Top 6 Lakes around Craigarusky
Lakes around Craigarusky are primarily centered on the diverse environment of Strangford Lough, offering a blend of natural landscapes and historical interest. This area features a unique coastal setting with various points of interest, including wetland centers, harbors, and viewpoints. The region is characterized by its lough views, opportunities for walking, and designated dark skies areas. Visitors can explore a mix of natural habitats and cultural landmarks.
Best lakes around Craigarusky
- The most popular lakes highlight is Whiterock Harbour,…
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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Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel
Highlight • Monument
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Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views
Highlight • Viewpoint
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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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A winding and undulating narrow leafy lane alongside the bays of Strangford Lough, that climbs up towards Killinchy for some stunning views.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes of Craigarusky?
The lakes around Craigarusky are primarily centered on Strangford Lough, a diverse environment known for its coastal setting and wetlands. You can observe a wide array of nature, particularly at the WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, which hosts the largest collection of ducks, geese, and swans in Ireland. The region also features scenic lough views and is a designated 'Dark Skies' area, perfect for stargazing.
Are there family-friendly activities or locations around Craigarusky's lakes?
Yes, several spots are ideal for families. Whiterock Harbour offers public amenities and views of Ballymorran Bay. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre provides wide-open spaces and wetlands for nature observation, along with a cafe. Other family-friendly highlights include View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road and Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel.
What historical or cultural sites are located near the lakes?
Near the lakes, you can explore historical sites such as the ruins of Sketrick Castle, a 15th-century tower house located near Whiterock Harbour. Another notable site is the Lightship LV Petrel at Ballydorn Bay, a historic vessel commissioned in 1913 and now serving as the Down Cruising Club headquarters.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or running, can I do near the lakes?
The area around Craigarusky's lakes offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous trails for hiking and running. For example, there are easy hikes like the 'Sketrick Island loop via Sketrick Castle' and 'Rough Island loop'. For more options, explore the guides for Hiking around Craigarusky, Easy hikes around Craigarusky, and Running Trails around Craigarusky.
Are there good viewpoints to enjoy the scenery of Strangford Lough?
Absolutely. The Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views offers stunning vistas of the lough's bays from its winding road. Another picturesque spot is the View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road, which provides magnificent colors at twilight and views of Scrabo Tower in the distance, with Strangford Lough always present.
Where can I find cafes or pubs near the lakes?
Near Whiterock Harbour, you'll find public toilets and a pub called Daft Eddy's on Sketrick Island. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre also features a cafe and gallery, perfect for refreshments after exploring the wetlands.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Craigarusky?
Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic beauty and tranquility. Many enjoy the picturesque trails through barley fields and the constant vistas of Strangford Lough. The opportunity to witness magnificent colors during twilight and the designated 'Dark Skies' area for stargazing are also highly valued experiences.
Are there any specific trails for walking or cycling around the lakes?
Yes, there are several. The View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road offers a picturesque rolling trail. The Quarterland Road is a winding, undulating narrow lane that serves as a cycleway alongside the bays of Strangford Lough, providing stunning views as it climbs towards Killinchy.
Is it possible to go wild swimming in the lakes around Craigarusky?
While the guide highlights the natural beauty and activities around Strangford Lough, specific designated wild swimming spots are not detailed. The area is known for its coastal loughs and wetland environments. It's always recommended to check local regulations and safety guidelines before attempting wild swimming in any natural body of water.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Craigarusky?
The region offers beauty year-round. Visiting during a clear summer evening can reward you with magnificent colors, especially when viewing Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road. As Strangford Lough is a designated 'Dark Skies' area, evenings, particularly on clear nights, are excellent for stargazing.
Are there facilities available at the lake highlights?
Yes, some highlights offer facilities. Whiterock Harbour has public toilets and a cafe/restaurant/bar nearby. The WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre also provides facilities including a cafe and gallery.
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