Heritage and Histories Itinerary

Who: Lovers of History and Heritage 
Where: Holywood, Helen’s Bay and Comber 
Duration: Full Day

Immerse yourself in living history – smell the turf on the open fire, watch the blacksmith at work and taste the soda bread fresh from the griddle! Imagine the intensity of loading a gun to protect Belfast Lough during war time, then experience the tranquillity of a monastic site on Strangford Lough. Let’s take a journey back through time! 

Ulster Folk Museum and Ulster Transport Museum, Cultra, BT18 0EU

Beside eachother

Step back in time in and uncover a way of life from 100 years ago. Experience bygone life-styles in Ballycultra in the Ulster Folk Museum, the unique Ulster town reconstructed on 60 acres where costumed guides and craft-workers make you feel at home. Discover what life was like in homes, shops, schools, churches and other properties without our modern comforts! 

The Ulster Transport Museum, across the road, is home to a world-class Irish Railway Collection, Road Transport Galleries and interactive Flight Experience. Don’t miss the permanent Titanic exhibition where you can see actual artefacts from the stricken vessel. 
Enjoy a refreshing cup of tea or coffee in one of the museum Tearooms before setting off to your next stop. 

Grey Point Fort, Helen’s Bay, BT19 1LE

9 mins from previous

One of the best preserved early 20th century coastal forts anywhere in the British Isles. Situated in Helen's Bay, Crawfordsburn, Grey Point Fort houses two spectacular guns and a most unusual hands-on military museum. It also boasts stunning views over Belfast Lough and is situated next to Crawfordsburn Country Park. 

The Fort was completed in 1907 and has two massive 6-inch diameter guns which commanded the entrance to Belfast Lough. While a key part of Belfast’s defences against naval attack, it proved of limited value during the German air attacks on the city in 1941. There are still two magnificent 23 feet long guns. You can also see the 
original observation post and three searchlight positions. 

Volunteers have created a great museum of military memorabilia, including medals, uniforms, photographs and weaponry from the First and Second World Wars. There is also a unique collection of radio equipment, together with a section devoted to the Titanic.

The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, BT19 1JH

6 mins from previous

The Old Inn stands on one of Ireland's most ancient highways leading from Holywood Priory to the Parent Abbey in Bangor. The thatched portion of The Old Inn is the most ancient and records show this building to be standing in its present form since 1614. Famous visitors have been King William of Orange, Dick Turpin and CS Lewis! It is the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch in front of a roaring fire! The Old Inn was recently renovated, adding the beautiful Treetops Spa which offers guests unrivalled forest views stretching out to the North Down coastline and will see the addition of a range of new experiences including a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna, hot tubs and relax space set within its tranquil grounds, offering residents an enhanced hospitality experience.

Nendrum Monastery, Mahee Island, BT23 6EP

35 mins from previous

Nendrum Monastery, on Mahee Island, Co Down, was founded by St Machaoi in the 5th Century and was at its prime in the year 1000. It is thought to be the best example of a Pre-Norman monastic site in Northern Ireland. The site was “lost” for hundreds of years, before being re-discovered in the late 1800’s and excavated in the 1920’s. It is a magical place, a beautiful island accessible by bridges, with dry stone walls and heavenly views. The site is one of the most historic sites in Northern Ireland. Immerse yourself in history in the beautiful surroundings of Strangford Lough before heading for dinner in one of the award-winning eateries in Lisbane and Balloo. 

Note – Please check with individual attractions for opening hours before travelling.

Let our Visitor Information Centre team help plan your visit. Contact them for expert advise!