CASTLE WARD

By Car

Situated on the shoreline of Strangford Lough, Castle Ward is located just over a mile from the picturesque coastal village of Strangford. The trails are approximately an hour’s drive from Belfast. Take the A24 to Carryduff and continue straight on the A7 through Saintfield and Crossgar to Downpatrick. On entering Downpatrick, take the first left at the roundabout before turning right onto the A25 (signposted Strangford). The entrance to Castle Ward is located 7.4 miles along this road on the left hand side. 

Mountain bikers are encouraged to park in the Shore Car Park where all the trails start and finish.

By Public Transport

Translink operate a fairly regular Goldline Service 215 from Adelaide Street in Belfast to Downpatrick. This service can accommodate 2 full sized bicycles in the luggage compartment free of charge.

Passengers are encouraged to book with Translink on +44(0)28 9066 6630 before travelling.

From Downpatrick, you can either cycle out to Castle Ward (approx. 8 miles) or take Translink Service 16 or 16E from Downpatrick Bus Station towards Strangford. Please note, this will be a local service and the carrying of bikes will be up to the discretion of the driver.