Downpatrick
Downpatrick is a historic market town in County Down and the ecclesiastical capital of the region, as it is the reputed burial place of Ireland's patron saint, St. Patrick. The town's most significant landmark is the Down Cathedral, which stands on the hill of Down alongside a granite stone marking the saint's grave. This spiritual heritage is explored in-depth at the nearby St. Patrick Centre, a modern interactive museum that tells the story of the saint's life and legacy. The town has a traditional, bustling centre serving the surrounding agricultural community.
History is everywhere in Downpatrick. The excellent Down County Museum is housed in the restored 18th-century county jail and allows visitors to step back in time. The town is also a key hub for exploring the history and landscapes of this part of County Down. The tranquil Quoile River flows through a nature reserve on the edge of town, and the majestic Mourne Mountains and the coast of Strangford Lough are just a short drive away. For anyone interested in the origins of Christianity in Ireland, Downpatrick is an essential and fascinating pilgrimage site.
Distance from Derry (Londonderry)
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By road: ~160 km (about 2 hours 15 minutes).
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As the crow flies: ~135 km.
Distance from Belfast
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By road: ~33 km (about 40 minutes).
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As the crow flies: ~26 km.
Famous places in Downpatrick (comma separated)
Down Cathedral, Saint Patrick’s Grave, Down County Museum, Inch Abbey, Struell Wells
Famous restaurants (5 only, comma separated)
Denvir’s Coaching Inn, Daily Grind, Oakley Fayre, Murphy’s Bar and Restaurant, Bear and The Doll
Interesting fact about the city
Downpatrick is famously associated with Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Tradition holds that he is buried in the grounds of Down Cathedral, making the town a key pilgrimage and heritage site.