Christmas at Castle Ward, County Down | © Neil Watt

Houses and buildings in Northern Ireland

Whether built through a martial disagreement, family rivalry or even a quirky stipulation in a will, each of the houses and buildings in our care has its own unique story to share. From Castle Coole, one of the greatest Neo-classical country houses in Ireland, to The Crown Bar, a masterpiece in pub architecture, intriguing items and fascinating finds speak of centuries ceased and capture a snapshot in time.

Step inside the stories and secrets of historic houses with a visit to these places in our care.

Two women walking in the Central Hall of the House

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Mount Stewart

Explore the historic house and wander through the elegant rooms to discover a much-loved family home, filled with magnificent portraits and personal treasures.

Living History performers baking treats in Castle Ward's Kitchen.

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Castle Ward

Wander through the Georgian rooms of this eccentric mansion, famed for its contrasting architecture and interiors, and explore the servants' world below stairs.

An image of the bridge into the walled garden in Florence Court covered in snow

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Florence Court

Beautiful 18th-century home set on a sustainable estate and gardens

Visitors walking towards Castle Coole, County Fermanagh.

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Castle Coole

Step inside one of the finest neo-classical houses in Ireland, experience the ornate interiors and explore the extensive servant’s’ world below stairs.

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The Argory

Atmospheric Irish gentry house and wooded riverside estate

Child visitor in the natural play area at Springhill, County Londonderry, Northern Ireland

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Springhill

Step back in history on a visit to Springhill, often referred to as 'one of the prettiest houses in Ulster'.

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Ardress House

Step back in time and visit a 17th-century house with a traditional farmyard, fruitful orchard and farm animals to meet.

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Derrymore House

Visit Derrymore for picturesque walks through over 100 acres of parks and woodland, nature rambles, picnics and the historic 18th-century Derrymore House.

The ruins of Downhill House at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, County Londonderry

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Mussenden Temple

See the Mussenden Temple perched on the clifftop and explore the dramatic coastal landscape of Downhill Demesne which is steeped in history. See far-reaching views from the country fields and paths. Look out for colourful wild flowers in the natural grasses.

Blacksmith's working at the Forge, heating steel.

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Patterson's Spade Mill

Discover the last working water-driven spade mill in daily use in the British Isles, learn about the old art of forging and have a go at making something yourself.

Exterior of Wellbrook Beetling Mill in the sunshine, County Tyrone

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Wellbrook Beetling Mill

Working water-powered mill used in the manufacture of linen

Typeset made up of metal and wooden letters and spacers ready to print at Gray's Printing Press, Northern Ireland

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Gray’s Printing Press

Step back in time at this 18th-century printer’s workshop and discover tales of skilled printers, ink, galleys, shooters and a collection of 19th-century hand printing presses.