Hotels in Portaferry: Culture, Nature and Strangford Lough

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Editor's Choice

Pure Luxury

“Call me spoiled - but I love to be treated like a queen when traveling. Only the best is good enough for me. Hotels that make my vacation a dream of luxury and seduction are my choices. Pay attention to the (violet Medal) for luxury accommodation.”

Tatjana Herzegova, Kiew, Ukraine

Editor's Choice

Sustainable Travel

“There is only one earth and we should go out and see it. I like hotels, which look for sustainability. It is not only protecting the ecology, but also taking care for the local business and culture. I recommend the medal for eco accomodation. Let’s protect our earth. Sustainable travel is travelling with responsibility.”

Markus Lenk, Düsseldorf, Germany

Portaferry brings together history, wildlife watching and a ferry crossing over Strangford Lough. The crossing with the Strangford Lough Ferry takes about 10 minutes and can save you a 50-mile journey around the lough. During the crossing through the marine nature reserve, you may spot seals, seabirds and jellyfish. During the day, the ferry runs every 30 minutes, except on Christmas Day. Check the timetable for your travel date if you plan to include the crossing in your itinerary.

History and culture

Portaferry Castle is a tower house dating from the 15th or 16th century, built by the Savage family. Portico of Ards offers a different historical perspective: built in 1841, it was modelled on the Greek Temple of Nemesis. After restoration, the building reopened in 2016 as an arts and heritage centre. Its exhibitions feature artefacts from nearby Neolithic sites and a timeline of local history from the Ice Age to the present day. Advance booking is required for heritage tours that include access to the organ gallery and organ demonstrations. Together, the tower house and heritage centre offer different ways to explore the past: a single historic building and exhibitions spanning a broad sweep of time.

Aquarium and wildlife

At Exploris Aquarium, a glass underwater tunnel leads through the Ocean Tank. The aquarium showcases native species from Strangford Lough and the Irish Sea, and provides information about the Viking heritage of Strangford Lough. In the reception area, you will find visitor information about Portaferry, maps and an interactive touchscreen. The NIE Seal Sanctuary at Exploris rehabilitates seals and returns them to the wild once they have fully recovered. This brings information about local species and history together with practical wildlife rehabilitation.

Nugent's Wood is home to red squirrels; in spring, bluebells are among the flowers found there. Windmill Hill offers panoramic views of the County Down countryside. The Mourne Coastal Route also passes along a stretch from Belfast to Portaferry. Here, a specifically seasonal woodland feature and far-reaching views meet a regional route connection.

Trails, views and events

The Portaferry Heritage Trail is about two miles long and has 20 stops. Information panels accompany the route, with audio features at some stops. Children can get an explorer pack with facts and activities. The trail thus combines a set distance with multiple stops and different information formats.

Portaferry's Market on the Square takes place on the first Saturday of each month from April to December. Stalls offer locally made artisan food and crafts, and there is also live music, entertainment and craft activities for children. Portaferry also has a lively boating scene. The annual sailing regatta takes place in July, providing another specific date to consider when planning your trip.

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