About
Discover Groomsport's tour covers the history of the village which includes Viking raiders, an Irish chieftain, Scottish settlers and the Duke of Schomberg landing on his way to the Battle of the Boyne.
The EHOD weekend marks the 387th anniversary of voyage of the Eagle Wing which sailed from Groomsport on 9th September 1636. In had 140 passengers, including four Presbyterian ministers, and was the first attempt by Ulster-Scots folks to emigrate to America. Tour participants will also hear about the Presbyterian minister who loved building – first he built a church, then a school, followed by houses for the poor and a house for himself.
The tour also covers the landlords (originally the Maxwells of Finnebrogue, near Downpatrick) who kept changing their family name.
The tour visits the wall which one of them built to stop villagers using the beach.
The tour also includes important buildings in the village including the Coast Guard's Watch House (1821) and the first lifeboat house in Belfast Lough (1858). Fishermen's cottages at Cockle Row and The Hill are visited.
Grander buildings include Groomsport House (1848) and the Parish Church (1841) – which, unlike most Church of Ireland buildings, cannot be dedicated to a saint – and Groomsport Presbyterian Church (1843).
Tours available at 2.00pm.9th & 10th September - Meet at Cockle Row Cottages.
Book online at www.discovergroomsport.com
Facilities
Event Facilities
- Booking Required
Guide Prices
| Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
|---|---|
| EHOD | Free |
Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.
