Kirkistown Castle 400: European Heritage Open Day

Kirkistown Castle

12:00 - 4:00pm

Free

Sat 8 Oct

Join us on European Heritage Open Day as we celebrate the 400th anniversary of the building of Kirkistown Castle in 1622.

**Event Update**

This event was postponed from the original date of 10 September as a mark of respect after the news of the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

This event will now take place on Saturday 8 October. Full details of activity will be confirmed as soon as possible.

Ards and North Down Borough Council in partnership with the Department for Communities Historic Environment Division (HED) are offering an afternoon of family friendly activity in the grounds of the Castle to celebrate this historic milestone.

HED will facilitate visits inside the Castle where you can find out more about this historic building with traditional tales and storytelling provided by Willie Drennan and Janice Witherspoon.

Outside in the grounds you’ll hear the clashing of swords as the Medieval Combat Group demonstrate period swordsmanship, and you’ll witness an historical re-enactment by Valhalla Street Theatre – bringing the plantation era to life for visitors to the site.

You’ll also find children’s craft activities, pole lathe wood turning and traditional rope making demonstrations.

Musical interludes will be provided by the atmospheric trio of musicians Seefin and the talented members of Ards Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann (Ards CCE).

There will be tea/coffee and ice cream available to purchase but we encourage you to bring a blanket and a picnic and enjoy the afternoon’s entertainment.

There is no vehicular access to the site. A Park and Ride will operate from the car park at Cloughey Pavilion between 12pm-4pm

Park and Walk facilities are available from Cloughey Presbyterian Church