Top 6 Natural Monuments around Ballintogher
Best natural monuments around Ballintogher include a variety of historical sites and natural parks. The region offers opportunities to explore ancient megalithic structures and expansive country parks. These sites provide insights into both the natural landscape and historical human activity. Visitors can find several natural landmarks near Ballintogher that are suitable for various outdoor activities.
Best natural monuments around Ballintogher
- The most popular natural monuments is Strangford Stone, a man-made monument and natural monument situated on the shores of…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Strangford Stone
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Ballynoe Stone Circle
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Corrog Wood
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Annadorn Dolmen
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Delamont Country Park
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This impressive stone circle, dating from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age, consists of over 50 upright stones enclosing a diameter of around 35 metres. Access is via a narrow hedge-lined path that takes you directly to the entrance of the circle
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Visitors to Corrog Wood will be greeted by a curious wooden sculpture of a Dryad. The sculpture has been affectionately named the ‘Frump in the Stump’. A dryad is a tree nymph in Greek mythology. The Dryad keeps a watchful, protective eye on the new wood standing at the entrance. Continue past the Dryad on through the little kissing gate and a loop pathway will be waiting to lead you around the 14-acre wood, where a mix of approximately 12,000 native trees and 400 metres of hedging have been planted.
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One of the best kept Circles I know of. The late Neolithic to earlier Bronze Age monument was excavated in 1937–1939 but its development and date are still not entirely clear. Excavation uncovered a slab feature with three compartments at the west end of the cairn, which could suggest the court tomb tradition, and a single stone cist at the east end which could point to the passage tomb tradition. Cremated remains representing at least seven individuals and some Neolithic pottery were found. Parallels for the outer stone circle with sites in Cumbria have been suggested.
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The Dolmen can be found on the north east shore of Loughinisland Lake, within sight of Loughinisland Church. A slightly displaced capstone covers a rectangular chamber of which three side stones survive. An early account suggests that this was formerly inside a large circular cairn and approached through a lintelled passage, so it may be the remains of a passage tomb. It is famous as the platform from which Thomas Russell addressed a crowd of United Irishmen in 1803, after the main 1798 rising.
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Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day.
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Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day.
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Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day. Steamers Coffee Shop Serves a wide variety of refreshments, including full breakfast and lunch menus, great coffee and ice cream in the summer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural monuments can I explore around Ballintogher?
The area around Ballintogher offers a mix of impressive natural and historical sites. You can find ancient megalithic structures like the Strangford Stone, which is the tallest megalith in Ireland, and the Ballynoe Stone Circle, dating from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age. Additionally, there are expansive natural parks such as Delamont Country Park, offering tranquil landscapes on the shores of Strangford Lough.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments in the Ballintogher area?
Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. Delamont Country Park is a great option, providing a 200-acre space for nature lovers and walkers of all ages. The Strangford Stone, located within Delamont Country Park, is also considered family-friendly, offering a unique historical sight within a beautiful setting. The Ballynoe Stone Circle and Annadorn Dolmen are also accessible for families.
What historical natural monuments can I visit near Ballintogher?
The region is rich in historical natural monuments. The Ballynoe Stone Circle is an impressive site from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age, featuring over 50 upright stones. Another significant historical monument is the Annadorn Dolmen, located near Loughinisland Lake, which is believed to be the remains of a passage tomb and holds historical significance from the 1803 United Irishmen address.
Are there any natural parks or tranquil spots to relax near Ballintogher?
Absolutely. Delamont Country Park is a prime example, offering peace, beauty, and tranquility across its 200 acres on the shores of Strangford Lough. It's an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience. Additionally, Slish Wood, near Ballintogher in County Sligo, provides a tranquil escape with scenic views of Lough Gill and pleasant looped walks.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The area around these natural monuments offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy easy hikes, running, and road cycling. For example, there are several running loops in Delamont Country Park, easy hiking trails like the Delamont Long Walk, and various road cycling routes, including longer loops around Strangford Lough. These activities allow you to explore the natural beauty and historical sites.
Are there hiking trails near the natural monuments?
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. Easy hikes around Ballintogher include the Delamont Long Walk and routes around Strangford Stone within Delamont Country Park. In County Sligo, Slish Wood offers pleasant looped walks that bring visitors close to the shores of Lough Gill, providing a serene hiking experience.
Can I bring my dog to the natural monuments?
Yes, some natural monuments are dog-friendly. Both the Ballynoe Stone Circle and the Annadorn Dolmen are noted as dog-friendly, allowing you to explore these historical sites with your canine companion. Always ensure dogs are kept on a leash and follow local regulations.
What are some notable natural features in the Ballintogher, County Sligo area?
In the immediate Ballintogher area of County Sligo, you can explore Slish Wood, known for its ancient oaks and scenic views of Lough Gill. The Lake Isle of Innisfree, famous as the inspiration for W.B. Yeats's poem, is also located within Lough Gill. The Ballintogher Walking Trail provides an accessible way to experience local flora and fauna through its hedgerows.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Ballintogher?
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The tranquility of places like Delamont Country Park and the impressive scale of the Strangford Stone are often highlighted. The well-preserved nature of sites like the Ballynoe Stone Circle also receives positive feedback for its historical depth.
Are there viewpoints to enjoy scenic vistas?
Yes, several natural monuments offer excellent viewpoints. The Strangford Stone, situated in an elevated position within Delamont Country Park, provides superb views over Strangford Lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mountains of Mourne. Delamont Country Park itself also offers picturesque vistas of the lough and surrounding natural landscape.
What is the significance of the Lake Isle of Innisfree near Ballintogher?
The Lake Isle of Innisfree, located within Lough Gill about 6 km from Ballintogher, holds immense cultural significance. It was the inspiration for William Butler Yeats's famous poem, 'The Lake Isle of Innisfree.' It's part of the Sligo Yeats Trail and offers a connection to one of Ireland's greatest poets, allowing visitors to appreciate its serene beauty.
Are there any unique natural monuments or 'hidden gems' in the area?
While not strictly 'hidden,' the Ballynoe Stone Circle is considered one of the best-kept stone circles, offering a profound sense of ancient history. The Annadorn Dolmen, with its historical connection to Thomas Russell, also offers a unique blend of natural setting and historical narrative that might be less widely known than larger sites.
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