Last Updated on 22/06/2025 by thecuan_wpuser18
Wild swimming off Kilclief & Ballyhornan Beach
The Cuan has been in the heart of Strangford village since the early 1800s. Having changed hands in 2020, the new owners have carried out an extensive renovation and reorganization. We welcome everyone to The Cuan, whether that is for a pint of Guinness, a delicious meal of freshly prepared and locally sourced food in our bistro or dining room, or an overnight stay in one of our luxurious bedrooms. We also cater for bespoke events and small weddings. Strangford itself is a picturesque and historic village. It looks over the narrow entrance of Strangford Lough to neighbouring Portaferry on the Ards Peninsula. The immediate area is a delight to explore and is home to beautiful sandy beaches, fascinating National Trust properties and much more.
Opportunities for “wild swimming” can be had almost anywhere, care and caution should be given to coastline where sea state and or local currents would make open water swimming more challenging. Northern Ireland’s coastlines make it a haven for wild swimming. Known for its health benefits, more people are embracing cold water dipping in Northern Ireland. The invigorating experience of open water swimming in Northern Ireland has taken off in recent years, with wild swimming communities thriving in every corner of the country! Strangford Lough is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is almost fully enclosed by land. It is the largest sea water inlet in Ireland and an important habitat for wildlife. The Lough was formed at the end of the last ice age. Strangford Lough is Northern Ireland’s first Marine Conservation Zone and is a special area of conservation for wildlife.
Take a dip in some of the most calming beaches in all Northern Ireland. Kilclief Beach, located a 15 minute drive from Strangford Village, is a gem for open water swimming in Northern Ireland. This spot offers breath-taking views of the Irish sea and even an ancient castle dating back to 1413. It’s an ideal spot for those looking for a more secluded, peaceful place for their wild swimming adventures. On a clear day, you’ll even be able to spot the Isle of Man on the horizon.
What to bring with you for wild swimming in Northern Ireland. Some things to consider bringing with you for wild swimming:
- A changing robe
- Flask of tea or a hot beverage
- Warm socks, gloves and hat
- Waterproof dry bag
- Tow float / Swim buoy
After your dip why not rejuvenate yourself with Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner at The Cuan restaurant where we pride ourselves on the choice and quality of our food. We offer a seasonal menu and use fresh and seasonal ingredients much of which is locally produced. Being on the coast we have a regular supply of excellent fresh seafood from our friend Marty Johnston at the award winning East Coast Seafoods. Our menu also features delicious vegetarian and vegan options and we cater for Gluten free diets if required.
Bathing Water Quality
Northern Ireland’s bathing season begins on 1 June and ends on 15 September each year. The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) is responsible for monitoring and making sure that coastal waters are of high enough quality to bathe in. Bathing water at 26 sites across Northern Ireland is monitored weekly from May to September and classified into one of four categories:
– excellent
– good
– satisfactory
– temporary advice issued against bathing
Bathing Water beaches in County Down at which the water quality is monitored by DAERA are:
Ballyhornan, Kilclief, Tyrellan and sea bathing are all for the taking across a variety of beach locations .
For beach recreation and swimming there are many wonderful and accessible sandy beaches and varied coastline in our area.
Beach Guide
The variety and distribution of beaches in the area offers the visitor much scope in any wild swimming. The remote and relatively isolated beaches of Knockinelder, Benderg Rossglass and Murlough will allow a greater sense of escape. At Murlough and Newcastle experience “where mountains fall in to the sea”. For the classic sandy beach with a backdrop of sand-hills the choice has to be Tyrella and Murlough; here there is an almost magical, secret world sometimes like a desert where hills have been stripped bare and mobile sands are shifting. The beaches of Lecale and the outer Ards coast seem to face a wild ocean and beckon far distant shores; on clear days as if easily reached the coasts and hills of the Isle of Man, the Mull of Galloway can be seen.
Whether you are hardy enough to go whatever the weather, or waiting for the first rays of sunshine, make sure to visit these great wild swimming spots along the Irish coastline. At first, it might be a little chilly, but persevere, and you will quickly adjust. Swimming outdoors means no chlorine, no crowds and an incredible view to soak up while soaking.
Why not combine a cold water dip with indulgent relaxation at The Cuan Hotel and Restaurant? Situated near several prime wild swimming locations in Northern Ireland, The Cuan is the perfect base for a restorative getaway.
If you’re popping in for a refreshing swim, warm up with a decadent hot chocolate, savour homemade shortbread afterwards. When you are ready, enjoy a meal at our restaurant where the finest local and seasonal ingredients come to life. You will wake up the next day feeling thoroughly refreshed and energised.