Paddle Back in Time

The award-winning event: Paddle Back in Time

Paddle Back in Time – The Monks, Vikings and Smugglers of Strangford Lough

Whiterock – Nendrum | Strangford Lough

Paddle Back in Time is an award-winning event (National Heritage Week 2021). Let us take you on a kayak tour to Mahee Island following a traditional smuggling route undertaken by Daft Eddie and the Merry Hearts.

In Whiterock, you will be kitted out with wetsuit and buoyancy aid and briefed by local guides and kayak instructors. Rory grew up on Strangford Lough and has a real affinity and knowledge of the area, its waterways and heritage.

At Mahee Island Dr. Frances Kane (linguist and researcher in the origins of Northern Ireland’s place names ( Place Names NI and OS200) & Polly Garnett – will guide you through the ruins of the monastic site of Nendrum, life in the monastery in the Middle Ages, and the role played by the Vikings in the Strangford Lough area between the 9th and 11th centuries.

Allowing the exploration of the outdoors and the heritage at our doorstep. Moving the body and engaging the mind whilst adventuring into the waters of Strangford Lough.

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Please read our booking terms and conditions before booking.

Paddle Back in Time – Traders, Pilgrims and Vikings of the River Quoile

Jane’s Shore – Inch Abbey | Quoile River, Downpatrick

During this Canoe adventure we will explore the tranquil river Quoile to Inch Abbey, exploring the rich history that unfolded on its riverbanks.

At Jane’s Shore you will be kitted out with wetsuit and buoyancy aid and briefed by kayak instructor Rory Martin. We will then paddle towards Inch Abbey (12^th-13^th centuries), which was founded by the Anglo-Norman John de Courcy on the site of a pre-Norman church called Inis Cumhscraigh.

While paddling we’ll admire the surrounding landscape which has become a haven for freshwater wildlife. Dr. Frances Kane linguist and researcher in the origins of Northern Ireland’s place names ( Place Names NI and OS200) & Polly Garnett NISF Project Coordinator for Maps & Memories will lead us as we explore the settlements in the area throughout history. Learn how the Quoile offered protection but also limited the opportunities of trade and expansion. At Inch abbey you will discover the history of the monastic site and the role played by the Vikings in the area.

Allowing the exploration of the outdoors and the heritage at our doorstep. Moving the body and engaging the mind whilst adventuring into the waters of Strangford Lough.

Next Public Tour

Please read our booking terms and conditions before booking.