The Little Birdhouse is a romantic holiday cottage on Main Street Greyabbey, which has been awarded a 5 star rating by Tourism NI. The name, the Little Birdhouse, is both a nod to Bird Island on Strangford Lough, and to the thousands of wintering water birds that nest on its shores. It also reflects our aim to create a cosy nest in which our guests feel welcomed and relaxed during their stay.
Dating from the 1700s, the cottage has been lovingly restored and still retains much of its traditional charm. There is an open plan living, dining and kitchen space that's fully equipped for guests who enjoy cooking . A wood-burning stove adds to the warm, cosy atmosphere making the cottage the perfect escape for winter months too. There’s a down-stairs shower room and upstairs, the spacious, romantic bedroom is filled with light and has views over the village and the long back garden. A vintage king-sized bed, together with an antique sofa and writing desk make this the ideal space to relax with a book or to work – but only if you must!
Outside, the re-wilded garden has been planted with native apple trees, spring bulbs and wildflowers. A winding path leads to a jack n jill seat that's the perfect spot to enjoy an early morning coffee to the sound of bird song. There's a barbecue and picnic table as well as a seating area in the sunny back courtyard.
There is so much to do and see in the local area. A stroll through Greyabbey village reveals its rich historic past with many houses dating from the Georgian and Victorian eras. Greyabbey had a strong association with the 1798 United Irishmen rebellion and is continues to be linked to the Ulster Scots traditions evident in many street signs and in the frequent references to Greba, the Ulster Scot’s name for the village.
A short stroll from the cottage through the village leads to Grey Abbey, a remarkable ruined Cistercian abbey founded in 1193 by Affreca, wife of John de Courcy. The Physic Garden at the entrance to Grey Abbey is planted with flowers and herbs that were used medicinally to treat the monks who populated the Abbey.
Back to the present and village is now renowned for its antique and interior shops, cafes and restaurants so it's a great spot for pottering!
Outside Greyabbey, Mount Stewart House and Gardens are a five minute drive along the stunning coast road. The property, now owned by the National Trust, has a rich historical and political heritage but it is best known for its gardens which were once voted one of the top ten gardens in the world and more recently described by The National Trust as "the jewel in the crown".
Greba Secret Garden, a mile from the cottage is an enchanting private garden that opens to the public on appointment.
There are many beautiful sandy beaches along the Ards Peninsula that offer scenic walks. Ballywalter beach, located approx. 3 miles across the Peninsula has a two mile stretch of sand with views of the Mourne Mountains. Ballyhalbert, Northern Ireland’s most easterly point, has a sandy beach from which on a clear day, it's possible to see Scotland and the Isle of Man. On the east coast of the Ards Peninsula, Cloughey beach has an expanse of fine golden sand stretching 1.5 miles. The long spit of sand and stone provides protection from the swells so this is a popular location for wild swimming.
Greyabbey village sits on the shores of Strangford Lough and local area has stretches of mudflats and shoreline that are managed by the National Trust. Strangford Lough is a great spot to view migrating waders stopping off on their way to warmer climes as well as native species During the winter, there are guided watches at Greyabbey bay where large flocks of brent geese arrive from Canada in the autumn. Depending on the time of year, Strangford Lough offers opportunities to view other wildlife including common seals, pilot whales, porpoises, bottlenose dolphins and otters.
Strangford Lough is also a favorite location for water sport adventurists, the sheltered position of its many bays make this the perfect place for canoeing, kayaking, stand-up water boarding, wind and kite surfing. The Strangford Lough Activity Centre offers a range of water sports including moon-lit boat tours from Kilinchy, on the other side of the lough.
Ballyhalbert harbour, 6 miles from Greyabbey, is a popular location for jet skiing.
Newtownards Sailing Club, a 10 minute drive from Greyabbey provides opportunities for sailing, power boating, windsurfing, kayaking and paddle boarding with experienced instructors.
The Little Birdhouse is on the Tourism NI list of recommended properties for walking enthusiasts. There are many beautiful coastal walks around Strangford Lough, none is more so than the scenic coastal walk from Orlock Point that meanders over fields and then on tight coastal paths. There are two sheltered beaches and many rare wildflowers to spot while the flat rocks provide a perfect picnic spot.
Nugent’s Wood Country Park offers a gentle stroll in sheltered trees on the edge of Strangford Lough at Portaferry. A peaceful place that’s suitable for all abilities with a flat grassed boreen and plenty of spots to stop off for rest. This walk is a must in May with the native bluebells in full bloom.
Also near Portaferry, Kearney coastal path offers two choices, easy plodding or a rugged trek on shale and grass coastline towards Ballyquintan Bay from there, an easy farmland walk with incredible views through farmland leads to a former Second World War lookout point. Kearney is a charming traditional fishing village, now managed by the National Trust, that also makes for a beautiful walk.
Killynether Wood in Newtownards, 6 miles from Greyabbey is a peaceful woodland haven which offers a gentle sloping walk or a challenging trek with very steep hills but with rewarding views.
Strangford Lough.
The village for Strangford is a 10 minute ferry ride from Portaferry. With its traditional coastal cottages, cafes, bars and restaurants it's perfect for pottering. While there, it's also worth stopping off at Castle Ward AKA Winterfell to Game of Thrones enthusiasts. Also owned by the National Trust Castle Ward is quite literally a house in two halves that stands as a memorial to an unhappy marriage. There are stunning walks through extensive grounds which run down to the shores of the lough.
The Portico of Ards is an award-wining arts and heritage centre in Portaferry that offers a wide variety of live shows, music, theatre and comedy events. The building itself, which doubles as the local Presbyterian church, is worth seeing, designed by local architect, John Millar in 1839 to replicate the Ancient Greek Temple of Nemesis.
Whatever your reason for visiting Greyabbey, on holiday, attending a wedding or other event, bird-watching, walking, water sports, or simply unwinding, The Little Birdhouse is a magical place to stay. You'll feel relaxed and at home the moment you step inside.
