Kircubbin is a village and townland on the shores of Strangford Lough, situated between Newtownards and Portaferry. Visitors can stop here to take in stunning views across to the Mourne Mountains in the distance.
Getting to Kircubbin
Nestled on the eastern shores of Strangford Lough, an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the village is best accessed by road and Translink public transport (bus).
See Sat Nav details and Distance Guide at the bottom of the page.
Plan your trip
Food and Drink
If you’re looking for fine cuisine you should visit the famous Saltwater Brig pub. This restaurant lies between Kircubbin and Portaferry and has been providing great food since 1765. The extensive gardens to the rear of the Brig provides picturesque views of Strangford lough which can be enjoyed whilst eating food in the summer months.
Kircubbin is also known for award-winning makers Glastry Farm Ice-cream and Echlinville Distillery.
Echlinville Distillery
Echlinville Distillery in Kircubbin provides a bespoke experience for enthusiasts to visit. It became Northern Ireland’s first licenced distillery in over 125 years when it distilled its first spirit in 2013. Echlinville hosts tours that offer an insight into the workings of the distillery and visitors can also sample their renowned whisky brand, Dunville and gin brands, Echlinville and Jawbox. Their Echlinville Gin has won one of the most sought after food and drink awards; a three star rating at the Great taste Awards. Being the only Irish gin to receive this award, it is a huge achievement. Afternoon tea can be added to your tour which is served in the Echlinville Manor House.
Walking paths and a gift shop are open to the public, regardless of whether or not you are participating in a distillery tour. The Distiller's Rest Cafe on site offers up warming treats to enjoy while overlooking the estate's barley fields beside the beautiful Echlinville Manor House.
Religious Ties
Just outside the village is the tiny church of Innishargie, the most interesting unrestored building in the area. Its ties go back to the early church in Ireland, with a clear link to the Order of St Benedict in AD 1200. A 13th century gravestone from Innishargie, known locally as the Black Abbey, is preserved at nearby Greyabbey.
Golf
Ardminnan Golf Club is located between Kircubbin and Portaferry. Situated in a scenic spot overlooking the Irish Sea, this nine hole treat is perfect for starting a day’s touring with a quick round featuring water hazards, challenging holes and other parkland pleasures.
Find out more about golf in Ards and North Down.
Ulster-Scots in Kircubbin
Explore the influence of the Ulster-Scots in the village.
Sat Nav details
Latitude 54°29'13"N and longitude 5°31'52"W
Driving distances (approx, depending on route):
Belfast - Kircubbin | 50 - 60 minutes
Bangor - Kircubbin | 30 - 35 minutes
Comber - Kircubbin | 30 minutes
Portaferry - Kircubbin | 15 - 20 minutes
Discover how Echlinville Distillery captures the flavour, colour and mouthfeel of their spirits, before settling down to relax and enjoy them in the bar.
