DISTANCE

31.4 miles

ROUTE TYPE

Linear

TRAIL GRADE

Very Strenuous

Groomsport to Strangford

Down

DISTANCE

31.4 miles

ROUTE TYPE

Linear

OS MAP

15, 21

GRID REFERENCE

J538833

COUNTY

Down

NEAREST TOWN

Groomsport

LANDSCAPE

LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY

Very Strenuous

TERRAIN

Tarnac roads and footpaths.

ON/OFF PUBLIC ROAD

DIFFICULTY

TRAIL INFORMATION

This is a Link section therefore walkers are actively encouraged to make use of the public transport links between Groomsport and Strangford. This section of the route mainly follows a busy main road and is not signposted on the ground. For those walkers determined to complete of full circuit of Northern Ireland then accurate maps of this Link section are available to download. When walking on road sections please observe the Highway Code and it is advised to wear high visibility clothing. From Groomsport follow the A2 towards Donaghadee briefly diverting onto the National Trust coastal path round Orlock Point. Follow the A2 along the coast through Donaghadee, Millisle, Ballywalter, Ballyhalbert, Portavogie and Cloughy. Approximately 15 minutes southwest of Cloughy brings an end to the busy A2 road. Turn off at Nun’s Bridge to journey westwards along a series of rural roads past Lough Cowey until reaching the shore of Strangford Lough. Continue south along the shore to Portaferry where the regular ferry will bring you across to Strangford and the start of the Quality Section – Lecale Way .

TRAIL INFORMATION

This is a Link section therefore walkers are actively encouraged to make use of the public transport links between Groomsport and Strangford. This section of the route mainly follows a busy main road and is not signposted on the ground. For those walkers determined to complete of full circuit of Northern Ireland then accurate maps of this Link section are available to download. When walking on road sections please observe the Highway Code and it is advised to wear high visibility clothing. From Groomsport follow the A2 towards Donaghadee briefly diverting onto the National Trust coastal path round Orlock Point. Follow the A2 along the coast through Donaghadee, Millisle, Ballywalter, Ballyhalbert, Portavogie and Cloughy. Approximately 15 minutes southwest of Cloughy brings an end to the busy A2 road. Turn off at Nun’s Bridge to journey westwards along a series of rural roads past Lough Cowey until reaching the shore of Strangford Lough. Continue south along the shore to Portaferry where the regular ferry will bring you across to Strangford and the start of the Quality Section – Lecale Way .
  • Point of Interest
    N/A
  • Facilities
    N/A
  • Public Transport
  • Level of Difficulty
    Very Strenuous TRAIL GRADE DISCLAIMER

    The trail grades shown on OutmoreNI.com and WalkNI.com are based on desk-based assessments of available trail information. The categories—Easy, Moderate, Strenuous, and Very Strenuous—follow the Sustainable Trails Development Guide grading system.

    These grades are provided as a general guide to help users choose trails that may be suitable for them. They are not a substitute for official, on-site grading or safety information provided by the relevant land manager, which may differ from the information on these websites.

    Outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including the risk of injury, death, property damage, and other hazards. By using information from OutmoreNI.com and WalkNI.com, you acknowledge that you do so at your own risk. OutmoreNI.com and WalkNI.com accept no responsibility or liability for any loss, injury, or damage arising from the use of this information.

    Conditions on trails can change, and the actual environment may differ from what is described online. Users should always exercise their own judgment, take appropriate precautions, and remain responsible for their own safety and conduct at all times.

    All information provided on OutmoreNI.com and WalkNI.com is intended as a guide only and should be used alongside your own experience, awareness, and careful decision-making.

    Physically demanding trails requiring a high level of fitness and experience. Expect sustained steep climbs and descents, rough and uneven terrain, and significant physical effort throughout.

    Outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear are essential.

GALLERY

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