|
The community developed on either side of the River Clanrye in the southern portion of Northern Ireland. Prehistoric hunter/gatherers arrived 10,000 years ago. The community derived its name from the legend that claims that during his travels, St. Patrick planted a Yew tree here. Newry has been continually inhabited from the 6th century and was for centuries ruled by the Irish Kings. Monks had a monastery, which they enlarged in 1142, the structure incurred fire damage in 1162. The monks restored the complex and converted to monastery into a Cistercian order. In 1543, the structure became a collegiate church.
Rory O’ Connor was a prominent landowner, engaged in a feud with another wealthy resident, Dermot MacMurrough. MacMurrough ousted O’Connor who fled to Wales for assistance from wealthy barons. The barons arrived in Newry for their own selfish desires to expand wealth and holdings. This event began the Norman Invasion in 1167.
One of these barons was the Norman knight John de Courcey, who constructed a motte and bailey castle. The land then passed to Hugh de Lacy, but convicted of treason, King John confiscated all of the properties.
Edward Bruce arrived in 1315, conquered the territory and declared himself King of Ireland. He was murdered in 1318. The community transferred to the O’Neill family who enjoyed a great deal of influence and wealth. The clan gained notoriety for fighting English control over Ireland. Under the rule of Henry VIII, Gaelic clothing, customs and language were prohibited. If property owners submitted to the king, they acquired the right to maintain properties, but under an English title.
In 1542, one of the O’Neills submitted and received the title Earl of Tyrone. Other family members did not agree. In 1550, an English mercenary named Nicholas Bagenal fled to Ireland to escape punishment for murder. He eventually received a pardon and became Marshall of the Army. Bagenal based his military headquarters in Newry. The O’Neills and Bagenal descendants continued the battle for dominance. Finally, under the lordship of a wealthy baron named Mountjoy, O’Neill endured defeat and fled to Spain in 1601. War torn, Newry residents suffered from famine and poverty. English and Scottish immigrants soon arrived, but scattered throughout the country.
Conflicts between Catholics and Protestants, along with the simultaneous Civil War left Newry destroyed by 1649. Robert Nedham acquired the lands in 1712. Accepting of all cultures and religious beliefs, Nedham inspired Newry residents to rebuild the community. Improvements included bridges and warehouses. Coal mining influenced a shipping industry and before long Newry was a busy port.
By 1770, Newry experienced prosperity because of a canal, breweries, and linen mills. The community also developed salt and sugar refineries along with an iron foundry.
Activities and Attractions
Sitting in a valley surrounded by the Mourne Mountains and the Ring of Gulliom, provides plenty of opporunities for exploration, hiking and rock climbing. While venturing around the countryside and through the mountains, paths often lead to prehistoric sites. Ancient peoples constructed the Annaghmore Court Cairn almost 6,000 years ago and probably used the location for rituals and as a burial site. Visitors enjoy walks along the River Clanrye. The river affords boating and fishing options.
Stroll to the Newry Mourne Museum, housed in the 17th century Bagenal’s Castle. The location contains artefacts, illustrations and interactive displays exploring the cultural and social history of the community, from prehistoric times to the 21st century.
The Gothic castellated Newry Cathedral stands majestically in the centre of the city. Completed in 1829, the structure contains decorative marbles and mosaics created by artisans from Italy. Visitors may tour the expansive structure and explore all of the building’s elegant features that include stained glass windows.
Along the Carlingford Lough of the River Clanrye lies the 16th century Narrow Water Castle. Constructed as a military stronghold in the 1500s by Hugh de Lacy, walls surround the large tower house structure having walls approximately 5 feet (1.5 metres) thick. The building has three stories and a drained wall walk along the peak.
Places to Stay and Dining
Guests may indulge in a regal stay at hotels located along the scenic canal. Many facility rooms contain king sized beds as part of the standard furnishings. Rooms also regularly have hospitality trays and private Jacuzzi baths.
When in the mood for fast food, guests often make a trip to Friar Tuck’s family restaurant. Satisfy a guilty pleasure with beef or chicken burgers and fries. The facility also serves dinner box meals containing choice of meat and chips, accompanied by a soft drink.
Accommodation in Newry
Show Hotels in Newry
| 