Walk in the footsteps of Vikings and saints during new festival

Walk in the footsteps of Vikings and saints during new festival

10 May 2023

THE first annual Downpatrick Walking Festival is to take place next month, offering adventures in the footsteps of Vikings, saints, and even famous figures executed in the 1798 rebellion.

The festival is a celebration of the benefits of walking in an area rich in history and outstanding natural beauty.

The week-long event is a joint venture between The Saint Patrick Centre in Downpatrick — which has pioneered the St Patrick’s Way pilgrimages – and  Newry, Mourne and Down Council.

A dozen walking groups from areas such as Crossgar, Downpatrick and Rostrevor have already signed up for the festival which will take place between June 12-17.

Most of the walks can be booked free of charge, including a walk in the Tobar Mhuire Woods.

Claire Torrens, Heritage Officer for The Saint Patrick Centre, said the festival will bring people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds together to experience the physical, mental and spiritual benefits of walking.

She said the walks were not only a chance to meet new people but an opportunity to step into history. 

“I  think the Crime and Punishment Walk in Downpatrick is particularly interesting because it unlocks some of the secrets of the town,”  she said. “Downpatrick is one of the oldest towns on the island and was once one of the most important. Downpatrick had its own courthouse, prison and Cathedral.

“It has a dramatic history, not just because St Patrick began his mission here but because of the invasions by Vikings, Anglo-Normans and even Edward the Bruce, the brother of the Scottish King, in the 14th century.

“The old gaol is now Down Museum and it was in the doorway that Thomas Russell, one of the United Irishmen, was hanged in 1803, after the 1798 rebellion.”

She continued: “There is also a Viking walk, which begins with a meeting in a Medieval settlement and travels to a Viking Longship in Ballydugan. We are encouraging participants to dress up as Vikings. “Who wouldn’t want to walk and learn more about Magnus Barelegs, one of the legendary figures of our history here in Down?

“The walks are very family friendly and we have experiences that are suitable for all ages, and all levels of ability. I would encourage everyone to book early.

“Most of the walks are free but there are also some adventures which include lunch, transport and guiding, and these are at a discounted price.

“We expect one of the most popular walks to be the one led by Newry, Mourne and Down’s Heritage Officer, Linda McKenna, who will explore the role of the County town in the history of the Society of United Irishmen and the 1798 rebellion. So book your free place early to avoid disappointment.”

Dr Tim Campbell, Director of The Saint Patrick Centre, the world’s only permanent exhibition to St Patrick, said he hopes that people will embrace this new festival and make it their own.

He said a lot of time and energy had gone into planning the new festival.

“This is a really exciting initiative and we hope there will be a huge response as people are increasingly discovering the physical and emotional benefits of walking,” he remarked.

“Our own St Patrick’s pilgrims repeatedly return from their adventures exhilarated. We are looking forward to showcasing ‘Patrick and the Pagan Hills’ which brings walkers right to Slaney River, the landing point where St Patrick arrived in 432AD.

“This walking experience is led by guide Duane Fitzsimons, a wonderful story-teller who is very familiar with local history and the folklore of the Celts and how they lived before St Patrick arrived.

Throughout the week we are offering a variety of graded walks, led by trained and experienced leaders, for all categories of walkers. So why not join us as we follow in the footsteps of Saint Patrick and see first-hand why this landscape is called Saint Patrick’s Country. Our popular guide, Mairead Sweeney, will lead a walk on the Quoile for free.

There is also a wonderful opportunity to walk in the footsteps of St Patrick along a coastline between Ballyhornan and Ardglass that is largely unspoiled – and 

offers views of the Mournes, Gunn’s Island, and even the Isle of Man on a clear day.”

Dr Campbell added: “Walking is not just good physical exercise – it  is good fun, especially when experienced with companions on the road. Our pilgrims guides, Martina Purdy and Elaine Kelly, who left high profile jobs in the media and law for a spiritual path, will bring their energy, enthusiasm and unique experience to the festival.  

“There’s also a guided canoeing adventure, featured recently on BBC’s The One Show. So why not come and be amazed and refreshed?”

Bookings for the walking festival are available from Eventbrite and more  information is available from The Saint Patrick Centre website www.saintpatrickcentre or facebook page.

For more information contact Dr Campbell or Claire Torrens on 028 4461 9000.