balllyhornan

This path runs along the Irish Sea coast from Ballyhornan to Ardtole, near Ardglass (forming part of the Ulster Way). The walk then returns, by road, through scenic Co. Down countryside. Gun's Island provides a beautiful backdrop and the Isle of Man can be seen on the horizon on a good day. The townland and ancient settlement of Sheepland is famous for its old corn mill and natural harbour, used some say, for smuggling in years gone by.

Distance: Approx 6 miles, 9.6 kms
Time: Approx 3 hours
Starting point: Car park on Killard Road, Ballyhornan. Walk towards the beach, down a path and steps and turn right along the foreshore. A short path takes you up a bank onto Rocks Raod. Turn left and continue along the foreshore and grass paths over stiles and around several headlands. Just past a holy shrine which marks St. Patrick's Well, the path leaves the foreshore at this point and leads up a laneway towards the Sheepland Road.* At Sheepland road turn left and continue past the Ardtole Road until you meet the Strangford Road. Turn right towards the through Chapeltown. Finally turn right, into Killard Road through the village of Ballyhornan and back to the car park.

* Shortened route - At Sheepland Road turn right, then left towards the Old Mill and follow the lane straight on to Chapeltown. Complete the walk by turning right on to the Strangford Road and continue as described above.