Location: Downpatrick
Top Things to do in Downpatrick
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6 Things to do Good for a Rainy Day in Downpatrick That You Shouldn't Miss
Downpatrick (from Irish: Dún Pádraig, meaning "Patrick's stronghold") is a small-sized town about 33 km (21 mi) south of Belfast in County Down, Northern Ireland. It has been an important site since ancient times. Its cathedral is said to be the burial place of Saint Patrick. Today it is the county town of Down and the joint headquarters of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council. Downpatrick area has currently shown to have a population of 19,817 according to the 2011 Census, although it is likely to have increased in recent years.
Restaurants in Downpatrick
1. Downpatrick & County Down Railway
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 124 reviews
The Downpatrick and County Down Railway runs through the drumlin countryside of County Down - St. Patrick's Country - over the River Quoile and under the graceful Down Cathedral. With a mix of steam and diesel trains, and vintage carriages, there's plenty for train fans of all ages - from wee kids to "big kids". Run by volunteers, society membership entitles you to free travel.
Reviewed By 989tissym - Downpatrick, United Kingdom
Well run, very enjoyable Santa experience. Good present for kids. Kids enjoyed the hot chocolate after. Would definitely recommend.
2. The Saint Patrick Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 222 reviews
Reviewed By JoanneW716 - London, United Kingdom
This Museum makes learning about St. Patrick and the Ireland he knew, really easy. It is very interactive, very informative, and finishes with a great little film show which shows all the places in Ireland associated with St. Patrick. It has an excellent gift shop and a lovely cafe upstairs, all in all, well worth visiting Downpatrick for - with the bonus of St. Patrick, St. Brigid and St Coumcille all buried just up the hill behind the Museum.
3. Eclipse Cinema Downpatrick
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 100 reviews
4. Down County Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 178 reviews
Down County Museum is based in an old gaol of 1796 and has 10 galleries covering the archaeology and history of County Down, Early Christian archaeology from the Time of St Patrick, the history of the gaol (including original gaol cells), and the farming and maritime collections from the County of Down. There are hands-on activities for children, a Digital Film Archive (Northern Ireland Screen), full access to the site, audio features and lifts to all areas. The Cathedral View Tearoom offers a wide range of meals, scones, coffees and teas, and has a unique view from its windows of Down Cathedral on the Hill of Down, Inch Abbey, the River Quoile and the ancient Mound of Down fort.
Reviewed By Beccaverity
We discovered this by accident, due to seeing a road sign one day on the way back to Coney Island where we are staying. I would highly recommend it, it’s a fabulous museum, free too and gives a detailed account of the county’s history and this local prison. When we arrived we were greeted by a friendly face and given an explanation of the layout and the purpose of the museum as well as some leaflets with more detail, including accounts of some people who were in the prison which was fascinating. It’s a really varied museum and can occupy you for a few hours if you spend time looking at all the exhibits. It has a lovely tearoom too which great views. Afterwards I had a quick look on the website and found a list of the people who had been jailed there which added to this experience even more. Highly recommended !
5. Saul Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 35 reviews
This church was built on the site of St. Patrick's first church in 1932 to commemorate the 1500th anniversary of St. Patrick's at the Slaney river. The site has some remnants of the monastic site which formed here after the Saint's death. There is parking available at the Saul Road entrance and public toilets are available.
Reviewed By colint700 - Brighton, United Kingdom
On our drive from Downpatrick to the picturesque little village of Strangford we came across Saul Church. It wasn't a particularly sunny day but we stopped in the layby outside and had a stroll around this delightful little church. Something very special about this place..... and what a stunning location. Wish we'd had more time to explore. Maybe that's a reason to go back to this beautiful part of Ireland. ????????
6. Rademon Estate Distillery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 106 reviews
Northern Ireland's first award winning craft gin and Irish whiskey distillery. Our small batch philosophy ensures that every aspect of our gin meets our exacting vision. Everything is crafted and perfected by hand. Our craft distillery is located in the stunning Rademon Estate, Crossgar. 18 miles south of Belfast. Our onsite shop is open most days until 5.30pm - please call for weekend opening times, as these may vary. We also operate a bar onsite, for drinks on our terrace. As we are a fully working distillery all tours must be pre-booked. Please note our tours are currently paused at this time.
Reviewed By paulbX6840XX - Newcastle, United Kingdom
Thoroughly enjoyable visit which included a tour of the facilities (established Gin Distillery and Malt Whiskey soon ready for market) and the Gin & Tonic masterclass which will have everyone reaching for the cocktail menu. Very intimate feel which probably stems from the passion and enthusiasm of founders/owners Fiona and David who crucially remain very hands-on in terms of visitor interaction.
