As you enter Strangford village you cannot miss the landmark church perched to your right on top of Quarry Hill. Saved from ruin by its local owners, the church has been lovingly restored and sympathetically converted into stunning self-catering tourist accommodation, awarded five stars by Tourism Northern Ireland.
Passing through the original wrought iron gate and up the steps you enter the leafy church grounds. The path leads you directly to the imposing main entrance set in a striking blue classical façade. You enter the church via the vestibule, with a stone floor worn by countless feet since 1846. Double doors open into the sanctuary, this huge light filled space is the centrepiece of the church featuring double height ceilings, ornate cornicing and plasterwork, wooden panelling and full height Georgian windows. The open plan sanctuary has 4 zones: kitchen, dining, lounge and TV - a fantastic social space.
Overlooking the sanctuary on the mezzanine level is a gallery with glass balustrades. This is reached from the sanctuary via a staircase woven into the original church pulpit. Settle down up here with a book and enjoy fantastic views towards Castleward Bay.
The modern high specification kitchen is equipped with everything you might need. All the expected appliances are present with some nice extras such as a wine cooler and coffee machine. The dining table can accommodate up to 12 people.
A stove (fuel provided) forms a focal point for the lounge area with plenty of comfortable seating.
Tucked into an alcove in the corner of the sanctuary is a TV area, with a 50” internet enabled TV/DVD. The sanctuary also has a Bluetooth sound system so you can stream your favourite playlists. There is superfast broadband with full wireless coverage throughout the building.
To the back are 3 ground floor bedrooms and a family bathroom. Upstairs on the mezzanine level are a further 2 bedrooms. All bedrooms have either king or superking beds with high quality comfortable mattresses. Bedding and towels provided. 2 bedrooms have an option to be converted to twin rooms upon request. All bedrooms have an internet enabled TV, desk and ample storage.
4 of the five bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms with large walk in showers. The 5th bedroom has direct access to the family bathroom which has a free standing bath and separate walk in shower.
Modern heating and hot water systems work seamlessly in the background with the option to control directly should you wish. A laundry and drying room is provided in the grounds adjacent to the church side entrance. This building can also be used as a secure lock up for bicycles, golf clubs or other equipment.
The church is elevated above the street level and surrounded by mature trees providing further privacy. There are views across rolling green fields and to Castleward Bay. The grounds are fully enclosed by traditional stone walls providing a safe enclosed space. Set mainly in lawn the garden includes a barbecue area and additional seating areas where you can sit back and listen to the calls of Curlews and Oyster Catchers in the Bay.
The church is child friendly with safety features considered within the design. Stairgates, travel cots and high chairs are available on request. A toy cupboard will keep both the young and young at heart occupied.
A generous welcome pack is provided with essential provisions and local produce. Essentials such as bin bags, washing powder, dishwasher tablets and cleaning products are provided.
Unfortunately due to the historic nature of the property it is not possible to accommodate pets.
The church layout lends itself to corporate events and training/activity days and group activities such as walking / cycling tours and golf. Get in touch to discuss.
There is no onsite parking, however, parking is readily available on the street directly in front of the Church. It is unrestricted (no cost or permit required).
The church is ideally suited to small, low key social gatherings, wedding groups, friends and family occasions. Due to our village location and beautiful (but delicate) original features please note it is not suitable for parties involving outside guests and noise must be limited at night. Apologies, we don’t accept hen or stag bookings.