Strangford Lough is a large and ecologically significant sea inlet located on the eastern coast of County Down, Northern Ireland. It is renowned for its exceptional marine biodiversity, containing an estimated 72% of the marine species found in Northern Ireland's waters, with over 2,000 recorded marine species. The lough is a major hub for recreation and tourism, drawing visitors from Belfast and beyond, particularly during the summer months. It is a multiple-designation marine protected area, forming part of the EU Natura 2000 network, European Marine Sites, and the OSPAR Network of MPAs, underscoring its international conservation importance. The surrounding area supports a population of about 60,000 people, with commercial activities including small-scale fishing operations, aquaculture, and agriculture.