Lecale Peninsula Overview

Dubbed “The Island of Lecale” by some, this region spans the west coast of Strangford Lough from the village of Strangford to Downpatrick, then continues inland to Ballynahinch in the north and Dundrum in the west. It was once bounded entirely by bodies of water, including the Irish Sea, Strangford Lough, and a series of streams and ponds, until these waterways were re-routed for mills and hydro-centered agricultural pursuits. Industrialization bypassed Catholic Lecale, concentrating on the wealthier Protestant-populated areas of County Down, which left the area culturally isolated. Today, animals are raised on its rolling green hills, as the rocky farmland can’t support heavy cultivation. Beautiful parks, lavish estates, and St. Patrick-related sights draw visitors from afar.

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