estate.

Winter Walks

With acres of woodland, meadows, and shoreline, Castle Ward is the perfect spot for a scenic winter walk. Explore miles of trails with six distinct routes—why not visit them all this season?

Enjoy the crisp air while taking in stunning coastal views along the Shore Trail, or find shelter in the evergreen trees of Mountain Wood. The Boundary Trail offers a peaceful woodland experience perfect for the season. Dogs on leads are welcome, and downloadable maps and step-by-step guides are available for each walk. Embrace the serene winter beauty at Castle Ward!

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.

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.

The Starks during Game of Thrones filming at Castle Ward — Explore Westeros at Castle Ward! | © Helen Sloan/ HBO

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.

Plan your visit

Couple walking with their dog and baby at Castle Ward.

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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 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

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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.

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Eating and shopping at Castle Ward

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

Man and woman in warm clothing walking along footpath covered with leaves, with autumn foliage all around

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.

Visitor crossing water via stepping stones with their dog on an autumnal walk at Wallington

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.

Slieve Donard, Mourne Mountains, County Down, Northern Ireland

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.