Best attractions and places to see around Ringfad include its scenic peninsula and coastal features in County Down, Northern Ireland. This townland is characterized by its broad peninsula, which defines the eastern boundary of Coney Island Bay and is near Killough Bay. The area offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, with notable landmarks and diverse landscapes. Visitors can explore a variety of sites, from ancient historical monuments to coastal viewpoints.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
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Lough Money is a quiet, almost mystical place, perfect for relaxing and taking a deep breath. The gentle waves of the lake gently hit the shore, while the reeds sway in the wind, creating a gentle rustling sound. Surrounded by rolling countryside and shady trees, you feel like you've been transported to another world. Ideal for a break on your bike ride.
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The vast coastline stretches out endlessly before you, and the panorama with the majestic Mourne Hills in the background creates a scene that is hard to put into words. The gentle waves touching the sand and the silence of the surroundings make you feel the vastness and freedom of this place.
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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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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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Lough Money is the source for the River Slaney, which flows to the supposed landing spot of Saint Patrick on Strangford Lough. Lough Money’s water is remarkably clear as befits a facility that was once used as a reservoir for Downpatrick. The remains of the disused pumping station still stand on the island. Beautified by the presence of herons, just one of many bird species that comprise an abundance of bird life.
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Also known as Phennick Cove Marina, in Ardglass, County Down, one of three major fishing ports in Northern Ireland. Ardglass is now one of the safest small harbours on the east coast of Ireland, following improvements made in recent years.
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Wikipedia (Saint John's Point, County Down, 2022-09-25): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_John%27s_Point,_County_Down Tripadvisor (St. John's Point Lighthouse, 2022-09-25): https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g6913948-d12794915-Reviews-St_John_s_Point_Lighthouse-Killough_County_Down_Northern_Ireland.html Commissioners of Irish Lights (St John’s Point (Co Down), 2022-09-25): https://www.irishlights.ie/tourism/our-lighthouses/st-john%E2%80%99s-point-(down).aspx YouTube (Drone Video, RODPIKER DRONES UK, 2022-09-25): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5oF5yZPc_Q4
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The area boasts significant historical sites. You can visit the impressive Ballynoe Stone Circle, a monument dating from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age, featuring over 50 upright stones. Additionally, the clubhouse of Ardglass Golf Club is housed within Ardglass Castle, a fortified warehouse from 1405, offering a unique historical experience.
Yes, Ringfad and its surroundings offer several picturesque viewpoints. View of the Mourne Mountains from Strangford & Lecale Beach provides expansive coastal views with the majestic Mourne Hills in the background. Ringfad Point itself, as the southernmost tip of the peninsula, offers stunning coastal vistas. You can also visit St. John's Point Lighthouse (County Down) for views of the surrounding coastline.
Ringfad is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy running on various trails, with options like a moderate running loop from Ardglass or Killough. For cycling, there are routes such as the Kilclief to Ardglass Harbour loop or the Saint John's Point loop from Downpatrick. Explore more options on the Running Trails around Ringfad and Cycling around Ringfad guide pages.
Absolutely. Families can enjoy the sandy shores and views at View of the Mourne Mountains from Strangford & Lecale Beach. Ardglass Harbour is also considered family-friendly, offering a pleasant spot to visit. The ancient Ballynoe Stone Circle is a fascinating site for all ages, and Lough Money provides a tranquil setting for nature observation.
There are several walking opportunities. You can explore the coastal paths around the Ringfad Peninsula and Ringfad Point for scenic strolls. For more structured routes, consider the running loops mentioned in the Running Trails around Ringfad guide, which are also suitable for walking. The area around Lough Money also offers a quiet, natural setting for a walk.
Ringfad is characterized by its broad peninsula, which forms the eastern boundary of Coney Island Bay and is close to Killough Bay. The area is rich in coastal landscapes, including Ringfad Point. Inland, Lough Money is a notable natural feature, known for its clear water and abundant birdlife.
Yes, wildlife spotting is possible, particularly around natural areas. Lough Money is known for its abundance of birdlife, including herons. The coastal areas and bays like Coney Island Bay and Killough Bay also offer opportunities to observe marine and coastal birds.
Visitors frequently appreciate the stunning coastal views, the historical significance of sites like Ballynoe Stone Circle, and the tranquil natural settings. The expansive panoramas from viewpoints like View of the Mourne Mountains from Strangford & Lecale Beach and the unique charm of Ardglass Harbour are also highly rated.
Beyond the Ballynoe Stone Circle, the Ardglass Golf Club clubhouse is housed within Ardglass Castle, a fortified warehouse dating back to 1405, making it one of the oldest clubhouses in golf. This structure offers a glimpse into the area's mercantile past.
Ringfad Point is the southernmost tip of the Ringfad peninsula. Its Irish name, "An Rinn Fhada," translates to "the long point or headland," reflecting its geographical feature. It offers picturesque coastal views and defines the eastern boundary of Coney Island Bay.
Yes, road cyclists can find several routes. Options include a moderate route from Killough to Slieve Donard Hotel and Dundrum Castle, or a loop from Ballynoe Stone Circle covering Down Cathedral and Quoile River View. You can find more detailed routes on the Road Cycling Routes around Ringfad guide page.
Ardglass Harbour, also known as Phennick Cove Marina, is one of Northern Ireland's three major fishing ports. It is recognized as one of the safest small harbors on the east coast of Ireland due to recent improvements, making it a good spot to stop, refuel, and enjoy the fishing village atmosphere.


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