Quality Walk

Orlock Point

The Rocky outcrops of Orlock Point contain a mosaic of semi-natural habitats which support a rich diversity of plants and animals. The walk affords stunning views of the Copeland Islands and out across the Irish Sea towards Scotland. The area is steeped in archaeology and history, with evidence of Vikings, smugglers and World War II defences.

County

Down

Distance

3 miles

OS Map

Sheet 15

Nearest Town

Donaghadee

Route Shape

Circular

Route Type

Coastal

Terrain

Rocky Coastal Path

Grid Reference (Start)

J565828

Grid Reference (End)

J565828

Point of Interest

Orlock Point, The Copeland Islands, Orlock Farm

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Other Area

Route Description

From the car park, the walk commences through the stile bearing the National Trust emblem. Walk along the path until you encounter a stony sheltered bay, crossing over the small stream (the Portavo River) with the standing stone to your left. A flight of steps leads up onto the headland and a large expanse of open farmland. While catching your breath, enjoy the views of the Copelands with the Galloway coast, Mull of Kintyre and Ailsa Craig providing a hazy backdrop. Take a moment to look for farmland birds feeding in the cereal fields or birds of prey hunting along the field margins.

Continue on this path, along the top of the slope, through a stone stile. After another 200 yards, the path divides in two. The lower route will take you down towards the sea and onto the nineteenth century Orlock Coach Road for a short section. If you want flatter terrain, remain on the top path until they merge again a little further along. The path will then lead you down some more steps before passing under an archway which was hewn out of the rock by hand as part of the Coach Road. Chisel marks are still evident in places.

The path leads past some open shingle bays and sheltered coves. The Second World War lookout hut makes a good vantage point for watching passing seabirds and boat traffic. The walk ends at Sandeel Bay. At this point you can retrace your steps or continue up Sandeel lane to the main road and back to the start point.

This walk has been developed and maintained by The National Trust.

Getting to the Start (by Public Transport)

Translink - journeyplanner.translink.co.uk

Getting to the Start (by Car)

Access is off the Donaghadee road, about 1.5 miles East of Groomsport and 2 miles North West of Donaghadee. Coming from Groomsport, pass the entrance to Orlock Road on your left and then look for the small left hand turn as the sea comes in to view.

Dogs

Dogs are allowed. Dogs must be kept under close control

Accessibility Grade

Grade 5

Facilities

There are no shops or toilet facilities on site. There are a number of shops, cafes restaurants and toilet facilities in Donaghadee and Groomsport.

Publication

None.

Publication Availability

n/a

Walk Location
Map of Northern Ireland
 
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