Introduction to Down
Down, a county in north-east Ireland, part of the province of Ulster and now in Northern Ireland is bound in the east by the Irish Sea, to the west by the River Bann, and to the south by Carlingford Lough. Strangford Lough runs deep into the eastern coast of Down and its Viking name is a reminder of the raids of coastal settlements in Ireland during the ninth century. Hundreds of low rounded islands can be found in Strangford Lough, these are ³drowned² hills of glacier rubble formed at the end of the last Ice Age and these drumlins, smooth low lying hills, continue over the north and centre of the county. Further south are the inspiring Mourne Mountains and Slieve Croob where the River Lagan has its source. The modern county boundaries date from the late sixteenth century and the county town is Downpatrick.
A Brief History of Down
An area of County Down is known as Brontė Homeland (situated between Rathfriland and Banbridge, where Patrick Bronte had his church), after Patrick Brontė (originally Prunty) -- father of Anne, Charlotte, and Emily Brontė -- who was born in this region.
Down is also home to Exploris, the Northern Ireland Aquarium, located in Portaferry, on the shores of Strangford Lough, on the Ards Peninsula.
The Old Inn in Crawfordsburn is one of Ireland's oldest hostelries, with records dating back to 1614; famous people who have stayed there include Jonathan Swift, Dick Turpin, Peter the Great, Lord Tennyson, Charles Dickens, Anthony Trollope, former US president George Bush, and C. S. Lewis, who honeymooned there.
Areas of Interest in Down
"Rollo" Gillespie Monument: Comber
Erected in 1845 to commemorate the bravery of Major General Robert ³Rollo² Gillespie. A list of his battles is on the pillar. Whilst leading one attack Gillispie went on despite having no ammunition shouting "one shot more for the honour of Down."
Annalong Cornmill & Harbour: Annalong
Annalong harbour is one of Ireland's most picturesque harbours, with its cornmill, built in the early 1800s. It operated until the 1960's, being one Ulster's last working watermills. The village of Annalong can be easily reached over the footbridge.
Ards Art Centre: Newtownards
The former Georgian house in Newtownards, now the home of the Arts Centre was designed by Stratford in 1765 and completed in 1770.
Avalon Guitar Factory: Newtownards
World famous acoustic guitar factory, established in 1990 as Lowden Guitars, now bears the name ³Avalon Guitars².
Dundrum Castle: Dundrum
This medieval coastal castle with circular keep and massive walls is set high on a hill overlooking the sea at Dundrum.
Down County Museum : Downpatrick
Welcome to Down County Museum where the rich heritage of County Down is brought to life in fascinating exhibitions, lively events and hands-on activities.
Portaferry Castle: Portaferry
Overlooking the Harbour, the Castle is within easy sight of Strangford and Audley Castle across the Lough. This 16th century Tower House was built by the Savage family but now stands as a ruined shell. There is access from Easter - September.
Traditional Music and Craic in Down