Strangford Lough Lecale Coastal Walk

At a Glance

Distance

12.0 km (7.5 miles)

Difficulty

Moderate

Duration

3 hr 20 min

Walk Type

Coastal, Historic

Route Type

Point to Point

Off Lead Potential

Low

Livestock Risk

Moderate

Facilities

Cafes, toilets and pubs in Strangford village, informal parking near Audley's Castle.

Parking

Free parking at Strangford ferry terminal, around 40 spaces, plus informal pulloffs along the route.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Strangford Lough Lecale Coastal Walk dog friendly?

  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.

• Can dogs be off lead at Strangford Lough Lecale Coastal Walk?

  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.

• What should I know before visiting Strangford Lough Lecale Coastal Walk with my dog?

  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.

Strangford Harbour, The Square

54.3711, -5.5413