Quoile Countryside Centre
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The Quoile Pondage National Nature Reserve is situated just outside Downpatrick on either side of the Quoile River. The Pondage was created in 1957 by the construction of a tidal barrier to prevent flooding in the Downpatrick area. Soon after the barrier was built, plants began to grow on the former seashore. First grasses, then bushes and eventually trees arrived as natural succession progressed. Today there is a diversity of habitat and wildlife that make the Quoile a great location to visit.
Facilities at the reserve include the Quoile Countryside Centre with displays on the wildlife and history of the area. There are also many features of historical interest within the reserve including Quoile Quay situated close to the Centre.
Situated on the Castle Island Road, a few minutes drive from the Countryside Centre is the Castle Island Bird-Watching Hide for excellent bird-watching. This distinctive hide comfortably seats 20 adults or 30 children, and is fully accessible for people with disabilities.
Facilities
The Quoile Pondage National Nature Reserve provides
- The Quoile Countryside Centre
- Castle Island Hide
- Wildlife gardens
- Toilets / disabled toilets
- Disabled access
- Car/bus parking
- Picnic area
Access & Booking
The reserve is Open Access
The Visitor Centre is open 1st April to 31st August from 11am -5pm 7 Days a Week
From 1st Sept to 31 March the centre is open on Sat & Sun only from 1pm - 5pm.
Castle Island bird-watching hide is free of charge and the hide is normally open from 10am to 4pm every day. Groups are welcome by arrangement.
Please contact:
Quoile Countryside Centre
5 Quay Road
Downpatrick
BT30 7JB
Tel: 028 4461 5520
Fax: 028 4461 3280
Getting Here
From Downpatrick follow the signs for Strangford (A25). Just outside the town you will see the large brown and white road sign for the Quoile Countryside Centre.
The Park Code
Visitors to the Centre and Nature Reserve should remember the Nature Reserve code:
- Protect the wildlife, plants and trees.
- Take all litter home.
- The Park contains some natural hazards so stay on paths and supervise children.
- Ensure all dogs are kept on their lead, and are not allowed to foul paths and mown grass.
- Guard against all risk of fire.
- Make no unnecessary noise.
- Cycling or mountain biking is not permitted in the park except on vehicular roads.
- Camping is not permitted.
- A river has natural hazards - supervise children and stay clear of the water.