Nestled along the scenic Causeway Coastal Route, the quaint village of Glenarm, recognised as Ulster's oldest town, is set to host an enlightening walking tour this weekend as part of the European Heritage Weekend.
This event will showcase the rich tapestry of history and architecture embodied in the village's five churches, each telling its own story of faith, heritage, and community.
Glenarm, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and with roots dating back to the 12th century, has historical associations and a special connection to Saint Patrick, who herded sheep on the nearby Slemish mountain - a past that has always attracted visitors to the area in the present.
Visitors will be treated to an exploration of this connection, particularly through the stained glass windows of St. Patrick's Church and the Church of the Immaculate Conception. These windows uniquely depict Saint Patrick not only as a bishop but also as a chieftain, offering a rare glimpse into how local history intertwines with religious iconography.
The tour will highlight the architectural diversity of Glenarm, which has been a designated Conservation Area since 1978. Participants will journey through styles ranging from Strawberry Hill Gothic to the austere Georgian, and the quaint 'Meeting House', each church standing as a testament to different eras of design and community life.
One of the focal points will be the influence of the McDonnell Family, the Earls and Countesses of Antrim, whose patronage has significantly shaped the village's religious and architectural landscape. Their legacy is preserved in the structures and the stories shared by the tour guides, who are part of the community known for their warmth and deep knowledge of local lore.
Participants will not only walk through centuries of architectural evolution but also through personal stories of the locals, memorialised in the churches. These narratives of human triumph and tragedy add a deeply personal touch to the stone and glass, making history feel alive and resonant.
Beyond the churches, Glenarm invites visitors to explore its natural beauty with river, forest, and coastal walks, visit the majestic Glenarm Castle, and enjoy the hospitality at Glenarm Marina. The village's community, described as kind and welcoming, will be on full display, with locals eager to share tales of their home with visitors.
Highlights include:
• Location | village of Glenarm | Causeway Coastal Route | AONB | Designated Conservation Area
• St. Patrick | herded sheep nearby | church est. in Glore | stained glass windows | unique depictions
• Aristocracy | The McDonnell Family | Earls and Countesses of Antrim | benefactors of the church
• Stained Glass | two churches | Saint Patrick depictions | bishop and chieftain | rare and unique
• Architecture | designated Conservation Area | Strawberry Hill Gothic | Georgian | 'Meeting House'
• Community | kind and welcoming I passionate and proud | knowledgeable guides
• Explore | river, forest & coastal walks | Glenarm Castle | Glenarm Marina | chat with friendly locals
Tour details:
- Date: Sunday, 15th September 2024 at 2:30 PM
- Location: Starts and finishes at Glenarm footbridge, on Eglinton Yard side of the river, adjacent to Coach Parking area.
- Duration: 1 - 1.5 hours
- Cost: £5 donation
- Booking: Contact Glenarm Visitor Centre (T: +44 028 28841087 or E: glenarmtoursim@outlook.com), or book online via Eventbrite.
Accessibility and Sustainability:
• The tour route is mostly flat with some cobblestone areas. Wheelchair users may require assistance in places.
• Pavements are wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair.
• Glenarm promotes sustainability, supporting local community projects and encouraging Leave No Trace principles.
• Visitors will need to walk in single file on occasion and there is one incline of approximately 200 metres.
• Both of the churches we visit are fully accessible.
• We use a microphone on our tours.
• If you have any concerns regarding the accessibility of our churches or experiences, please contact us to discuss in more detail.
Important Information:
• In wet weather the tour route will be limited to indoor venues of St. Patrick's Church and Church of the Immaculate Conception.
• The Churches of Glenarm serve the local community. Please be mindful that these are places of worship and show respect to others visiting
• Parking is available adjacent to Eglinton Yard and the marina, and next to the seafront play park, where a short walk will take you to the starting point.
• E-Vehicle charging point x2 available at the marina.
Customer
• Toilet facilities are adjacent to the beachfront car park and play park.
What to wear:
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Dress for all weathers- recommended to wear layers
Languages:
• All tours are delivered in English only and a microphone will be used.
• Supporting literature is currently available in English, French and German.
This walking tour through Glenarm's five churches not only serves as an educational journey through architectural heritage but also as a celebration of community spirit and the enduring legacy of Saint Patrick in this picturesque coastal village.
As visitors depart, they will carry with them not just photographs but stories that span centuries, enriching their understanding of this historic corner of Northern Ireland.
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