Private Belfast St Patrick’s Trail & Hillsborough Castle Tour

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  Inch Abbey

  Explore the atmospheric ruins of Inch Abbey, a medieval Cistercian monastery set beside the River Quoile. A short walk leads to the abbey, where you can admire the historic remains, enjoy the surrounding countryside, and take photographs at a relaxed pace. The site also appeared in *Game of Thrones* as Robb Stark’s camp, where he was proclaimed King in the North. On selected summer dates, a living-history monk may be present, but this cannot be guaranteed. Free Admission

  45 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 2
  Slieve Patrick Statue

  Visit the Saint Patrick statue on Slieve Patrick, created to mark the 1,500th anniversary of his arrival in the area. From the elevated setting, enjoy wide views across the surrounding countryside and Strangford Lough. The ground is uneven and there are no formal footpaths, so comfortable, supportive footwear is recommended. Parking is provided at the entrance; there are no footpaths so sensible shoes are advisable.

  1 hour • Admission ticket free
• 3
  Saul Church

  Visit Saul Church, traditionally associated with the beginning and end of Saint Patrick’s mission in Ireland. According to local tradition, Patrick established his first church here after arriving in the area in AD 432 and later died at Saul on 17 March 465. Your driver-guide will explain the site’s religious significance and its place in the story of Ireland’s patron saint.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 4
  Struell Wells

  Discover Struell Wells, one of Ireland’s most complete medieval holy-well complexes and a historic pilgrimage site associated with Saint Patrick. See the Eye Well, Drinking Well, and the surviving medieval bathhouses while learning about the traditions and legends connected with the site. The terrain and historic structures may be uneven, so suitable footwear is recommended Free Admission

  45 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 5
  The Saint Patrick Centre

  Visit the Saint Patrick Centre, home to a permanent exhibition dedicated to Ireland’s patron saint. Through multimedia displays and historical interpretation, learn about Patrick’s life, writings, journeys, and lasting influence on Irish history and culture. Admission to the exhibition is payable separately.

  1 hour • Admission ticket not included
• 6

  Visit the traditional burial place of Saint Patrick outside Down Cathedral on Cathedral Hill. The site has been an important place of pilgrimage since the early medieval period. Saint Brigid and Saint Columcille are also traditionally associated with the burial site, reflected in the well-known words: “In Down, three saints one grave do fill: Patrick, Brigid and Columcille.”

  30 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 7
  Newcastle

  Pause in the seaside town of Newcastle, set between the Irish Sea and the Mourne Mountains. Enjoy time for lunch, a short walk, or views toward Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland’s highest mountain. Newcastle is also home to the renowned Royal County Down Golf Club. Meals and personal purchases are not included.

  1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 8
  Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

  Complete the day at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, Northern Ireland’s royal residence. Explore the landscaped grounds, including ornamental lawns, woodland paths, waterways, and peaceful garden areas. An interior castle visit available when the correct ticket and access are confirmed. Admission is payable separately unless stated otherwise.

  2 hours • Admission ticket not included

Additional info

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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