My Ireland
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Discover the Saint Patrick Centre
The Saint Patrick Centre in Downpatrick, County Down is the only permanent exhibition in the world dedicated to Ireland’s patron saint.
St Patrick is said to have brought Christianity to the island of Ireland in around 432 AD. Today, he rests in Down Cathedral in a grave beside the Saint Patrick Centre. Combine a trip to the saint’s resting place with a visit to the St Patrick Exhibition where you can learn about the life, work and legacy of St Patrick. Accompanied by the narration of internationally renowned actor Ciarán Hinds, visitors can also virtually visit locations from St Patrick’s story in the IMAX cinema.
If you want to be even more immersed in the world of St Patrick, sign up for one of the Saint Patrick Centre’s experiences which take keen walkers out to the foot of Slieve Meelmore, as well as into the hills of Saint Patrick’s Country, and to the coast within the Strangford and Lecale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Follow your guide on these half-day trips and explore locations associated with St Patrick such as Saint Patrick’s Well, Ardtole Church and St Tassach’s Church. One of these experiences even features a canoe trip as you explore Inch Abbey and the Quoile Pondage.
Inside the Saint Patrick Centre, County Down
Need to know
Visit the craft shop to browse the centre’s collection of hand-crafted knitwear, candles with a signature “scent of Ireland”, books from local authors and more.
Pick up the centre’s own-brand speciality coffee and a bite to eat at the Garden Café.
There’s a great view of Down Cathedral from the Saint Patrick Centre’s Terraced Gardens – a beautiful array of gardens with features such as a Peace Garden, Monk’s Herb Garden and Rose Gardens.
