Coastal campsites in County Down with swimming
County Down is the place to visit for dramatic mountains, blue-flag beaches, and forest parks.
- County Down
Popular camping styles for County Down
Coastal campsites in County Down with swimming guide
Overview
County Down is one of the most beautiful counties in Northern Ireland, with the region’s best mix of scenery—the rugged Mountains of Mourne to the southeast sweep down to the Irish Sea and Carlingford Lough, the nature reserve of Strangford Lough, and the scenic Ards Peninsula. The area is full of heritage sites too, with the St Patrick’s trail around Downpatrick and the Lecale Peninsula, and adventure-loving campers can try everything from climbing and mountain biking to kayaking and horse riding.
Where to go
Mourne Mountains
The Mourne Mountains are ideal for all types of adventures, whether you enjoy scenic drives to beauty spots, walking, hiking, and climbing, or adrenaline-pumping sports like rock climbing, mountain biking, and abseiling. The area is designated as the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Mourne Coastal Route runs along the sea at the base of the mountains. The mountains are full of walking trails or steeper climbs. Wild camping is not permitted but Tollymore Forest Park and Castlewellan Forest Park in the foothills of the mountains are lovely spots for camping and access for mountain hikes, or stay a few nights around Rostrevor on Carlingford Lough, an area which is said to have inspired author CS Lewis for the Chronicles of Narnia.
Downpatrick and Lecale Peninsula
For a mix of history and heritage, coastal scenery, beaches and birdwatching, visit the area around Downpatrick and the Lecale Peninsula. Game of Thrones fans might like to camp at Castle Ward, while history buffs can follow the trail of Ireland’s patron saint, St Patrick, starting at Downpatrick itself. There are opportunities for coastal walks and bird watching along the peninsula and camping offerings including country parks with views of Strangford Lough, or coastal settings near the beaches.
Strangford Lough
Strangford Lough is a nature reserve with lots of birdlife, and there’s plenty to do around the sea lough, on land and water or with boat or canoe trips by water. Strangford itself is an attractive town with a good choice of restaurants and pubs. Take the ferry across The Narrows (takes cars; journey time around eight minutes) to the town of Portaferry from where you can explore both sides of the Ards Peninsula.
Ards Peninsula
The Ards Peninsula is set between the Irish Sea and Strangford Lough, with plenty of beaches and stately homes to explore. Walk the pier at Donaghadee on the coast to watch boats, or visit the 19th century stately home Mount Stewart House, which overlooks Strangford Lough, to tour the house and explore the gardens. You can also take a boat trip from here to the bird sanctuary on the Copeland Islands. The best camping is along the east coast beaches of the peninsula near Ballyferris Point and Millisle Beach.
