Ards Peninsula Coast and Lough Loop
Tour the Ards Peninsula from Newtownards, following the eastern coastal settlements towards Portaferry before returning beside the Strangford Lough side through Greyabbey. The circuit stays on the peninsula and does not require a ferry crossing.
Newtownards area circular via Donaghadee, Ballywalter, Portavogie, Portaferry, Greyabbey · County Down, Northern Ireland · 49 miles · 81 minutes estimated driving · Circular
Photo: @ Kenneth Allen / Geograph
Highlights along the way
Ards coast
The eastern side of the peninsula links seaside settlements and open coastal farming country.
Strangford Lough side
The return north from Portaferry follows the peninsula’s lough-side corridor through the Greyabbey area.
Before you set off
Village approaches, coastal bends and seasonal traffic need time. Harbour stops and shoreline walks require appropriate parking; ferry travel is not included. Check current closures and conditions before travel. Estimated time excludes stops and live traffic. Points are through-road references, not parking. Optional town visits may require a separate detour.