Pick up the Portaferry Heritage Trail and discover its rich history which is bound to the sea.
Explore Portaferry with the Heritage Trail
Explore the Castle, the Quay and Market House, which have been part of Portaferry life for centuries, while Exploris Aquarium will introduce you to the area’s natural heritage and exciting wildlife.
Keep an eye out for bronze plaques at places of interest to find out more as you explore. Using the handsets or the QR codes along the way you’ll get to know some characters from the past, all with tales to tell.
For something to entertain the mini explorers there is a Kid’s Explorer Pack with fun facts and challenges to complete as you go!
Enjoy your trip around Portaferry, be sure to refuel after your walk in one of the many eateries or treat yourself to an ice-cream!
• The full trail covers approximately two miles and has 20 stops, with information panels and audio at some of the stops.
Where to access the Heritage Trail
The printed trail is available in various outlets in the town or from the Local Visitor Information Office in Exploris Aquarium along with *handsets. Heritage Trail Guides can also be picked up before your arrival at Ards or Bangor Visitor Information Centres.
*A holding deposit will be required to use a handset and will be refunded on return to Exploris.
You can listen to the audio from the trail now from wherever you are and picture the scene in the picturesque town!
Exploris
Strangford Lough is famous for its hugely diverse marine life. It’s no surprise that Northern Ireland’s only aquarium and seal sanctuary is located here in Portaferry.
The Ropewalk
Rope making was part of a thriving industrial hub in this part of Portaferry.
The Castle
Occupied by the Savage family for generations, Portaferry Castle is one of many Tower Houses built by the Anglo-Irish. It has a great view overlooking Strangford Lough. This meant any unwelcome visitors could be spotted!
Portaferry Quay
The ferry has been a regular feature of the town since the 12th century. It travels between this quay and Strangford.
The Sailing Club
It is thought this building was once the premises of a sea merchant in the 19th century at a time when Portaferry was a bustling port. Nowadays, many international sailing events are staged here.
Portico
This splendid building dates back to 1841 and was designed by architect John Miller, who looked to Ancient Greece for inspiration. Major renovations in 2015 means the church can also host many cultural events under its new identity as ‘Portico Arts & Heritage Centre’.
Market House
Completed in 1752, this fine neoclassical building was the centrepiece of weekly markets in Portaferry.
Please note:
- This trail is around the town of Portaferry for 2 miles (3.6 km), mainly over roads and paths.
- Be aware when crossing roads, traffic comes from your right. Use denoted crossings where possible.
- Northern Ireland has very few public rights of way. In many areas, walkers can only enjoy walks because of the goodwill of local landowners. In the interests of personal safety, please take care and be respectful when using the area for recreational purposes.
This Ards and North Down Borough Council project was part funded under Priority 6 (LEADER) of the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the European Union.
A large village situated on the south east tip of the Ards Peninsula, the gateway to Ards and North Down from across Strangford Lough, facilitated by The Strangford Ferry. Portaferry is well known for its fishing, maritime heritage and annual events such as the Portaferry Gala, and it is home to Northern Ireland's only Aquarium, Exploris and the arts and entertainment venue The Portico of Ards.
