Historic Monuments

If you like it old and probably made of stone, this is for you

Categories

St Cooey’s Wells

The recently renovated wells can be found in proximity to Tara Bay, approximately 2 miles southeast of Portaferry, nestled beneath the shadow of Tieveshilly Hill. While no documented evidence has surfaced regarding St. Cooey, his name resonates across various local landmarks, including Lough Cowey. The church at St. Cooey’s Wells is believed to trace its…

See Details

Kirkistown Castle

The construction date of Kirkistown Castle has recently been a subject of debate, but conventionally, it is thought to have been erected by Roland Savage of Ballygalget around 1622, potentially repurposing an earlier site. Comprising a three-story tower house situated within the remnants of a bawn (a fortified enclosed space) and a subsequent barn, the…

See Details

Scrabo Country Park & Tower

Scrabo Country Park & Tower, situated near Newtownards in Northern Ireland, stands as a captivating destination that seamlessly intertwines natural beauty with historical significance, creating an enthralling experience for tourists. The iconic Scrabo Tower, a landmark that crowns the hill, serves as a focal point, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, Strangford Lough, and…

See Details

The Moat

Perched on the scenic shores of Donaghadee in Northern Ireland, the Donaghadee Motte, Gunpowder Store, and Camera Obscura form a fascinating ensemble of historical and optical wonders, beckoning tourists to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of the region’s past and present. The Donaghadee Motte, a medieval mound, serves as a prominent reminder of ancient…

See Details

Slans Graveyard

The burial ground is located within a former rath, or ringfort, an enclosure from the first millennium A.D, enclosed by a white wall. Inside, the remains of a medieval church, believed to be the Church of Ardmacossce or Ardmacaisse mentioned in the Taxation of Pope Nicholas in 1306, coexist with a distinctive cross-carved boulder. Aerial…

See Details

Greyabbey Medieval Monastery

Greyabbey, alongside Inch Abbey, stands as a prime illustration of Anglo-Norman Cistercian architecture in Ulster, representing the daughter house of Holm Cultram in Cumbria. Established in 1193 by Affreca, the wife of John de Courcy, the Anglo-Norman conqueror of East Ulster, Greyabbey reflects the historical tapestry of the region. Despite facing financial hardships and decline…

See Details

Kearney Village

Kearney is a meticulously restored village, showcased as a masterpiece by the National Trust, aiming to authentically recreate the charm of a traditional fishing village. Positioned three miles east of Portaferry, Kearney offers stunning views spanning from Scotland to the Isle of Man and the Mountains of Mourne. The National Trust has undertaken the restoration…

See Details

Ballycopeland Windmill

Ballycopeland Windmill and Café in Millisle, Northern Ireland, offer tourists a delightful blend of history, cultural exploration, and culinary experiences. The iconic windmill, dating back to the 18th century, stands as a charming testament to Northern Ireland’s rural heritage. With its traditional white exterior and thatched roof, the windmill provides an authentic glimpse into historical…

See Details

Bomb Shelters

Along the beach between Ballywalter Town and Sandend Caravan Park is a structure know locally as the “Bomb Shelters”. It’s actually a Seaguill Trench from WW2 built to protect an airfield that was behind in the Dunleath Estate. It’s in the wooded area a few minutes walk from Sandend.

See Details

Mount Stewart

Mount Stewart, located near Newtownards in Northern Ireland, stands as a splendid estate that beckons tourists with its enchanting gardens, historical significance, and cultural allure. Managed by the National Trust, Mount Stewart has earned a reputation as one of the most celebrated gardens in the British Isles, drawing visitors with its vibrant displays and rich…

See Details