78 Ballydrain Rd, Comber, Newtownards BT23 6EA
Castle Espie is a wetland reserve managed by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust on the banks of Strangford Lough, three miles south of Comber, County Down, Northern Ireland, in the townland of the same name. It is part of the Strangford Lough Ramsar Site.
Located in the heart of Northern Ireland, WWT Castle Espie is a world-renowned tourist attraction that offers a unique experience to visitors. This award-winning wetland reserve offers an immersive and interactive experience that brings visitors closer to nature and wildlife.
WWT Castle Espie is set on the banks of Strangford Lough, an area of outstanding natural beauty that is home to a diverse range of bird species, including many rare and endangered species. The reserve is spread over 230 acres and offers a variety of habitats, including salt marshes, mudflats, and freshwater ponds.
The main attraction of WWT Castle Espie is the opportunity to observe and interact with the birds that call this reserve home. Visitors can take a guided tour of the reserve, which provides an informative and engaging overview of the different habitats and bird species that can be found here.
The guided tour takes visitors through a range of different habitats, including the wet grassland, the salt marsh, and the mudflats. Along the way, visitors can spot a variety of different bird species, including ducks, geese, swans, and wading birds such as curlews and lapwings.
One of the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to see the resident birds up close at the bird hides. The bird hides provide a unique opportunity to observe the birds in their natural habitat without disturbing them. Visitors can watch the birds feeding and interacting with each other, and learn more about their behavior and ecology from the knowledgeable guides.
In addition to the guided tour, WWT Castle Espie offers a range of other activities for visitors to enjoy. There is a visitor center that provides information about the reserve and its wildlife, as well as a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and gifts.
For families with children, there is a dedicated area known as the "Wetland Discovery Zone". This area provides a range of interactive activities and games that teach children about the importance of wetland habitats and the wildlife that lives within them.
Overall, WWT Castle Espie is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature and wildlife. The reserve offers a unique and immersive experience that allows visitors to get up close and personal with some of the rarest and most beautiful bird species in the world. With its stunning natural surroundings and engaging activities, WWT Castle Espie is a tourist attraction that should not be missed.
WWT Castle Espie, located on the shores of Strangford Lough in Northern Ireland, is a popular destination for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. However, there is much more to explore in the surrounding area. Here are some places and things to do nearby WWT Castle Espie from a tourist perspective.
1. Mount Stewart House and Gardens
Just a 15-minute drive from WWT Castle Espie is Mount Stewart House and Gardens, a National Trust property and one of the most popular attractions in the area. The house, built in the 19th century, is surrounded by beautiful gardens featuring a lake, formal and informal planting, and rare trees and shrubs. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house, explore the gardens, or enjoy a bite to eat at the on-site café.
2. Exploris Aquarium
A 20-minute drive from WWT Castle Espie, the Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry is a great destination for families with kids. The aquarium features a range of marine life, including seals, otters, and tropical fish. Visitors can also participate in interactive exhibits and watch feeding sessions.
3. Ards Peninsula
The Ards Peninsula, located just east of WWT Castle Espie, is a scenic area with plenty to explore. Highlights include the picturesque village of Greyabbey, the ruins of the 12th-century Grey Abbey, and the pretty seaside town of Donaghadee. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and fishing.
4. Scrabo Tower
Scrabo Tower is a landmark that can be seen from miles around. It is located on top of a hill near Newtownards, just a 20-minute drive from WWT Castle Espie. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
5. Belfast
Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, is just a 30-minute drive from WWT Castle Espie. Visitors can explore the city's rich history, including the Titanic Belfast museum and the murals in the Shankill and Falls Road areas. There are also plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars to enjoy.
6. Strangford Lough
Strangford Lough, the body of water on which WWT Castle Espie is located, is a beautiful area with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can take a boat trip to explore the lough and its islands, go kayaking or paddleboarding, or try their hand at fishing.
In conclusion, there is plenty to see and do in the area surrounding WWT Castle Espie. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or outdoor activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So why not plan a visit and explore this beautiful part of Northern Ireland?
| Tuesday | 10 am–5 pm |
|---|---|
| Wednesday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Thursday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Friday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Saturday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Sunday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Monday | 10 am–5 pm |
You may also like