Dog-friendly National Trust property in Northern Ireland

Petlandia has revealed the most dog-friendly National Trust properties in Northern Ireland so you and your furry friend can stretch your legs and get some fresh air together. Taking a list of popular local dog-friendly National Trust properties, the study scored them on a series of doggy criteria points - i.e are dogs allowed in the grounds, is water provided and so on.

With a score of 100/100 Castle Ward has been revealed as the most dog-friendly. But all of them have their unique appeal and charm.

For full scores go to Petlandia on https://www.petlandia.com/

Castle Ward

A unique gothic 18th-century mansion, Castle Ward rests on a rolling hillside and looks out over the tranquil waters of Strangford Lough in County Down.

The mansion is famous for its mixture of architectural styles.

You can walk or cycle along the Lough trail or through the sheltered woodlands and spot butterflies, rabbits, ducks and swans.

Step into a fantasy world of castles and dragons as you explore the Georgian farmyard and the lough shore, which are the film locations for the hit television series Game of Thrones.

Stroll through the sunken garden and see vivid reds, yellows, greens and pinks from seasonal flowers in the newly restored Victorian garden.

You can also head out on the Lough in a canoe, climb and abseil the cliffs, and build a raft with Clearsky Adventure.

If that wasn’t enough you can round the day off with a treat in their tea-room or browse the gift shop. For the avid reader you can pick up a bargain at the second-hand gift shop.

The House, cafe, bookshop and gift shop are now closed. However, the garden and parkland remain open for you to enjoy while observing social distancing measures.

The Argory

This atmospheric Irish gentry house and wooded riverside estate was built in the 1820s. The handsome estate is surrounded by its 130-hectare (320-acre) wooded riverside estate.

The former home of the MacGeough Bond family, a tour of this Neo-classical masterpiece will reveal that it has been unchanged since 1900. The eclectic interior still evokes the family’s tastes and interests.

Outside the property there are sweeping vistas, superb spring bulbs, scenic walks and fascinating courtyard displays.

You can browse the second-hand bookshop and gift shop, explore the adventure playground and relax in The Courtyard Coffee Shop which serves up tasty treats.

The House, cafe, bookshop and gift shop are now closed. However, the garden and parkland remain open for you to enjoy while observing social distancing measures. The exit gates will be locked at 5pm every evening.

Mount Stewart

Mount Stewart house has always been a ‘home’ for the Londonderry family, a place that has been touched by the various generations who have loved it. Whilst always respecting the past and finding inspiration from its history, Mount Stewart has been unafraid of change throughout the generations, endeavouring to remain relevant in modern times.

The garden at Mount Stewart is World Class. The unique and rare garden is deeply personal, as it was the creation of Edith, Lady Londonderry in the early 20th century which built on the pre-existing historic 18th and 19th century landscape.

Considered to be one of the most outstanding gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is the most visited National Trust mansion house property in Northern Ireland.

The house, visitor reception, cafe, gardens, lake walk and retail areas will be closed to the public. However, some trails will remain open for free. Further details on this will be available on the website shortly.

Castle Coole

The magnificent 18th-century stately mansion and beautiful wooded landscape park is ideal for all of the family.

Castle Coole is one of Ireland’s finest Neo-classical houses, allowing visitors to glimpse what life was like in the home of the Earls of Belmore.

Go back in time and discover the people who lived and worked below stairs as you explore the magnificent suite of servants rooms and service quarters.

They have not posted an update which suggests that the property and surrounding areas are open as usual

Divis and Black Mountain

Divis and the Black Mountain offer spectacular views across Northern Ireland. With the mountains resting in the heart of the Belfast Hills, it provides the backdrop to the city’s skyline. The rich archaeological landscape is home to a vast amount of wildlife with walking trails along a variety of terrain; through heath, on stone tracks, along boardwalks and road surfaces.

The cafe barn is now closed. However, access to the mountain will remain open for you to enjoy while observing social distancing measures.

Florence Court

This beautiful 18th-century home set on a sustainable estate and gardens is surrounded by lush parkland and thick woodland. Florence Court has a majestic countryside setting in West Fermanagh.

You can take guided tours of the Georgian mansion and hear stories about the Cole family and their staff, who lived here for over 250 years.

Go outside to take a gentle walk or cycle along 10 miles of trails in the adjoining forest park and see fascinating industrial heritage features, including the water-powered sawmill and blacksmith’s forge. The gardens are home to the mother of all Irish yew trees, as well as the kitchen garden which is being restored to its 1930s character.

They have not posted an update which suggests that the property and surrounding areas are open as usual

Minnowburn

Minnowburn is on the southern edge of Belfast, its meadows and woodlands roll down to the Lagan river - perfect for a short stroll or the start of a longer brisk walk.

You can climb Terrace Hill and discover the garden built by linen merchant Ned Robinson, where you can have a picnic or take in the views across the Lagan valley.

Enjoy a short walk to the Giant’s Ring, a huge neolithic earth henge and tomb where you can imagine scenes of ancient gatherings and rituals.

Open spaces open to the public while observing social distancing measures.

Wellbrook Beetling Mill

Nestling in an idyllic wooded glen, Wellbrook Beetling Mill offers lovely walks and picnic spots. The last working water-powered linen beetling mill, offers a unique experience for all the family.

You can enjoy a guided tour of the mill, which lasts approx 45 mins to 1 hour.

The mill is now closed. However, the walks are accessible for everyone while observing social distancing measures

Ardress House

This charming 17th-century farmhouse, elegantly remodelled in Georgian times, offers fun and relaxation for all the family.

Set in 40 hectares (100 acres) of countryside there are apple orchards, charming woodland and riverside walks.

The atmosphere of a working farmyard has been rekindled with the return of small animals.

The House and farmyard are now closed. However, the gardens and parkland remain open while observing social distancing measures.

Springhill

This inimitable 17th-century ‘Plantation’ home, with its walled gardens and parkland, full of tempting waymarked paths is filled with spirit.

There are ten generations of Lenox-Conyngham family tales to enthrall you, as well as numerous portraits and much furniture to admire and not to forget Ireland’s best-documented ghost: Olivia.

The old laundry houses the celebrated Costume Collection, which features some fine 18th to 20th-century pieces that highlight its great charm and enthralling past.

The house, cafe and shop are now closed. However, the gardens and parkland remain open for you to enjoy while observing social distancing measures.