Top 6 Natural Monuments around Ballywillin
Natural monuments around Ballywillin offer diverse natural features and historical significance. The region's landscape provides opportunities for exploration, with several sites showcasing unique geological formations and ancient structures. This area, encompassing parts of County Down, features a mix of coastal and inland natural attractions. Visitors can explore a variety of natural monuments, from ancient megaliths to scenic lough shores.
Best natural monuments around Ballywillin
- The most popular natural monuments is Strangford Stone, a man-made monument that is the tallest…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Strangford Stone
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Ringhaddy Sound
Highlight • River
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
Annadorn Dolmen
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Delamont Country Park
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Rowallane Garden
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Ballywillin.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
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
Rowallane Garden is one of the most beautiful gardens to visit in Northern Ireland, and is often described as a hidden gem. A mix of formal and informal garden spaces are waiting to be explored. Journey through the garden and discover the secret worlds within. Whatever the season there's always something new to see.
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
Ringhaddy Sound is located on the western shore of Strangford Lough to the west of Islandmore. With its unusual swollen hills it is a real joy to cycle. Descend into the sound, and enjoy the atmosphere. A Castle ruin and Church sit further on the Peninsula, but alas they are on private land. It is possible to arrange access from the land owner however. There is also a Beautiful mooring with a Boat Club that has full facilities if needed. Heres a bit about the Castle. This is one of the most completely surviving tower houses in the county, retaining its gables and formerly an original wooden window. There were at least two main phases of construction at this site. The ground floor, which had a stone vault, dates from the 15th century, while the upper parts were rebuilt in about 1600. It is rectangular in plan with small turrets at the north-east and south-west angles, one with the stair and the other with a latrine chute. There are large fireplaces on the first and second floors, and an attic in the roof. A distinctive stone rainwater spout projects from the east side. The castle seems to have changed hands between Bryan McArt and the English in the early 16th century, and it is likely that the earlier castle was McArt’s stronghold, slighted when he withdrew, and rebuilt by the new English owner. Underwater investigation has confirmed the presence of a stone slipway beside the castle, and water transport was clearly of great importance in this location.
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. 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
Just about 100 metres further up the road is a mooring with a Boat Club, with facilities if needed.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural monuments can I explore around Ballywillin?
The area around Ballywillin offers a diverse range of natural monuments, from ancient megalithic structures to expansive country parks and scenic lough shores. You can discover sites like the impressive Strangford Stone, the tranquil Delamont Country Park, the unique landscape of Ringhaddy Sound, and the historic Annadorn Dolmen.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments near Ballywillin?
Yes, several natural monuments in the vicinity are great for families. Delamont Country Park is a 200-acre park on the shores of Strangford Lough, offering peace, beauty, and tranquility for all ages. The Strangford Stone, located within Delamont Country Park, is also considered family-friendly. Additionally, the ancient Annadorn Dolmen is suitable for families.
What historical natural features can I find around Ballywillin?
The region is rich in historical natural features. The Strangford Stone is Ireland's tallest megalith, situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty. You can also visit the Annadorn Dolmen, an ancient megalithic structure with historical significance, and explore Ringhaddy Sound, known for its historical castle ruins on a peninsula.
Are there hiking opportunities near the natural monuments?
Absolutely. The area offers various hiking routes suitable for different skill levels. For example, within Delamont Country Park, you can find the easy-rated 'Delamont Long Walk'. Other options include the 'Lecale Way' and the 'Strangford Stone – Delamont Country Park loop'. You can find more details on these and other trails in the Hiking around Ballywillin guide.
Can I go cycling near these natural monuments?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity in the area, especially around Ringhaddy Sound, which is known for its cycling routes amidst unusual swollen hills. There are also longer routes like the 'Delamont to Ardglass Harbour loop' and the 'Saint John's Point loop'. Explore more cycling options in the Cycling around Ballywillin guide.
What is the Strangford Stone and where is it located?
The Strangford Stone is the tallest megalith in Ireland, an impressive man-made monument. It is situated within the 200-acre Delamont Country Park, on the picturesque shores of Strangford Lough. It offers superb views over the lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mountains of Mourne.
Is Delamont Country Park suitable for nature lovers?
Absolutely. Delamont Country Park is a 200-acre natural monument located on the shores of Strangford Lough, an area renowned for its outstanding natural beauty. It provides a peaceful and tranquil environment, perfect for nature observation and enjoying the scenic landscape.
Are dogs allowed at the natural monuments around Ballywillin?
Yes, some natural monuments are dog-friendly. For instance, the ancient Annadorn Dolmen is listed as dog-friendly, allowing you to explore this historical site with your canine companion.
What is unique about Ringhaddy Sound?
Ringhaddy Sound is a river located on the western shore of Strangford Lough, known for its unusual swollen hills that make for a unique landscape. It's also notable for its historical castle ruins on a peninsula, adding a layer of history to its natural beauty.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in this region?
Visitors particularly appreciate the peace, beauty, and tranquility offered by sites like Delamont Country Park and the stunning views from the Strangford Stone. The blend of unique geological formations, ancient historical sites, and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling are highly valued by the community.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments near Ballywillin?
While specific seasonal considerations for each monument are not detailed, the region's natural beauty can be enjoyed throughout the year. Spring and summer offer milder weather ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the parks and lough shores. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, and even winter can offer dramatic coastal scenery, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Are there any hidden natural gems to discover near Ballywillin?
While the main natural monuments like Strangford Stone and Delamont Country Park are well-known, the broader area around Ballywillin, particularly the Causeway Coast, holds many spectacular natural attractions. The region's coastline and lough areas often reveal secluded spots and unique geological formations for those willing to explore off the beaten path.
Most popular routes around Ballywillin
Most popular attractions around Ballywillin
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 Ballywillin:
