Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Natural Monuments
United Kingdom
Northern Ireland
Down

Demesne Of Down

Top 7 Natural Monuments around Demesne Of Down

Best natural monuments around Demesne Of Down include a variety of historical sites and natural features within County Down, Northern Ireland. The region is characterized by its diverse landscape, from coastal areas to inland loughs and historical structures. Visitors can explore ancient megaliths, stone circles, and expansive country parks. These natural monuments offer insights into the area's geological and historical past.

Best natural monuments around Demesne Of Down

  • The most popular natural monuments is Strangford Stone, a man-made monument…

Last updated: May 2, 2026

Strangford Stone

Highlight • Monument

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 …

Tip by

See rides here

Send to Phone

Save

Ballynoe Stone Circle

Highlight • Historical Site

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 …

Tip by

Save

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

The historic gardens at Seaforde are situated both within and adjacent to the old walled garden, whose structure dates from the early half of the 18th century. The hidden, micro-climate …

Tip by

Save

Strangford Stone

Highlight • Monument

The impressive Strangford Stone that sits inside the Delamont Country Park in Northern Ireland holds the mighty title of the highest megalith stone in Europe!

The stone stands at a …

Tip by

Save

Annadorn Dolmen

Highlight • Historical Site

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 …

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Demesne Of Down.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Demesne Of Down

Cycling around Demesne Of Down

Hiking around Demesne Of Down

Running Trails around Demesne Of Down

Road Cycling Routes around Demesne Of Down

Tips from the Community

Beyond the Horizon
November 1, 2024, Ballynoe Stone Circle

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

Translated by Google

1

0

The historic gardens at Seaforde are situated both within and adjacent to the old walled garden, whose structure dates from the early half of the 18th century. The hidden, micro-climate gardens boast Ireland’s oldest living maze and support a renowned collection of plants, collected from distant corners of the world thanks to the travels of keen plantsman Patrick Forde. The gardens also include an arboretum containing champion trees and rare species. The Tropical Butterfly House is the atmospheric, jungle home to a myriad species of free flying butterflies. All peacefully at home surrounded by exotic and tropical plant life.

0

0

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.

1

0

sm milligan
November 24, 2023, Annadorn Dolmen

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.

0

0

The impressive Strangford Stone that sits inside the Delamont Country Park in Northern Ireland holds the mighty title of the highest megalith stone in Europe! The stone stands at a whopping 12.5 metres tall and was assembles by 1000 people in 1999. It stands in an elevated position, boasting superb views over Strangford Lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mountains of Mourne

2

0

sm milligan
October 25, 2023, Strangford Stone

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.

1

0

The impressive Strangford Stone that sits inside the Delamont Country Park in Northern Ireland holds the mighty title of the highest megalith stone in Europe! The stone stands at a whopping 12.5 metres tall and was assembles by 1000 people in 1999. It stands in an elevated position, boasting superb views over Strangford Lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mountains of Mourne

2

0

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.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most popular natural monuments around Demesne Of Down?

Visitors frequently enjoy the impressive Strangford Stone, which is the tallest megalith in Ireland and offers superb views over Strangford Lough. Another highly regarded site is the Ballynoe Stone Circle, an ancient Neolithic to Bronze Age monument with over 50 upright stones.

Are there family-friendly natural monuments in the Demesne Of Down area?

Yes, several natural monuments are great for families. Strangford Stone, located within Delamont Country Park, offers a beautiful setting for a day out. The Seaforde Gardens and Tropical Butterfly House is also a fantastic family destination, featuring historic gardens, Ireland's oldest living maze, and a tropical butterfly house.

What kind of historical or archaeological natural monuments can I visit?

The region is rich in historical natural monuments. The Ballynoe Stone Circle is a significant late Neolithic to early Bronze Age archaeological site. You can also explore the Annadorn Dolmen, an ancient burial site near Loughinisland Lake, which may be the remains of a passage tomb.

What natural features can I expect to see in County Down?

County Down boasts diverse natural features. You can experience the dramatic peaks of the Mourne Mountains, including Slieve Donard, offering breathtaking views. The region also features stunning coastal areas like Murlough Nature Reserve with its sand dunes and diverse wildlife, and the expansive Strangford Lough, the largest inlet in Ireland and Britain, known for its natural beauty and birdlife.

Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting near the natural monuments?

Absolutely. The Seaforde Gardens and Tropical Butterfly House is home to a myriad of free-flying butterflies. Beyond specific monuments, Murlough Nature Reserve is a haven for diverse wildlife, including birds and mammals, while Strangford Lough is renowned for its birdwatching opportunities, especially at places like the Castle Espie Wetland Centre.

What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?

The area around Demesne Of Down offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, such as the easy 'Delamont Long Walk' or the moderate 'Lough Money loop'. For cyclists, there are routes like the 'Delamont to Ardglass Harbour loop'. Runners can enjoy trails like the 'Delamont Country Park running loop'. For more details, explore the hiking, cycling, and running guides for the region.

Are there any natural monuments suitable for dog walking?

Yes, several sites are dog-friendly. Both the Ballynoe Stone Circle and the Annadorn Dolmen welcome dogs. When visiting, please ensure your dog is kept on a lead and you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment.

What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments in County Down?

The best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer (April to September) offer milder weather, ideal for hiking in the Mourne Mountains, coastal walks at Murlough, and enjoying the blooms at Seaforde Gardens. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer dramatic, quieter landscapes, though some facilities might have reduced hours.

Are there any natural monuments with good viewpoints?

The Strangford Stone is specifically noted as a viewpoint, offering superb vistas over Strangford Lough and towards Slieve Croob and the Mourne Mountains. Many of the higher points in the Mourne Mountains themselves also provide expansive panoramic views across County Down and the sea.

What are some lesser-known natural monuments or hidden gems in the area?

While not strictly 'hidden', the Annadorn Dolmen offers a quieter, historically rich experience away from more crowded spots. Its location by Loughinisland Lake provides a serene setting. Exploring the various beaches of County Down, such as Cranfield or Tyrella, can also reveal peaceful natural beauty often overlooked by those focusing solely on mountain trails.

What facilities are available at natural monuments like Seaforde Gardens?

At Seaforde Gardens and Tropical Butterfly House, you can expect facilities such as parking, and amenities associated with a visitor attraction, including potentially cafes or restrooms. For other natural monuments, facilities may be more limited, so it's always advisable to check specific site information before your visit.

Can I find natural monuments that are suitable for intermediate level walks?

Yes, both the Ballynoe Stone Circle and the Annadorn Dolmen are categorized as suitable for intermediate difficulty, suggesting they might involve slightly longer walks or uneven terrain compared to very easy paths. The Mourne Mountains also offer a range of intermediate to challenging hikes.

Most popular routes around Demesne Of Down

Cycling around Demesne Of Down

Most popular attractions around Demesne Of Down

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Demesne Of Down:

FofannybaneBallaghbegClonachullionBallynannyMoyadCrossTollymore ParkAghacullionStangTollymoreMoneyscalpCock Mountain CommonTullyreeFofannyreaghTullybraniganMourne AonbBurrenbaneMurlough UpperDrumenaBallyhafryBallykeelDrumbonniffClarkillDundrinneBallymoneyTullynasooCastlewellanBallyginnyBurrenreaghSlievenalargyBallyloughlinMurlough LowerDrumeeCarnacavillBallymagreehanLetalianKinghillArdaghyBallybannanWatereskGowardBallymaginaghyBallyloughMagheramayoMoneylaneMagherasaulBallyweelyCabraghBallynagappogeIslandmoyleDundrumLenishBallycoshone UpperAghlisnafinMoneycarraghGargarryBallykinler UpperDrumcawKnockstickenBallywillwill DemenseDrumanaquoileClonvaraghanCloghramBackaderryLeitrimClaraghDrumanaghanDrumaroadClanmagheryDrumnascamphCumranSeavaghanArdtanaghDunturkSlieveniskyBallycoshone LowerNaghanSeaforde DemesneCloughBonecastleDrumnaconagherMagheraloneTievenadarraghDrumanakellyTurmennanTullynacreeMurvaclogherDunnanewBallykinler MiddleArdileaBallywardBenrawBallydrummanDerryneillFarranfadMoneygoreCavanCrossgarCluntaghBarnamagheryDrumaghlisAnnadornListooderMagheralaganLeganannyErenaghDunnanellyBallynacraigAnnacloyMagheracranmoneyCreevycarnonanRossconorLissaraBallygallyDerryboyBallygeeganDooglenDrumkeeraghEdendarriffGuinessScribDunmoreCommons Of ClanmagheryTyrella NorthTyrella SouthBallymacarn NorthDrumgoolandRussell'S QuarterSaul QuarterClogherMarshallstownSaulBallymote MiddleBallyvangeBallystrewBallymote UpperBallymackilreinyBallykinler LowerCreeghduffBallygoskinRaffreyGores IslandInchQuarter CormickRademanFinnabrogueHollymountLisnamoreClontaghnaglarCarnacallyBallydonetyBallyalganQuoileLisowenBallywillinAudley'S AcreCastle IslandBallyduganKillinchy In The WoodsWoodgrangeArdigonBallyrenanKilmoreRingreaghMullaghBallynewportRathmullan UpperBallylucasRathmullan LowerLegamaddyMagheratimpanyDreeDrinMoneynabaneBallymacarn SouthDrumgavlinDunbeg LowerDunbeg UpperBallysugaghSpittle BalleeBallintogherSlievenagriddleRussell'S Quarter SouthBallynagross LowerStruellTobermoneyArdmeenBallyclander UpperKillaveesBallygallumBallymote LowerBallywarrenBallynagross UpperDillinBallystokesBallyrollyTullymurryCargaghBallydonnellLisnamaulTobercorranBallypluntCarrickinabBallykeelCorballyBallykilbegCastleskreenGlovetTannaghmoreRaleaghCumberBallymaglave SouthBallylone BigBallynahinchBallykine LowerMagheradroolCastlenavanDrumanessBallylone LittleBallymaglave NorthBallybredaghQuarterlandBallymacarronTullycoreIslandmoreRinghaddyRathgormanTullymoreAughnadarraghCarsonstownBallytrimRingbaneTullyveeryCreevybegCorballyLisinawClayLisbaneTullykinLisboy

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Audley'S Acre

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy