![Family spotting squirrels at the hide](http://nt.global.ssl.fastly.net/binaries/content/gallery/website/national/regions/northern-ireland/places/mount-stewart/library/family-spotting-squirrels-at-the-hide-1458518.jpg?auto=webp&width=767&crop=16:9&dpr=2 2x)
Mount Stewart red squirrel trail
This wildlife trail takes in the path around the lake, formal and informal gardens and the woodlands at Mount Stewart. Look out for red squirrels on the route up to Rhododendron Hill, which has become a haven for these shy creatures. You'll also spot swans on the lake and see some of the unique features added to the estate by Lady Londonderry.
Total steps: 7
Total steps: 7
Start point
Reception area at Mount Stewart, OSNI grid ref: J553695
Step 1
Start at Mount Stewart reception and make your way to the front of the house via the courtyard.
Step 2
Make your way through the gate into the formal gardens, pass the Sunk Garden and use the stone steps to make your way down into the Italian Garden. Walk straight ahead towards the black and gold metal gate which brings you into the Lily Wood.
![National Trust Images / Andrew Butler](http://nt.global.ssl.fastly.net/binaries/content/gallery/website/national/regions/northern-ireland/places/mount-stewart/library/step-2-italian-garden-mount-stewart-n-ireland-1158441.jpg?auto=webp&width=684&dpr=2 2x)
Step 3
Make your way through the Lily Wood until you reach the path. Follow the path towards the lake.
Step 4
Follow the path around the lake.
![Swan and cygnets sitting on their nest at Mount Stewart in County Down, Northern Ireland.](http://nt.global.ssl.fastly.net/binaries/content/gallery/website/national/regions/northern-ireland/places/mount-stewart/library/step-4-swans-and-cygnets-mount-stewart-n-ireland.jpg?auto=webp&width=684&dpr=2 2x)
Step 5
Make your way towards Tìr nan Òg, the family's burial ground high up on the hill.
Step 6
Continue around the path until you reach Broadley's woodland.
Step 7
Continue on the path around the lake towards Mount Stewart house or take an alternative route through Rhododendron Hill. Finish your walk by returning to the front of Mount Stewart house.
End point
Reception area at Mount Stewart, OSNI grid ref: J553695
Trail map
More near here
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Mount Stewart winter walk
Treat yourself to a gentle winter stroll around the world-class gardens and lake at Mount Stewart, with a wide variety of flora and fauna and unique views of the house to enjoy.
Mount Stewart Red Trail
Explore Mount Stewart's demesne woodlands and farmland on this circular trail with an abundance of wildlife and interesting features to spot along the route.
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Mount Stewart lake walk
No matter what time of the year you visit, a walk around the lake at Mount Stewart provides plenty of wonderful photo opportunities.
Get in touch
Our partners
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We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
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