Newtownards Priory

Newtownards Priory is the surviving shell of a medieval Dominican friary in the middle of Newtownards, County Down, Northern Ireland. It is the only substantial Dominican ("Black Friars") ruin in the region, and it is now a state care monument looked after by the Department for Communities.

What is the history of Newtownards Priory?

The Savage family, Anglo-Norman lords in this part of Down, founded the house around 1244. Dominican friars lived and preached here for nearly three centuries. The community was dissolved in 1541 under Henry VIII, and in 1572 Sir Brian O'Neill's forces set the buildings on fire. Afterwards the church saw long secular use and several alterations.

What can you see on site?

The oldest fabric is the lower part of the nave and two blocked doorways in the south wall, which once opened into a cloister that no longer exists. The upper nave belongs to a 14th-century rebuild. The de Burgh family later added the western extension and the arcade of the north aisle. Because phases from different centuries stand side by side, the ruin reads like a short course in how a friary church grew. Visitors can usually follow self-guided information materials.

How do you get there, and when can you visit?

The Priory sits in the town centre off Court Street, a few minutes' walk from the bus station and the main square. Newtownards lies about 15 km east of Belfast on the shore of Strangford Lough, roughly 30 minutes by car or bus. Entry is free, but access varies. The Department lists visits by arrangement, and Discover Northern Ireland has mentioned conservation works. In 2026 the site opened on selected Saturdays from 10:00 to 16:30 as part of events marking a century of heritage protection in Northern Ireland. Phone +44 28 9082 3207 or email [email protected] before you travel.

What else is nearby?

Pair the visit with Movilla Abbey on Movilla Road, also in Newtownards. It is a far older site linked to St Finian in the 6th century, refounded as an Augustinian abbey in the 12th. Entry is free. The town also offers walking routes through its historic centre and easy access to the Strangford Lough shoreline.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an admission charge? Tourism listings give free entry. The Department notes that charges may apply in some cases, such as organised visits.

Is the priory always open? No. It opens by arrangement or on set dates, so check by phone before you go.

Who founded the priory? The Savage family, around 1244. The de Burgh family extended the building later.

How long should I allow? The priory itself takes 20 to 30 minutes. With Movilla Abbey and a stroll through the centre, plan on about two hours.