Top 4 Natural Monuments around Ballyherly
Natural monuments around Ballyherly are situated near Strangford Lough, an area recognized for its natural beauty. The region features diverse landscapes, including expansive country parks and views of the lough. These sites offer opportunities for walking and appreciating natural and historical elements. The area is characterized by its serene environment and cultural significance.
Best natural monuments around Ballyherly
- The most popular natural monument is Strangford Stone, a man-made monument located within a 200-acre country park. It is recognized as…
Last updated: August 10, 2026
Strangford Stone
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Ringhaddy Sound
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Corrog Wood
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Delamont Country Park
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Strangford Stone
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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.
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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.
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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.
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The impressive Strangford Stone that sits inside the Delamont Country Park in Northern Ireland holds the mighty title of the highest megalith stone in Europe! The stone stands at a whopping 12.5 metres tall and was assembles by 1000 people in 1999. It stands in an elevated position, boasting superb views over Strangford Lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mountains of Mourne
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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.
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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.
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Just about 100 metres further up the road is a mooring with a Boat Club, with facilities if needed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some family-friendly natural monuments to visit around Ballyherly?
For a great day out with the family, consider visiting Strangford Stone within Delamont Country Park. This 200-acre park offers a tranquil setting with views of Strangford Lough and is home to Ireland's tallest megalith. Another excellent option is Delamont Country Park itself, which provides ample space for children to explore and enjoy nature.
Are there easy walking trails near the natural monuments in Ballyherly?
Yes, there are several easy walking trails available. For instance, near the natural monuments, you can find routes like the Castle Ward Farm Trail or the Audley's Castle loop. These are part of the broader selection of easy hikes around Ballyherly, perfect for a relaxed stroll.
What kind of historical significance do the natural monuments around Ballyherly hold?
The region is rich in history. The most prominent example is the Strangford Stone, recognized as the tallest megalith in Ireland, which adds a unique archaeological dimension to the natural landscape. Additionally, areas like Ringhaddy Sound feature historical elements such as castle ruins, offering a glimpse into the past.
Can I go running near the natural monuments in Ballyherly?
Absolutely. The area around Ballyherly offers various running trails. You can find routes like the Castle Ward Hoof Trail run or the Audley's Castle loops, which range from moderate to difficult. Explore more options on the running trails around Ballyherly guide.
What are the best natural features to observe around Ballyherly?
The natural monuments around Ballyherly offer diverse features. You can enjoy the serene views of Strangford Lough from Strangford Stone or Delamont Country Park. Ringhaddy Sound is known for its unique landscape with swollen hills and a river feature, providing picturesque scenery.
Are there opportunities for cycling near Ballyherly's natural monuments?
Yes, road cycling is a popular activity in the region. You can find routes that take you past scenic spots and natural monuments, such as loops from Strangford that offer views of Portaferry Harbor. For detailed routes, check out the road cycling routes around Ballyherly guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in Ballyherly?
Visitors frequently praise the peace, beauty, and tranquility offered by the natural monuments, especially within Delamont Country Park. The historical significance of the Strangford Stone, combined with superb views over Strangford Lough, Slieve Croob, and the Mountains of Mourne, is also a major highlight.
Is there parking available at the natural monuments?
Yes, for places like Strangford Stone and Delamont Country Park, parking facilities are typically available within the country park itself, making access convenient for visitors.
Are the natural monuments around Ballyherly suitable for nature lovers?
Absolutely. The entire area, particularly around Strangford Lough, is recognized for its outstanding natural beauty. Locations like Delamont Country Park provide a tranquil setting ideal for nature lovers to appreciate the diverse landscapes and serene environment.
Are there any viewpoints to enjoy panoramic scenery?
Many natural monuments in the Ballyherly area double as excellent viewpoints. The Strangford Stone, for example, stands in an elevated position offering superb views over Strangford Lough. Similarly, View of Castle Ward and Strangford & Lecale AONB provides a good vantage point within Castle Ward park.
What amenities are available near the natural monuments?
At Delamont Country Park, which houses the Strangford Stone, you can find amenities such as Steamers Coffee Shop, offering a variety of refreshments including breakfast, lunch, coffee, and ice cream during summer. For Ringhaddy Sound, there's a boat club with full facilities nearby.
How long should I plan for a visit to the natural monuments?
The duration of your visit can vary. For a comprehensive experience at Delamont Country Park, which includes the Strangford Stone, you could easily spend a half to a full day enjoying the walks, views, and amenities. Shorter visits are also possible if you focus on specific highlights.
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