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Georgian Festival: 48-Hour Couple Itinerary

Taking place from 28 November to 1 December 2024, Armagh’s splendid Georgian Festival is a delightful way to kick off the festive season!

Experience the unique festive charm of this award-winning event! Browse an artisan market filled with crafts, food, and special gifts, and join guided walking tours that unveil the captivating stories of the Georgian era. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with Georgian characters in the streets and music at every turn. The Armagh Georgian Festival is famous for spreading Christmas cheer, making it one of the best festive weekends in Northern Ireland!

To inspire your trip, we’ve pulled together a 48-hour itinerary to help you plan your visit!

Day 1: Friday 29th November

Getting Here

Getting to the Armagh Georgian Festival is easy! It’s just 60 minutes from Belfast or 90 from Dublin by car, with direct bus links from many areas across Northern Ireland and Republic Of Ireland. The Enterprise train runs between Dublin and Belfast, stopping at Newry and Portadown.  For more travel information, click here.

4.00pm: Arrive in Armagh

With a range of hotels, self-catering, guest houses and B&B accommodation located within easy reach of the city, you’ll experience the warmest of welcomes no matter where you stay. Explore the full range of accommodation here.

5.30pm: Dinner at Groucho’s

Just a short 15-minute drive or taxi ride from the city will take you to Richhill, home to Groucho’s, a charming family-run pub in the heart of Orchard County. Enjoy a delicious meal from a menu that balances modern and traditional dishes, with seasonal weekly specials that are always a favourite!

8.00pm: Georgian Ghost Tour

Now it’s time for your first Georgian themed activity of the weekend and what better way to start than a ghoulish evening walking tour (approx. 1.5km in distance) where you will hear spine-chilling stories about some of the ghosts of Armagh City.  To pre-book click here

9.00pm: Nightcap

After your tour, unwind in one of Armagh’s cozy bars. There are plenty of options to quench your thirst. Step off bustling Market Street to find The Hole In The Wall, a historic gem dating back to 1615 that once served as a gaol. Red Ned’s offers a vibrant atmosphere with traditional music every Friday, making for a lively evening. Alternatively, visit Keegan’s Bar & Restaurant, a family-run pub known for its friendly service and great prices. Enjoy your evening!

Day 2: Saturday 30th November

Today’s the day! Georgian Day – the highlight of the festival – has arrived. You can’t help but feel the Christmas spirit in the air as you enjoy roasting chestnuts and mulled spices, hear the horses’ hooves along the Mall and enjoy the Christmas entertainment, which adds to the festive atmosphere on the day.

We recommend kickstarting the day with a hot breakfast at your accommodation as restaurants and food stalls can get very busy.

Top tip: Wrap up warmly and wear appropriate footwear as this event is outdoors.

12pm: Courthouse Mock Trials – pre-booking required

Step into Armagh Courthouse for an interactive and often hilarious experience of Georgian justice. Play your part as a jury member in this engaging mock trial. Tickets are popular, so book ahead here! (Also available at 2pm)

Following the mock trial, wander along The Mall, which will be a hive of activity including horse and carriage rides, Georgian stalls, festive music, and hot chestnuts.

1.15pm Georgian Ladies Who Lunch at Armagh County Club

Watch the ladies of Armagh as they prepare for their midday repast, enjoying some light gossip while sipping their scandal broth. Tickets can be booked here.

2.00pm: Georgian Day Artisan Market

Next, head to the Hot Food Village on Russell Street for a quick bite before exploring the artisan food and craft stalls in Market Street and the City Centre. Get a head start on your Christmas shopping by browsing over 100 stalls featuring handmade gifts and artisanal food and drink. Enjoy the sight of Georgian characters strolling the streets or take a short walk to the Hill of Armagh, where the Robinson Library and No. 5 Vicars’ Hill invite you to step back in time. With brass bands and carol singers filling the air, it’s hard not to get into the Christmas spirit!

4pm:     Guided Georgian Walking Tours

Delve into the fascinating Georgian history of Armagh on this lively 90-minute walking tour which explores the different locations of Armagh connected with the Georgian era. Tickets can be pre-booked here. (Tours also available at 12pm, 2pm and 3pm) Please note: Dress appropriately and wrap up warm.  A moderate level of fitness is required for this walk.

After your walking tour you can continue to browse the Georgian Day stalls, listen to the choir and enjoy the night lights in the city centre until 8pm.

7pm:     Dinner at Uluru Bistro

Uluru Bar & Grill is an award-winning Australian style restaurant that celebrates authentic cooking with an Australian twist. Serving a wide range of menu options complimented by an extensive wine and cocktail menu, it is the perfect way to end the day. Top Tip: Pre-book your table for Georgian Day!

Day 3: Sunday 1st December

Morning: Breakfast and Check-Out

After yesterday’s action-packed day, relax and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out of your accommodation.

1.00pm: Walk around The Palace Demesne

If you enjoy the great outdoors with a combination of beautiful views, we suggest you work up an appetite with a crisp winter walk through the splendid Place Demesne with its towering mature trees and open green spaces.

After your stay, we are sure you will see just why Armagh Georgian Festival is one of Northern Ireland’s most popular festive events. Keep up to date with all the festivities on Instagram and share your trip using @visitarmagh #ArmaghGeorgianFestival24.