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The large city had humble beginnings as a settlement on a hill overlooking the River Lagan in the northeastern region of Northern Ireland. The Irish name for Lisburn was originally Lisnagarvy, meaning ring fort of the gamblers. The father of Hugh MacNeil Oge ruled the land. The ancient town had a number of motted earth and timber structures used as look out points and served as communication between the early Celtic chieftains. The community continued using these towers into the 1600s. The Druid beliefs and traditions dominated the culture until St. Patrick brought Christianity in 432 AD. Relations between the native peoples and the British crown were strained for centuries, as the people refused foreign domination.
The O’Neills emerged a powerful family and gained the acceptance and loyalty of thousands. The English attempted invasion many times, but only experienced defeat. Queen Elizabeth sent her deputy, Sir Henry Sidney, to the territory in attempts to befriend the Irish princes and Captain Killultagh. Killultagh enjoyed power and wealth, having one of his castles near Lisnagarvy. Upon Henry’s arrival, the captain refused to leave his fortress and Sidney warily refused to enter. Angered, he returned to the queen, reporting an unsuccessful journey.
Enraged, the queen declared war against the O’Neills and the rest of the territory. Skirmishes ensued until the queen promised pardons. O’Neill submitted but not all agreed with the proposal, nor desired English rule, and once again initiated battle. Upon hearing the news, the captain and sons joined the forces. Battle continued until 1602 when the Irish finally surrendered.
James Hamilton acquired the land and passed the territory onto Fulke Conway in 1604. Conway established the town streets, which still exist today. He constructed a castle on the hill and built a church. The Irish, led by Phelim O’Neill, began another rebellion, beginning in 1641. At this time, the community largely comprised British and Welsh residents. Though O’Neill had almost 10,000 troops at his command, the Civil War brought Parliamentarians and Royalists into the fight.
Lisburn fell to Cromwell, though he did not instil full domination. Charles II restored the town and requested two local residents represent Lisburn in Parliament. In 1685, political unrest in France, under the rule of Louis XIV, influenced the rapid departure of many Protestants, who arrived in Lisburn. Cloth manufacturers by trade, the French were instrumental in developing the linen industry here. Linen factories soon emerged with the assistance of the government. War again broke out in 1685, bringing James II to Lisburn where he established his headquarters. A massive fire in 1707 destroyed the entire town with the exception of the surrounding walls and gateway.
In the 1800s, weavers used rudimentary shears for cutting yarn. Robert Knox, a Scottish cutler, vastly improved the design, creating a demand he strove to fill until his death. Thread making industries became big business in Lisburn, encouraging the development of large factories. The companies employed hundreds, who created thread for shoemakers and tailors. One of the companies, owned by William Barbour and Sons, eventually developed a branch in the United States in 1883.
Activities and Attractions
Guests strolling through Lisburn find the community filled with colourful, fragrant flowers from one end to the other. The location of the expansive Conway castle estate now hosts the Castle Garden Park. Explore the vast Victorian gardens featuring the original medieval stone gateway, Victorian water fountain and more recently, war memorials. See the memorial commemorating one of Lisburn’s founding fathers along with water features and fountains. Walk along the ancient walls that once protected the city.
Visit the oldest botanical garden in the area, the Moira Demesne. Designed and constructed by Sir Arthur Rawdon in the 1600s, the site contained the first hot house. Spanning over 40 acres (16 hectares), the gardens display thousands of roses and other flowering plants, some varieties originating from Jamaica.
History buffs enjoy exploring ancient locations that include the Dunleigh motte and bailey site. The structure is all that remains of an early Norman fort. The Giant’s Ring spans an impressive 656 feet (200 metres) in diameter. Boulders and gravel surround the site bearing a Megalithic chamber constructed from massive stones. Extensive investigation dates the structure to 3,000 BC. Bridge Street, Castle Street and Market Square represent the Lisburn Historic Quarter. After the 1707 fire, this area was the first reconstructed and remains virtually unchanged.
Venture to the Lisburn Museum and learn the history behind the industry of linen making. See live demonstrations of spinning and weaving. The facility additionally contains ancient artefacts found in Lisburn, along with artistic works of Irish artists.
Places to Stay and Dining
Enjoy spacious rooms with king sized beds at one of the local brand name hotels. The following morning, the facility welcomes guests for a hearty all you can eat breakfast buffet. Children enjoy a healthy breakfast free of charge.
The Springsteen Diner offers a taste of traditional American cuisine. The menu offers a variety of hamburgers, steaks and sandwiches, served with French fries or onion rings. The facility also serves breakfast all day with options that include pancakes topped with a choice of sauces or whipped cream and fresh fruit.
Accommodation in Lisburn
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