Strangford Lough Lecale Coastal Walk

Yes, this stretch of the Lecale Way is dog friendly for most of its length, earning a rating of 7.5 out of 10. The route takes in shoreline paths, quiet lanes and views of the tidal narrows at Strangford, passing landmarks like Audley's Castle and Kilclief Castle along the way.

Dogs can enjoy some off-lead freedom on parts of the route, but leads are required wherever the trail crosses grazing fields and farm lanes. It's worth keeping this in mind as you move through the more agricultural sections of the walk.

There are reports of occasional loose farm dogs at one or two points near Killard, so it's worth being prepared for that. The surfaces are a mix of tarmac lane, grass shoreline path and gravel tracks, which should suit most dogs well. Parking is available at Strangford ferry terminal, with free spaces at weekends and around 40 spaces in total, and there are cafes, toilets and pubs in the village if you need a stop before or after.