203A Scrabo Rd, Newtownards BT23 4SL
Scrabo Country Park is a stunning country park located in the county of Down in Northern Ireland. With its rolling hills, breathtaking views, and diverse range of wildlife, Scrabo Country Park offers visitors an unforgettable experience of the natural beauty of Northern Ireland.
The park is located on the eastern outskirts of Newtownards, and covers an area of 232 acres. It is a popular destination for visitors, both locals and tourists alike, offering a range of outdoor activities and picturesque walks. Whether you are interested in hiking, bird watching, picnicking or simply enjoying the scenery, Scrabo Country Park has something to offer for everyone.
One of the main attractions of Scrabo Country Park is its stunning views. Visitors can climb to the top of Scrabo Tower, a 135-foot high tower that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including Strangford Lough, the Mourne Mountains, and even Scotland on a clear day. The tower was originally built as a memorial to Charles Stewart, 3rd Marquess of Londonderry, and was later used as a lookout tower during World War II.
In addition to the tower, the park also boasts a network of walking trails that range from easy to challenging. The trails are well-maintained and clearly marked, making them accessible to visitors of all abilities. One popular route is the Scrabo Hill Trail, a circular route that takes in the summit of Scrabo Hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
For bird enthusiasts, Scrabo Country Park is a must-visit destination. The park is home to a wide variety of bird species, including buzzards, kestrels, and peregrine falcons. There are several bird hides throughout the park, providing visitors with the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Another popular activity in the park is picnicking. The park has several picnic areas, each with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely lunch while taking in the scenery and enjoying the fresh air.
Overall, Scrabo Country Park is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Northern Ireland. Whether you are interested in hiking, bird watching, or simply enjoying a peaceful picnic, the park has something to offer for everyone. With its stunning views, diverse range of wildlife, and well-maintained trails, it is easy to see why Scrabo Country Park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
Scrabo Country Park is a stunning area located near Newtownards, Northern Ireland, which boasts a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're a nature lover or an adventure seeker, Scrabo Country Park has something for everyone. In this article, we'll explore some of the best places to visit and things to do in and around the park.
1. Scrabo Tower
The most iconic landmark in Scrabo Country Park is the Scrabo Tower, a tower that stands at the top of Scrabo Hill. The tower was built in 1857 as a memorial to the 3rd Marquis of Londonderry and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside from its observation deck. Visitors can climb the narrow spiral staircase to the top of the tower, where they will be rewarded with panoramic views of Belfast Lough, the Mourne Mountains, and beyond.
2. Strangford Lough
Strangford Lough is a picturesque inlet of the Irish Sea, located just a short drive from Scrabo Country Park. This stunning area is home to a wide range of wildlife, including seals, otters, and seabirds, and is a popular spot for bird watching, fishing, and boating. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lough or simply relax on one of its many secluded beaches.
3. Mount Stewart House and Gardens
Mount Stewart House and Gardens is a National Trust property located just a few miles from Scrabo Country Park. The house was built in the 18th century and is surrounded by some of the most beautiful gardens in Northern Ireland. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house or explore the gardens at their own pace. The gardens are home to a wide variety of plants and flowers, including rare and exotic species from around the world.
4. Ards Peninsula
The Ards Peninsula is a narrow strip of land that juts out into the Irish Sea, just a short drive from Scrabo Country Park. This area is known for its rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and picturesque villages. Visitors can take a scenic drive around the peninsula, stopping off at some of its many attractions, including the fishing village of Portavogie and the ruins of Grey Abbey.
5. Castle Espie Wetland Centre
Castle Espie Wetland Centre is a wildlife sanctuary located just a few miles from Scrabo Country Park. The centre is home to a wide variety of birds and other wildlife, including otters, Irish hares, and red squirrels. Visitors can take a guided tour of the centre or explore its many trails and observation hides at their own pace.
6. Comber Greenway
The Comber Greenway is a 7-mile traffic-free cycling and walking route that runs from Belfast to Comber, passing through Scrabo Country Park along the way. The route follows the path of a former railway line and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can hire a bike and explore the greenway or simply take a leisurely stroll along its many paths.
In conclusion, Scrabo Country Park is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors and explore the beauty of Northern Ireland. With its stunning views, diverse wildlife, and wealth of activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Scrabo Country Park is definitely worth a visit.
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
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| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
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