County Down: Private Tour with Scrabo Tower and Castle Ward

Discover County Down’s Hidden Gems on a Private 8-Hour Tour

This private tour of County Down offers a carefully curated experience for up to four people, all for $642 per group. With a duration of 8 hours, this journey takes you through some of Northern Ireland’s most captivating sights. Starting from convenient pickup options at George Best Belfast City Airport, Belfast International Airport, or local hotels, the tour is designed for comfort and personalized attention.

What truly makes this trip stand out is the mix of iconic landmarks and lesser-known treasures. From Scrabo Tower’s panoramic views to the historic Castle Ward, and the peaceful Downpatrick with Saint Patrick’s tomb, this tour balances scenic beauty with cultural significance. The inclusion of a visit to Seaforde House gardens adds a relaxing finish. While it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a flexible, intimate exploration, keep in mind that physical activity involves walking and outdoor sightseeing, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

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Key Points

• Private group experience for up to four people at $642 total
• Eight-hour tour covering County Down’s top highlights
• Includes pickup from airports or hotels for convenience
• Visits Scrabo Tower, Castle Ward, Saint Patrick’s tomb, and Seaforde House
• Stops at Portaferry, Newcastle, with scenic views and walking opportunities
• Focus on Scenic views, history, and filming locations

Starting Point: Flexible Pickup from Belfast or Your Hotel

The tour begins with options for pickup at George Best Belfast City Airport, Belfast International Airport, or a central Belfast hotel. This flexible approach ensures travelers can start the journey without stress. The transport is by car, providing a comfortable ride throughout the day.

Once onboard, the guide sets the tone for a personalized experience, focusing on the regions’ most photogenic spots. The small group size guarantees an intimate environment, perfect for questions and tailored stops.

Exploring the Ards Peninsula and Its Seascapes

The first stop is on the Ards Peninsula, where a photo stop offers a chance to admire panoramic scenic views of the sea and mountains. This area is known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning coastline. The guided tour allows for some light walking while soaking in the fresh air and natural beauty.

Expect to spend about an hour here, with the chance to take memorable photos or simply enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. The guide provides insights into the area’s landscape and history, making this a calming start to the day.

Portaferry and the Strangford Ferry Experience

Next, the journey takes you to the quaint town of Portaferry, where another photo stop and walk are scheduled. This town is known for its peaceful ambiance and scenic views of water and land.

From Portaferry, you’ll take the Strangford Ferry, offering a picturesque crossing that highlights the area’s waterways. During the ferry ride, expect to enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding water, with ample opportunities for photos. The ferry crossing lasts about an hour, making it a relaxing and scenic part of the trip.

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Discovering Castle Ward and Game of Thrones Filming Locations

The tour continues to Castle Ward, which is famous not only for its architecture and history but also for its role as a filming site in Game of Thrones. Visitors will find scenic views and historic structures that enchant fans of the series and history buffs alike.

A guided tour at Castle Ward provides insights into its architecture and history, with walking opportunities to explore the estate. The scenic landscape around Castle Ward offers plenty of photo opportunities with lakes, gardens, and the castle itself.

Honoring Ireland’s Patron Saint at Downpatrick

The next stop is Downpatrick, where the tomb of Saint Patrick resides. This site holds significant religious and cultural importance, drawing visitors interested in Ireland’s spiritual heritage.

Here, the tour includes a visit, guided tour, and walks around the area, which takes about 1.5 hours. The tranquil atmosphere and historical significance make this a meaningful part of the day, with ample time to explore the tomb and surrounding grounds.

Enjoying the Seaside at Newcastle and the Mourne Mountains

The final major stop is Newcastle, a charming seaside town at the foot of the Mourne Mountains. The area is renowned for its stunning sea views and mountain scenery, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature.

This stop includes photo opportunities, free time, and scenic views. Visitors can walk along the promenade or simply take in the vistas of the mountains and coastline. The scenic scenery here provides a peaceful conclusion to the day’s sightseeing.

Relaxing at Seaforde House Gardens and Butterfly House

The tour concludes at Seaforde House, where visitors can unwind amid beautiful gardens and exotic butterflies. This peaceful setting offers a gentle ending to the eight-hour journey, with time to stroll, take photos, or enjoy the lush surroundings.

Entry to Seaforde House is included, and the gardens provide a calming environment after a day of exploring.

Practical Details and Tips for the Tour

This private tour is designed for flexible, personalized experiences, with live English-speaking guides leading the way. The 8-hour duration allows for in-depth visits without feeling rushed. Pickup from airports or hotels ensures a smooth start, and drop-offs are available at Belfast International Airport, George Best Belfast City Airport, or other locations.

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, a camera for capturing the stunning scenery, and weather-appropriate clothing, as outdoor stops are integral to the tour. Since the tour is not suitable for children under 2 or wheelchair users, participants should consider mobility needs beforehand.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

Unlike larger, group-based excursions, this private tour ensures personalized attention and a flexible itinerary. The inclusion of Game of Thrones filming locations is a big draw for fans, while the focus on scenic coastal views and historic sites appeals to nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

The mix of scenic stops, cultural visits, and the relaxed pace makes this tour ideal for small groups seeking a comprehensive, tailored experience of County Down.

Final Thoughts on the County Down Private Tour

This 8-hour private journey offers a well-rounded look at some of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful and meaningful sites. The price of $642 per group provides good value for a personalized experience that covers scenic views, historic landmarks, and popular filming locations.

While the tour involves walking and outdoor exploration, the stops are manageable, and the scenery is consistently impressive. This trip is perfect for small groups or families who want a flexible and intimate way to discover County Down’s highlights.

Organized by Clarke Cool Ireland Tours, it combines comfort, scenic beauty, and cultural richness into one memorable day. If you appreciate history, nature, and iconic landscapes, this tour offers a compact yet diverse look at one of Ireland’s most captivating regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 2 years old or wheelchair users. It involves walking and outdoor stops, so consider mobility needs and age appropriateness.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended to enjoy the outdoor scenic stops comfortably.

Can I be picked up from my hotel?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from hotels and airports, including Belfast city and international airports.

How long is the ferry crossing?
The Strangford Ferry crossing lasts about an hour and offers scenic views of water and land.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Key sites include Scrabo Tower, Castle Ward, Saint Patrick’s tomb in Downpatrick, Portaferry, Newcastle, and Seaforde House gardens.

What makes this tour special?
The private setting, personalized attention, and visits to Game of Thrones filming locations make this experience stand out for travelers seeking an authentic and flexible exploration of County Down.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby