Displaying 241 - 260 of 356
This island-studded sea lough is the largest inlet in the UK and Ireland covering 80 square nautical miles. It is approached from the Irish Sea through the (5 nautical mile) fast-running tidal narrows which open out into more gentle waters.
The south east coast of Northern Ireland is, in general, a straightforward area for the sea kayaker to enjoy. Along the coastline there are two main areas of more demanding water, namely Strangford Narrows and the mouth of Carlingford Lough, where the waters of these impressive sea loughs meet the Irish Sea.
As such, the trail has a great deal to offer sea canoeists of all abilities; a mixture of sheltered paddling within the loughs and along gentle stretches of coastline, contrasted with tide races and overfalls at the lough entrances to challenge even the most experienced paddler.
The area is abundant in marine wildlife and most of the coastline enjoys special designation status.Canoeists can expect to encounter a wide variety of birdlife, seals and even porpoises and other marine mammals. The trail starts at Strangford village with regular access points along its length to Narrow Water on Carlingford Lough. From here, the historic ship canal leads to Newry city. The trail can be paddled in sections and in either direction.
This circular route links the tranquil shores of Strangford Lough with the sometimes exhilarating beaches of the Irish Sea with views of the Isle of Man on a clear day.
Once part of the Nugent's Estate and now managed by The National Trust, this gentle walk is through a mature wood of mixed broad leaved trees. Visitors will enjoy spectacular views across the Strangford Narrows, towards Audleys Castle and Castleward. Nugent's Wood is home to Red Squirrels, badgers and has an impressive display of spring flowers such as bluebells, stitchwort and honey suckle.
The new wood was formerly an area of grazing fields set upon a drumlin in the rolling hills landscape typical of the Ards Peninsula, with gentle slopes down to the nearby lough and farmland. From the top of the wood you can see down to Strangford Lough and across the Portaferry House lands.
Welcome to the Red Trail on the Mount Stewart estate. Mount Stewart gardens were acquired by National Trust in 1957, with the house following in 1977; the wider estate was acquired in 2014, bringing the total area to just under 1000 acres. The first areas that have been opened to visitors incorporates the Red, Blue, and Yellow Trails. The Red trail is the main circular walk, and loops through a mixture of woodland and farmland. There are a number of points of interest along the walk, including working farmland, the ruins of a folly, and water features. Red squirrels may be seen in the trees, or running along the ground to get into a tree. The best times to walk the red trail are early in the morning or late afternoon, especially in Autumn.
The famous gardens at Mount Stewart were planted in the 1920s by Edith, Lady Londonderry and have been nominated a World Heritage Site. Visitors can walk through magnificent woodlands, viewing the flora and lake, beautiful throughout the entire year.
Linear walking route across the northern strand of Strangford Lough. The route crosses the sea defenses that protect reclaimed lands to the south of Newtownards.
A pathway along the lake allows for closer inspection of the birds. For example, swans, mallards, little grebe, moorhens, and coots are usually present. There is an observation area to view the birds and other wildlife. Parking is available. In July 2000, Kiltonga Nature Reserve became the first site in the UK to be awarded BT Millennium Miles status.
The walk takes in the summit of Scrabo Hill and the famous Scrabo Tower built in 1857, one of Ireland's best known landmarks. The views over Strangford Lough and North Down are some of the finest in the country. The walk then descends to the disused sandstone quarries which provided building stone since Anglo-Norman times. The old quarries have major geological importance and have been designated an Area of Special Scientific Interest.
Steady climb on woodland paths to viewpoint before descent through woodland to finish. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this former estate woodland which is the result of planting in the mid nineteenth century. Viewpoint over Killynether and drumlin countryside beyond.
The wood offers a choice of 3 walks from the car park through the mixed woodland. A popular site for local dog walkers.
Accessible at low-tide, this walk around Rough Island provides magnificent views of Strangford Lough and is an excellent view point for bird watching.
Castle Espie, situated on the shores of Strangford Lough near Comber, County Down, is the newest WWT visitor centre and the Trust’s first in Ireland.
The centre’s buildings are a visitor attraction in their own right because of their history and the numerous eco-friendly features they incorporate, including reclaimed and recycled materials, a wildlife garden and energy systems fuelled by the sun and wind.
Castle Espie’s main draw, though, is its magical mix of wide estuary views, tidal lagoon, eel-grass mats, woodland walks, salt marshes and reed beds; the presence of Ireland’s largest collection of native and exotic water-birds
Stages classes use Power Zone, Stages unique power meter, telling you exactly how much power you’re generating throughout the class. This means you can see how hard you’re working – so no more bluffing!
To take part in the class you must be registered at www.stagescloud.com, you will need a valid phone number when registering which will also be used to register at the class.
HYROX is a brand new functional class. The class will incorporate the 8 main HYROX exercises Skierg, Sled Push, Sled Pull, Burpee Broad Jumps, Rowing, Farmers Carry, Sandbag Lunges and Wall Balls, as well as running.
2025/26 Scheme now open for applications.
Sporting activities anyone can take part in.
Select the relevant activity below to be taken to the online booking page.
Helen's Bay Beach is one of two excellent beaches found in Crawfordsburn Country Park. These beautiful sandy beaches are by far the best within the Belfast area and as such are exceptionally popular and well used.