Multi-use trails at Castle Ward

A family of four cycling along the loughside trail at Castle Ward, County Down — A family cycling on the loughside trail at Castle Ward, County Down | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

With 21 miles of trails criss-crossing the Castle Ward estate, there are plenty of ways to see more of the landscape around the mansion. Whether you’re walking, using a wheelchair, cycling or horse riding, explore the multi-use trails at Castle Ward to discover more of the estate.

What can I see?

Follow the network of trails to take a trip to Strangford Lough and meander through the sheltered woodland and rolling meadows down to the shoreline.

Download the trails map to plan your adventure.

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.

Safety on the trails

Because people enjoying the trails will be moving at different speeds, there are some simple rules to follow to keep everyone safe:

Follow the waymarkers showing the direction of travel according to how you’re exploring.
Cyclists and walkers travel anti-clockwise on the trails, while horse riders travel in a clockwise direction.
There are designated 'slow zones' where trails meet. Please keep your speed low and be aware there could be a range of other trail users.
When you’re passing other people, keep to the left if possible.
If a trail is closed for livestock grazing, follow the diversion in place.

Visitors exploring the shore of Strangford Lough, County Down, Northern Ireland — Visitors walking the trail alongside Strangford Lough | © ational Trust Images/John Miller

Cyclists and horse-riders

Visitors on bikes or on horseback should take extra care on the Shore Trail, which is all a slow zone and will have families exploring the Secret Shore Nature Trail.