Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Not all National Trust properties are open yet, and those that are require pre-booking via their website, no later than 15:00 on the day prior to visit.

If you, or any of your party have a new persistant cough, or develop a fever of 38C, we would instead advise you to use the NHS's dedicated website for professional advice.

Castle Ward

See the gothic and classical collide at Castle Ward, an eccentric 18th-century mansion resting on a rolling hillside and looking out over the tranquil waters of Strangford Lough in County Down.Walk or cycle along the Lough trail or through the sheltered woodlands and spot butterflies, rabbits, ducks and swans.Step into a fantasy world of castles and dragons as you explore the Georgian farmyard and the Lough shore, film locations for the smash hit television series Game of Thrones.Stroll through the sunken garden and see vivid reds, yellows, greens and pinks from flowers and subtropical plants in this four tier Victorian garden.Watch our resident crafters create hand-made pottery and jewellery before your eyes, while children draw and drive toy tractors in the barn.You can also head out on the Lough in a canoe, climb and abseil the cliffs, and build a raft with Clearsky Adventure.Round the day off with a treat in our tearoom or browse the gift shop and pick up a bargain at the second-hand bookshop.

  • Currently: Light rain, 10° C
  • Saturday: Light rain, 12° C
  • Sunday: Medium-level cloud, 15° C