Cranfield Bay

  • Cranfield Bay - County Down
    © Albert Bridge and licensed for reuse under this Licence
  • Cranfield Bay - County Down
    © Roger Whittleston and licensed for reuse under this Licence
  • Cranfield Bay - County Down
    © Eric Jones and licensed for reuse under this Licence
  • Cranfield Bay is a sand and shingle beach in front of Cranfield Bay Holiday Park. It offers excellent views of the mouth of Carlingford Lough, the surrounding Mourne Mountains and out to Haulbowline Lighthouse. 

    Towards the western end, the beach is backed by a promenade and a grassy area, a good spot for picnics, with a large children’s play area. 

    Parking, including disabled parking, can be found along Ameracam Lane, with access to the beach down a ramp. In the car park, there are toilets and showers.

    The beach is used mostly for a range of water sports and swimming, with lifeguards on duty every day in August between the hours of 11am and 6pm. Further facilities such as shops, places to eat, and places to stay can be found in the town of Kilkeel, about 4 miles to the north-east.

    Type of beach

    Sand & shingle

    Lifeguard service

    Yes

    Dogs friendly beach?

    Dogs restricted.

    County Down dog friendly beaches »

    Activities

    • Kayaking/canoeing
    • Jet-skiing
    • Wind surfing

    Facilities

    • Cafe/restaurant
    • Toilets
    • Disabled facilities
    • First aid point
    • Shop
    • Slipway
    • Promenade

    Nearest town

    Kilkeel

    OS grid ref.

    SB 3353 6697

    Parking

    Free parking

    Water quality

    Water quality star rating

    Awards

    Blue Flag Award

    Submit a correction