Saul Community Association has been established to celebrate and promote everything that makes the Saul area special, from its rich heritage to its welcoming community spirit. One of the first big ideas to come forward was to create something that would not only bring local people together, but also help visitors discover the very best of Saul and its surrounding countryside.
The vision was to start by creating a visitor map of Saul, highlight local hotspots, walking paths, and points of interest, all brought to life through artwork created by the community itself. With support from Down Community Arts and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland Lottery Fund, the Association partnered with local artist Rene Mullin to design this unique visitor map of Saul.
Rene introduced participants to the art of lino block printing, running workshops where local people learned new skills and produced original images that represent landmarks and landscapes in the Saul area. These prints were then digitised and incorporated into a beautifully designed map (below).
The result is something truly special:
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For the community, the project built connections, skills, and pride.
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For visitors to the area, the new Saul Map offers an authentic, local guide to hidden gems, scenic walks, and favourite spots, all recommended by the people who know the area best.
Whether you’re here to explore the countryside, discover local history, or simply enjoy the warm community atmosphere, the Saul Map is your key to experiencing this special corner of County Down.
Where is Saul, Downpatrick?
Saul, just a few miles from Downpatrick in County Down, is a village full of history, natural beauty, and local charm. Known as the site where St Patrick first landed in Ireland, Saul offers visitors a unique blend of heritage, scenic countryside, and coastal views across nearby Strangford Lough. Beyond its historic significance, the village is surrounded by walking trails, hidden viewpoints, and local landmarks waiting to be explored. The Saul Visitor Map, created by the community, highlights the very best of the area of Saul, from picturesque walks and heritage sites to local hotspots and secret gems, giving visitors an authentic, insider guide to discovering all that Saul and its surroundings have to offer.
Click here to download a copy of the Saul Visitor Map to save to your device.
