Top 5 Castles around Russells Quarter North
Best castles around Russells Quarter North features a collection of historical sites and fortifications, primarily situated near the scenic Strangford Lough. This area is characterized by its rich Anglo-Norman history and notable connections to popular culture. Visitors can explore a variety of 18th-century estates and ancient ruins set within a beautiful natural landscape.
Best castles around Russells Quarter North
- The most popular castles is Castle Ward Tower (Winterfell Filming Location), a castle best known for its place as "Winterfell"…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Castle Ward Tower (Winterfell Filming Location)
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Audley's Castle
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Castle Ward
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Inch Abbey
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Wikipedia (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%27s_Castle https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%E2%80%99s_Castle Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/audleys-castle-p707501 Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Visit Game of Thrones - Filming Locations, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/blog/read/2020/06/visit-game-of-thrones-filming-locations-b147 “… Within the Castle Ward demesne, you can make your way over to Audley's Field where Robb Stark meets Talisa after the battle at Oxcross. …“ #GoT #BattleOfOxcross #WarOfTheFiveKings
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National Trust (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl_SVBg9R8U Wikipedia (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward “… The most interesting aspect of Castle Ward is that of its dual architecture, representing the differing tastes of Lord Bangor and his wife, Lady Ann Bligh. While the entrance side of the building is done in a classical Palladian style with columns supporting a triangular pediment, the opposite side is Georgian Gothic with pointed windows, battlements and finials. …”
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Great place for a run along the coastline.
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Best known for its role as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property located in Strangford. With its distinctive blend of classical and gothic styles, the castle and its estate grace the picturesque shores of Strangford Lough. Tours of the castle and estate are available year-round. For more information, visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward
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Best known for its place as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property in Strangford. With two unique styles of classical and gothic, the castle & its estate is located in a beautiful location near the shore of Strangford Lough. Tours are available year round of the castle and estate.
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Wikipedia (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%27s_Castle https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%E2%80%99s_Castle Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/audleys-castle-p707501 Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Visit Game of Thrones - Filming Locations, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/blog/read/2020/06/visit-game-of-thrones-filming-locations-b147 “… Within the Castle Ward demesne, you can make your way over to Audley's Field where Robb Stark meets Talisa after the battle at Oxcross. …“ #GoT #BattleOfOxcross #WarOfTheFiveKings
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TheIrishRoadTrip ("Game of Thrones Ireland: 16 Filming Locations From The Show”, 2022-10-08): https://www.theirishroadtrip.com/game-of-thrones-filming-locations-northern-ireland/ “… You’ll find the 16th-century Castle Ward, which was the backdrop for the series pilot and a chunk of season one, just 40 minutes from Belfast. Castle Ward was used as ‘Winterfell’ – the home of the Stark family. Its towering medieval walls and now-iconic castle tower gate made it an ideal shooting location for the show. …” #GoT #HouseStark #Winterfell #Westeros Wikipedia (Winterfell (Game of Thrones episode), 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winterfell_(Game_of_Thrones_episode) National Trust(HBO's Game of Thrones at Castle Ward, 2022-10-08): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/castle-ward/features/game-of-thrones-at-castle-ward Peak Discovery Ltd (Winterfell Tours, 2022-10-08) https://www.gameofthrones-winterfelltours.com/thedarkhedges https://youtu.be/RMwzMU7iW_Y Tripadvisor (Game of Thrones - Winterfell Trek from Belfast(, 2022-10-08): https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g186470-d15079832-Game_of_Thrones_Winterfell_Trek_from_Belfast-Belfast_Northern_Ireland.html
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Wikipedia (Castle Ward (Old Castle Ward), 2022-10-08): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward Tripadvisor (Castle Ward, 2022-10-08): https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g664089-d212598-Reviews-Castle_Ward-Strangford_County_Down_Northern_Ireland.html google (Street View, 2022-10-08): https://www.google.com/maps/@54.3732731,-5.5779806,3a,75y,240.79h,82.97t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sz1-OEQiivuBoui997nWdyA!2e0!7i13312!8i6656
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of castles can I expect to find around Russells Quarter North?
The Russells Quarter North area, particularly near Strangford Lough, features a mix of historical sites, from 18th-century estates to ancient ruins. You'll find structures like the unique dual-architecture of Castle Ward and the picturesque ruins of Inch Abbey, many with Anglo-Norman historical significance.
Are there any family-friendly castles to visit in the area?
Yes, several castles around Russells Quarter North are great for families. Castle Ward Tower and the wider Castle Ward estate are both listed as family-friendly, offering tours and activities like archery. Inch Abbey is also a family-friendly historical site.
Which castles are known for their connection to popular culture, like Game of Thrones?
Russells Quarter North is a significant area for fans of Game of Thrones. Castle Ward Tower is famously known as 'Winterfell,' and the broader Castle Ward estate was also a filming location. Additionally, Audley's Castle (specifically Audley's Field) and Inch Abbey were also used for scenes in the series.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible castles or historical sites?
Yes, Castle Ward is noted as being wheelchair-accessible, offering facilities and trails that cater to visitors with mobility needs.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The area around Russells Quarter North offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for road cycling, touring cycling, and running. For example, there's a 'Castle Ward – Audley's Castle loop' for running, and several cycling routes like the 'Mallard Plantation – View of Castle Ward Mansion loop'. You can explore more options on the Road Cycling Routes, Running Trails, and Cycling guides for the region.
Which castle offers the best scenic views?
Castle Ward is highly recommended for its scenic views, particularly along its trail walks overlooking Strangford Lough. Castle Ward Tower and Audley's Castle are also categorized as viewpoints, offering picturesque surroundings.
Can I find cafes or facilities near the castles?
Yes, Castle Ward has a coffee shop and other facilities available on its estate, making it convenient for visitors looking for refreshments during their visit.
What makes Castle Ward unique compared to other castles?
Castle Ward is particularly unique due to its 'dual architecture.' One side of the building is designed in a classical Palladian style, while the opposite side features a Georgian Gothic style with pointed windows and battlements, reflecting the differing tastes of its original owners.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in Russells Quarter North?
Visitors frequently highlight the rich history, the stunning natural beauty of the Strangford Lough area, and the unique connection to popular culture, especially Game of Thrones. The opportunity for trail walks and exploring well-preserved estates and ancient ruins is also highly appreciated.
Are there any lesser-known or 'hidden gem' castles worth exploring?
While the main highlights like Castle Ward and Inch Abbey are popular, exploring the grounds around Audley's Castle can offer a more secluded historical experience. It's a 16th-century Anglo-Norman tower house set within the Castle Ward demesne, providing a sense of discovery away from the main crowds.
What is the historical significance of Inch Abbey?
Inch Abbey is a historical site and religious building known for being one of the most beautiful ruins in the region. Its historical significance dates back to its foundation as a Cistercian monastery in the late 12th century, offering a glimpse into medieval religious life and architecture.
Most popular attractions around Russells Quarter North
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