About

Visit Ballymacashen Cottage in the heart of the Ballymacashen (Baile Mhic Caisín) townland, Killinchy Civil Parish, County Down. This cottage dates back to the 1840s at which time Raffrey Road was a main line route to Belfast and Ballymashen cottage was just a stone’s throw from the Raffrey Coaching Inn which provided a resting stop for travellers on horseback.

County Down has a rich history, taking its name from the town of Downpatrick (from the Irish, Du´n Pa´draig, which translates as ‘Patrick’s Stronghold’). St. Patrick is believed to have conducted his first mass in Ireland in nearby Saul and he is buried beneath the memorial stone in the grounds of Down Cathedral.

The surrounding area has a rich natural heritage for you to explore as well. Follow the shore around Strangford Lough on foot, by car, bike or boat, and enjoy spotting seals and seabirds, or, get your adrenaline hit from hiking or mountain biking in the nearby Mourne Mountains.

In order to wind down, you don't need to go far. Enjoy a cold pint of Guinness and local cuisine on offer in the nearby villages of Balloo and Lisbane, or just kick back on the sofa in front of the fire in Ballymacashen Cottage and relax!