Tourism \ Activities \ Beaches \ Cranfield Beach

Cranfield Beach

Cranfield beach is set in an idyllic location at the mouth of Carlingford Lough, with the majestic Mourne Mountains as a dramatic backdrop.

The long, south facing beach offers excellent facilities for all visitors whether it be for a gentle stroll or for more strenuous water based activities and provides the perfect setting for the family with a wide expanse of sand and clean bathing water.

European blue flag beach

Cranfield has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag, which is given to beaches and marinas across Europe that meet strict criteria for both water quality and environmental management. It was introduced in 1987 and sets common standards of good management across Europe.

Surrounding area

South Down provides a range of dramatic scenery with a great variety of topography, with bold contrasts between mountain, lowland and sea. The area is dotted with ancient settlements such as Greencastle, which is only a few minutes drive from Cranfield Beach. Dominated by a Medieval Fortress built in the 13^th Century, Greencastle was once the Capital of Mourne. Also of interest is the Haulbowline Lighthouse. Built from Mourne Granite, the lighthouse looks over Cranfield Beach. Within a short distance of the beach the Cranfield area offers caravan and camping along with hotel and self-catering accommodation.

Facilities at Cranfield

Excellent facilities exist at Cranfield. They include convenient car parking, a children’s play area, tourist information, toilets, showers and a shop (restricted opening hours).

Lifeguard flags

Cranfield Beach operates the internationally recognised Lifeguard Flags.

These are:

The area between the red/yellow flags is supervised daily by lifeguards from 11am – 6pm during July and August and at weekends only in September. This area, approximately 230m along the beach stretching 200m out to sea is reserved for bathers only. It is an offence to use any watercraft in this area. Large areas of Cranfield Bay remain available for the use of watercraft and jet skis although great care should be exercised at all times.

How to get there

Cranfield Beach is situated off the main A2 Rostrevor to Kilkeel Road. The nearest town (Kilkeel) is located approximately four miles from the beach. Access roads are clearly signposted. Ordnance Survey Grid Ref: Jonathan 268 105.