Attractions and Places To See around Craigboy - Top 13
Best attractions and places to see around Craigboy include a variety of historical sites, natural viewpoints, and unique man-made monuments. This region in County Down offers 13 distinct places to explore, ranging from ancient ruins to coastal features. The landscape combines historical significance with scenic views, providing diverse options for visitors.
Best attractions and places to see around Craigboy
- The most popular attractions is Ballycopeland Windmill, a man-made monument that is the only remaining working windmill in East Down.…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Ballycopeland Windmill
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Helen's Tower
Highlight • Historical Site
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
Groomsport Beach
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Donaghadee Lighthouse
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Grey Abbey Ruins
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Craigboy.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
From Donaghadee visitors can enjoy spectacular views across the Irish Sea, where on a clear day you can see all the way to Scotland, only 20 miles away by sea. It was the province’s principle port before Belfast developed. The Harbour was built in 1820's to the design of John Rennie and is part built of limestone from Wales known as "Anglesea marble". On the harbour is Donaghadee's impressive lighthouse, which was built in 1836 and was the first lighthouse in Ireland to be lit by electricity. Sit and rest in the harbour with a bag of chips from Rainy's on the High Street ( on the hill as you roll in to town from Millisle ) Best fryers in the town. Perfect recovery after a long cycle, Irelands oldest Pub - Grace Neills, is only around the corner.
0
0
Ballycopeland Windmill is the only remaining working windmill in East Down. It was built in the late 18th or early 19th century and was worked until the First World War when it fell into disrepair. It was gradually restored between 1950 and 1978 to full working order.
0
0
Lovely place to rest. There are tables arranged outside to the right of the Abbey. Grab some supplies from the shop just up the road in the village, and enjoy the atmosphere. The Abbey is open 24 / 7. Grey Abbey is one of the best examples of Anglo-Norman Cistercian architecture in Ulster, and was the daughter house of Holm Cultram (Cumbria). It was founded in 1193 by Affreca, wife of John de Courcy, the Anglo-Norman invader of East Ulster. The remains, in the beautiful parkland setting of the nearby grand house of Rosemount, consist of the church with cloister and surrounding buildings to the south.
0
0
A small visitor centre is located inside the Millers house with a Cafe onsite open to the public. Disabled access is not possible within the windmill. This is a group of traditional buildings on a sloping site with changes of level. Wheelchair users can gain access to the exhibition but may find this difficult. Some parts of the complex are inaccessible for wheelchairs. Please note: Online booking is essential. A limited number of tickets may be available on the day however cannot be guaranteed. Tours of the windmill can now be booked on the official Ballycopeland Windmill website https://www.ballycopelandwindmill.com .
0
0
Groomsport, best known for its picturesque harbour that was once a major fishing port and its two fishermens cottages known as Cockle Row. The village also boasts beautifully landscaped picnic and play areas around the harbour, sandy beaches, quality pubs and restaurants. It also has a recreation ground with two football pitches and a village hall situated in the historic boathouse at the harbour that dates back to 1884. One of Northern Ireland's few fully accessible beaches for all ages and abilities. Free beach equipment loan schemes including all terrain wheelchairs and mobility aids are available with free membership. Available via the Mae Murray Foundation.
0
0
19th-century folly and lookout tower near Bangor. Named after the 5th Baron's mother, Helen. He intended it as a shrine for poems - Tennyson's Helen's Tower is the best known of them. Well worth a stop off to explore the architecture.
0
0
Ruins of a 12th century Cistercian monastery. A lovely way to spend a few hours exploring the history. It's a open site which can be visited any time, but the small visitors centre is open for a few hours at the weekend.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Craigboy?
The Craigboy area is rich in history. You can visit Helen's Tower, a 19th-century folly with Scottish Baronial architecture, or the ancient Grey Abbey Ruins, a 12th-century Cistercian monastery. Don't miss Ballycopeland Windmill, the only remaining working windmill in East Down, which also has a visitor centre.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the Craigboy area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Ballycopeland Windmill offers a unique historical experience with a visitor centre. Groomsport Beach is fully accessible and provides free beach equipment loan schemes, including all-terrain wheelchairs. The Donaghadee Lighthouse area offers great views and is a pleasant spot for a family stroll.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints near Craigboy?
For stunning views, head to Helen's Tower, which serves as a lookout tower. The Donaghadee Lighthouse provides spectacular vistas across the Irish Sea, where on a clear day you can see Scotland. Groomsport Beach also offers great views of the Antrim Hills and over to Scotland.
What kind of outdoor activities are available around Craigboy?
The Craigboy area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy routes like the Boundary Walk at Mount Stewart. For mountain biking, explore trails such as the North Down Coastal Path and Helen's Tower Loop. Road cycling enthusiasts can enjoy routes like the Views at Strickies – Ballycopeland Windmill loop. You can find more details on these activities in the easy hikes, MTB trails, and road cycling routes guides.
Are there any accessible attractions for wheelchair users near Craigboy?
Yes, Groomsport Beach is one of Northern Ireland's few fully accessible beaches, offering free beach equipment loan schemes including all-terrain wheelchairs and mobility aids through the Mae Murray Foundation. While Ballycopeland Windmill has some inaccessible parts within the windmill itself due to its traditional structure, wheelchair users can access the exhibition area, though it may be challenging.
What are some popular walking trails near Craigboy?
There are several popular walking trails in the vicinity. You can enjoy easy hikes such as the Boundary Walk at Mount Stewart or the Floodgates Walk. Another option is the McKee Clock Tower – Bangor Marina loop from Bangor. For more details and routes, refer to the easy hikes around Craigboy guide.
Can I bring my dog to attractions or trails around Craigboy?
While specific dog-friendly policies for all attractions are not detailed, many outdoor trails and beaches in the region generally welcome dogs on leads. For example, the coastal paths and open areas around Groomsport Beach are popular for dog walking. Always check local signage for specific restrictions at individual sites.
What is the best time to visit Craigboy for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Craigboy for outdoor activities is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and days are longer, making it ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring coastal areas. However, some historical sites like Grey Abbey Ruins are open year-round, offering a peaceful experience even in cooler months.
Are there any unique man-made monuments to see in the area?
Absolutely. The most prominent is Ballycopeland Windmill, the only remaining working windmill in East Down, restored to full working order. Another unique structure is Helen's Tower, a 19th-century folly known for its distinctive Scottish Baronial architecture. The Donaghadee Lighthouse, built in 1836, is also a significant man-made landmark, notable as the first lighthouse in Ireland to be lit by electricity.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Craigboy?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and scenic beauty. The unique experience of seeing a working windmill at Ballycopeland Windmill, the architectural charm and views from Helen's Tower, and the coastal vistas from Donaghadee Lighthouse are frequently highlighted. The accessible nature of Groomsport Beach also receives positive feedback.
Are there opportunities for cycling near Craigboy's attractions?
Yes, the area is well-suited for cycling. You can find various road cycling routes, such as the Ballywalter Beach – Grey Abbey Ruins loop from Donaghadee, or the Ballycopeland Windmill – Helen's Bay Beach loop from Millisle. For mountain biking, consider the North Down Coastal Path and Helen's Tower Loop. More detailed routes can be found in the MTB Trails and Road Cycling Routes guides for the area.
Where can I find cafes or refreshments near the attractions?
At Ballycopeland Windmill, there is a cafe onsite within the Millers house. Near Donaghadee Lighthouse, you can find local eateries in Donaghadee town, with visitors often recommending places for chips or visiting Grace Neills, Ireland's oldest pub. For Grey Abbey Ruins, you can grab supplies from the shop in the nearby village and enjoy them at the tables arranged outside the Abbey.
Most popular routes around Craigboy
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
