Scrabo Hill
The walk takes in the summit of Scrabo Hill and the famous Scrabo Tower built in 1857, one of Ireland's best known landmarks. The views over Strangford Lough and North Down are some of the finest in the country. The walk then descends to the disused sandstone quarries which provided building stone since Anglo-Norman times. The old quarries have major geological importance and have been designated an Area of Special Scientific Interest.
County
Down
Distance
2.3 miles
OS Map
Sheet 21
Nearest Town
Newtownards
Route Shape
Circular
Route Type
Hill
Terrain
Off road paths, steep
Grid Reference (Start)
J475723
Grid Reference (End)
J475723
Point of Interest
Scrabo Tower, open to the public from Easter to end September
Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Other Area
Route Description
From the top end of the main car park, cross road to reach tarmac access route leading to Scrabo Tower. Walker will pass a signposted picnic site on the right. On leaving the summit of Scrabo Hill return via the same route until arriving at a narrow path on the left. Follow this path downhill to reach the picnic site.
At the opposite end of the site follow another path downhill, keeping to the left at a fork (follow direction arrow ). As it makes it's way downhill, the path provides views across the South Quarry. At the end of this path, turn left, passing to the side of a green barrier. The entrance to the South Quarry is now to the left.
On leaving the South Quarry, follow the direction sign to the North Quarry on the left. Continue straight along this path and just short of 1km, arrive at sign post indicating the North Quarry to the left. Follow this path along the bottom of the quarry, eventually climbing a set of steps to a higher level and arriving at a junction of 4 paths.
Continue straight across this junction to begin the return towards the car park. After 185m approx, the path already taken into the North Quarry is reached once again. From this point, continue straight on along this now familiar route back to the car park.
Getting to the Start (by Public Transport)
Translink - journeyplanner.translink.co.uk
Getting to the Start (by Car)
From Newtownards or the Comber bypass, follow the signs for Scrabo Country Park. Drive uphill to the Country Park's main car park (Grid J 475722).
Dogs
Dogs are allowed. Dogs must be kept under close control
Accessibility Grade
Accessible Facilities
The following facilities are available for users with limited mobility:
 | Disabled toilets with RADAR key |
Facilities
Toilet block situated at the main car park at the start of the walk. A RADAR disabled toilet is available.
Publication
Scrabo Country Park leaflet.
Publication Availability
Contact NIEA: +44 (0) 28 91 811491 niea.info@daera-ni.gov.uk https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/
