Armagh brings together church history, historic collections, urban art and landscaped green spaces. You can focus your stay on cathedrals and museums, take a look at the city’s history or explore the paths in the Palace Demesne. The planetarium and theatre also offer different cultural points of interest.
Cathedrals and City History
Saint Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral stands on the hill from which Armagh takes its name: Ard Mhacha means “the height of Macha”. Patrick’s “Great Stone Church” also stood on this site. Another notable landmark is Saint Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral. Its twin towers rise above Armagh from an elevated site. The cathedral museum contains historic church artefacts, including saints’ relics, sacred vessels and liturgical vestments. The items on display may change.
For a glimpse of Armagh in the early 19th century, No 5 Vicars’ Hill displays a three-dimensional bird’s-eye model of the city. The site is a museum and visitor attraction, but is open by prior appointment only. Be sure to arrange your visit before travelling.
Library and Museums
Founded in 1771, Armagh Robinson Library is Northern Ireland’s oldest public library. Its Long Room features permanent and temporary exhibitions of medieval manuscripts, incunabula and Archbishop Beresford’s archaeological collection. This also includes Jonathan Swift’s own copy of “Gulliver’s Travels”, annotated in his handwriting. As exhibition themes and displayed items may change, it is worth checking what is currently on offer if you want to see particular pieces.
Armagh County Museum is Ireland’s oldest county museum and is located on the Georgian, tree-lined Mall. Together with Robinson Library and the two cathedrals, it is one of the places where you can explore Armagh’s cultural and historical character. The various institutions each have a different focus: library history and book exhibitions sit alongside church artefacts and a city model.
Paths Through Gardens and Urban Art
The Palace Demesne covers about 300 acres and is within walking distance of the city centre. Its paths vary in length and difficulty and lead through rear meadows and formal gardens. In the Garden of the Senses, winding paths connect five different areas. The grounds therefore offer different ways to spend time outdoors, with paths that vary in length and difficulty.
Another green space is the Astropark, with 14 acres of landscaped outdoor grounds. Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is an astronomical research and education facility in Northern Ireland; the planetarium presents immersive dome shows in a 360-degree digital theatre. The range of topics is broad, and the programme may change. Those interested in urban art can find 22 miniature bronze sculptures on the Angels and Gargoyles Trail, hidden among the city’s historic buildings, architecture and streets.
Theatre and a Changing Programme
Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre is in the heart of Armagh. Its programme includes theatre, comedy, children’s shows, opera, ballet, pantomime and concerts; individual events may vary. The venue also supports local talent through workshops, exhibitions and amateur theatre. Its stage programme and opportunities to take part in cultural activities complement the city’s museums, collections and historic sites with a different way to experience its culture.
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