Top 7 Lakes around Carrickmannan
Lakes around Carrickmannan are primarily associated with the folk song "Carrickmannon Lake," which describes a "crystal fountain." Carrickmannan is a location in County Down, Northern Ireland, situated between Saintfield and Killinchy, approximately 15 miles south of Belfast. The area features various water bodies and points of interest, including sections of Strangford Lough and smaller lakes. These locations offer opportunities for exploring natural landscapes and cultural sites.
Best lakes around Carrickmannan
- The most popular lakes-related highlight is Whiterock Harbour, a…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Whiterock Harbour
Highlight • Settlement
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WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre
Highlight • Natural
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View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
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Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel
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Tips from the Community
Ballydorn, or 'The Dorn' as it is locally known, is a beautiful and popular mooring ground with a short-stay pontoon attached to a permanently moored lightship called The LV Petrel that is now the Down Cruising Club headquarters. The LV Petrel was commissioned by the Commissioners of Irish Lights in 1913, and built by the Dublin Drydocks Company. This Lightship spent most of its previous working life at Blackwater Bank on the River Blackwater, Wexford. It was then sold in 1968 to Hammond Lane foundries in Dublin, before being saved to use as the cruise club HQ. The boat is registered as a national historic ship in the UK.
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WWT Castle Espie is home to the largest collection of ducks, geese and swans in Ireland. Wide open spaces, and wetlands full of the sights and sounds of nature. Surprised by just how much there is to see and do including a Cafe / Gallery, plenty of walks, and places to just sit and take it all in.
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It's home to two yacht clubs: Strangford Lough Yacht Club and 1.5 kilometres (0.95 mi) to the north, Down Cruising Club. Between the two yacht clubs is Sketrick Castle, a 15th-century tower house on Sketrick Island, now in a state of ruin. To the south of Whiterock is Ballymorran Bay.
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If you get caught in a rain shower, there is decent shelter to be had, just opposite the moorings around the same position as this Highlight. The view will keep you settled.
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Picturesque rolling trail through Barley fields, and vistas of the beautiful Strangford Lough always present. Hosts great views of Scrabo Tower in the distance, and if you catch this trail at twilight on a clear summers eve, you will be rewarded with such magnificent colours. Strangford Lough is also a designated 'Dark Skies' area for you star gazers.
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In the Caravan / Car park just on the shoreline you will find Toilets, and if you fancy a bit of refreshment there is a Pub called Daft Eddy's on Sketrick Island, just to your left.
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The Route 99 of the National Cycle Network leads from Belfast along the Comber Greenway. The 11.5-mile (18.5 km) long, traffic-free path is a wonderful ride towards the mouth of the Comber River. Watch your speed, as the Greenway is shared with walkers.
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Beautiful little lake with a gravel pathway around it, lots of wildlife around the lake, easily accessed from the Comber Greenway with cycle commuter links to Comber, Dundonald and Belfast
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of lakes and water bodies can I explore around Carrickmannan?
Around Carrickmannan, you'll find a mix of water bodies, including sections of the expansive Strangford Lough and several smaller, accessible lakes. The area is also culturally significant due to the folk song "Carrickmannon Lake," which describes a "crystal fountain." These locations offer opportunities for exploring natural landscapes and cultural sites.
Are there any family-friendly lake destinations near Carrickmannan?
Yes, several spots are great for families. The Whiterock Harbour area on Strangford Lough is family-friendly, offering scenic views and amenities. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre is also ideal for families, with its collection of birds and various walks. Additionally, the Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields features a gravel pathway suitable for a family stroll.
What kind of wildlife can I observe near the lakes around Carrickmannan?
The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre is home to the largest collection of ducks, geese, and swans in Ireland, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. At the Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields, visitors can also observe local wildlife along the gravel pathway.
Are there walking or hiking trails available near these lakes?
Yes, there are several walking and hiking opportunities. You can find easy hikes around Carrickmannan, including loops like Sketrick Island via Sketrick Castle or Rough Island. For more options, explore the Easy hikes around Carrickmannan guide or the Hiking around Carrickmannan guide.
Can I go cycling near the lakes in the Carrickmannan area?
Absolutely. The Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields is easily accessed from the Comber Greenway, which offers cycle commuter links to Comber, Dundonald, and Belfast. For road cycling enthusiasts, there are numerous routes available, which you can find in the Road Cycling Routes around Carrickmannan guide.
What historical or cultural sites are located near the lakes?
Near Whiterock Harbour, you can find Sketrick Castle, a 15th-century tower house on Sketrick Island. Additionally, Ballydorn Bay features the Lightship LV Petrel, a historic vessel now serving as the Down Cruising Club headquarters, registered as a national historic ship.
Are there any accessible paths for wheelchairs or strollers around the lakes?
Yes, the Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields offers a gravel pathway around the lake that is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for those with strollers or mobility aids.
Where can I find amenities like cafes or toilets near the lakes?
At Whiterock Harbour, you'll find public toilets and a cafe/restaurant/bar. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre also has a cafe and gallery on-site, providing refreshments and facilities for visitors.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Carrickmannan?
Visitors appreciate the scenic views, especially from spots like Whiterock Harbour and the picturesque trails offering vistas of Strangford Lough and Scrabo Tower. The opportunity to observe wildlife at places like WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre and the peaceful atmosphere of the smaller lakes are also highly valued.
What is the significance of Carrickmannan Lake in local culture?
Carrickmannon Lake is primarily known for its cultural significance as the setting in a traditional folk song. The song poetically describes it as a "crystal fountain" and uses it as a backdrop for a narrative of unrequited love, making it notable in local folklore and music.
Can I find good viewpoints of the lakes or surrounding landscape?
Absolutely. Whiterock Harbour offers beautiful scenic views of Strangford Lough. The View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road provides picturesque vistas of Strangford Lough and Scrabo Tower in the distance. Additionally, Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields is a pleasant viewpoint with a small lake.
Are there any circular walking routes near the lakes?
Yes, several circular routes are available. Examples include the Sketrick Island loop via Sketrick Castle, the Rough Island loop, and the Whiterock Harbour loop from Whiterock. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Easy hikes around Carrickmannan guide.
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