Loughside walk at Castle Ward
Overlooking the south shores of Strangford Lough, Castle Ward is one of Northern Ireland’s finest demesnes, or country estates. At its heart lies an unusual Georgian mansion, but there's a lot more to discover. This walk explores the waterside, a ruined castle, woodland, an ornamental lake and follies. In winter, see a range of migrating birds and the resident seals.
Total steps: 6
Total steps: 6
Start point
Old Castle Ward farmyard, Castle Ward, Ballyculter Avenue, County Down, BT30 7LS. Grid ref: J573498.
Step 1
Start at the old farmyard. Note the Tower House, a fortified home built in 1610. It was the Castle Ward estate's main residence before the mansion was built. Follow the blue trail down towards the water and boathouse through a large stone gateway.
Step 2
The path leads along the waterfront, passing boathouses and small quays, before reaching Audley's Wood. Enjoy beautiful views across to Portaferry.
Step 3
At the edge of the wood, a path on the left takes you on a short detour up the 16th-century Audley's Castle. Climb to the top for a great panorama across the estate and Castle Ward Bay.
Step 4
Continue walking along the loughside then turn left away from the water and through Audley's Wood, home to badgers and lots of small birds.
Step 5
When the path exits the woodland, head right on a track, which soon leads to a gate in a stone wall. Emerge through this gate in to the parkland surrounding Temple Water. The temple itself is perched up on your right. You pass a Victorian walled garden, currently used to grow wild flowers.
Step 6
Follow the path away from the lake along a tree-lined avenue back to the farmyard. In summer, note the wildflower meadow on your left. A series of paths lead to the mansion house, woodland and playgrounds.
End point
Old Castle Ward farmyard, Castle Ward, Ballyculter Avenue, County Down, BT30 7LS. Grid ref: J573498.
Trail map
More near here
Castle Ward Hoof Trail
The Hoof Trail is a 7.5-mile route through woodland and along the shore of Strangford Lough with views of Audley's Castle and the Castle Ward Demesne.
Castle Ward Boundary Trail
A challenging eight-mile trail that takes in some of the best sights around Castle Ward, from Audley's Castle to the Deer Park.
Get in touch
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
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.
Walking in Northern Ireland
Step into Northern Ireland’s enchanting landscapes this Christmas season and feel the warmth of its festive welcome. Whether you’re strolling or hiking, iconic sites like the Giant's Causeway invite you to explore coastal paths glistening with winter’s charm, while ancient bogs whisper their tales along frost-touched boardwalks.
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.
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Outdoor activities
Searching for a new outdoor activity to try? Discover the best places in our care for outdoor activities, including off-road cycle tracks, walking trails and coastlines for water sports.
Staying safe at National Trust places
The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Learn about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor. Find out how they help us care for precious places and the exclusive discount available for National Trust supporters.