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Castle Ward

Downpatrick Road, Strangford, County Down, BT30 7BA
Castle Ward

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About

Castle Ward, the unusual double sided mansion house stands amongst gentle parkland looking over Strangford Lough. The working estate once included a water-powered sawmill, cornmill and farmyard. Visitors to the estate today can explore cultivated gardens, sheltered woodland and the shoreline of Strangford Lough.

There are 32km of trails to explore on foot, by bike or on horseback, each providing a different view of the surrounding landscape. From beauty spots like Temple Water, a man-made canal, to a tranquil bench in a hidden corner of the boundary trail, there's always more to discover on your journey. We ask that dogs remain on leads while on the trails and have a dedicated exercise field where your dog is free to run safely. The Secret Shore Nature Trail is an adventure for the whole family, and the Woodland playground is open for play.

In the historic Stableyard you'll find the secondhand bookshop, retail shop and tea-room where you can warm up with a hot drink and takeaway snacks. Try a Dexter beef sausage roll made in-house from our own Dexter herd.

Step into a fantasy world of as you explore the Georgian farmyard and the Lough shore, film locations for the television series Game of Thrones®. Castle Ward’s historic farmyard was featured as the location of Winterfell for much of Season 1. It’s where you'll find the Whispering Wood and key scenes including Robb Stark’s Camp, the Baelor battle and when Brienne confronts the Stark men.

Note - Due to livestock grazing, some areas may be restricted between 1st March and 30th November and signage will be in place for any affected trails.

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Facilities

Accessibility

  • Toilets for disabled visitors

Attraction Facilities

  • Gift Shop
  • Guided Tours Available

Catering

  • Picnic Area
  • Tea-room/Cafe onsite

Children & Infants

  • Baby changing facilities
  • Children's outdoor play area

Establishment Features

  • Toilets

Leisure Facilities

  • Wifi

Parking & Transport

  • On site parking

Payment Methods

  • All major credit/debit cards accepted
  • Euros accepted

Provider Preferences

  • Dogs Welcome Inside

Guide Prices

Please check website for up to date prices

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating - 666 reviews666 reviews

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Tel+44 (0) 28 4488 1204

Map & Directions

Opening Times

Open New Year

* Please check website for opening times - www.nationaltrust.org.uk/castle-ward

What's Nearby

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  12. Two miles outside Downpatrick is the replica of St Patrick's first church in Ireland.…

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  13. Struell Wells was built around a stream flowing through a secluded valley. It was a…

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  15. Owned by the National Trust, it is a picturesque 18th century fishing village with scenic…

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  16. Within it are the ruins of a medieval church which is believed to be the Church of…

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Related

The Potter's Cottage exteriorPotters Cottage, StrangfordQuaint, two-bedroom Potter’s Cottage is in what was the working farmyard of Castle Ward Estate, on the shores of Strangford Lough. There are white-washed stone walls, small peeping windows and a roaring fire to welcome you after a busy day of exploring, and room for your dog too.  

Castleward Bunkhouse, StrangfordStay in this well-equipped bunkhouse, in the grounds where hit TV series Game of Thrones was set. All around you’ll find hints of the TV series, from the replica of the Winterfell Archery Range to the castle-like buildings. The property also sits within 820 acres of woodland, close to the waters of…

Downpatrick Gate LodgeDownpatrick Gate Lodge, DownpatrickA pretty, tucked-away lodge on the Castle Ward estate, surrounded by wildlife and walks with woodland, meadow and lough side views. Sleeps two.

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