Top 6 Lakes around Ballyrush
Lakes around Ballyrush offer a diverse landscape with various natural and historical attractions. The area, located in County Sligo, Ireland, is characterized by its rich natural environment. Visitors can explore a range of lakes, each providing unique features and recreational opportunities. The region is known for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
Best lakes around Ballyrush
- The most popular lakes is Whiterock Harbour, a settlement that is home to two yacht clubs and the 15th-century Sketrick Castle.…
Last updated: June 15, 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
Highlight • Monument
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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 are the most popular lakes and attractions around Ballyrush?
Visitors frequently enjoy Whiterock Harbour, known for its scenic views, yacht clubs, and the historic Sketrick Castle. Another popular spot is the Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields, which offers a gravel pathway and abundant wildlife. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre is also highly regarded for its diverse collection of waterfowl and nature walks.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes near Ballyrush?
Yes, several locations are great for families. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre offers wide-open spaces, nature walks, and a large collection of ducks, geese, and swans. Whiterock Harbour is also considered family-friendly with its scenic setting and nearby facilities.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields is noted for its abundant wildlife. Additionally, the WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre is home to a significant collection of ducks, geese, and swans, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Are there any historical sites near the lakes?
Yes, the area is rich in history. Near Whiterock Harbour, you can find Sketrick Castle, a 15th-century tower house. Also, Ballydorn Bay features the historic Lightship LV Petrel, which now serves as the Down Cruising Club headquarters and is registered as a national historic ship.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
You can enjoy various outdoor activities. For hiking, explore routes like 'Killynether Wood and Scrabo Tower' or 'Rough Island loop'. Running enthusiasts can try 'Running loop from Comber'. Mountain biking options include 'Nendrum Monastic Site & Belvoir Park loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Hiking around Ballyrush, Running Trails around Ballyrush, and MTB Trails around Ballyrush guides.
Are there accessible routes for wheelchairs around the lakes?
Yes, the Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields features a gravel pathway around it, making it easily accessible and suitable for wheelchairs.
Where can I find facilities 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.
Are there good viewpoints for scenic photography?
Absolutely. Whiterock Harbour offers beautiful scenic views. The View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road provides picturesque vistas of Strangford Lough and Scrabo Tower, especially at twilight. Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields is also a popular viewpoint.
Can I connect to cycling paths from the lake areas?
Yes, the Lake at Billy Neill Playing Fields is easily accessed from the Comber Greenway, which offers cycle commuter links to Comber, Dundonald, and Belfast. The Comber Greenway is also part of Route 99 of the National Cycle Network, which passes by the View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road.
What makes the lakes around Ballyrush unique?
The lakes offer a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and recreational opportunities. From the yacht clubs and castles at Whiterock Harbour to the diverse wildlife at WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre and the historical lightship at Ballydorn Bay, each location provides a distinct experience. The area is also known for its 'Dark Skies' designation, offering magnificent views for stargazers.
Are there opportunities for birdwatching?
Definitely. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre is particularly renowned for its large collection of ducks, geese, and swans, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching and observing diverse wetland nature.
Most popular attractions around Ballyrush
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