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Mount Stewart Lake Walk

Portaferry Road, Newtownards, County Down, BT22 2AD
Mount Stewart Lake Walk

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About

Mount Stewart, located on the shores of Strangford Lough in County Down, is Northern Ireland’s much loved Londonderry family home. Following a three-year £8 million restoration programme, this 19th- century house has been significantly transformed, making it a must-see attraction on the island of Ireland. 
 
Voted as one of the top ten gardens in the world, Mount Stewart reflects a rich tapestry of design and planting artistry bearing the hallmark of its creator. Edith, Lady Londonderry’s passion for bold planting schemes coupled with the mild climate of Strangford Lough allows rare and tender plants from across the globe to thrive in this celebrated garden. Each of the formal gardens exudes a distinct character and appeal. 

Lake Walk: Visitors can enjoy the beautifully landscaped and informal grounds surrounding the picturesque Lake Walk. This circular walk takes in the majestic views around the lake. From the reception area, walk along the wide, gravelled path to the north front of the mansion, then head left around the seven-acre lake. The route is mostly level. Care will need to be taken in some parts. The route is accessible to wheelchair users, but please note that there are some gravelly surfaces. In bad weather, it may also become quite slippery in places. 

Duration: 45 mins  

Distance Miles: Full trail 0.6 (km: 0.96)

Highlights: You'll pass the private burial ground known as Tír na nÓg, which translates as Land of the Ever Young. Take in the serene lake views on the historic jetty and bask in the collection of Rhododendrons in Spring/Summer and Autumnal Tree displays in Autumn.   

There is opportunity to view the restoration of the Walled Rose Garden, gradually being brought back to life and walk amongst the many ferns in our recently extended Fernery. The Shamrock Garden reflects Edith’s love of Irish mythology and the topiary surmounting the Shamrock hedge is a beautifully depicted children’s story. Visitors can keep an eye out for the topiary statue being created depicting a Formorian (a half human, half demon) that is associated with Strangford Lough. 

 

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Facilities

Catering

  • Cafe - Our tearoom is open 7 days a week for takeaway and sit in dining for National Trust members and paying visitors.

Establishment Features

  • Toilets - We have a number of toilets available across the site. These are located in Car Park 1, Courtyard, Visitor Reception and adjacent to Temple of the Winds. Each location has baby-changing and accessible toilet facilities.

Parking & Transport

  • Car parking - We have 2 car parks available at Mount Stewart. Car Park 1 is located nearer to the house and gardens and Car Park 2 is nearer our trails. There are accessible parking spaces in Car Park 1.
  • Parking (free)

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Tel+44 (0) 28 4278 8387

Map & Directions

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Map & Directions

Road Directions

Mount Stewart is on Newtownards to Portaferry road, A20, 15 miles south-east of Belfast. 

If you are using SatNav/GPS, please be aware that it may lead you to the back gate at Mount Stewart which is not accessible to the public.

Public Transport Directions

By Train: The nearest train station is Bangor (10 miles).

By bus: Belfast to Portaferry service, alight at gates. Type in Cunningburn, Mount Stewart in stop search.

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