Nugent's Wood walk at Strangford Lough
Enjoy a short walk through wonderful mixed woodland at Nugent's Wood in Portaferry. Look out for red squirrels and, in the spring, bluebells, lesser celandines and cowslips.
Total steps: 7
Total steps: 7
Start point
The kissing gate behind the stone wall at the end of the row of houses. OSNI grid ref: J59129 50867
Step 1
From the kissing gate, head towards the entrance to Nugent's Wood (marked by the colourful bluebell carving).
Step 2
Walk along the grass path, taking in the views across the lough to Castle Ward Bay, until you come to the squirrel sculpture.
Step 3
Continue along the path, passing a traditional wrought-iron gate (recently restored by National Trust rangers and volunteers), until you come to a set of steps on your right.
Step 4
Take the steps up into the woodland.
Step 5
Follow the path under oak and beech trees, keeping an eye out for some great bracket fungus growing on the trunks.
Step 6
Eventually, you'll arrive at some steps. At the bottom is a bench where you can catch your breath while enjoying the tranquil sounds of nature.
Step 7
Rejoin the original path and follow it back to the starting point.
End point
The kissing gate behind the stone wall at the end of the row of houses. OSNI grid ref: J59129 50867
Trail map
More near here
Kearney coastal walk at Strangford Lough
On this short coastal walk from Kearney, look out for quaint, whitewashed cottages and an abundance of wildlife.
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
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.
Walking in Northern Ireland
Step into the beauty of Northern Ireland’s legendary landscapes this autumn and enjoy the warmth of the season’s welcome. From the golden sands of Portstewart Strand to the peaceful, leaf-strewn woodland trails at Florence Court, our walking routes offer something for everyone. Whether you’re strolling or hiking, iconic sites like the Giant's Causeway invite you to explore coastal paths lined with autumn’s rich hues, while ancient bogs share their stories along winding boardwalks. This autumn, let the trails through our cared-for places lead you on a journey through vibrant colours, crisp air, and the rich heritage of Northern Ireland.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Find out more about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor as our exclusive walking partner.
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.
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.
Wildlife at Strangford Lough
Strangford Lough is one of only three Marine Nature Reserves in the UK and home to a huge variety of wildlife. Here’s what to look out for and where to explore on your next visit.
Things to do at Strangford Lough and beyond
Explore the largest sea lough in the British Isles, home to a variety of rare wildlife. Head out for walk, discover the local towns and villages and soak up dramatic views.
Our work at Strangford Lough
Discover some of the important conservation work that takes place at Strangford Lough to protect it for future generations.