Discover the Natural Wonders of Ballyhenry Island
Explore Ballyhenry Island, a serene National Trust site in Strangford Lough, showcasing breathtaking scenery and vibrant wildlife for nature lovers.
Ballyhenry Island, a stunning National Trust site nestled in Strangford Lough, offers visitors breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and a serene atmosphere. Ideal for nature lovers and adventurers alike, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination for tourists exploring the beauty of Northern Ireland.
A brief summary to Ballyhenry Island (National Trust)
- 3-21 Lough Shore Rd, Newtownards, BT22 1PD, GB
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the island is home to various species.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to enjoy the island’s trails.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the scenic spots around the island.
- Check the tide times before visiting, as some areas may be less accessible during high tide.
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
Getting There
-
Car
From Belfast, take the A20 road towards Newtownards. Continue on the A20 for approximately 12 miles until you reach Newtownards. Once in Newtownards, follow the signs for Strangford Lough and Lough Shore Road. Ballyhenry Island is located at 3-21 Lough Shore Rd, Newtownards BT22 1PD. There is parking available nearby, but please check for any parking fees that may apply.
-
Public Transportation
From Belfast, take the Metro bus service 10A towards Newtownards. The journey takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Newtownards bus station, transfer to the Ulsterbus service 15 towards Portaferry. Get off at the stop on Lough Shore Road. Ballyhenry Island is a short walk from the bus stop (approximately 10 minutes). Ensure you have the exact fare or a travel card, as services may not provide change.
-
Ferry (if coming from Portaferry)
If you are in Portaferry, you can take the ferry to Strangford, which is a scenic route. The ferry crosses Strangford Lough and takes about 10 minutes. After arriving in Strangford, you will need to drive or take a taxi to Newtownards. Ballyhenry Island is located at 3-21 Lough Shore Rd, Newtownards BT22 1PD. Please check the ferry schedule for operating times and ticket prices.
Discover more about Ballyhenry Island (National Trust)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Slieve Croob
26.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Slieve Croob, a must-visit mountain peak in County Down with stunning views and scenic trails.
Kingdom of Mourne Tours
27.8 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of Northern Ireland's Mourne Mountains with Kingdom of Mourne Tours, an unforgettable adventure awaits.
Stormont Estate
28.2 km
Experience the beauty and history of Stormont Estate, a heritage site in Belfast, featuring stunning architecture and expansive gardens.
The Peace Maze
28.8 km
Explore The Peace Maze in Castlewellan: A serene park and intricate labyrinth symbolizing peace and unity amidst stunning natural beauty.
Castlewellan Forest Park
29.0 km
Explore the serene landscapes and vibrant flora of Castlewellan Forest Park, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Northern Ireland.
Tollymore Forest Park
30.3 km
Explore the stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and outdoor adventures at Tollymore Forest Park, a natural gem in Northern Ireland.
CS Lewis Statue - The Searcher
30.5 km
Explore the CS Lewis Statue - The Searcher in Belfast, a tribute to literary genius and a serene spot for reflection and inspiration.
McKee Clock
30.6 km
Discover the historic McKee Clock in Bangor, a beautiful monument showcasing the town's rich maritime heritage and architectural elegance.
Titanic Mural/ Мурал На Стене,Титаник
30.9 km
Explore the Titanic Mural in Belfast, where art meets history, reflecting the city's rich maritime legacy and the iconic RMS Titanic.
Mourne Coastal Trail
31.2 km
Explore the stunning Mourne Coastal Trail for breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and a unique hiking experience in Northern Ireland's natural beauty.
Botanic Gardens
31.2 km
Experience the beauty of Belfast's Botanic Gardens, a serene haven filled with exotic plants and cultural events, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Ulster Museum
31.4 km
Explore the Ulster Museum: A cultural hub in Belfast showcasing art, history, and natural sciences amid the stunning Botanic Gardens.
The Palm House
31.4 km
Discover Belfast's Palm House, a stunning Victorian glasshouse filled with exotic plants and a serene escape into nature's beauty.
Lord Kelvin Statue
31.5 km
Visit the Lord Kelvin Statue in Belfast, a historic landmark celebrating the legacy of one of the greatest physicists in history amidst serene surroundings.
National Museums NI
31.7 km
Discover the cultural treasures of Northern Ireland at National Museums NI, a captivating museum nestled in the scenic surroundings of Cultra, Holywood.
Unmissable attractions to see
Portaferry Castle
2.1 km
Experience the rich history and breathtaking views at Portaferry Castle, a stunning landmark in Northern Ireland, perfect for all history enthusiasts.
Portaferry Marina
2.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Portaferry Marina, a serene getaway for tourists seeking adventure and tranquility in Northern Ireland.
Winterfell Castle & Demesne
2.3 km
Experience the allure of Winterfell Castle & Demesne, where history meets breathtaking landscapes in a captivating tourist attraction.
The Studio at Castle Ward
2.4 km
Discover unique artistic handicrafts in a serene setting at The Studio at Castle Ward, where creativity meets history in breathtaking surroundings.
Strangford Castle
2.7 km
Discover the enchanting Strangford Castle, a historical landmark with stunning architecture and breathtaking views in Northern Ireland.
Portaferry Windmill
2.8 km
Discover the enchanting Portaferry Windmill, a historic landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into the agricultural heritage of Northern Ireland.
Castle Ward Bunkhouse
2.9 km
Experience the rich heritage and stunning landscapes at Castle Ward Bunkhouse, a hidden gem in Northern Ireland's National Trust estate.
National Trust - Castle Ward
2.9 km
Discover Castle Ward: An enchanting historical landmark with scenic gardens and rich heritage in Northern Ireland, perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Strangford Bay Alpacas
3.1 km
Discover the enchanting world of alpacas at Strangford Bay, a delightful tourist attraction in Downpatrick offering unforgettable animal encounters.
Strangford and Lecale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
4.5 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Strangford and Lecale, a premier Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Northern Ireland.
Killyleagh Parish
5.0 km
Explore Killyleagh Parish: A serene blend of historical charm and breathtaking landscapes in Northern Ireland.
Killyleagh Castle Towers
5.2 km
Explore Killyleagh Castle Towers, a medieval masterpiece in Northern Ireland, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich history.
Strangford Stone
6.6 km
Experience the serene charm of Strangford Stone, a tranquil park in Downpatrick, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Delamont Country Park
6.7 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and family-friendly amenities of Delamont Country Park, a serene escape in Killyleagh, Northern Ireland.
St Patrick's National Monument
7.3 km
Explore the spiritual heart of Ireland at St Patrick's National Monument, a serene site celebrating the legacy of St. Patrick in beautiful Downpatrick.
Essential places to dine
The Auld House
22.7 km
Discover The Auld House in Moneyreagh – where traditional Irish cuisine meets friendly service in a cozy pub setting.
Mourne Seafood Bar
23.0 km
Experience the freshest seafood at Mourne Seafood Bar in Dundrum, where coastal charm meets culinary excellence.
The Maghera Inn.
27.0 km
Savor traditional flavors in a cozy setting at The Maghera Inn - where great food meets warm hospitality in Castlewellan.
The Yard Restaurant
28.2 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine in Castlewellan at The Yard Restaurant - where tradition meets taste.
J.J. Farrall’s
28.2 km
Experience the best of local cuisine at J.J. Farrall’s in Newcastle, where every dish tells a story and every visit feels like home.
The Percy French
28.4 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Percy French in Newcastle - where traditional flavors meet vibrant pub culture.
Brunel's Restaurant
28.5 km
Experience modern European cuisine at Brunel's Restaurant in Newcastle - where local flavors meet innovative dining.
Villa Vinci
28.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Villa Vinci in Newcastle - where each dish celebrates the rich flavors of Italy.
Graphite
28.7 km
Experience culinary excellence at Graphite in Newcastle - where fresh local ingredients meet exceptional dining.
Great Jones
28.7 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine at Great Jones in Newcastle, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Quinns Bar
28.7 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Quinns Bar in Newcastle with delightful cuisine and an extensive drink selection.
Members Dining Room Stormont Castle
28.8 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine in an elegant setting at Members Dining Room within historic Stormont Castle, Belfast.
Olivers Restaurant
28.9 km
Discover the essence of modern European cuisine at Olivers Restaurant in Belfast – where local flavors meet exquisite dining experiences.
The Oak Restaurant
29.1 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at The Oak Restaurant in Newcastle – where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Mariner Bar & Restaurant
29.2 km
Discover delicious grill cuisine with stunning coastal views at The Mariner Bar & Restaurant in Newcastle.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Barn Owl Boutique
18.3 km
Discover unique gifts and fashionable finds at Barn Owl Boutique in Saintfield, where local artistry meets exceptional shopping.
Ards Shopping Centre
23.9 km
Experience shopping and dining at Ards Shopping Centre in Newtownards, where variety meets convenience in a friendly atmosphere.
Blue Beans Gift and Craft shop
28.3 km
Explore the Artisan Wonders of Blue Beans Gift and Craft Shop in Castlewellan for Unique Jewelry, Pottery, and Local Crafts.
Forestside Shopping Centre
28.7 km
Experience the best of Belfast shopping at Forestside Shopping Centre - a vibrant hub for fashion, dining, and family-friendly fun.
The Bonbon
28.9 km
Explore The Bonbon in Newcastle for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of your visit and delight those you cherish.
Fiddlesticks
30.2 km
Discover unique gifts and exceptional picture framing at Fiddlesticks, Belfast's charming gift shop offering local crafts and personalized service.
Ulster-Scot.Com
30.2 km
Explore Ulster-Scot.Com in Bangor for unique collectibles, gifts, and souvenirs that embody the spirit of Northern Ireland's rich heritage.
American Madness
30.3 km
Explore Belfast's American Madness for unique vintage clothing and reworked fashion treasures that tell a story.
Connswater Shopping Centre
30.3 km
Discover Connswater Shopping Centre: Belfast's vibrant retail hub with diverse shops, dining options, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
The Yard Shop - Furniture & Accessories
30.7 km
Explore Belfast's The Yard Shop for unique antique furniture, rustic decor, and delightful home accessories that add character to any space.
The Union Jack Shop
30.7 km
Explore a treasure trove of Unionist memorabilia at The Union Jack Shop in Belfast, celebrating British culture with a unique selection of gifts.
Dandy Lion Shop
30.8 km
Discover unique gifts and antiques at Dandy Lion Shop in Belfast, where every item tells a story.
Storybox
30.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local artistry at Storybox, Belfast's charming gift shop filled with treasures waiting to be found.
Olive & Rose Apparels
31.6 km
Explore the latest fashion trends at Olive & Rose Apparels, a stylish boutique in the heart of Belfast, offering unique clothing for every occasion.
Esik Creations
31.7 km
Explore Esik Creations in Belfast, where local artistry meets unique gifts for every occasion, perfect for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Hole in the Wall
2.9 km
Experience the cozy charm and delicious fare at The Hole in the Wall, Strangford's beloved pub offering a taste of local culture.
Arkle Bar
11.7 km
Discover Arkle Bar: A cozy pub in Downpatrick offering authentic Irish drinks, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere for all visitors.
Anchor Bar
16.4 km
Discover the warmth of Irish hospitality at Anchor Bar in Killough, where great food, drinks, and local charm come together.
International Bar
23.5 km
Discover the warmth and charm of Newtownards at the International Bar, a cozy pub offering affordable drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Pier 36
27.9 km
Discover the charm of Pier 36 in Donaghadee – a perfect blend of fresh seafood, cozy ambiance, and stunning coastal views.
Maginns
28.1 km
Discover Maginns, a cozy pub in Castlewellan offering traditional Irish cuisine, local beers, and a vibrant atmosphere for a memorable experience.
Savage's Bar
28.2 km
Discover Savage's Bar in Castlewellan, where lively Irish culture meets delicious local brews and vibrant live music.
Chaplins Bar
28.2 km
Discover the inviting charm of Chaplins Bar in Newcastle, a perfect spot for tourists to relax and enjoy local drinks in a friendly atmosphere.
The Library Lounge, Newcastle, County Down
28.5 km
Discover The Library Lounge in Newcastle, a serene retreat offering exquisite drinks and a cozy atmosphere for relaxation and socializing.
The Wild Hare
29.3 km
Discover the charm of The Wild Hare, Newcastle's inviting beer garden offering a delightful selection of drinks and stunning coastal views.
O'Hares Lounge Bars
29.4 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at O'Hares Lounge Bars in Newcastle, where good company meets great food and drinks.
Macken's Bar
29.8 km
Experience the heart of Ireland at Macken's Bar, where traditional cuisine meets coastal charm in Newcastle.
Parador Lodge
29.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Parador Lodge, Belfast's charming pub destination.
Cutters Wharf
30.4 km
Discover Cutters Wharf, where fine dining meets modern European flair in the heart of Belfast, perfect for food lovers and wine enthusiasts alike.
The Goat's Toe
30.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings at The Goat's Toe, Bangor's favorite lounge and live music venue.
