Thatches of Lough Neagh Tour

Step back into Ireland’s past on the Thatches of Lough Neagh Tour, a carefully curated journey through a collection of distinctive thatched properties that reflect everyday life in earlier centuries. From humble fishermen’s cottages and family homes to one of Ireland’s oldest thatched pubs, this tour offers an authentic insight into the traditions, stories and people that shaped the area.

Hosted by knowledgeable local guides, guests are welcomed into heritage buildings where history is still very much alive. Along the way, you’ll meet local custodians, enjoy traditional food, experience Irish music by the fire and hear stories passed down through generations. While this itinerary highlights a selection of key sites, it should be noted that other thatched properties may also form part of the tour, depending on availability and group interest.

Suggested Itinerary

Arrival 10:00 AM – Coyle’s Cottage, Ardboe

Departure 11:30 AM

Begin the day at Coyle’s Cottage, an authentic fisherman’s cottage located close to the shores of Lough Neagh. Believed to be over 200 years old, this single-room thatched cottage provides a fascinating insight into the lives of fishing families who depended on the lough for their livelihood. The visit includes stories of daily life and work, with tea and coffee available.

Travel 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM (30 minutes)

Arrival 12:00 PM – Katie’s Cottage, Bellaghy

Departure 1:30 PM

Arrive at Katie’s Cottage, a circa 1820 Grade B+ listed thatched cottage just outside Bellaghy. Sympathetically restored, the cottage offers a strong sense of rural domestic life and family heritage. Lunch is served on site, featuring homemade soup and freshly baked bread.

Travel 1:30 PM – 2:15 PM (45 minutes)

Arrival 2:15 PM – President Arthur Homestead, Cullybackey

Departure 4:15 PM

Visit Arthur Cottage, the ancestral home of Chester Alan Arthur, the 21st President of the United States. The preserved cottage features period artefacts and a traditional turf fire, with a knowledgeable guide sharing stories of domestic life, emigration and Irish-American connections. Traditional Irish bread-making demonstrations are included, with samples provided. A separate interpretive centre offers additional historical context.

Travel 4:15 PM – 4:45 PM (30 minutes)

Arrival 4:45 PM – Crosskeys Inn

Departure 7:45 PM

Conclude the day at Crosskeys Inn, Ireland’s oldest thatched pub, dating back to 1654. Relax by the turf fire during a traditional music session, with dinner suggested and group dining options available to round off the experience.

Tour Information

• Duration: Full day

• Experience type: Heritage, culture and local stories

• Group size: Suitable for groups up to 29 (max coach size for access: 29 seater)

• Seasonality: Available subject to site availability

• Note: This is a suggested itinerary; alternative thatched properties may be included