The best walks and hikes around Kilclief
4.5
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514
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hikes
Hikes around Kilclief County Down explore the shores of Strangford Lough and the surrounding Lecale Peninsula. The region is characterized by a mix of sandy and rocky bays, coastal paths, and gentle countryside tracks. Many walking trails near Strangford Lough incorporate historical landmarks such as Kilclief Castle and Audley's Castle, with minimal elevation change.
Best hiking trails around Kilclief
- The most popular hiking route is Castle Ward & Audley's Castle loop — Strangford, a 4.8 mile (7.7 km) trail…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
4.7
(14)
49
hikers
12.2km
03:17
150m
150m
Embark on the Castle Ward Hoof Trail, a moderate hiking route spanning 7.6 miles (12.2 km) with an elevation gain of 483 feet (147 metres). You can expect to complete…
4.7
(3)
77
hikers
4.66km
01:15
60m
60m
Discover the easy Castle Ward Farm Trail, a delightful hike spanning 2.9 miles (4.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 201 feet (61 metres). This route typically takes about…
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5.0
(3)
29
hikers
7.74km
02:05
100m
90m
Embark on the Castle Ward Boundary Trail, a moderate hiking route that guides you through a diverse landscape of mature woodlands, active farmlands, and historic grounds. As you hike, you…
4.5
(2)
21
hikers
Embark on a moderate hike along the Ballyhornan to St Patrick's Well section of the Lecale Way, covering 6.0 miles (9.6 km) with an elevation gain of 126 feet (38…
5.0
(2)
18
hikers
8.57km
02:17
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Kilclief
Tips from the Community
This 15th-century three-storey tower house stands on a rocky outcrop overlooking Strangford Lough and offers commanding views of the surrounding countryside. Named after its 16th-century owner, John Audley, the tower is a typical example of the numerous stone towers built for the lesser nobility in the late Middle Ages.
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When you cycle along the banks of this natural harbour, you immediately feel the special atmosphere of this place, which has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The lough stretches an impressive 26 kilometres in length and impresses with over 365 small islands, many of which dry out at low tide. On your way you will repeatedly come across fascinating traces of long-gone cultures: from Mesolithic sites to Bronze Age remains to stone fish fences that were used by the early inhabitants for fishing. The Køkkenmøddinger are particularly interesting - shell heaps made of local oysters that have survived for thousands of years. There is a lot to discover in places like Mahee Island or Rough Island, and at low tide you can even reach Rough Island on foot. If you are up for a little effort, the climb up Scrabo Hill near Newtownards is worth it. From up there you have a magnificent view: Belfast stretches out to the west, the Mourne Mountains to the south, and on a clear day you can see the Ards Peninsula and even the Isle of Man. This hill has a long history - it has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. Strangford Lough is not only scenically beautiful, but also an exciting area for anyone interested in archaeology and history. Whether you are interested in nature or history, this tour around the lough is sure to be a memorable one.
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Wikipedia (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%27s_Castle https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%E2%80%99s_Castle Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/audleys-castle-p707501 Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Visit Game of Thrones - Filming Locations, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/blog/read/2020/06/visit-game-of-thrones-filming-locations-b147 “… Within the Castle Ward demesne, you can make your way over to Audley's Field where Robb Stark meets Talisa after the battle at Oxcross. …“ #GoT #BattleOfOxcross #WarOfTheFiveKings
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Wikipedia (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%27s_Castle https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%E2%80%99s_Castle Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/audleys-castle-p707501 Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Visit Game of Thrones - Filming Locations, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/blog/read/2020/06/visit-game-of-thrones-filming-locations-b147 “… Within the Castle Ward demesne, you can make your way over to Audley's Field where Robb Stark meets Talisa after the battle at Oxcross. …“ #GoT #BattleOfOxcross #WarOfTheFiveKings
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National Trust (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl_SVBg9R8U Wikipedia (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward “… The most interesting aspect of Castle Ward is that of its dual architecture, representing the differing tastes of Lord Bangor and his wife, Lady Ann Bligh. While the entrance side of the building is done in a classical Palladian style with columns supporting a triangular pediment, the opposite side is Georgian Gothic with pointed windows, battlements and finials. …”
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Great place for a run along the coastline.
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Best known for its role as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property located in Strangford. With its distinctive blend of classical and gothic styles, the castle and its estate grace the picturesque shores of Strangford Lough. Tours of the castle and estate are available year-round. For more information, visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward
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Brought to fame due to its appearance in the series "Game of Thrones", Audley's Castle valiantly sits on the shores of Strangford Lough, with a rich history dating back to the 15th century.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many trails to choose from around Kilclief?
Yes, there are over 20 hiking routes to explore around Kilclief. The trails range from short, easy walks to more moderate-distance hikes, offering plenty of options for different abilities.
What is the terrain like on the hikes?
The terrain is generally gentle and accessible. Most routes follow a mix of sandy and rocky bays, well-defined coastal paths, and quiet country tracks. You can expect minimal elevation change on the majority of the walks.
Are the trails suitable for beginners or families?
Absolutely. The area is very well-suited for families and those new to hiking. With over a dozen easy-rated trails, you can find many short, flat walks along the coast and through estates. A great family-friendly option is the Castle Ward Shore Trail — Strangford & Lecale, which is an easy path along the lough.
Are dogs allowed on the trails near Kilclief?
Many trails in the area are suitable for walking with a dog, especially the coastal paths and country lanes. However, some areas like the Castle Ward estate may have specific rules, often requiring dogs to be on a lead, particularly near livestock or in protected wildlife areas. Always check local signage before letting your dog off-lead.
What do other hikers think of the routes around Kilclief?
The hikes around Kilclief are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning coastal scenery across Strangford Lough and the blend of natural beauty with historical sites like Kilclief Castle.
Are there any good circular walks?
Yes, there are several excellent loop walks. For a longer, more varied circular route, consider the Audley's Castle – Castle Ward loop from Strangford. This moderate trail combines woodland paths in the Castle Ward estate with beautiful shoreline sections.
What historical sites can I see while hiking?
The region is rich in history. The most prominent landmark is Kilclief Castle, a 15th-century tower house right by the coast. Many walks also feature views of or pass by Audley's Castle and explore the historic Castle Ward estate. The trails are part of the Lecale Way, which is steeped in the history of Saint Patrick.
Where can I find good coastal views?
For a walk defined by its coastal scenery, the Ballyhornan to St Patrick's Well via Lecale Way offers fantastic views along the shoreline. This route follows a section of the Lecale Way, showcasing the dramatic coast between Ballyhornan and St Patrick's Well.
What wildlife might I see around Strangford Lough?
Strangford Lough is a haven for wildlife. While walking along the coast, keep an eye out for seabirds and waders feeding along the shoreline. The area around Cloghy Rocks is a known spot for seal watching, and the calm waters of the lough attract various marine life.
Where is the best place to park for hikes starting at Kilclief?
For walks beginning at Kilclief Beach, there is a public car park available right by the beach and castle, which is a convenient starting point for several coastal routes. For trails within the Castle Ward estate, you will need to use the designated National Trust car parks, which may require an entry fee for non-members.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes available?
While most routes are easy to moderate, you can find longer hikes. The Castle Ward Hoof Trail — Strangford & Lecale is a good example, offering a moderate 7.6-mile (12.2 km) trek through the wider estate. You can also combine sections of the Lecale Way for a full day of hiking.
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