Top 5 Natural Monuments around Ballinarry
Natural monuments around Ballinarry feature a diverse landscape, including coastal areas, loughs, and historical sites. The region offers opportunities to explore unique geological formations and ancient structures. Visitors can experience natural beauty alongside significant cultural heritage. These sites provide varied outdoor experiences for different interests.
Best natural monuments around Ballinarry
- The most popular natural monuments is Strangford Stone, a man-made monument situated on the shores of Strangford Lough. It is known as the tallest megalith in Ireland, located within…
Last updated: August 23, 2026
Strangford Stone
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Ballynoe Stone Circle
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Corrog Wood
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Delamont Country Park
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St Patrick's Well
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Saint Patrick founded Ardtole Church which …
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This impressive stone circle, dating from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age, consists of over 50 upright stones enclosing a diameter of around 35 metres. Access is via a narrow hedge-lined path that takes you directly to the entrance of the circle
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Visitors to Corrog Wood will be greeted by a curious wooden sculpture of a Dryad. The sculpture has been affectionately named the ‘Frump in the Stump’. A dryad is a tree nymph in Greek mythology. The Dryad keeps a watchful, protective eye on the new wood standing at the entrance. Continue past the Dryad on through the little kissing gate and a loop pathway will be waiting to lead you around the 14-acre wood, where a mix of approximately 12,000 native trees and 400 metres of hedging have been planted.
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One of the best kept Circles I know of. The late Neolithic to earlier Bronze Age monument was excavated in 1937–1939 but its development and date are still not entirely clear. Excavation uncovered a slab feature with three compartments at the west end of the cairn, which could suggest the court tomb tradition, and a single stone cist at the east end which could point to the passage tomb tradition. Cremated remains representing at least seven individuals and some Neolithic pottery were found. Parallels for the outer stone circle with sites in Cumbria have been suggested.
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The Well is an ancient site of pilgrimage with legends of Saint Patrick. The waters of the well are said to cure any ailment. Saint Patrick founded Ardtole Church which can be seen on the horizon. In the next field at low tide Saint Patrick's Road becomes visible. This was to be his route to the Isle of Man but when a red haired woman crossed his path he seen it as a bad omen and didn't make the journey.
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Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day.
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Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day.
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Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day. Steamers Coffee Shop Serves a wide variety of refreshments, including full breakfast and lunch menus, great coffee and ice cream in the summer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most notable natural monuments to visit around Ballinarry?
The Ballinarry area offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Key natural monuments include Strangford Stone, known as the tallest megalith in Ireland, located within Delamont Country Park. Another significant site is Ballynoe Stone Circle, an impressive historical site dating from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age. Visitors also appreciate St Patrick's Well, an ancient pilgrimage site with coastal views.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments in the Ballinarry area?
Yes, several natural monuments around Ballinarry are suitable for families. Delamont Country Park, home to the Strangford Stone, is a 200-acre park offering peace and tranquility with ample space for walking and nature appreciation. Ballynoe Stone Circle and St Patrick's Well are also categorized as family-friendly, providing engaging historical and natural experiences.
What kind of historical or archaeological sites can I find among Ballinarry's natural monuments?
Ballinarry is rich in historical and archaeological sites. The Ballynoe Stone Circle is a prime example, an impressive monument from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age, featuring over 50 upright stones. Additionally, St Patrick's Well is an ancient pilgrimage site steeped in local legends, offering a glimpse into the region's spiritual heritage.
Can I bring my dog to the natural monuments around Ballinarry?
Yes, Ballynoe Stone Circle is noted as dog-friendly, allowing you to explore this ancient site with your canine companion. For other locations, it's always advisable to check specific park rules or local signage regarding dog access, especially in nature reserves or protected areas.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The Ballinarry area provides various outdoor activities. You can enjoy running on trails like the 'Castle Ward – Audley's Castle loop' or 'Audley's Castle – Audleystown Wood loop'. For hiking, options include the 'Castle Ward Farm Trail' or the 'Ballyhornan to St Patrick's Well via Lecale Way'. Road cycling routes, such as the 'Picnic Café – Daft Eddy's Coffee Shop loop', are also available. You can find more details on these activities and routes on the respective guide pages for running, hiking, and road cycling around Ballinarry.
Are there easy walking routes or trails suitable for beginners near Ballinarry's natural monuments?
Yes, for those seeking easier walks, Delamont Country Park offers tranquil settings and trails suitable for leisurely strolls. Within the broader area, the 'Castle Ward Farm Trail' is an easy hiking option. These routes provide accessible ways to experience the natural beauty and historical sites without strenuous effort.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Ballinarry?
The natural monuments around Ballinarry are characterized by diverse landscapes. You'll find coastal areas and the serene shores of Strangford Lough, which is a prominent feature. Delamont Country Park offers expansive natural settings, while sites like St Patrick's Well provide coastal views. The region is known for its blend of natural landscapes with significant cultural heritage.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in Ballinarry?
Visitors frequently highlight the peace, beauty, and tranquility offered by sites like Delamont Country Park, especially its location on the shores of Strangford Lough. The historical significance and impressive scale of monuments like the Strangford Stone and Ballynoe Stone Circle are also highly appreciated. The blend of natural scenery with ancient history creates a unique and engaging experience for many.
Are there any viewpoints offering scenic vistas of the Ballinarry area?
Yes, several natural monuments double as excellent viewpoints. The Strangford Stone, situated in an elevated position within Delamont Country Park, boasts superb views over Strangford Lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mountains of Mourne. St Patrick's Well also offers coastal views, adding to the scenic appeal of the area.
What is the significance of the Strangford Stone?
The Strangford Stone is a remarkable man-made monument located within Delamont Country Park. It holds the distinction of being the tallest megalith in Ireland, standing at 12.5 meters tall. Assembled in 1999, it offers panoramic views over Strangford Lough and the surrounding landscape, blending modern craftsmanship with ancient monumental traditions.
Are there any cafes or refreshment options near the natural monuments?
Within Delamont Country Park, where the Strangford Stone is located, you can find Steamers Coffee Shop. It serves a variety of refreshments, including breakfast and lunch menus, coffee, and ice cream, making it a convenient stop during your visit to the park.
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