Nendrum Monastic Site

Places to See | Co. Down, Northern Ireland.

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Nendrum Monastery, on Mahee Island, Co Down,  was founded by St Machaoi in the 5^th Century and was at its prime in the year 1000. The remains of this important pre-Norman monastery include three concentric enclosures (stone walls), with ruined church, round tower stump, foundations of huts and workshops, sundial, cross-slabs and a graveyard.  It is thought to be the best example of a pre-norman monastic site in Northern Ireland.

The site was “lost” for hundreds of years, before being re-discovered in the late 1800’s and excavated in the 1920’s.  Many of the artefacts found were removed to the Ulster Museum.

It is a magical place, a beautiful island accessible by bridges, with dry stone walls and heavenly views. The site, one of the most historic sites in Northern Ireland, includes a small museum & visitor centre.

The visitor centre houses interactive and graphic displays, models, artefacts and video.

Address: Nendrum Monastic Site, Comber, Newtownards, Co. Down

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