Downpatrick

Downpatrick is the ancient city of Down. It is the administrative centre of Historic Down and with a population of 10,133 it has the largest population in Down.

There are many sites to visit in this town and its surrounds. Downpatrick is home to Down County Museum, Down Cathedral and adjacent to it the final resting place of St Patrick along with St Brigid and St Colmcille.

Downpatrick Race course is home of the Ulster National and plays host to a series of meetings throughout the year.

The St Patrick Centre has recently opened and tells the story of Ireland's patron saint in his own words. The Centre is built below St Patrick's reputed burial site and houses a shop, restaurant and Downpatrick's Tourist Information Centre. 

The very popular Downpatrick and Co Down Railway is also based in the town.

Downpatrick is famous for its musical links.  The bands Ash and Relish both hail from the town, as did Ian Mitchell from the Bay City Rollers.