Top 5 Natural Monuments around Church Ballee
Best natural monuments around Church Ballee include a collection of historical sites and natural features located near Strangford Lough. This area offers a landscape characterized by ancient megaliths, stone circles, and coastal views. Visitors can explore sites with cultural significance and natural beauty. The region provides opportunities to engage with both historical monuments and natural parkland.
Best natural monuments around Church Ballee
- The most popular natural monument is Strangford Stone, a man-made monument that is the tallest megalith in…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Strangford Stone
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Ballynoe Stone Circle
Highlight • Historical Site
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
Delamont Country Park
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
St Patrick's Well
Highlight • Historical Site
Saint Patrick founded Ardtole Church which …
Tip by
Strangford Stone
Highlight • Monument
The stone stands at a …
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
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
1
0
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.
1
0
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.
0
0
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.
1
0
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.
1
0
The impressive Strangford Stone that sits inside the Delamont Country Park in Northern Ireland holds the mighty title of the highest megalith stone in Europe! The stone stands at a whopping 12.5 metres tall and was assembles by 1000 people in 1999. It stands in an elevated position, boasting superb views over Strangford Lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mountains of Mourne
3
0
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.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural monuments can I expect to find around Church Ballee?
The area around Church Ballee, particularly near Strangford Lough, features a mix of historical sites and natural parklands. You'll discover ancient megaliths, impressive stone circles, and coastal areas with scenic views. These include sites like the Strangford Stone and Ballynoe Stone Circle, alongside natural spaces such as Delamont Country Park.
Are there any historical or archaeological sites among the natural monuments?
Yes, the region is rich in history. You can visit the Ballynoe Stone Circle, an impressive monument dating from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age, consisting of over 50 upright stones. Another significant historical site is St Patrick's Well, an ancient pilgrimage site with legends tied to Saint Patrick.
What are the best natural monuments for families with children?
Several natural monuments around Church Ballee are family-friendly. Delamont Country Park offers 200 acres of parkland and coastal access, perfect for a day out. The Strangford Stone, located within Delamont Country Park, is also suitable for families, providing open spaces and views. The Ballynoe Stone Circle is also listed as family-friendly, offering an engaging historical experience.
Can I bring my dog to the natural monuments?
Yes, the 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 best to check specific park regulations regarding dogs, especially in protected natural areas.
Are there hiking opportunities near these natural monuments?
Absolutely. The area around Church Ballee offers various hiking opportunities. You can find easy hikes like the Castle Ward Farm Trail or the Lecale Way. For more options, explore the Easy hikes around Church Ballee guide.
What other outdoor activities can I do in the vicinity of these natural monuments?
Beyond hiking, the region provides opportunities for road cycling and running. Cyclists can find routes like the Ballyhornan Beach – Killough–Strangford Loop. Runners might enjoy the Quoile River run. For detailed routes, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Church Ballee and Running Trails around Church Ballee guides.
What are the most scenic viewpoints among the natural monuments?
For breathtaking views, head to Delamont Country Park, which offers panoramic vistas of Strangford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. The Strangford Stone, situated within the park, also provides superb elevated views over Strangford Lough.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Church Ballee?
Visitors frequently appreciate 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 Ballynoe Stone Circle are also highly valued.
Is there parking available at the natural monuments?
For locations like Delamont Country Park, which hosts the Strangford Stone, parking facilities are typically available as it is a country park designed for visitors. For other sites like Ballynoe Stone Circle, access is often via a narrow path, and parking might be limited to roadside or small designated areas nearby. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.
Are there any easy walks to access these natural monuments?
Yes, many of the natural monuments are accessible via easy walks. Delamont Country Park, for instance, offers gentle trails suitable for a leisurely stroll to enjoy the parkland and coastal views, including access to the Strangford Stone. The Ballynoe Stone Circle is also generally accessible via a short, hedge-lined path.
What is the 'Strangford Stone' and where is it located?
The Strangford Stone is a significant man-made monument, notable as the tallest megalith in Ireland. It stands at an impressive 12.5 meters tall. You can find it within the 200-acre Delamont Country Park, situated on the shores of Strangford Lough.
Most popular attractions around Church Ballee
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Church Ballee:
