Overview
Ringfad (Irish: An Rinn Fhada – “the long point”) is a 225.8‑acre townland that juts out into the Irish Sea on the eastern side of Coney Island Bay. The peninsula forms the southern boundary of the bay and is flanked by the villages of Ardglass to the north and Killough to the south‑east. Its most striking feature is Ringfad Point, a rugged headland that has long attracted walkers, cyclists and maritime historians alike.
The area is part of the civil parish of Ardglass in the historic barony of Lecale Lower. Though uninhabited, Ringfad is a hub for outdoor activity – from links golf on the Ardglass course to coastal walks that reveal shipwreck stories dating back to the 19th century.
History
The name Ringfad appears in records as early as 1659, derived from the Irish An Rinn Fhada meaning “the long headland”. Its strategic position made it a magnet for maritime traffic, and the exposed rocks of Ringfad Point have claimed several vessels.
- The Enterprise of Lynn (1827) – a West Indiaman bound from Lima and Rio de Janeiro to Liverpool ran aground with a cargo of indigo, cotton and hides. Eleven lives were lost and the tragedy was immortalised in the folk ballad “The Wreck of the Enterprise”.
- SS Bereby (1941) – a cargo ship of Elder Dempster Lines struck the rocks during a navigational error. No lives were lost, but the wreck added to the point’s reputation as a hazardous passage.
- FV Greenhill (2006) – a modern fishing vessel sank near Ringfad, claiming two crew members.
These incidents have turned Ringfad into a point of interest for maritime archaeology and local folklore.
What to See & Do
Ardglass Golf Club & Ardglass Castle
The peninsula is dominated by the Ardglass Golf Club, an 18‑hole links course that stretches from Ardglass out to Ringfad Point. Established in 1896 as a modest 7‑hole layout, the course now occupies much of the peninsula’s rolling dunes. Its clubhouse is housed in Ardglass Castle, a fortified warehouse dating to 1405 – one of the world’s oldest buildings still used as a golf clubhouse. The castle’s medieval walls and 18th‑century extensions give a tangible sense of the area’s mercantile past.
Shipwreck Sites & Coastal Walks
The shoreline around Ringfad Point is littered with the remains of wrecked hulls, visible at low tide. Interpretive signs near the point explain the stories of the Enterprise, the Bereby and other vessels. A well‑marked coastal path runs from Ardglass Harbour, skirts the cliffs of Ringfad, and offers panoramic sea views that are especially striking at sunrise.
Nearby Historic Attractions
- Ballynoe Stone Circle – a late Neolithic to early Bronze Age monument of over 50 upright stones, just a short drive inland. It provides a glimpse of prehistoric ritual landscape.
- St John’s Point Lighthouse – located a few kilometres east of Ringfad, this lighthouse offers sweeping vistas of the Irish Sea and the Mourne Hills. More information can be found on the Commissioners of Irish Lights website.
- Ardglass Harbour – one of Northern Ireland’s three major fishing ports, offering a safe haven for small vessels and a pleasant spot to watch local fishing activity.
Scenic Viewpoints
- Mourne Mountains from Strangford & Lecale Beach – a short detour inland provides a classic view of the Mourne Hills framed by the coastline.
- Lough Money – a clear‑water lake known for its birdlife, especially herons, and a tranquil setting for a quiet walk.
Active Pursuits
Ringfad is a favourite base for cyclists and runners. The Komoot community lists several road‑cycling loops that start in nearby Killough and loop past Ardglass Harbour, Ringfad Point and the Quoile River view. Popular routes include:
| Route | Distance | Elevation Gain | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slieve Donard Hotel – Dundrum Castle loop (from Killough) | 35.6 mi (57 km) | 342 m | Moderate |
| Quoile River View – Down Cathedral loop (from Ballynoe Stone Circle) | 30.4 mi (49 km) | 320 m | Moderate |
| Ballyhornan Beach – Killough–Strangford Loop | 14.6 mi (23 km) | 122 m | Easy |
Running trails of varying length criss‑cross the peninsula, offering both coastal and inland scenery.
Boat Tours that Highlight Ringfad
The Carnlough Bay Boat Tours operate from Carnlough Harbour (≈ 30 km north‑west) and include a dedicated segment that passes Ringfad, recounting the story of the Enterprise of Lynn. The 30‑minute excursion costs £10 per adult and £6 per child, with group rates available.
| Tour | Duration | Price (Adult) | Price (Child) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ringfad‑focused coastal cruise (30 min) | 30 min | £10 | £6 |
| Group (up to 12) | 30 min | £80 total | – |
More details can be found on the Discover Northern Ireland page.
Practical Information
Getting there – Ringfad is accessed via the A25 road from Ardglass. Parking is available at Ardglass Golf Club’s car park (free for visitors to the course) and at Ardglass Harbour. The area is open year‑round and there is no admission fee.
Walking & Cycling – The coastal path is well‑signposted and suitable for walkers of all abilities. Cyclists should be aware that some sections are shared with local traffic, but the majority of the routes are on quiet, paved roads.
Facilities – There are no permanent visitor facilities on the peninsula itself; the nearest cafés, toilets and shops are in Ardglass village (approximately 2 km away). Mobile phone coverage is generally good along the main road.
Accessibility – The main access points at Ardglass Harbour and the golf club car park are wheelchair‑friendly, though the rugged headland and some cliff‑side paths are uneven and may be challenging for those with limited mobility.
Seasonality – The landscape is striking in all seasons. Summer offers longer daylight for extended walks, while autumn brings dramatic sea‑coloured skies. The boat tours operate from March to September; off‑season visitors can still enjoy the walks and cycling routes.
Safety – The sea around Ringfad can be rough; stay well back from the cliff edges and heed any local warnings. The area is popular with birdwatchers, so keep a respectful distance from nesting sites.
Nearby Accommodation – Ardglass provides a range of B&Bs and guesthouses, and the nearby village of Killough offers additional options for overnight stays.
Wildlife & Birdwatching
Lough Money, just inland from the peninsula, is a favoured spot for herons and other wading birds. The coastal cliffs at Ringfad Point also attract seabirds such as gulls and terns, making the area appealing for casual birdwatching.
Getting There by Public Transport
Regular Ulsterbus services run between Belfast and Ardglass, with a stop in Ardglass village a short walk from the road leading to Ringfad. From the bus stop, the A25 provides easy access to the peninsula’s car parks. (Please verify current timetables before travelling.)
Family Friendly Highlights
The interpretive signs along the coastal walk are written in an engaging style suitable for children, and the low‑tide wreck sites provide a tangible history lesson. The gentle walking routes and open spaces make Ringfad a safe outing for families with young kids.
Ringfad may be small, but its blend of natural beauty, historic intrigue and outdoor recreation makes it a micro‑destination worth adding to any County Down itinerary. Whether you’re tracing the ghosts of shipwrecks, teeing off on a classic links course, or simply breathing in the salty air from Ringfad Point, the peninsula promises a memorable slice of Irish coastal life.