Top 5 Castles around Ballynagross Upper
Best castles around Ballynagross Upper are found within the broader County Down region, offering a rich historical landscape. While Ballynagross Upper itself does not feature specific castles, the surrounding area provides access to several notable sites. These locations present diverse architectural styles and historical significance, reflecting centuries of regional heritage. Visitors can explore medieval strongholds, Anglo-Norman earthworks, and unique 18th-century estates.
Best castles around Ballynagross Upper
- The most popular castles is Castle Ward Tower (Winterfell Filming Location), a castle…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Castle Ward Tower (Winterfell Filming Location)
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Audley's Castle
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Castle Ward
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Inch Abbey
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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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Best known for its place as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property in Strangford. With two unique styles of classical and gothic, the castle & its estate is located in a beautiful location near the shore of Strangford Lough. Tours are available year round of the castle and estate.
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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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TheIrishRoadTrip ("Game of Thrones Ireland: 16 Filming Locations From The Show”, 2022-10-08): https://www.theirishroadtrip.com/game-of-thrones-filming-locations-northern-ireland/ “… You’ll find the 16th-century Castle Ward, which was the backdrop for the series pilot and a chunk of season one, just 40 minutes from Belfast. Castle Ward was used as ‘Winterfell’ – the home of the Stark family. Its towering medieval walls and now-iconic castle tower gate made it an ideal shooting location for the show. …” #GoT #HouseStark #Winterfell #Westeros Wikipedia (Winterfell (Game of Thrones episode), 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winterfell_(Game_of_Thrones_episode) National Trust(HBO's Game of Thrones at Castle Ward, 2022-10-08): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/castle-ward/features/game-of-thrones-at-castle-ward Peak Discovery Ltd (Winterfell Tours, 2022-10-08) https://www.gameofthrones-winterfelltours.com/thedarkhedges https://youtu.be/RMwzMU7iW_Y Tripadvisor (Game of Thrones - Winterfell Trek from Belfast(, 2022-10-08): https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g186470-d15079832-Game_of_Thrones_Winterfell_Trek_from_Belfast-Belfast_Northern_Ireland.html
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Wikipedia (Castle Ward (Old Castle Ward), 2022-10-08): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward Tripadvisor (Castle Ward, 2022-10-08): https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g664089-d212598-Reviews-Castle_Ward-Strangford_County_Down_Northern_Ireland.html google (Street View, 2022-10-08): https://www.google.com/maps/@54.3732731,-5.5779806,3a,75y,240.79h,82.97t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sz1-OEQiivuBoui997nWdyA!2e0!7i13312!8i6656
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of castles can I explore near Ballynagross Upper?
The region around Ballynagross Upper, specifically County Down, offers a diverse range of historical sites. You can find medieval strongholds like Dundrum Castle, Anglo-Norman motte-and-bailey earthworks such as Clough Castle, and unique 18th-century estates like Castle Ward, known for its dual architectural styles.
Are there any castles near Ballynagross Upper that were used as filming locations?
Yes, several sites in the area have gained recognition as filming locations. Castle Ward Tower is famously known as 'Winterfell' from Game of Thrones, and its estate, Castle Ward, also features prominently. Additionally, Audley's Castle and Inch Abbey were also used for scenes in the series.
Which castles offer panoramic views?
Dundrum Castle, perched on a hilltop, provides fantastic panoramic views across Dundrum, the Carrigs Estuary, the Mourne Mountain range, and out to the Irish Sea. Clough Castle's motte also offers fine views west towards Slieve Croob and overlooks routes to Downpatrick and Dundrum.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit in the area?
Absolutely. Castle Ward is highly recommended for families, offering trail walks, a coffee shop, and the appeal of its Game of Thrones connections. Castle Ward Tower also offers tours and archery experiences. Inch Abbey, with its beautiful ruins, is another family-friendly historical site.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The area around these castles offers various outdoor activities, particularly hiking and road cycling. You can find easy hikes like the Castle Ward Farm Trail or the Delamont Long Walk. For more challenging options, consider the Castle Ward Hoof Trail. Road cyclists can explore routes such as the Downpatrick to Ballynahinch loop.
Is Killyleagh Castle open to the public?
Killyleagh Castle is believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Northern Ireland. While its striking appearance dominates the village, the main building and grounds are generally not open to the public, as it remains a private residence.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible castles in the region?
Castle Ward is noted for being wheelchair accessible, offering facilities and trails that cater to visitors with mobility needs.
What is unique about Castle Ward's architecture?
Castle Ward is renowned for its dual architecture. One side presents a neo-classical facade, while the other features a neo-gothic design. This unique blend reflects the differing architectural tastes of Lord Bangor and his wife, Lady Ann Bligh.
What historical significance does Hillsborough Castle and Gardens hold?
While technically a stately home, Hillsborough Castle is a significant historical site. Built in 1797, it has played a crucial role in political events, including hosting Peace Talks in the 1990s and meetings between high-profile figures. It is now cared for by Historic Royal Palaces.
Can I find cafes or other facilities near the castles?
Yes, Castle Ward has a tearoom and a coffee shop on its estate. For other castles, you may find cafes, pubs, and accommodation options in nearby villages like Dundrum or Killyleagh.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Ballynagross Upper?
The best time to visit is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer, making it ideal for exploring the castle grounds and surrounding trails. However, many sites, like Castle Ward, are open daily throughout the year.
Are there any easy walking trails near the castles?
Yes, several easy walking trails are available. Near Castle Ward, you can enjoy the Castle Ward Farm Trail (4.7 km) or the Castle Ward Shore Car Park loop (3.8 km). The Delamont Long Walk (5.3 km) is another accessible option.
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