Portaferry is a picturesque and popular tourist destination sited on the shores of Strangford Lough.
We will spend 1.5 hours on a gentle circular walk around the town on this 'walk and talk' tour. We will begin on the shores of Strangford Lough where the ferry departs half-hourly for the short journey across to Strangford. Portaferry has a history stretching back many centuries. On this tour I will take you on a fun and informative journey through the centuries sharing significant developments e.g. arrival of the Vikings and also the fascinating life stories of the key people who shaped the economic and social history of the town. You will learn about some of the famous local emigrants, smugglers and saints! Then hop on the ferry to travel the short journey (8 mins) to Strangford village, where there are lovely coffee shops and a hotel, and back again to Portaferry. The tour departs from outside the Portaferry Hotel, Shore Street and ends outside the Portaferry Hotel.

We will visit the ancient Christian site in the town dating back to the 7th century. Today there are church ruins and a graveyard on this site, Templecranny. You will explore the headstones of notable residents of the town. As we go around the town you will learn the storey behind the many fine architectural buildings including a church built in the style of the Greek temple of Nemesis! Enjoy hearing about the Presbyterian minister who set up a temperance movement while at the same time being a lover of fine wine!
Portaferry was once an important centre for shipbuilding and was an important emigrant port for North America.