Blood on English Street

Discover the darker side of Downpatrick's long history, the county town of Down and ancient home of kings. Home to many Irish legends this tour explores millennia of the town’s dark and bloody history.

Meeting in Denvir’s of Downpatrick, Ireland’s oldest coaching inn, you will be introduced to the town of Downpatrick like never before. Behind its quiet tranquility lie the echoes of ghosts from the past.  The town was the home of Cealtachair one of the most powerful soldiers in the Red Branch Knights. His successors the Dál Fiatach would later hold this place and keep the Viking raiders at bay. One night in February 1177 a surprise attack was mounted on the fort by John de Courcy and his 300 soldiers. This changed the area forever. Among his army were the ancestors of your guide Duane Fitzsimons. ​18th Century crime and punishment is the a prominent topic as we explore the county town’s long history with capital punishment. On the way around we will discuss a few of the town's great characters from centuries ago.  The optional mealAt the end of the walk you can join us in Denvir’s for a two course meal and cocktail. The tipple on the menu is a Dark and Stormy, perfect to describe the atmosphere and perhaps calm the nerves from the haunting tales! Tickets for this can be purchased for £29. ​Further Information

• The walk is 1.5 miles and circular, returning to the start point.
• The route is largely urban though will enter graveyards. Waterproof shoes are advised.
• The tour lasts 1 hour. 

​The Meeting Point: Denvirs Hotel, English Street, Downpatrick, BT30 6AB​

The tour will leave promptly at 7pm from Denvir's.