Categories: Things To DoWhat's On

It’s time to book your tickets and head to the oldest racecourse in Ireland to enjoy a day of horseracing.

Downpatrick Racecourse has a list of fixtures for 2022.

The "Randox Ulster National" Raceday starts on Sunday 20 March at 2.10pm and the last race is scheduled for 5.35pm.  If you can’t make that date then clear your diary on Friday 6 May and head for Downpatrick..

Book

Why not make a weekend of it? 

Stay in Denvir’s Hotel, in the centre of Downpatrick and enjoy the charm of the oldest surviving coaching inn in Ireland.  For dinner you can choose from a range of traditional and modern home cooked Irish fare.  They only use the freshest products, sourced locally or home grown.

Another option is to check into The Mulberrys four star accommodation, at Ballywillin, Crossgar.  At The Mulberrys, they know how important it is to take a break and recharge your batteries, whether it be a break from home schooling, use some much needed leave from work or just take in a change of scenery.

Built in 1803 and formerly the Ulster Bank, the four star Dufferin Coaching Inn & Hall retains many of the historic building’s original features and is situated in the shadows of Killyleagh Castle, one of the oldest inhabited castles in Ireland, and near the shores of Strangford Lough - one of Europe’s richest locations for marine wildlife.

Featuring seven comfortable, unique and well-appointed en-suite guest rooms, Dufferin Coaching Inn offers a unique and welcoming home from home perfect for long or short-term stays.

Go Explore 

Explore the Lecale Way and visit The Cuan for a hearty lunch or book a room and stay a bit longer.

Downpatrick Racecourse
Equestrian
Horses approaching the finish line at Downpatrick Race Course with spectators in the grand stand.

Downpatrick Racecourse is the oldest racecourse in Ireland, dating back to 1685. Today, we host 10 fixtures each year with our feature being the Randox Ulster National which this year takes place on Sunday 2nd April. The Racecourse is a hub of local life and attracts visitors from far and wide

Restaurant at Denvir's Coaching Inn
Restaurant
Front entrance to Denvirs Coaching Inn and view of Downpatrick town,

A charming Coaching Inn dating from 1642 providing bed and breakfast with restaurant service daily and entertainment four nights per week. Meals can be served in the restaurant, the bar, and in either of two function rooms, suitable for larger parties.

The Cuan
Inn
The Cuan Bedrooms

The Cuan is situated on the shores of Strangford Lough, on the Village Green in the beautiful tranquil village of Strangford. The Cuan is the perfect setting for a mid-week break, weekend getaway or an activity led holiday with the family.

Lecale Way
Walking & Hiking
Lecale Way

Long, flat walk around very scenic coastline

Dufferin Coaching Inn
Bed & Breakfast
Dufferin Coaching Inn

This beautiful Georgian Building welcomes guests throughout the year where a very warm welcome awaits. Enjoy Free Parking, WIFI, Tea/Coffee making facilities, bathrobes and slippers, Toiletries Bottled Water, and a delicious freshly cooked breakfast.

The Mulberrys
Bed & Breakfast
The Mulberrys

Tucked away in the idyllic Saint Patricks country, enjoy The Mulberrys all to yourself. 2020 is the year of the ‘staycation’ and for your comfort and safety we are offering exclusive use of our accommodation for up to 4 people only.