Local Attractions

Dromore Mound
Dromore Mound or Dromore Motte and Bailey as it is commonly known is probably Dromore’s most recognisable feature. It was built by Sir John de Courcy after the Norman Conquest in the 13th Century. The bailey or lower courtyard was said to have been protected by palisading and the mound itself was an archery tower, which gave good vision and a reasonable field of fire.  The height and well-defined slopes provide unsurpassed views of the town and the upper Lagan Valley.

Finnis Souterrain
Finnis Souterrain, locally known as ‘Binder’s Cove,’ is a hidden gem for the intrepid heritage enthusiast. It is located off the Carrigagh Road towards its junction with the Slievenaboley Road, approximately 2 miles north west of Legananny Dolmen, and approximately 2.5 miles south of Finnis/Massford. The souterrain is a scheduled ancient monument on private land but was opened to the public under an agreement between the landowner and Banbridge District Council in 2003. It is a securely built underground structure of dry stone construction made up of three passages located in a shallow depression 120m across a field. The main passage runs for approx. 29 m/95 ft and two shorter side passages run off this to the northeast. This souterrain is thought to date from around the 9th century AD and was probably used as a hiding place, and possibly for storage. Solar powered lighting has been provided in the souterrain, parking and interpretation are also provided.

Legananny Dolmen
Situated on the slopes of Slieve Croob near the village of Leitrim, you can find one of Ireland's most frequently illustrated and photographed dolmens. This megalithic monument rests nestled between a farmer's stone wall and a small back road. Dating from the megalithic period, it is the portal grave of a chieftain. The heavy stones would have been dragged some distance before being set in place. The three supporting stones are unusually long and there are slight traces of a cairn which must have been far more extensive. Court cairns were probably temples of a kind, where farming communities paid respect to departed ancestors and invoked magical help to ensure good harvests. Legananny Dolmen is situated off the B7 7 miles south of Dromara, signposted from Dromara and Castlewellan. There is no entrance free and visitors are welcome to visit Legananny Dolmen all year round.

Hillsborough Castle
Hillsborough Castle is a late 18th Century mansion house situated in the heart of Hillsborough village.  The Castle was the seat of the Hill family, who held the title of Marquis of Downshire.  Formerly the home of the Governor of Northern Ireland, the mansion is now the official residence of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.

Hillsborough Courthouse
The Courthosue, which is based in Hillsborough square, is one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in Ireland.  In 1760 Wills Hill built a market house with the aim of attracting linen manufacturers to the area. The Courthouse now houses a display on the Irish Legal System and Hillsborough Tourist Information Centre.

Hillsborough Fort
Set in the beautiful Hillsborough Forest and built on the site of the old Magennes stronghold, the Fort was founded in 1630 by Peter Hill and completed around 1650 by Colonel Arthur Hill.

Irish Linen Centre and Lisburn Museum
The award-winning museum in Lisburn's 17th Century Market House offers a perfect outing which brings the history of Linen to life.  Visitors can see the heritage of craft skills in the daily demonstrations of spinning and hand loom weaving.

Island Arts Centre
Lisburn City's Island Arts Centre has earned the reputation as one of Ireland's leading art venues.  Perfect for rainy days, holidays - any day in fact! Book your seat and enjoy the best of UK and International touring theatre, dance and live music.

Island Civic Centre
The City of Lisburn's Civic Centre at Lagan Valley Island is well worth a visit.  It comprises an Arts Centre together with a Civic and Conference Centre, which has an exciting programme of events.

Lagan Valley Leisureplex
Situated a few minutes walk from the centre of Lisburn, the Lagan Valley LeisurePlex offers some of the most exciting and unique leisure facilities to be found anywhere in the British Isles.

Omniplex
14 Screen Cinema Complex, featuring the very latest in projection and sound technology.  Audio description and subtitles for selected films.  Free onsite parking and excellent choice of restaurants.