Northern Ireland Northern Ireland
0 0 Buildings and Gardens Coast and Countryside All places shown are listed in this printed guide. Places in green have a limited offer, and are listed at the end of each section. 10 20 miles 10 20 30 kilometers Northern Ireland Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House Giant s Causeway Coleraine Carrick-a-Rede LONDONDERRY M2 Gray s Printing Press Ballymena Larne Castle Coole Florence Court Wellbrook Beetling Mill The Argory Cookstown M1 Ardress House Springhill Armagh Craigavon Portadown M22 Patterson s Spade Mill Carrickfergus M2 Newtownabbey Bangor Divis and the Black Mountain BELFAST Newtownards Rowallane Garden Mount Stewart Strangford Lough Castle Ward Crom Murlough Newry
The Argory 144 Derrycaw Road, Moy, Dungannon, County Armagh BT71 6NA This Irish gentry house can trace more than 190 years of history. Built in the 1820s for the MacGeough Bond family, the house and surrounding riverside estate came into existence due to a quirky stipulation in a will. The interior of this understated and intimate house still evokes the eclectic tastes and interests of the family. The small rose garden, with its unusual sundial, pleasure gardens and wooded walks along the River Blackwater are ideal for exploring. Note: joint ticket available with Ardress House. Garden best in: February, May June, October. Contact: 028 8778 4753 or argory@nationaltrust.org.uk Coaches: coach parking, 50 yards from visitor reception. Drop-off point available outside house. Visit: average duration is 2 hours. Guided tour only. Out-of-hours tours. Group tours can be adapted in length to suit group itineraries. Shop. Catering: coffee shop, assisted service, 52 covers. Table reservations by arrangement. Out-of-hours catering is also available. Group admission: 4 The Argory M T W T F S S House, café and shop 2 Feb 24 Feb* 11 5..... S S 9 Mar 14 Apr 11 5... T F S S 15 Apr 28 Apr 11 5 M T W T F S S 2 May 31 May 11 5... T F S S 1 Jun 30 Jun 11 5.. W T F S S 1 Jul 31 Aug 11 5 M T W T F S S 1 Sep 29 Sep 11 5... T F S S 5 Oct 27 Oct 11 4..... S S 28 Oct 3 Nov 11 4 M T W T F S S Grounds Open all year 10 5 M T W T F S S *Also open 18 and 19 February for local half term. House: admission by guided tour (last tour one hour before closing). Open Bank Holiday Mondays and all public holidays in Northern Ireland. Grounds closed 25, 26 December and 1 January 2020. Access: s133s140s81s68 Grounds s64s108 nationaltrust.org.uk/groups 229
Carrick-a-Rede Ballintoy, County Antrim BT54 6LS Connected to the cliffs by a rope bridge across the Atlantic Ocean, this rocky island is the ultimate clifftop experience. Jutting out from the Causeway Coastal Route, the 30-metre-deep and 20-metre-wide chasm separating Carrick-a-Rede from the mainland is traversed by an amazing rope bridge that was traditionally erected by salmon fishermen. Wildlife-rich and with views across the seas to Rathlin Island, this is also home to Larrybane old quarry, recently featured in the television series Game of Thrones. Note: timedticketing system in operation (online booking). Bridge access dependent on weather. Suitable clothing/footwear recommended. Contact: 028 2076 9839 or carrickarede@nationaltrust.org.uk Coaches: coach parking, 200 yards from tearoom. All coaches are required to park in the designated parking area. Visit: average duration is 1 hour 30 minutes. Guided tour. Online booking not suitable for groups; essential to call to book timed tickets to cross the rope bridge. Shop. Catering: tea-room, self-service, 36 covers and additional 20 seats outdoors, with excellent views across to Rathlin Island. Group admission: 7.20 Carrick-a-Rede M T W T F S S Rope bridge 1 Jan 31 Jan 9:30 3:30 M T W T F S S 1 Feb 28 Feb 9:30 5 M T W T F S S 1 Mar 30 Jun 9:30 6 M T W T F S S 1 Jul 31 Aug 9:30 8 M T W T F S S 1 Sep 31 Oct 9:30 6 M T W T F S S 1 Nov 31 Dec 9:30 3:30 M T W T F S S Bridge: open weather permitting; last entry 45 minutes before closing. Car park and North Antrim coastal path open all year. Closed 24 to 26 December. Access: s70s140s67s105s138 Grounds s108 Special interest tours Check website or call for details of all tours or talks Carrick-a-Rede island and quarry adventure This tour gives an insight into the area s industrial heritage and traditional salmon fishing. Spectacular coastal views lead to the rope bridge which fishermen built across the 30-metre deep chasm to the island. The reward is an unforgettable insight into the wildlife, geology and history of this incredible place. from 3.50 per person 1 hour 30 minutes 230 Please book all group visits, tours and catering directly with places
Group admission: 5.50 Castle Coole Enniskillen, County Fermanagh BT74 6HN Castle Coole M T W T F S S Grounds 1 Jan 28 Feb 10 4 M T W T F S S 1 Mar 31 Oct 10 7 M T W T F S S 1 Nov 31 Dec 10 4 M T W T F S S House, tea-room and shop 9 Mar 14 Apr 11 5..... S S 19 Apr 28 Apr 11 5 M T W T F S S 29 Apr 31 May 11 5 M. W T F S S 1 Jun 1 Sep 11 5 M T W T F S S 2 Sep 30 Sep 11 5 M. W T F S S House: admission by guided tour (last tour one hour before closing). Open Monday 18 March, Bank Holiday Mondays and all other public holidays in Northern Ireland. Access: s70s133s140s105s22s138 Building s63s66s59 Grounds s66s108 Special interest tours Check website or call for details of all tours or talks Surrounded by a stunning landscape park, the majestic 18th-century home of the Earls of Belmore was created to impress. One of the finest examples of Neo-classical architecture in Ireland, the rooms at Castle Coole are brimming with opulence, luxury and colour. There are interesting pieces of history to explore, such as the servants tunnel and ice house. The parkland, interspersed with mature oaks, woodlands and paths, is perfect for refreshing walks, while the outdoor play area is great for families. Note: access to the basement is via very steep steps, so a good level of fitness is required. A peek into the palace Described as a palace in the park, Castle Coole is one of the finest Neo-classical houses in Ireland. This intriguing tour showcases the opulent Regency interior, from the magnificent oval Saloon to the State Bedroom, and the vast servants quarters once full of hustle, bustle, gossip and drama. free of charge 1 hour Contact: 028 6632 2690 or castlecoole@nationaltrust.org.uk Coaches: coach parking beside shop and tearoom, 200 yards from mansion. Drop-off point in front of mansion. Visit: average duration is 2 hours. Guided tour only. Out-of-hours tours. Shop. Catering: tea-room, assisted self-service, 50 covers plus 20 outside. Set menu, out-of-hours catering available. nationaltrust.org.uk/groups 231
Castle Ward Strangford, Downpatrick, County Down BT30 7LS High on a hillside, with views across the tranquil waters of Strangford Lough, the Gothic and Classic collide at Castle Ward. This eccentric 18th-century mansion within a 332-hectare (820- acre) walled demesne, is one of the most peculiar architectural compromises between two people. The story behind the different façades of the former home of the Viscounts Bangor is revealed by guided tours. In the farmyard, visit the waterpowered corn mill, or stroll among flowers and subtropical plants in the newly restored Sunken Garden. The laundry, tack room and dairy give an insight into life below stairs. Discover more on the 21 miles of family-friendly multi-use trails, while the woodland and adventure playground are great for children. Note: 1 March to 30 November visitor access to livestock grazing areas may be restricted. Garden best in: April September. Contact: 028 4488 1204 or castleward@nationaltrust.org.uk Coaches: parking for 4 coaches on weekdays and 2 coaches at weekends, 200 yards. Drop-off point 100 yards or at entrance to house on request. Visit: average duration is 2 hours. Introductory talk. Guided tour. Out-of-hours tours. Selfguided tours operate during property event days and public holidays. Transcripts of the tour are available in other languages upon request. Shop. Catering: café, self-service, 60 covers, tables can be reserved. Out-of-hours catering available. Special menu and separate room by prior arrangement. Group admission: 7 Castle Ward M T W T F S S Parkland, trails and garden 1 Jan 15 Mar 10 4 M T W T F S S 16 Mar 3 Nov 10 6 M T W T F S S 4 Nov 31 Dec 10 4 M T W T F S S House, stableyard and farmyard* 16 Mar 3 Nov 12 5 M T W T F S S Tea-room, gift shop and second-hand bookshop 1 Jan 15 Mar 10 4 M T W T F S S 16 Mar 3 Nov 10 5 M T W T F S S 4 Nov 31 Dec 10 4 M T W T F S S *Stableyard and farmyard: open at 10. House: admission by guided tour (last tour one hour before closing). Corn mill demonstration: 7 April to 22 September, Sundays, 2 to 5. Gates and parkland close same time. Everything closed 25 and 26 December. Access: s70s133s140s67s105s22s129s68 Building s63s66s59 Grounds s63s66s108 232 Please book all group visits, tours and catering directly with places
Special interest tours Check website or call for details of all tours or talks Anne, Bernard and Castle Ward their story Take a closer look at the lives of the couple who are behind the unique design of Castle Ward. As well as getting the inside story, you ll gain a better insight into the curious nature of this quirky mid-georgian mansion, built inside and out in two distinctly different styles. from 3 per person 50 minutes Temple Water: a landscape rediscovered Our ranger will take you on an energetic ramble to bring to life this hidden part of Castle Ward s history. Discover how Temple Water and the area around it was once the heart of the demesne, and how we plan to restore it back to its former glory. from 3 per person 1 hour Meet Mary Ward An astonishing insight into the impressive achievements of the remarkable Mary Ward, a thoroughly modern woman in every respect. Explore the accomplishments, life and times of this extraordinary amateur painter, naturalist, astronomer and pioneer of the microscope, as you tour the house viewing her paintings and scientific discoveries. from 3 per person 50 minutes nationaltrust.org.uk/groups 233
Group admission: 5.50 Crom Upper Lough Erne, Newtownbutler, County Fermanagh BT92 8AJ Home to islands, ancient woodland and historical ruins, this 810-hectare (2,000-acre) demesne sits in a tranquil landscape on the peaceful southern shores of Upper Lough Erne. One of Ireland s most important conservation areas, it has many rare species and is great for relaxing walks, cycling and boat trips. Note: 19th-century castle not open to public. Contact: 028 6773 8118 or crom@nationaltrust.org.uk Crom M T W T F S S Grounds 1 Jan 28 Feb 10 4 M T W T F S S 1 Mar 31 Oct 10 7 M T W T F S S 1 Nov 31 Dec 10 4 M T W T F S S Visitor centre and tea-room 9 Mar 30 Sep 11 5 M T W T F S S 5 Oct 27 Oct* 11 5..... S S Open Bank Holiday Mondays and all other public holidays in Northern Ireland. Last admission one hour before closing. *Tea-room closed October. Access: s70s140s67s105s68 Building s66s59 Grounds s66s108s8 Coaches: coach parking, 100 yards from visitor centre. Visit: average duration is 2 hours. Guided tour. Out-of-hours tours. Shop. Catering: tea-room, 50 covers, table service for groups. Private room, out-of-hours catering available. Special group menu, table reservations must be arranged before visit. 234 Please book all group visits, tours and catering directly with places
Catering: hot drinks and refreshments can be purchased at Hezlett House welcome reception and Bishop s Gate lodge. Group admission: 5.50 Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House Mussenden Road, Castlerock, County Londonderry BT51 4RP The sheltered gardens, cliff-edge landmark and striking ruins of a grand headland mansion bear testament to the eccentricity of the Earl Bishop who once made this 18th-century demesne his home. Mussenden Temple, perched atop sheer cliffs, offers panoramic views of the famous north coast and is a great place for walking and kite-flying. Nearby at Hezlett House, life in a rural 17th-century cottage is told through the people who once lived there. One of the oldest thatched cottages left standing in Northern Ireland, it boasts a rare cruck frame and houses the Downhill Marble Collection. Note: suitable footwear and moderate level of fitness are required to walk from drop-off point at Bishop s Gate to Mussenden Temple. Downhill and Hezlett M T W T F S S Downhill Demesne grounds Open all year Dawn dusk M T W T F S S Downhill Demesne facilities 9 Mar 15 Sep 10 5 M T W T F S S 21 Sep 27 Oct 10 5..... S S Hezlett House 16 Mar 7 Apr 11 5..... S S 13 Apr 28 Apr 11 5 M T W T F S S 4 May 16 Jun 11 5..... S S 17 Jun 8 Sep 11 5 M T W T F S S Open Bank Holiday Mondays and all other public holidays in Northern Ireland. Access: s70s140 Building s64 Grounds s66 Special interest tours Check website or call for details of all tours or talks The Bishop s tour With fabulous clifftop walks and views over Ireland s wild north coastal headland, the Downhill domain, once home to its flamboyant creator, Earl Bishop Hervey, provides a dramatic setting for this tour. Discover history as you walk through the gardens at Bishop s Gate, towards the stunning Mussenden Temple. from 8 per person 1 hour 30 minutes Garden best in: April June. Contact: 028 7084 8728 or downhilldemesne@nationaltrust.org.uk Hezlett House, 107 Sea Road, Castlerock, County Londonderry BT51 4TW Coaches: drop-off point and coach parking only at Bishop s Gate entrance, 400 yards from Lion s Gate car park or Hezlett House. Minibus parking (no coaches) at Lion s Gate car park. Visit: average duration is 1 hour 30 minutes. Guided tour. Tours can be tailored to suit your group s specific interests by request. nationaltrust.org.uk/groups 235
Florence Court Enniskillen, County Fermanagh BT92 1DB Florence Court enjoys a majestic countryside setting in West Fermanagh, surrounded by lush parkland with Benaughlin mountain rising in the background. There is something for everyone to enjoy at this extensive and welcoming place. On a guided tour of the Georgian mansion you can hear stories about the Earls of Enniskillen and their staff, who lived here for more than 250 years. Outdoors take a gentle walk or long cycle along 10 miles of trails in the adjoining forest park and see fascinating industrial heritage features, including the water-powered sawmill and blacksmith s forge. The gardens are home to the mother of all Irish yew trees, as well as the kitchen garden which is being restored to its 1930s character. Catering: Stables tea-room, self-service, 60 covers. Table reservations, set menu, out-ofhours catering all available by arrangement before visit. Private hire of Colonel s Room or Pavilion Room is available. Group admission: 6.50 Garden best in: May August. Florence Court M T W T F S S Gardens and park 1 Jan 28 Feb 10 4 M T W T F S S 1 Mar 31 Oct 10 7 M T W T F S S 1 Nov 31 Dec 10 4 M T W T F S S House, tea-room, visitor centre and shop 9 Mar 14 Apr 11 5..... S S 19 Apr 28 Apr 11 5 M T W T F S S 29 Apr 2 Jun 11 5 M T W T. S S 3 Jun 31 Aug 11 5 M T W T F S S 1 Sep 30 Sep 11 5 M T W T. S S 5 Oct 27 Oct 11 5..... S S House: admission by guided tour (last tour one hour before closing). Open 18 March, 20 April, Bank Holiday Mondays and all other public holidays in Northern Ireland. Open Republic of Ireland Bank Holiday, 28 October. Grounds closed 25 December. Visitor centre: open daily October and weekends in November and December. Access: s70s133s77s140s67s105s22s141s129s138 Building s63s66s59 Grounds s66s108s8 Contact: 028 6634 8249 or florencecourt@nationaltrust.org.uk Coaches: coach parking, 200 yards from entrance. Drop-off point close to tea-room. Visit: average duration is 2 hours. Guided tour only. Out-of-hours tours. Whilst waiting for the tour to begin, visitors can step back in time to the homely atmosphere of the Colonel s Room and enjoy music by the fire. Shop. 236 Please book all group visits, tours and catering directly with places
Giant s Causeway 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, County Antrim BT57 8SU Follow in the legendary footsteps of giants at Northern Ireland s iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site. The famous basalt columns of the Causeway landscape, left by volcanic eruptions 60 million years ago, are home to more than Finn McCool. Its nooks and crannies are dotted with dainty sea campion, and defensive fulmars protect their cliff nests. Windswept walking trails wind through this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with an all-accessible walk at Runkerry Head and more challenging terrain along the Causeway Coast Way. The interactive exhibition and innovative audio-guides unlock secrets of the landscape and regale visitors with legends of giants. Contact: 028 2073 1855 or giantscauseway@nationaltrust.org.uk Coaches: coach park (7 spaces), 90 yards. 5 dropoff coach bays in Car Park 2, 73 yards from group entrance. Coach spaces allocated on the day. Parking also available at Park and Ride in Bushmills. Visit: average duration is 2 hours. Guided tour. Shop. Group admission: 8.75. Shuttlebus to stones is operated by Translink and a separate charge applies to non-members Giant s Causeway M T W T F S S Stones and coastal path Open all year Dawn dusk M T W T F S S Visitor Centre 1 Jan 28 Feb 9 5 M T W T F S S 1 Mar 31 May 9 6 M T W T F S S 1 Jun 30 Sep 9 7 M T W T F S S 1 Oct 31 Oct 9 6 M T W T F S S 1 Nov 31 Dec 9 5 M T W T F S S Last admission to Visitor Centre one hour before closing. Closed 24 to 26 December. Access: s70s133s77s140s67s105s81s129s68s138 Visitor Centre s66s64 Causeway Hotel s63s212 Grounds s108 Special interest tours Check website or call for details of all tours or talks A step back in time Wonder at the grandeur of Northern Ireland s iconic World Heritage Site, the beautiful and mysterious Giant s Causeway. Hear stories of this incredible natural phenomenon on a personalised tour, including the story of the Earth s evolution 60 million years ago and legend of Finn McCool. You will be inspired and entertained! Catering: self-service café at Visitor Centre, 90 covers with additional open-air seating for 40, not possible to book. Restaurant and bar facilities available in Causeway Hotel, telephone direct on 028 2073 1210. from 3 per person 1 hour nationaltrust.org.uk/groups 237
Mount Stewart Portaferry Road, Newtownards, County Down BT22 2AD Voted one of the world s top 10 gardens, Mount Stewart reflects a rich tapestry of design and planting artistry bearing the hallmark of its creator. Edith, Lady Londonderry s passion for bold planting schemes, coupled with the mild climate of Strangford Lough, means rare and tender plants from across the globe thrive in this celebrated garden, with the formal gardens exuding a distinct character and appeal. Explore the exquisite house, recently restored to glory. Hear fascinating stories about the Londonderry family, and enjoy a world-class collection of paintings and many other internationally significant items. For a different view of Mount Stewart, stroll around miles of new walking trails and discover a landscape lost in time. What s new in 2019? Visit the restored historic Walled Garden on a guided tour with the Head of Gardens. In January and February, we offer an exclusive behind-the-scenes guided house tour with afternoon tea. Contact: 028 4278 8387 or mountstewart@nationaltrust.org.uk Coaches: coach parking, 200 yards from visitor reception. Drop-off point 50 yards from entrance. Visit: average duration is 2 hours 30 minutes. Welcome to site. Guided tour. Out-of-hours tours. Shop. Catering: tea-room (licensed), self-service, 75 covers. Private dining experience in separate location offered for larger groups (maximum 50 people), subject to availability and prior arrangement. Set menu and out-of-hours catering available upon request. Group admission: 8 Garden best in: March October. 238 Please book all group visits, tours and catering directly with places
Special interest tours Check website or call for details of all tours or talks Specialist house tour led by the House and Collections manager New When the creative and imaginative Edith, Lady Londonderry made Mount Stewart her home in 1921, she created something truly unique. So delighted with her new home, she wrote to her husband Charles, this is the most divine house, why do we live anywhere else!. from 5.50 per person 1 hour Specialist demesne tour Discover a rich landscape of farmland, woodland, monuments and buildings, and a breathtaking hidden glen as you explore the historic demesne. Experience this behind-the-scenes tour on a guided stroll with one of our rangers, highlighting what it takes to care for this special place. from 5.50 per person 2 hours Specialist garden tour The garden will amaze you by its sheer size and the wealth of plants from all over the world. The flowering stretches all year round and whenever you visit, you ll find beautiful and surprising plants to admire as you explore this tranquil and magical place with the Head of Gardens. from 5.50 per person 1 hour 15 minutes Mount Stewart M T W T F S S Formal and lakeside gardens, trails, tea-room and shop 1 Jan 3 Mar 10 4* M T W T F S S 4 Mar 3 Nov 10 5 M T W T F S S 4 Nov 31 Dec 10 4* M T W T F S S House 3 Jan 3 Feb** 11 3... T F S S 9 Feb 17 Mar 11 3..... S S 18 Mar 31 Oct 11 5 M T W T F S S 1 Nov 29 Dec 11 3... T F S S *Tea-room and shop: close 5 at weekends, Bank Holidays and public holidays. Open Bank Holiday Mondays and all other public holidays in Northern Ireland. Closed 25 and 26 December. Temple of the Winds open once a month. **Freeflow only. Guided tours only. Access: s70s133s140s67s105s22s129 Reception, shop and tea-room s64s59 House s64s110s233s59 Grounds s63s66s108s8s59 nationaltrust.org.uk/groups 239
Rowallane Garden Saintfield, County Down BT24 7LH Carved into the County Down drumlin landscape since the mid-1860s, this inspirational 21-hectare (52-acre) garden is a world apart. The passion and shared vision of the Reverend John Moore, and later his nephew Hugh Armytage Moore, created a garden where you can leave the outside world behind and immerse yourself in nature s beauty. The formal and informal garden spaces are home to magical features mingled with native and exotic plants, such as drifts of rare rhododendrons. It is a great place for a leisurely walk or just to relax on a seat and soak up the atmosphere. Garden best: all year. Contact: 028 9751 0131 or rowallane@nationaltrust.org.uk Catering: café, self-service, 66 covers inside plus 30 additional seats outside. Special arrangements for groups can be made at time of booking. Outof-hours catering also available upon request. Group admission: 10 Rowallane Garden M T W T F S S Garden 1 Jan 28 Feb 10 4 M T W T F S S 1 Mar 30 Apr 10 6 M T W T F S S 1 May 31 Aug 10 8 M T W T F S S 1 Sep 31 Oct 10 6 M T W T F S S 1 Nov 31 Dec 10 4 M T W T F S S Café 1 Jan 30 Apr 11 4 M T W T F S S 1 May 31 Aug 11 5 M T W T F S S 1 Sep 31 Dec 11 4 M T W T F S S Open Bank Holiday Mondays and all other public holidays in Northern Ireland. Closed 25 and 26 December. Access: s70s140s67s129 Grounds s66s59 Coaches: coach parking available, 300 yards from entrance. Approach is through a narrow tree-lined avenue with sharp bends. Visit: average duration is 2 hours. Welcome to site. Introductory talk. Guided tour. Out-ofhours tours. Large groups can be accommodated. Shop. 240 Please book all group visits, tours and catering directly with places
Springhill 20 Springhill Road, Moneymore, Magherafelt, County Londonderry BT45 7NQ Catering: Barn café, assisted service, 40 covers serving soup, scones, traybakes, teas and speciality coffees. Table reservations by arrangement and out-of-hours catering also available. Group admission: 4 Springhill M T W T F S S House, visitor centre, café and costume museum 2 Feb 14 Apr* 11 5..... S S 15 Apr 28 Apr 11 5 M T W T F S S 3 May 31 May 11 5.... F S S 1 Jun 30 Jun 11 5... T F S S 1 Jul 31 Aug 11 5 M T W T F S S 1 Sep 29 Sep 11 5..... S S 6 Oct 27 Oct 11 4...... S 28 Oct 3 Nov 11 4 M T W T F S S Grounds Open all year 10 5 M T W T F S S *Also open 18 and 19 February for local half term. House: admission by guided tour (last tour one hour before closing). Open Bank Holiday Mondays and all other public holidays in Northern Ireland. Closed 25, 26 December and 1 January 2020. Access: s133s140s81s22s129s68 Building s63s59 Hundreds of years ago the Lenox-Conyngham family chose this idyllic spot to build their home and, after 10 generations, this 17th-century plantation house is still regarded as one of the prettiest houses in Ulster. The welcoming family home they created is brought to life on guided tours of its portraits, furniture and decorative arts. The old laundry houses Springhill s celebrated costume collection of 18th- to 20thcentury pieces that capture its enthralling past. There is a visitor centre, a natural play area and short trails that are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Garden best in: May June. Contact: 028 8674 8210 or springhill@nationaltrust.org.uk Coaches: coach parking, 50 yards from house. Drop-off point 20 yards (only for visitors with limited mobility). Visit: average duration is 1 hour 30 minutes. Guided tour only. Out-of-hours house tour (additional charge). Shop. nationaltrust.org.uk/groups 241
These properties have a limited offer for groups, but are well worth exploring for fascinating short visits that can be worked into your tour itinerary. Ardress House 64 Ardress Road, Annaghmore, Portadown, County Armagh BT62 1SQ Nestled in 40 hectares (100 acres) of rolling countryside, this 17th-century farmhouse, with detailed plasterwork and fine Georgian interiors, offers afternoons of fun and relaxation for everyone. The cobbled farmyard is the perfect spot for children to feed the resident chickens, and the nearby apple orchards are great for exploring. Note: joint ticket available with The Argory. Contact: 028 8778 4753 or ardress@nationaltrust.org.uk Divis and the Black Mountain Hannahstown, near Belfast, County Antrim Sitting in the heart of the Belfast Hills, this 809-hectare (2,000-acre) mosaic of upland heath and blanket bog is a great place for a wild countryside experience. There are four walking trails to explore, affording panoramic views across Belfast and a wealth of flora, fauna and archaeological remains to discover. Note: cattle roam freely during summer months. Mountain environment and weather conditions can change rapidly. A Changing Places toilet is on site. Gray s Printing Press 49 Main Street, Strabane, County Tyrone BT82 8AU The indelible story of printing is told behind this Georgian shop front in Strabane, once reputed as Ireland s printing capital. Note: tours available if booked. Opening times are limited, please contact for details. Contact: 028 8674 8210 or grays@nationaltrust.org.uk Murlough National Nature Reserve near Dundrum, County Down Home to seals, Neolithic sites and Ireland s first nature reserve, Murlough is one of the most extensive examples of dune landscape in Ireland and an important wildlife conservation site. A network of paths and boardwalks through ancient dunes, woodland and heath make it ideal for relaxed walks and wildlife spotting. Note: limited toilet facilities. Guided tour (additional charge) available by request, suitable outdoor clothing advised. Contact: 028 4375 1467 or murlough@nationaltrust.org.uk Contact: 028 9082 5434 or divis@nationaltrust.org.uk 242 Please book all group visits, tours and catering directly with places
Patterson s Spade Mill 751 Antrim Road, Templepatrick, County Antrim BT39 0AP Travel back in time and witness history literally forged in steel at the last working water-driven spade mill in daily use in the British Isles. Dig up the history and culture of the humble spade and visit bygone life fashioning steel into spades during the industrial era. Contact: 028 9443 3619 or pattersons@nationaltrust.org.uk Strangford Lough County Down The tidal treasures of Britain s largest sea lough and one of Europe s key wildlife habitats await discovery. Note: tours, boat trips and overnight stays in a camping bothy on Salt Island are popular, and we advise booking early. Contact: 028 4278 7769 or strangford@nationaltrust.org.uk Wellbrook Beetling Mill 20 Wellbrook Road, Corkhill, Cookstown, County Tyrone BT80 9RY Discover how yarn was spun at Northern Ireland s last working water-powered linen beetling mill and enjoy a woodland river walk. Note: joint ticket can be arranged with Springhill. Contact: 028 8674 8210 or wellbrook@nationaltrust.org.uk nationaltrust.org.uk/groups 243