Day trips out take on a new dimension when you have a family- with 2 small children we want somewhere that we can go and get lost in and spend a good portion of the day. When you are packing the car as if you are heading away for a fortnight the last thing you want to be doing is trawling the prams in and out of the car at various stops throughout the day- what we want is one place we can head to, unpack and spend a good few hours just roaming and little little miss run wild.
I have heard of The Argory over the years, ( outside the Moy) but have never been to it, so when we were deciding where to go for a day trip we settled on this for a Sunday day out. As part of the national trust properties, we knew to expect roaming grounds and picturesque views and we were not disappointed. Driving up the lane you are immediately greeted by the beautiful Irish gentry house surrounded by gardens.
The stunning house is set amongst 320 acres of land so there is plenty of space to roam. There are some beautiful walks including the lime tree walk- a beautiful trail set off by the endless lime trees along its path. There is also the stunning River walk - a good 2 mile scenic stroll. Both are suitable for prams so no excuses!.
As well as the beautiful walks there is the most amazing Rose Garden that is just overflowing with pink roses. It is just total garden envy. There is also a great adventure play area for the wee ones- plenty to keep them entertained, and there is also a zipline which I think Myself and my husband had the most fun on! Definitely not just for kids.
The main Courtyard itself houses the Gift Shop, Coffee Shop and the old stables and a little bookshop. There's also stables for the kids to 'muck out' complete with wheelbarrows, brushes, spades and hay. Great wee added feature to keep the little ones entertained.
We went on a Sunday so there was Live Music in the courtyard and a BBQ which was lovely and really added to the atmosphere. There is also the little coffee shop to avail of some treats if you wish- there are areas on the grounds for picnics and when we go next time we will most definitely bring one with us because I just think there's nothing better than a good picnic and tea from a flask- sure isn't that the best part. We availed of the bbq on this occasion. and whilst it was lovely- it was £4 for a plain burger; which I think is a little steep ( but then I'm a savvy shopper these days with 2 children)- just something to bear in mind if you have a larger family than ours as it would add up. So picnic up is my advice.
So if you are from around this part of the world I would totally recommend a visit, We will definitely be back and we have also invested in a membership for the year and plan to make the most of it.
Directions wise the Argory is approximately 45 minutes from Belfast and Banbridge direction, 20 minutes thereabouts from Armagh direction. They have the .' Lazy Sundays' on throughout July and August and the live music is great. so there you have it- The Argory- our first experience with a National Trust day out and most surely not our last.
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