Best attractions and places to see around Spittle Quarter include a mix of coastal landmarks, historical sites, and natural viewpoints. This region, located in County Down, Northern Ireland, offers diverse experiences, from exploring ancient stone circles to visiting historic lighthouses and cathedrals. The area is characterized by its rich heritage and varied natural features, providing opportunities for exploration and scenic views.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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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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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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[Google translation may change URLs] Down Cathedral / Cathedral Church of the Holy Trinity (2022-09-25): https://www.downcathedral.org/ Wikipedia (Down Cathedral, 2022-09-25): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Down_Cathedral Tripadivisor (Down Cathedral, 2022-09-25): https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g186477-d214692-Reviews-Down_Cathedral-Downpatrick_County_Down_Northern_Ireland.html google (Street View, 2022-09-25): https://www.google.com/maps/@54.3278209,-5.7210324,3a,90y,234.11h,85.82t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1scQFJmlOADdTMaKPTwpASCQ!2e0!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fpanoid%3DcQFJmlOADdTMaKPTwpASCQ%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D230.20538%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i16384!8i8192
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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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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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Spittle Quarter is located in County Down, Northern Ireland. This region is known for its coastal landmarks, historical sites, and natural viewpoints.
You can expect a diverse range of attractions, including historical sites like ancient stone circles and cathedrals, prominent coastal landmarks such as lighthouses, and scenic viewpoints offering expansive vistas. The area is rich in both heritage and natural beauty.
Yes, Spittle Quarter is home to several significant historical sites. You can explore the ancient Ballynoe Stone Circle, a late Neolithic to early Bronze Age monument, or visit Down Cathedral, a historical religious building. The St. John's Point Lighthouse (County Down) also stands as a historical landmark.
For breathtaking scenery, visit the View of the Mourne Mountains from Strangford & Lecale Beach, where you can enjoy views across the bay to the majestic Mourne Hills from a sandy beach. St. John's Point Lighthouse (County Down) also offers impressive coastal views.
Many attractions in Spittle Quarter are suitable for families. Highlights like View of the Mourne Mountains from Strangford & Lecale Beach, Down Cathedral, and Ardglass Harbour are categorized as family-friendly. The Ballynoe Stone Circle is also a great spot for families to explore history.
The area around Spittle Quarter offers various outdoor activities, particularly hiking and road cycling. You can find easy hikes like the Lecale Way or more moderate routes around Killard National Nature Reserve. For cyclists, there are routes ranging from easy to difficult, such as the Ballyhornan Beach loop or longer rides towards Slieve Donard Hotel. Explore more options in the hiking guide or road cycling guide for Spittle Quarter.
Yes, there are numerous hiking trails. You can enjoy easy walks like the Lecale Way or a loop from Killard National Nature Reserve. For more challenging options, consider the Ballyhornan to St Patrick's Well via Lecale Way. Find detailed routes and guides on the Hiking around Spittle Quarter page.
Yes, the Ballynoe Stone Circle is noted as a dog-friendly historical site, allowing you to explore this ancient monument with your canine companion.
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning views, especially those across the bay to the Mourne Hills from Strangford & Lecale Beach. The historical significance of sites like Down Cathedral and Ballynoe Stone Circle, along with the prominent coastal presence of St. John's Point Lighthouse, are also highly valued. The komoot community has shared 8 photos and given 14 upvotes, highlighting the area's appeal.
Yes, Ardglass Harbour is a good spot to find facilities. It's a fishing village where you can refuel, top up water bottles, and enjoy an ice cream, making it a convenient stop during your exploration of the area.
While specific seasonal advice isn't provided, coastal areas like Spittle Quarter are generally pleasant during spring and summer months (April to September) for outdoor activities and enjoying the scenic views. However, historical sites and lighthouses can be visited year-round, weather permitting.


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