Castle Ward is a historic estate located near the village of Strangford on the shores of Strangford Lough in County Down, Northern Ireland. Castle Ward is now owned and managed by the National Trust, as a National Trust property, it is open to the public, allowing you to explore the mansion, gardens, and grounds.

How to Get to Castle Ward 🚗

• By Car: Castle Ward is located about 40 minutes from Belfast. Use the postcode BT30 7BA for GPS navigation. Free parking is available on-site.

• By Public Transport: From Belfast, take the 16a bus to Downpatrick, then a connecting bus to Strangford. From Strangford village, Castle Ward is a short taxi ride or scenic walk away.

🎬 Castle Ward has gained international recognition as a filming location for the immensely popular HBO Game of Thrones. It was used to represent the fictional land of Winterfell. The exterior of Castle Ward served as the backdrop for Winterfell, and key scenes set in the Winterfell courtyard were filmed here.

📝Things to Do at Castle Ward

1. Discover the Mansion’s Unique Architecture 🏛️

Castle Ward’s mansion is an architectural curiosity, featuring one side in classical Palladian style and the other in Gothic Revival. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and the eccentric Ward family who commissioned it.

Admission: Included with entry fee.

Top Tip: Check the National Trust website for guided tour schedules to get the most out of your visit.

2.Walk in the Footsteps of Game of Thrones 🎥⚔️

Castle Ward gained international fame as the filming location for Winterfell in the Game of Thrones series. You can explore iconic spots such as:

The Winterfell Courtyard

The location of Bran’s archery scene

The nearby Audley's Castle, which is also part of the Castle Ward estate, was used in "Game of Thrones" as well. It featured in scenes such as Robb Stark's camp.

✨ Don’t Miss: The Game of Thrones Studio Tour, which includes costume replicas, props, and interactive experiences.

3. Explore the Gardens and Trails 🌸🚶‍♀️

Castle Ward’s estate features miles of walking and cycling trails surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Popular routes include:

• Shore Trail: A peaceful walk along Strangford Lough with stunning waterfront views.

• Boundary Trail: A 6.5-mile loop through woodlands and fields, offering glimpses of the estate’s wildlife.

• Temple Water Trail: A picturesque path leading to the 18th-century ornamental lake, Temple Water.

• I encourage you to explore the Sunken Garden too.

✨ Top Tip: Bring a pair of comfortable shoes, as there’s a lot to explore!

4. Kayaking and Paddleboarding on Strangford Lough 🛶

The calm waters of Strangford Lough make it an ideal spot for kayaking and paddleboarding. Rentals and guided tours are available for those looking to explore the lough’s scenic beauty.

• Price: Equipment rentals start at £15.

  5. Visit the Stableyard Tea-room ☕🍰

  After a day of exploring, unwind at the Stableyard Tea-room, which serves delicious homemade treats, including freshly baked scones, cakes, and sandwiches.
  

  Wildlife Watching 🦉🦊

  Castle Ward is home to an array of wildlife, including red squirrels, otters, and a variety of bird species. Strangford Lough, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is perfect for spotting seals and seabirds.

Plan your trip and immerse yourself in the magic of Castle Ward! It’s incredible!✨