Duane FitzsimonsDec 17, 20212 minMidnight MassMidnight Mass is a traditional Mass widely observed on Christmas Eve. It is a time of celebration in the Christian calendar when the...
Duane FitzsimonsSep 6, 20212 minPatrick and the pagansIn the Fifth Century a stranger who returned to Ireland did would go on to change the outlook of this island forever. Having been blown...
Duane FitzsimonsSep 8, 20203 minThe sugar ship sightingAs we walk along the clifftop just south of the sound between Guns Island and Ballyhornan we pass The Long Hole. It is a spectacular...
Duane FitzsimonsOct 8, 20192 minBlood on English StreetAs one of the oldest parts of Downpatrick, English Street has seen many comings and goings. The more surprising thing though is when you...
Duane FitzsimonsJun 1, 20182 minWalk the Lecale WayThe Lecale way is a long distance walk from Downpatrick into Newcastle. I am delighted to announce that I have two signature tours now...
Duane FitzsimonsMay 23, 20182 minWho were the Jordans?Jordan's Castle is one of the six which stand in the small village of Ardglass on the County Down Coast. It was owned by the Jordan's who...
Duane FitzsimonsMay 21, 20182 minSaint Patrick's Fury: Part 1In the Catholic Church at Saul behind the altar, in a niche, is one of the most ancient Christian relics in Ireland. It is a portion of...
Duane FitzsimonsMay 11, 20182 minDownTimeIt's nearly time for DownTime, a brand new festival of horse racing, music, and culture in Downpatrick. The event is the brainchild of a...
Duane FitzsimonsMay 9, 20182 minThe Old PadsHow did people get around before we had cars? If you look at the fourth edition of the Ordnance Survey you will find the answer! For the...
Duane FitzsimonsMay 7, 20182 minEurope's Oldest Ferry ServiceWould you believe that the oldest ferry in Europe is not the one on the Mersey?! Well the Strangford Lough Ferry Service was first...