Portaferry lies at the narrow entrance to Strangford Lough
and at the southern end of the Ards Peninsula, and the ‘ferry’ part of the name
is appropriate, this being the departure point for ferries to Strangford on the
other shore. The ferry takes cars as
well as foot passengers. Portaferry Castle was built in the 16th century, probably by the Savage
family. Now a ruin, it was built as a
square, 3-storey tower house with an L-shaped turret. Just outside the town is the Portaferry Windmill, dating from the 17th century and built by the Savage
family, and one of over 50 windmills which once graced the Ards Peninsula. Near the castle is the Exploris Aquarium,
which includes a seal sanctuary. The
town also has a Sailing Club, which is known for events such as the Galway
Hooker Regatta for traditional boats.
Portaferry (01), August 2009. Photo by Ardfern, via Wikimedia Commons. |
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