Quoile Countryside Centre
5 Quay Road, Downpatrick, BT30 7JBTel: (028) 4461 5520
Fax: (028) 4461 3280
Website: www.fjiordlands.org
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.
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:
- Castle Island Hide
- Pond-dipping stands
- Wildlife gardens
- Toilets / disabled toilets
- Disabled access
- Car/bus parking
- Picnic area
Opening Times
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.
