Best lakes around Tullykin offers access to various loughs and natural areas, primarily centered around Strangford Lough. This region features a mix of coastal views, forest paths, and historical sites. The landscape provides opportunities for exploring diverse natural attractions and viewpoints.
Last updated: June 15, 2026
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • River
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Lough Money is a quiet, almost mystical place, perfect for relaxing and taking a deep breath. The gentle waves of the lake gently hit the shore, while the reeds sway in the wind, creating a gentle rustling sound. Surrounded by rolling countryside and shady trees, you feel like you've been transported to another world. Ideal for a break on your bike ride.
0
0
Lough Money is the source for the River Slaney, which flows to the supposed landing spot of Saint Patrick on Strangford Lough. Lough Money’s water is remarkably clear as befits a facility that was once used as a reservoir for Downpatrick. The remains of the disused pumping station still stand on the island. Beautified by the presence of herons, just one of many bird species that comprise an abundance of bird life.
1
0
The Marina is a nature reserve of unparalleled beauty, it is a good starting point on which to explore the Lough.
0
0
Portaferry ( from Port an Pheire 'landing place of the ferry' ) is a small town in County down, at the southern end of the Ards Peninsula, near the Narrows at the entrance to Strangford Lough. It hosts its own small Marina, From where the The Ferry service operates daily at 30-minute intervals (7.45 am to 10.45 pm) between the villages of Portaferry and Strangford. The Lough being one of the world's most important marine sites with over 2,000 marine species. There are fine Georgian buildings in the town square, including a Market House, now used as a community centre. Portaferry Castle, a 16th-century townhouse ruin, sits atop a slope overlooking the Harbour.
0
0
Ringhaddy Sound is located on the western shore of Strangford Lough to the west of Islandmore. With its unusual swollen hills it is a real joy to cycle. Descend into the sound, and enjoy the atmosphere. A Castle ruin and Church sit further on the Peninsula, but alas they are on private land. It is possible to arrange access from the land owner however. There is also a Beautiful mooring with a Boat Club that has full facilities if needed. Heres a bit about the Castle. This is one of the most completely surviving tower houses in the county, retaining its gables and formerly an original wooden window. There were at least two main phases of construction at this site. The ground floor, which had a stone vault, dates from the 15th century, while the upper parts were rebuilt in about 1600. It is rectangular in plan with small turrets at the north-east and south-west angles, one with the stair and the other with a latrine chute. There are large fireplaces on the first and second floors, and an attic in the roof. A distinctive stone rainwater spout projects from the east side. The castle seems to have changed hands between Bryan McArt and the English in the early 16th century, and it is likely that the earlier castle was McArt’s stronghold, slighted when he withdrew, and rebuilt by the new English owner. Underwater investigation has confirmed the presence of a stone slipway beside the castle, and water transport was clearly of great importance in this location.
0
0
Just about 100 metres further up the road is a mooring with a Boat Club, with facilities if needed.
0
0
Nice forest with great views of Strangford Lough. Easy signposted walks.
3
1
The path leads you through a wall of gnarled, ancient trees - and the sea water flashes again and again between the trunks.
3
0
The lakes around Tullykin, particularly Strangford Lough, offer diverse natural attractions. You can find scenic forest paths like the Forest Path Along Strangford Lough, which provides great views of the lough through ancient trees. There are also numerous viewpoints, such as Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views, offering panoramic vistas of the bays. Lough Money is known for its remarkably clear water and abundant birdlife, including herons.
Yes, several spots around Tullykin's lakes are suitable for families. The Forest Path Along Strangford Lough is an easy, signposted walk through a forest with lough views. View of Portaferry Harbor offers a pleasant loughside town experience with a marina, which can be enjoyable for families. Additionally, Lough Money provides a quiet, relaxing environment perfect for a family stroll.
The region around Tullykin's lakes has notable historical elements. At Ringhaddy Sound, you can see the ruins of a 15th-century castle and a church on the peninsula, though they are on private land. The town of Portaferry, visible from View of Portaferry Harbor, features fine Georgian buildings in its town square and the ruins of a 16th-century castle overlooking the harbor.
The area around Tullykin's lakes offers various outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore routes like the 'Delamont Long Walk' or the 'Lough Money loop from St. Patrick's Road'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as 'Ballyhornan Beach – Strangford Stone loop from Delamont'. You can find more details and routes in the Hiking around Tullykin and Road Cycling Routes around Tullykin guides.
The best time to visit the lakes around Tullykin is generally during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months. During these periods, the weather is often milder and more stable, making it ideal for outdoor activities like walking and cycling. Summer (June-August) is also popular, though it can be busier. Winter can be beautiful but often brings colder, wetter, and windier conditions.
Absolutely. Quarterland Road and Strangford Lough Views is a prime location, offering stunning vistas as the winding lane climbs towards Killinchy. The Forest Path Along Strangford Lough also provides intermittent, picturesque views of the lough through ancient trees, perfect for photography.
The lakes, especially Strangford Lough and Lough Money, are rich in wildlife. Strangford Lough is one of the world's most important marine sites, home to over 2,000 marine species. Lough Money is particularly known for its abundance of birdlife, including herons, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching.
Yes, you can find facilities near some of the lake areas. Portaferry, accessible from View of Portaferry Harbor, is a loughside town with a good hotel offering quality food and Guinness, plus a couple of cafes. While specific cafes directly on every walking route are not detailed, towns and villages surrounding Strangford Lough will offer dining options.
Visitors particularly enjoy the stunning views of Strangford Lough, the peaceful atmosphere, and the opportunities for easy, scenic walks. The blend of natural beauty, such as the gnarled trees along the Forest Path Along Strangford Lough, and the historical charm of places like Portaferry, are frequently highlighted. The tranquility of spots like Lough Money is also a favorite for relaxation.
While specific wheelchair-accessible paths are not detailed for every location, the general nature of some areas, particularly in well-maintained parks or town areas like Portaferry, may offer easier access. For specific accessible routes, it's recommended to check local council websites or visitor information centers for the most up-to-date details on path conditions and accessibility features.
Parking is generally available at popular access points and towns around the lakes. For instance, if visiting Portaferry, there will be parking facilities within the town. For trails like the Forest Path Along Strangford Lough, designated parking areas are usually provided at the start of signposted walks. It's always advisable to check specific trailheads or visitor centers for detailed parking information before your visit.


Still not found your perfect lake around Tullykin? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.