Attractions and Places To See around Cloghy - Top 13

The area around Cloghy is rich in history. You can visit Kirkistown Castle, an impressive tower house dating back to 1622, which was later remodeled in a Gothic style. Further afield, but still within easy reach, are Castle Ward Tower, an 18th-century National Trust property, and Audley's Castle, a historical site named after its 16th-century owners.

For natural beauty, Cloghy Beach is a prime attraction with sandy shores, easily accessible boardwalks, and sand dunes designated as a Special Scientific Interest. The nearby Strangford Lough is a haven for water sports and offers stunning views. You can also explore the Forest Path Along Strangford Lough for scenic walks.

Yes, Cloghy and its surroundings offer several family-friendly options. Cloghy Beach is perfect for paddling and playing. A short drive away, Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry allows visitors to see seals, otters, and tropical fish. The estate of Castle Ward also offers family activities and tours.

Cloghy is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy coastal walks with stunning views, play tennis on modern outdoor courts, or try bowls. The nearby Strangford Lough is ideal for water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. For motorsports fans, the Kirkistown Motor Racing Circuit is just over a mile from the village.

Yes, the area offers various walking and hiking opportunities. Coastal paths provide easy walks with Irish Sea views. For more structured trails, consider the easy hikes around Cloghy, which include routes like the Castle Ward Farm Trail and the Kearney coastal walk.

Absolutely! The Ards Peninsula offers scenic cycling routes. You can find various options, from easy to moderate, including loops from Portaferry to Kirkistown Castle or along Strangford Lough. Explore the cycling routes around Cloghy for detailed tours.

Cloghy Beach is a beautiful sandy beach perfect for relaxation, paddling, and playing. It features accessible boardwalks and a decked rest area with coastal views. The sand dunes are a Designated Area of Special Scientific Interest. The southern end is also a great spot for birdwatching, especially for wading birds in winter.

Yes, fans of 'Game of Thrones' will be interested to know that Castle Ward Tower is famously known as 'Winterfell' from the series. Additionally, Audley's Castle was also used as a filming location, with Audley's Field appearing in scenes like Robb Stark meeting Talisa.

The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities like coastal walks, cycling, and water sports. However, Cloghy also offers unique experiences in other seasons, such as birdwatching at Cloghy Beach in winter when wading birds are abundant.

Cloghy Beach features easily accessible boardwalks at its northern and southern ends, allowing visitors to reach the shoreline. The Castle Ward Shore Car Park is also noted for its accessibility, serving as a convenient starting point for exploring the grounds of Castle Ward.

Many coastal paths and natural areas around Cloghy are suitable for dog walking. While Cloghy Beach is generally dog-friendly, it's always advisable to check for any seasonal restrictions or specific rules regarding dogs in designated areas, especially due to the sensitive environment of the sand dunes.

While Cloghy is a charming village, for a wider selection of pubs and eateries, you might consider nearby villages like Strangford. The Strangford Ferry Terminal area is known for quaint spots, with The Cuan often recommended for pub grub.

The Kirkistown Castle Golf Club holds the distinction of being the most easterly 18-hole golf course on the island of Ireland. It offers a unique links golf experience, set against the scenic backdrop of the Ards Peninsula.