Escape from the hustle and bustle of tourist traps with our Strangford Lough scenic tour. Showing off some of the most beautiful sights in Northern Ireland, this truly relaxing experience takes in the scenery hidden away just south of Belfast, allowing you to sit back and enjoy nature at its best. You will be collected from and dropped off at your hotel or ship. Get in touch today to find out more about our Strangford Lough tour.
After heading through the villages, the tour begins at Mount Stewart, home of the 7th Marchioness Edith, Lady Londonderry, and her family in the early 20th century. The house is delightful to browse around, providing a contrast between the tranquillity of the time and today’s hectic pace.
Outside, the Mount Stewart gardens were recently selected as one of the top 10 gardens in the world. This beautiful space reflects the rich tapestry and planting artistry for which Edith, Lady Londonderry, was renowned. Aided by the mild climate, the garden creates a strong Mediterranean feel and an atmosphere not unlike an Italian villa landscape.
After Mount Stewart house, clients have the option of taking in the Lake Walk. Covering 0.6 miles, this tour allows you to enjoy the serenity of nature as you travel south, down the coast to Portaferry. Nestled at the mouth of the lough, you will see how the narrows create strong tidal currents in the sea (depending on what time of day we arrive). This was dubbed “Strangfyorthe” (Norse for strong fjord) by the Vikings.
Crossing on the ferry to Strangford, we will stop at Castle Ward, an eccentric 18th century mansion and estate looking out over the tranquil waters of Strangford Lough in County Down.
Step into a fantasy world of as you explore the Georgian farmyard and
the Lough shore, film locations for the smash hit television series Game
of Thrones. Castle Ward’s historic farmyard was featured as the
location of Winterfell for much of Season 1.
Then continue back up the coast to Scrabo Tower. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views out over the lough, onto the Mourne Mountains and, on a clear day, even as far as the Isle of Man in the Irish Sea.
The Tower was also a filming location for the 2014 film, Dracula Untold