An American tourist was left in awe after visiting the ‘cutest village’ in Northern Ireland, that boasts a historic castle and colourful houses – and it’s only 40 minutes from Belfast
The village has been named ‘the cutest’ in all of Northern Ireland
With summer months having brought sunny weather and warm days, it can be tempting to head out and go explore somewhere new, whether it’s a walking trail, a beach, or a new village you haven’t been to before. And luckily, Northern Ireland has plenty of places to pick from.
So as she was visiting Northern Ireland, travel enthusiast Taryn Donohue from Minnesota in the USA went on to share the various places she visited, offering helpful advice and recommendations for other hopeful travellers. This included sharing an insight into what she branded the ‘cutest village’ in all of Ireland. “Would you believe me if I told you this isn’t Rainbow Row in Charleston, but it’s actually Killyleagh, a village in Ireland home to the oldest inhabited castle in Ireland,” Taryn said in her video, as she went on to show off the colourful houses and historic castle.
Killyleagh is a large village and civil parish in County Down, Northern Ireland, located between Belfast and Downpatrick. The village features charming, brightly painted multi-coloured houses and cottages that line the streets leading down to the scenic harbour of Strangford Lough.
But the most famous part of the village is the historic Killyleagh Castle, a 12th-century structure dating back to 1180. The French Loire Valley-style château is also known as the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Ireland and home to the Hamilton family.
“And sometimes the family will open the gate so you can see it,” she added.
The Hamilton family bought Killyleagh Castle in the 17th century from the Savage family – a powerful Anglo-Norman family that played a significant role in Northern Ireland’s history and had owned the castle for over 300 years.
Now, the Hamilton family has also owned the castle for 300 years, and have since made significant changes to the castle, including the addition of a grand staircase and a new wing. They also built a new gatehouse, which still stands today.
The Hamilton family has also had a significant role in Northern Ireland’s history. They were involved in the Plantation of Ulster, a period of colonization by English and Scottish settlers, and were also influential in the region’s political and social landscape.
Since the castle is private residence, it’s normally not open to the public for tours. However, the castle is open to the public for special events and weddings, making it a popular destination for couples seeking a unique and romantic venue.
Other things to do in the village includes, walking through Delamont Country Park, or walk by the colourful houses and cottages before enjoying a meal or a drink at the well-rated pubs.
Taryn wrote in the caption of her post: “”Stumbled upon the cutest village in Ireland!! Killyleagh is located in Northern Ireland, about 40 minutes outside of Belfast! I loved the colourful houses! There were not a lot of tourist either!”
“Be sure to check out this quaint village next time you’re in Ireland,” she added at the end of her video.
