Walking & Rambling

The Ulster Way
The Ulster Way runs through Ards Borough from Killinchy to Newtownards and into the North Down Borough Council area through Whitespots Country Park. The majority of the route is on tarmac roads and is not on asserted Public Rights of Way. The fact that the route is signed encourages people to use the route for various Countryside Recreation activities.

The Lecale Way which follows more or less the same route as the original Ulster Way starts from Raholp, through Castleward to Strangford, to Arglass and onwards to Newcastle. Although the Ulster Way is a popular place for people to walk, exercise their dogs, cycle and mountain bike and as a concept is well known and promoted, no single organisation is responsible for the route in its entirety. 

Users of Strangford Lough should take particular care not to disturb pupping seals and nesting birds.

 

The Code of Practice for Walkers  
The walking community in Ireland has adopted the principles of Leave No Trace. These principles although not specific to Strangford Lough are an excellent code of conduct for all users. 

The Leave No Trace programme is designed to help outdoor enthusiasts value the natural environment, to understand the impact of our activities, and to enable us make decisions to minimise that impact while still enjoying our activities with freedom.

 

Principles of Leave no Trace
1. Plan Ahead and Prepare

2. Be Considerate Of Others

3. Respect Farm Animals And Wildlife

4. Travel and Camp on Durable Ground
5. Leave What You Find

6. Dispose Of Waste Properly

7. Minimise The Effects Of Fire
 

For further information, log on to Leave no Trace and also see Walk NI. 

Picture courtesy of Northern Ireland Environment Agency.