Mount Stewart - Red Squirrel Trail

The trail takes in the path around the lake, formal and informal gardens including Rhododendron Hill as an alternative route.

County

Down

Distance

1 miles

OS Map

Nearest Town

Newtownards

Route Shape

Circular

Route Type

Woodland

Terrain

Surfaced pathways and lawn

Grid Reference (Start)

J556694

Grid Reference (End)

J556694

Point of Interest

Sunk Garden, Lily Wood, Tir Na nÒg, Lake

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Strangford Lough

Route Description

Start at Mount Stewart reception and make your way to the front of the house via the courtyard. Make your way through the gate into the formal gardens, pass the Sunk Garden and use the stone steps to make your way down into the Italian Garden. Walk straight ahead towards the black and gold metal gate which brings you into the Lily Wood.

Make your way through the Lily Wood until you reach the path, follow the path towards the lake. Follow the path around the lake. Make your way towards Tir N'an Òg, the family's burial ground high up on the hill.

Continue around the path until you reach Broadley's woodland. Continue on the path around the lake towards Mount Stewart house or take an alternative route through Rhododendron Hill.

Finish your walk by returning to the front of Mount Stewart house.

Getting to the Start (by Public Transport)

Translink - journeyplanner.translink.co.uk

Getting to the Start (by Car)

15 miles SE of Belfast on Newtownards-Portaferry Road, A20 5 miles SE of Newtownards.

Dogs

Dogs are allowed. Dogs must be kept on leads

Accessibility Grade

Grade 4

Easy to moderate walking conditions on well surfaced pathways and lawn, mostly level access with some gravel.

Accessible Facilities

The following facilities are available for users with limited mobility:

	Café (wheelchair accessible)
	Disabled parking
	Disabled toilets

Facilities

Toilets located in the reception area, courtyard, and car park. Gift shop, wi-fi, ice cream shop, tea room, garden shop and baby-changing facilities available.