Things to do in County Down, Northern Ireland: The Best Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Ulster Historical Foundation is a long-established, highly reputable research and publishing agency. It offers its extensive knowledge to help on the sources available to discover Irish and Scots-Irish ancestors. We offer advice on researching Irish and Scots-Irish family history, as well as carry out research for clients and we have a range of family and local history publications. We also run family history conferences and give talks and workshops on how to research your ancestors.

In the gable under the steeple of this church you will find the only pre-reformation stone statue of the Madonna and Child in Ireland. It dates to about the year 1300 and was restored in 1908 having been lost for centuries. It was carved at Greyabbey from Scrabo stone. It was part of the medieval church half a mile away when the area was the heart of the Diocese of Down. It was broken down by a Cromwellian soldier and lost after the Reformation. It was restored in 1908 by the antiquarian Francis Joseph Bigger. The church built in 1791 also includes other medieval fragments from three other churches. Above the porch is a carved cross taken from Ardtole which dates to the 900s. Also preserved are ballaun stones. Internally the church is simply decorated but has an impressive rose window.

Mount Stewart is one of the most inspiring and unusual gardens in the National Trust's ownership. The garden reflects a rich tapestry of design and great planting artistry that was the hallmark of Edith, Lady Londonderry. The mild climate of Strangford Lough allows astonishing levels of planting experimentation. The formal areas exude a strong Mediterranean feel and resemble an Italian villa landscape; the wooded areas support a range of plants from all corners of the world, ensuring something to see whatever the season. Mount Stewart House re-opened after our 3 year long restoration project. We've brought back the elegance and charm of the house when it was home of the 7th Marchioness Edith, Lady Londonderry and her family in the early 20th century and we look forward to welcoming you to enjoy in all its splendor. Six kilometers of walking trails wind through a landscape ‘lost in time’ and establishes Mount Stewart’s reputation as one of the best-preserved Irish country demesnes.

Castle Ward will take you on a journey of discovery. The 18th-century eccentric house with two distinctly different styles, classical and Gothic, will entice you to explore further. This truly beautiful 332-hectare (820-acre) walled demesne, with walking trails, exotic garden, stunning vistas and picturesque farmyard, will unlock your imagination through family history, leisure pursuits, events and industrial heritage. A children's pastimes centre and laundry room are a short walk from the house in the stableyard, alongside a gift shop, second-hand bookshop and tea-room.

Annalong Cornmill, which was in operation from the early 1800s until the 1960s, was restored in 2014 to incorporate a new multi-media display. Three stories are told within the mill : 1. The Mill was used by local farmers who brought their sacks of oats to be milled into oatmeal. Learn about the processes involved in milling and about how this mighty water wheel provided power to this picturesque building. 2. The Harbour played a key role in the life of people from Annalong and the surrounding area, exporting precious Mourne Granite and importing coal for the kiln. 3. Mourne Granite is renowned for its quality. Learn more about life of a stone man and the skills that were required to work in this industry. OPENING - Please note that this is a seasonal facility (April - September). Groups can be facilitated outside of the displayed opening hours. Please telephone to make arrangements.

This picturesque coastline provides visitors with sweeping views of the sea, ancient graves and forts, pretty coastal villages and the "violent fjord," where four hundred million tons of water rush through a narrow land gap twice a day.