Castle Espie

What You'll Find

Castle Espie is a lovely spot for a family day out beside Strangford Lough, especially if your wee ones love animals, exploring and a good playground!

It's a wetland nature reserve, so you'll find lots of ducks, geese and other birds, with paths winding around the ponds and wetlands. One of the nicest things for younger children is getting to see the birds up close, particularly around the collection of ducks and geese.

There are bird hides dotted along the trails too, where you can stop and see what wildlife you can spot. Bring binoculars if you've got them, although the kids will probably be just as happy peering through the windows!

And there's plenty more than birdwatching here!

The outdoor adventure play areas are a big hit with children, with opportunities for climbing, balancing and exploring. There's woodland play too, so it's worth allowing plenty of time for the playground rather than heading straight home after your walk.

If you've got toddlers or younger children, there's also an indoor soft play area specifically for under 6s, which is a lovely little bonus! It's especially handy if the weather turns or your wee ones fancy a break from walking.

The paths around the wetlands are lovely for a family wander, and there are beautiful views across Strangford Lough. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, as there's always something different to spot depending on the time of year.

There's also a café where you can stop for a coffee or something to eat, so you don't have to worry about packing everything for the day.

Between the birds, adventure play areas, soft play and nature trails, you could easily spend a few hours here with the kids.

Wee Ones Will Love...

• ✓Seeing the ducks and geese up close
• ✓Looking for birds and wildlife from the bird hides
• ✓Climbing and exploring the outdoor adventure play areas
• ✓Having a play in the indoor soft play area for under 6s
• ✓Following the wetland trails and spotting wildlife along the way

Before You Visit

Castle Espie is a paid attraction, so check current admission prices and opening times before visiting.

The indoor soft play area is for children under 6, so it's worth knowing if you're visiting with older children.

Some outdoor play areas and activities may be affected by the weather, so check what's available on the day.

Keep younger children close around the ponds and open water.

If you're hoping to join a bird-feeding session or family activity, check the timetable before travelling.

⭐ Wee Adventurers Top Tips

• ⭐Don't rush past the ducks and geese at the beginning. Younger children will love stopping to watch them!
• ⭐Leave plenty of time for the outdoor adventure playground.
• ⭐If you've got children under 6, make sure to pop into the indoor soft play too.
• ⭐Bring binoculars if you have them for a little wildlife spotting from the bird hides.
• ⭐Check for bird-feeding sessions and children's activities before your visit.