Best attractions and places to see around Sheepland Beg, a coastal townland in County Down, Northern Ireland, offer opportunities for outdoor exploration. The area is characterized by its rugged coastal landscape, coastal meadows, and views of the Irish Sea. As part of the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark, Sheepland Beg provides a setting for hiking and experiencing nature. Its historical naming suggests past religious significance, complementing its natural and geological heritage.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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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.
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The vast coastline stretches out endlessly before you, and the panorama with the majestic Mourne Hills in the background creates a scene that is hard to put into words. The gentle waves touching the sand and the silence of the surroundings make you feel the vastness and freedom of this place.
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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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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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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.
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Also known as Phennick Cove Marina, in Ardglass, County Down, one of three major fishing ports in Northern Ireland. Ardglass is now one of the safest small harbours on the east coast of Ireland, following improvements made in recent years.
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Wikipedia (Saint John's Point, County Down, 2022-09-25): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_John%27s_Point,_County_Down Tripadvisor (St. John's Point Lighthouse, 2022-09-25): https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g6913948-d12794915-Reviews-St_John_s_Point_Lighthouse-Killough_County_Down_Northern_Ireland.html Commissioners of Irish Lights (St John’s Point (Co Down), 2022-09-25): https://www.irishlights.ie/tourism/our-lighthouses/st-john%E2%80%99s-point-(down).aspx YouTube (Drone Video, RODPIKER DRONES UK, 2022-09-25): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5oF5yZPc_Q4
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Sheepland Beg is renowned for its stunning coastal landscape, featuring coastal meadows, grassy cliff-edge tracks, and expansive views of the Irish Sea. You can also visit View of the Mourne Mountains from Strangford & Lecale Beach for panoramic views and a sandy shoreline, or the tranquil Lough Money, known for its clear waters and abundant birdlife, including herons.
Yes, the area offers significant historical sites. You can explore Ballynoe Stone Circle, an impressive monument dating from the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age. Additionally, St. John's Point Lighthouse (County Down) is a notable man-made monument and historical landmark on the coast.
Sheepland Beg is part of the Lecale Way, offering excellent walking opportunities. A notable option is the Sheepland Coastal Loop, which provides picturesque views of Ardglass village, cliffs, and coastal meadows. You can find various hiking routes, including the 'Ballyhornan to St Patrick's Well via Lecale Way', by exploring the hiking guide for Sheepland Beg.
Yes, Sheepland Beg offers several family-friendly attractions and activities. The View of the Mourne Mountains from Strangford & Lecale Beach is a great spot for families, as is Lough Money for a peaceful outing. The Ballynoe Stone Circle is also considered family-friendly for those interested in history.
Yes, many of the outdoor areas around Sheepland Beg are dog-friendly. For instance, the Ballynoe Stone Circle is a dog-friendly historical site. The coastal paths and beaches are generally welcoming to dogs, though it's always advisable to keep them on a lead and check local signage.
The best time to visit Sheepland Beg is generally during the warmer months, from spring to early autumn, when the weather is most favorable for coastal walks and outdoor activities. This period also offers the best chance to see wildflowers and various bird species.
Sheepland Beg is home to diverse wildlife, particularly various bird species like the linnet. The area's coastal meadows also display a variety of wildflowers, including the Common Spotted-Orchid and Common Bird's-Foot-Trefoil, making it a great spot for nature observation.
Beyond hiking, you can enjoy road cycling and running. There are several road cycling routes, such as the 'Killough–Strangford Loop' and 'Lough Money loop', which you can find in the road cycling guide. For runners, there are moderate running loops starting from Ardglass and Killough, detailed in the running trails guide.
While specific cafes directly within Sheepland Beg are not highlighted, the nearby village of Ardglass, home to Ardglass Harbour, is a good place to find amenities. As a fishing port, it's likely to offer options for refreshments and meals.
St. Patrick's Well is a point of interest encountered by hikers on the Sheepland Coastal Loop and the Ballyhornan to St Patrick's Well via Lecale Way. Its presence suggests a historical and potentially religious significance, aligning with the region's historical naming of 'little chapel or church'.
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning coastal views and the sense of freedom and vastness offered by the landscapes. The tranquility of places like Lough Money and the historical intrigue of Ballynoe Stone Circle are also highly valued. The area's natural beauty and walking opportunities are consistently praised.
Sheepland Beg is nestled within the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark. This designation highlights the area's significant geological and natural heritage, emphasizing its unique landscapes, rock formations, and biodiversity, making it a protected and celebrated natural environment.


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