Best natural monuments around Ballystokes are characterized by a landscape rich in prehistoric archaeology and natural beauty. The region features significant ancient rock art, including Bronze Age petroglyphs with cupmarks and cup-and-ring marks. These sites, often found near megalithic kists or passage-tombs, offer insights into early human interaction with the environment. Ballystokes also encompasses diverse natural features, from country parks to historical stone circles, providing varied outdoor exploration opportunities.
Last updated: October 16, 2026
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
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.
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Ballystokes.
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
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
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.
0
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 Dolmen can be found on the north east shore of Loughinisland Lake, within sight of Loughinisland Church. A slightly displaced capstone covers a rectangular chamber of which three side stones survive. An early account suggests that this was formerly inside a large circular cairn and approached through a lintelled passage, so it may be the remains of a passage tomb. It is famous as the platform from which Thomas Russell addressed a crowd of United Irishmen in 1803, after the main 1798 rising.
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
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
Ballystokes is rich in prehistoric archaeology, primarily featuring Bronze Age rock art, megalithic kists, and passage-tombs. You can discover intricate petroglyphs, ancient burial sites, and stone circles that offer a glimpse into early human interaction with the landscape.
The region is home to several significant rock art sites. The Ballystokes Rock Art panel, located near a megalithic kist on Slievenagriddle, features numerous cupmarks and cup-and-ring marks. Another notable site is a rock outcrop near Churchtown, in the front garden of No. 109 Ballyculter Road, which displays impressive concentric circles. Wetting the rock can often enhance the visibility of these ancient carvings.
Yes, the Ballynoe Stone Circle is a prominent historical site dating from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age, consisting of over 50 upright stones. Additionally, the partly-surviving stone circle at Castlemahon is the sole Bronze Age stone circle in this specific area of Ireland, contributing to the rich prehistoric landscape.
The Strangford Stone is a man-made monument located within Delamont Country Park. It is the tallest megalith in Ireland, standing at 12.5 meters tall, and offers superb views over Strangford Lough and towards the Mourne Mountains.
Yes, you can visit the Annadorn Dolmen, located on the north-east shore of Loughinisland Lake. This site features a displaced capstone covering a rectangular chamber, believed to be the remains of a passage tomb. The Ballystokes Rock Art panel is also found near a megalithic kist or passage-tomb on Slievenagriddle.
Yes, Delamont Country Park is a beautiful 200-acre natural monument situated on the shores of Strangford Lough. It offers a peaceful setting for walking, nature observation, and family outings.
The area around Ballystokes offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including road cycling and touring bicycle options, as well as running trails. For detailed routes, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Ballystokes, Cycling around Ballystokes, and Running Trails around Ballystokes guides.
Many of the natural monuments are family-friendly. For instance, Delamont Country Park is designed for visitors of all ages, offering space for walks and nature. The Strangford Stone and Ballynoe Stone Circle are also accessible for families.
Yes, several natural monuments in the area are dog-friendly. Both the Ballynoe Stone Circle and Annadorn Dolmen welcome dogs, allowing you to explore these historical sites with your canine companion.
Visiting during clear weather is recommended, especially for viewing the ancient rock art, as sunlight can help reveal the weathered carvings. Wetting the rock can also make the motifs more visible. Spring and summer offer pleasant conditions for exploring the outdoor sites and parks.
Visitors appreciate the unique blend of prehistoric archaeology and natural beauty. The opportunity to explore ancient rock art, impressive megaliths like the Strangford Stone, and tranquil settings like Delamont Country Park are frequently highlighted. The historical significance and scenic views are also major draws.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Ballystokes: