Explore the rolling meadows, stately gardens and elegant buildings of Armagh’s well-loved park, once home to the archbishops of the Church of Ireland.
The Palace Demesne is a scenic historical parkland just a short walk from Armagh’s city center. The original palace was established along with a new archbishop’s residence in the late 18th century, when Church of Ireland leadership returned to Armagh after centuries away. Visit the Palace Demesne to admire its dignified architecture and stroll around its landscaped grounds and gardens.
When Richard Robinson was elected archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland in 1765, he decided to rejuvenate the somewhat rundown city through a series of major building projects. Head to the palace he had built at the Demesne. The neoclassical beauty housed the Church of Ireland’s archbishops from 1770. It became a government building in 1975. Step inside to see an exhibition of local art.
Stop at the palace’s former stables, which have been converted into a heritage center. Visit in summer to join a living history interpretation tour, where guides in Georgian costume bring the Demesne’s 18th-century past to life.
The Demesne is crisscrossed by walking paths ranging in distance and difficulty. Create a planned itinerary or simply relax amid the greenery, enjoying the graceful arrangements of flowers and trees.
For a more energetic tour of the grounds, join the timed parkrun that takes place on Saturday mornings. Participation is free but prior registration is necessary. Visitors with children will also enjoy the on-site playground.
Seek out the Garden of the Senses for a unique experience designed for able-bodied and handicapped visitors. Follow a winding path between five separate floral installations, each offering different sensory experiences.
Head to the north end of the park to see the atmospheric remains of the 13th-century Franciscan Friary, which fell into ruin after Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries.
Palace Demesne is located just south of town, about a 15-minute walk from the bus station or from Armagh County Museum and other destinations. Follow the brown heritage signs toward the grounds. Park your car for free on site and enjoy the freedom to ramble. Entrance is free year round.
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