From Castles to City Hall

NOT JUST BRICKS AND MORTAR
Castles to concert halls, our buildings are still making history.

Northern Ireland has some of the finest castles on this island. The earliest are a Norman legacy, but fortified homes continued well into the 17th century. Through centuries of war, siege and expansion, Carrickfergus Castle was Ireland's most formidable stronghold .and still looks battle-ready. Other towering examples: Greencastle, Jordan's and Dundrum in County Down and Harry Avery's Castle, home of the powerful O'Neills in Tyrone. Reserve an entire day for massive Enniskillen Castle. For the ultimate cliffhanger, Dunluce Castle clings precariously above the north Atlantic.

Our western counties have numerous 17th century defended stone Planter homes including: haunted Springhill, Bellaghy Bawn, imposing Benburb Castle, Castle Caulfield, Tully House, Monea Castle, Castle Balfour, and Sir John Davies Castle. Much of Derry City dates from this era, including its encircling walls and the impressive St. Columb's Cathedral.

Northern Ireland in the 18th - 19th centuries had contrasting ways of life. From sumptuous manors epitomised by Ardress House, Castle Ward and Hillsborough Castle, to humble cottages. 17 US presidents have Ulster roots and many of their ancestral homes are preserved. The Ulster Folk Museum has also collected and restored traditional farm and village buildings. Armagh City is testament to Georgian elegance, and as Ireland's ecclesiastical capital, boasts two beautiful cathedrals.

During the Victorian Period, Northern Ireland was at its peak as an industrial power. Belfast in particular flaunted its wealth through splendid buildings, among them City Hall, Queen's University, Malone House, Belfast Castle, the Botanic Gardens greenhouses (among the first built), Albert Clock, even the ornate Crown Liquor Saloon. Guided architectural tours reveal the stories behind the stonework.