The best walks and hikes around Cloghy
4.5
(64)
524
hikers
27
hikes
Hiking around Cloghy, located on the Ards Peninsula in County Down, Northern Ireland, offers diverse natural features for exploration. The region is characterized by its extensive sandy beaches and coastal paths along the Irish Sea, providing opportunities for walks with sea views. Significant sand dunes, recognized as a Designated Area of Special Scientific Interest, add unique landscapes and birdwatching spots. To the west, Strangford Lough contributes to a rich aquatic environment and scenic shores.
Best hiking trails around Cloghy
- The…
Last updated: October 28, 2026
4.7
(18)
56
hikers
12.2km
03:17
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(3)
83
hikers
4.66km
01:15
60m
60m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(4)
30
hikers
7.74km
02:05
100m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
24
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.8
(5)
15
hikers
9.19km
02:29
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Popular around Cloghy
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
What types of hiking trails can I expect around Cloghy?
Cloghy, situated on the Ards Peninsula, offers a variety of hiking experiences. You'll find extensive sandy beaches and coastal paths with views of the Irish Sea, as well as unique sand dunes recognized as a Designated Area of Special Scientific Interest. The area also features trails near Strangford Lough, providing a mix of coastal and lough-side scenery.
Are there easy or family-friendly hiking options in Cloghy?
Yes, Cloghy is well-suited for easy and family-friendly hikes. Out of nearly 30 routes, 19 are classified as easy. A great option is the Castle Ward Farm Trail, an easy 2.9-mile (4.7 km) path that offers a gentle walk through farmland and natural areas.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to see while hiking near Cloghy?
The region boasts several interesting natural features and landmarks. You can explore the significant sand dunes, which are a Designated Area of Special Scientific Interest, or enjoy views of Strangford Lough. Nearby attractions include the Delamont Country Park and various viewpoints like the View of Castle Ward and Strangford & Lecale AONB. Historical sites such as Castle Ward Tower (a filming location) and Audley's Castle are also accessible.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, many of the trails around Cloghy are designed as loops. For example, the Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop from Strangford is an easy 3.7 km circular route. Another option is the View of Castle Ward Main House – Sunken Garden loop from Strangford, a moderate 9.2 km loop.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Cloghy?
Cloghy offers pleasant hiking conditions throughout much of the year. The coastal paths and beaches are particularly enjoyable in milder weather. Winter can be excellent for birdwatching in the sand dunes, as wading birds are present. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Is Cloghy a good destination for birdwatching while hiking?
Absolutely. The sand dunes in Cloghy are a Designated Area of Special Scientific Interest and are known for their diverse environment, making them an excellent spot for birdwatching. The south end of Cloughey beach is also a noted location, especially in winter, for spotting various species, including rare visitors.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Cloghy?
The hiking routes in Cloghy are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 40 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from coastal paths to lough-side trails, and the scenic views of the Irish Sea and the Ards Peninsula.
Are there options for longer, more challenging hikes?
While many routes are easy, there are moderate options for those seeking a longer challenge. The Castle Ward Hoof Trail is a moderate 7.6-mile (12.2 km) route that explores varied landscapes and takes approximately 3 hours 17 minutes to complete. The Castle Ward Boundary Trail is another moderate option at 4.8 miles (7.7 km).
Is there parking available near the hiking trails in Cloghy?
Yes, parking is generally available. For instance, the Castle Ward Shore Car Park is a designated parking area that serves as a starting point for several routes in the wider Cloghy area. Many trailheads will have nearby parking facilities.
Can I reach Cloghy and its hiking trails using public transport?
Cloghy is located on the Ards Peninsula. While public transport options exist within County Down, it's advisable to check local bus schedules for routes serving Cloughey directly. For detailed information on bus services, you can consult Translink's website, Northern Ireland's public transport provider.
Are there any pubs or cafes near the hiking routes in Cloghy?
Cloghy is a small village, but the wider Ards Peninsula and nearby towns offer various amenities. You can find cafes, pubs, and accommodation options in the surrounding areas, perfect for a refreshment or a meal after your hike. It's recommended to check local listings for current operating hours.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Cloghy's hiking paths?
The terrain around Cloghy is quite varied. You'll encounter sandy beaches, coastal paths that can be relatively flat, and trails through sand dunes. Some routes, particularly those around estates like Castle Ward, may feature well-maintained paths through woodlands and farmland. Elevation gains are generally moderate, making most trails accessible.
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