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Top Tips for Adventure on Strangford Lough

An area of outstanding beauty and wildlife importance the 15 mile sea lough has a lot to offer.  After witnessing it’s serene waters and ruggedly beautiful islands its easy to see how it got its Irish name Loch Cuan meaning ‘calm lough’…until you’ve discovered the many water activities on offer that is!            

Be sure to check out our extensive list of activity events and activity ideas on Strangford Lough. No experience required, no specialist equipment needed, you don’t need a big group or lots of organisation.  Just make a quick call or email to the activity providers to begin your adventure.

Here are some of our top tips:   

Get ready to explore the lough at high speeds aboard a purpose built RIB (rigid inflatable boat to you and I) on the Strangford Sea Safari.  Watch your knuckles go white as the RIB takes you to shipwrecks, whirlpools and sea colonies.  Private charters are available with drop offs - a chance to try some of the local cuisine or a refreshing pint.  Check out our blog for a first hand account.

After admiring Castle Ward from the water spend some time ashore enjoying the multipurpose trails on foot, bike or even horseback.  Bike hire is available from Clearsky Adventure Centre, and with a bike wash on site there is no excuse not to get stuck in on the off road mountain bike trails.  Check out this video to see the trails in action.      

If it’s something a bit more out of the ordinary you’re after then why not try your hand at raft building – choose your friends wisely as this will be a literal case of sink or swim.  Rock climbing, clay pigeon shooting and archery (think robin hood minus the green tights!) are some of the many activities Clearsky can offer.

If you can’t wait to get back on the lough then do not fear as the Strangford Lough Canoe Trail offers no less than 80 square nautical miles of paddling  It’s never been easier to do it yourself with downloadable maps, and canoe hire available just add a sense of adventure, some experience and you’re good to go.  For those who are less confident take a guided trip and discover the beauty of the lough like never before. 

Step away from the smartphone and get back to nature with a Wilderness Island Trip. Find your inner Bear Grylls as you make your own shelter for the night before enjoying some banter round the camp fire.   This canoeing and overnight camping trip is provided by Action Outdoors.  Based in

Delamont country park, Killyleagh on the shores of Strangford Lough this outdoor centre provides a variety of events and activities

including pier jumping, rock climbing, abseiling and team challenges. 

Make a break of it

With so many exciting activities to choose from, why not take a short break.  

Discover Northern Ireland has plenty of options to suit all tastes and budgets but here are some of OutdoorNI.com’s favourites. 

On a budget

Barholm hostel, Portaferry, Co. Down

This Portaferry based hostel boasts stunning views and is only a quick and inexpensive ferry ride away from the village of Strangford. With an 11 piece Irish breakfast on the menu you’ll be ready for a day full of action packed adventure.

Mid Range

The River Mill B&B, Downpatrick, Co. Down

This restored 18^th century Irish linen mill offers guests luxurious rooms with king size beds and spacious en-suite wet rooms – all for an affordable price.  Situated in Downpatrick – the heart of St Patricks country this is a great base for an adventure break.

Dufferin Coaching Inn, Killyleagh, Co. Down

Near the shores of Strangford Lough and on the on doorstep of the oldest inhabited castle in Ireland this Georgian Inn is a great base for those wanting to explore what the Lough has to offer.

Top End

La Mon Hotel and Country Club, Co. Down

Situated in the scenic countryside half way between Belfast and Strangford Lough this four star hotel and country club offers the best of both worlds.  Choose to explore the city’s night life or relax and unwind with complimentary use of the hotels country club.

Portaferry HoteL, Portaferry, Co. Down

Dating back to the 18^th century, this hotel offers guests individually decorated en suite rooms furnished in antique furniture. With stunning views across the lough you can sit back, relax and reminiscence about your day of adventure before having a drink at the bar or dining in the award winning restaurant.