Top 6 Lakes around Conly Island
Best lakes around Conly Island are primarily associated with the tidal waters of Strangford Lough. This region, despite its name, features a landscape characterized by a large sea lough and its surrounding areas, offering a mix of natural and man-made attractions. The area provides opportunities for exploring coastal views, wetland habitats, and historical sites. While not traditional inland lakes, these water bodies offer diverse experiences for visitors.
Best lakes around Conly Island
- The most popular lakes is Whiterock Harbour,…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Whiterock Harbour
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre
Highlight • Natural
Surprised …
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Tip by
Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Conly Island.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
A winding and undulating narrow leafy lane alongside the bays of Strangford Lough, that climbs up towards Killinchy for some stunning views.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of 'lakes' can I expect to find around Conly Island?
The 'lakes' around Conly Island are primarily associated with the tidal waters of Strangford Lough. This region features a large sea lough and its surrounding areas, offering a mix of natural and man-made attractions rather than traditional inland freshwater lakes.
Are there family-friendly spots to visit around Strangford Lough?
Yes, several spots are great for families. Whiterock Harbour is a scenic settlement with yacht clubs and public facilities. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre is also highly recommended for its wildlife and open spaces. Additionally, the View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road offers family-friendly trails and views.
What natural features can I see near Conly Island?
You can explore the extensive wetlands and diverse birdlife at the WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, which hosts the largest collection of ducks, geese, and swans in Ireland. The area also offers picturesque rolling trails through barley fields and vistas of Strangford Lough, as seen from locations like the View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road.
Are there historical sites to visit around Strangford Lough?
Yes, the area has historical significance. At Whiterock Harbour, you can find Sketrick Castle, a 15th-century tower house. Also, Ballydorn Bay features the Lightship LV Petrel, a historic vessel commissioned in 1913 that now serves as the Down Cruising Club headquarters and is registered as a national historic ship.
What outdoor activities can I do near these tidal loughs?
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on routes like the Strangford Lough Cycle Trail or the Whiterock Loop. For running, there are trails such as the Whiterock Harbour loop. Hiking options include easy trails like the Sketrick Island loop via Sketrick Castle. You can find more details on these activities in the cycling guide, running guide, and hiking guide for Conly Island.
Are there easy walking trails around the Conly Island area?
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. The View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road offers picturesque rolling trails. You can also find easy hikes like the Sketrick Island loop via Sketrick Castle, which is just under 2 km. For more options, check the easy hikes guide around Conly Island.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints of Strangford Lough?
Excellent viewpoints include Whiterock Harbour, which offers beautiful scenic views of the lough. The View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road provides vistas of Strangford Lough with Scrabo Tower in the distance. Additionally, Quarterland Road offers stunning views as it winds alongside the bays of Strangford Lough.
What amenities are available at these locations?
At Whiterock Harbour, you'll find public toilets and a cafe/restaurant/bar nearby. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre also has a cafe/gallery on-site. For shelter during a rain shower, Ballydorn Bay offers decent cover near the moorings.
Is the Conly Island area suitable for stargazing?
Yes, the area around Strangford Lough is a designated 'Dark Skies' area, making it excellent for stargazing. If you catch trails like the View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road at twilight on a clear summer's evening, you can be rewarded with magnificent colors and a great view of the night sky.
What do visitors enjoy most about the Conly Island area?
Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic beauty of Strangford Lough, the diverse wildlife at places like the WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, and the opportunities for outdoor activities like cycling and walking along the lough's shores. The historical elements, such as Sketrick Castle and the Lightship LV Petrel, also add to the appeal.
Are there cycling routes available near the loughs?
Yes, the area is popular for cycling. You can explore routes like the Strangford Lough Cycle Trail, which has moderate and easy sections, including the Whiterock Loop. For more challenging rides, there's the Whiterock to Castlewellan loop. More details can be found in the cycling guide for Conly Island.
Most popular routes around Conly Island
Most popular attractions around Conly Island
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Conly Island? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
