Strangford Lough

One of only three Marine Nature Reserves in the United Kingdom, Strangford Lough is a place where nature, history, and screen magic converge. With over 70 islands, rich Viking and Norman heritage, this is where Saint Patrick first landed, where Vikings traded, and where Game of Thrones® found Winterfell.

Screen & Heritage

Castle Ward estate serves as the primary filming location for Winterfell in Game of Thrones®, with over 20 scenes filmed across its grounds. The iconic courtyard, archery range, and towers have become pilgrimage sites for fans worldwide.

Nearby Inch Abbey, with its atmospheric 12th-century Cistercian ruins, became the Riverlands and Robb Stark's camp. The Lecale peninsula surrounding the lough is steeped in early Christian heritage, with ancient churches, round towers, and holy wells dotting the landscape.

Wildlife & Nature

As the largest sea lough in the British Isles, Strangford Lough covers 150 square kilometres and supports an extraordinary ecosystem. Over 2,000 marine species thrive in these waters, from colourful sea anemones to basking sharks. Common and grey seals haul out on the rocky shores, while the skies fill with overwintering birds—Brent geese, curlews, and oystercatchers arrive in their thousands.

The lough is perfect for kayaking across 80 square nautical miles of sheltered waters, sailing between islands, and wildlife watching from shore or boat. Boat trips run regularly from Strangford and Portaferry, offering close encounters with seals and seabirds.