Belfast , United Kingdom

Strangford Lough Private Tour by Car

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About this experience

This private Ards Peninsula tour follows one of Northern Ireland’s most scenic coastal routes, showcasing quiet beaches, charming fishing villages, and a memorable ferry crossing across Strangford Lough. Unlike busy group tours, this experience is relaxed and flexible, with time for photo stops, short walks, and lunch at your own pace. With local insight from your driver-guide and optional stops such as the Mourne Mountains and Spelga Dam, the itinerary can be tailored to suit cruise passengers, couples, families, or small groups seeking a more personal and authentic day out.

Available options

Strangford Lough Private Tour by Car

What's included

Private transportation

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Begin the day with a scenic coastal drive through the charming seaside village of Groomsport, known for its peaceful shoreline, harbour views, and relaxed coastal atmosphere. A gentle introduction to the Ards Peninsula.

Drive through the historic harbour town of Donaghadee, famous for its lighthouse, promenade, and classic seaside views overlooking the Irish Sea. Short photo stops available.

Pass through the traditional seaside town of Millisle, offering wide coastal views, sandy beaches, and a glimpse of everyday life along the Ards Peninsula.

Travel along Ballywalter’s beautiful beachfront, known for its long sandy beach and open coastal scenery, one of the peninsula’s most photogenic stretches.

Drive through the quiet coastal village of Ballyhalbert, with uninterrupted sea views and a peaceful, unspoiled atmosphere along the shoreline.

Pass through Portavogie, a working fishing harbour and one of Northern Ireland’s most important fishing ports, offering an authentic glimpse of coastal industry.

Enjoy views of Cloughey’s long sandy beach and low-lying dunes as the tour continues south along the peninsula’s quieter coastal stretches.

Enjoy a short ferry crossing across Strangford Lough, one of Ireland’s most scenic waterways, known for its islands, wildlife, and calm coastal beauty.

Arrive in the picturesque village of Strangford, home to the famous Lobster Pot restaurant and lovely views across the lough.

Travel through historic Downpatrick, where guests can stop for lunch at a local café or pub before continuing towards the Mourne coast.

Visit the seaside town of Newcastle, where the Mourne Mountains meet the Irish Sea. Time to enjoy beach views, photos, and a short stroll.

Optional visit to Spelga Dam in the Mourne Mountains, including the famous “Magic Road” optical illusion and stunning mountain scenery, subject to time and weather.

What's not included

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Please proceed to the main cruise terminal exit at Belfast Port.

Your driver-guide will meet you nearby in a clearly identifiable private vehicle.

Exact meeting instructions and contact details will be shared in advance to ensure a smooth meeting.

About Belfast

Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is a vibrant city with a rich maritime, industrial, and political history. Known for its Titanic heritage, friendly locals, and dynamic cultural scene, it offers a unique blend of historical sites, modern attractions, and stunning natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Titanic Belfast

A world-class museum dedicated to the Titanic, offering interactive exhibits and a fascinating insight into Belfast's shipbuilding heritage.

Historical 2-3 hours £22-£26

Belfast Castle

A beautiful 19th-century castle set in the Cave Hill Country Park, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

St. George's Market

A historic market offering a variety of food, crafts, and entertainment. It's one of the few remaining Victorian markets in the UK.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free entry, food and crafts for purchase

Crumlin Road Gaol

A former Victorian prison that has been restored to its original condition, offering guided tours and insights into Belfast's criminal history.

Historical 1-2 hours £12-£15

Botanic Gardens

A beautiful public park featuring a variety of plants, trees, and flowers, as well as the Palm House and Tropical Ravine House.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ulster Fry

A hearty breakfast consisting of soda bread, potato bread, bacon, sausage, black and white pudding, eggs, and tomato.

Breakfast Contains meat and gluten

Irish Stew

A traditional stew made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and gluten

Chippey

A traditional fish and chip shop serving battered fish, chips, and various sides.

Dinner Contains fish and gluten

Belfast Bap

A soft, white bread roll filled with a sausage, bacon, or egg.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains meat and gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Cave Hill Country Park Crossing the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Kayaking on Lough Neagh Strolling through Botanic Gardens Enjoying a spa day Sipping coffee in a trendy cafe Exploring the Ulster Museum Attending a performance at the Grand Opera House

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and sunniest time of the year, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals. However, it's also the busiest tourist season.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Irish (Gaelic)
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Pound Sterling (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) in winter, BST (UTC+1) in summer

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Belfast is generally safe, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis and check the fare before starting your journey.

Getting there

By air

Belfast International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) northwest of the city center
George Best Belfast City Airport • 3 km (2 miles) east of the city center

By train

Belfast Central Station, Belfast Lanyon Place Station

By bus

Belfast Europa Buscentre

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Belfast, with a comprehensive network covering the city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cathedral Quarter Titanic Quarter Belfast City Centre Stranmillis The Ormeau Road

Day trips

Giant's Causeway

90 km (56 miles) • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a unique natural formation of interlocking basalt columns.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

70 km (43 miles) • Half day

A thrilling rope bridge spanning a 23-meter (75-foot) chasm, offering stunning views of the coastline.

Dunluce Castle

80 km (50 miles) • Half day

A dramatic medieval castle perched on a cliff, offering a glimpse into Northern Ireland's past.

Festivals

Belfast International Arts Festival • October Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival • May Belfast Mela • August

Pro tips

Take a black cab tour to learn about Belfast's history and political landscape from a local perspective.
Visit the Cathedral Quarter for a vibrant mix of bars, restaurants, and cultural venues.
Explore the Titanic Quarter, home to the Titanic Belfast museum and a variety of attractions.
Stroll through Botanic Gardens and visit the nearby Ulster Museum and Palm House.
Try local delicacies like the Ulster Fry and Belfast Bap at St. George's Market.