Scrabo Tower: A Stunning View From Newtownards, County Down

Scrabo Tower: A Stunning View From Newtownards, County Down

Updated On: March 06, 2024 by   ConnollyCoveConnollyCove

Standing tall and proud atop Scrabo Hill in Newtownards, County Down, the Scrabo Tower is not merely a historical monument but a symbol of resilience and beauty. This iconic landmark has captivated visitors for generations, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and providing a glimpse into the rich history of Northern Ireland. From its intriguing origins to its enduring allure, Scrabo Tower remains a cherished destination for locals and tourists alike.

The Beginning of Scrabo Tower

Scrabo Tower – Newtownards, County Down, Northern Ireland

Built in 1857 as a memorial to the 3rd Marquess of Londonderry, one of the Duke of Wellington’s generals during the Napoleonic Wars, Scrabo Tower stands on Scrabo Hill near Newtownards in County Down, Northern Ireland.

It was initially known as the Londonderry Monument, and its architecture is an example of the Scottish baronial revival style and symbolises the landlord’s chivalrous duty to his tenants.

Scrabo Tower is surrounded by Scrabo Country Park, which looks over Strangford Lough and the surrounding countryside.

Visitors can walk through the exhibition inside the tower and watch a short video explaining its long and exciting history.

History of Scrabo Tower

When the 3rd Marquess of Londonderry died in 1854, some of his family and friends decided to build him a monument, which resulted in Scrabo Tower. The top of Scrabo Hill was selected to erect the memorial as it can be seen from Mount Stewart, the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family, Marquesses of Londonderry.

The Marquis, also known as “Warring Charlie”, was well-respected and immensely loved in Ireland for his efforts to alleviate suffering during the potato famine. He earned the respect of his tenants, which prompted them to want to build a monument in his memory following his death in 1854.

Another monument, the Londonderry equestrian statue, was also built to commemorate him. This time in Durham, England.

Scrabo Tower was inhabited by the McKays, William McKay, his wife and 8 children. The descendants of the family looked after the estate until the 1960s.

Scrabo

Architecture and Viewing Decks

Visitors can climb the 122 steps to reach the viewing deck at the top of the tower for a spectacular view of Strangford Lough, The Mourne Mountains, and Belfast.

The tower was built on a site 540 feet above sea level and is 125 feet high. The walls are over a metre thick and the entire building is made of stone from Scrabo Hill.

The design of the Tower was decided upon through a competition held in 1855. The first prize went to the design submitted by William Joseph Barre. However, none of the first three projects was executed. Finally, a tender by Hugh Dixon from Newtownards for the fourth project was accepted.

This design had been submitted by the firm Lanyon & Lynn, a partnership of Charles Lanyon and William Henry Lynn that lasted from the mid-1850s to 1860. The design included a Scottish baronial-style tower that represents a symbol of the landlord as a chivalrous protector of his tenants in times of war.

The interior was left unfinished in 1859 when the cost of the building exceeded the expected budget.

The door of Scrabo Tower is surmounted by a commemorative plaque with an inscription dedicated to the 3rd Marquess:

“Erected in memory of Charles William Vane

3rd Marquis of Londonderry KG and C by his tenantry and friends

Fame belongs to history, the remembrance to us 1857.”

The budget for building Scrabo Tower was acquired through donations from 98 people, including Emperor Napoleon III.

Visiting Scrabo Tower

Scrabo Tower Newtownards, Northern Ireland

Scrabo Tower is open to the public throughout the year, with seasonal opening hours varying according to daylight hours and weather conditions. Admission fees are typically nominal, with proceeds contributing to the ongoing maintenance and preservation of the monument.

Upon arrival, visitors can park at the designated car park at the base of Scrabo Hill and embark on the short walk to the tower. Along the way, they can admire the surrounding natural beauty, including wooded areas and open countryside.

Several walking trails lead to Scrabo Tower from Newtownards and the nearby Strangford Lough for those feeling adventurous. These routes offer a more immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the diverse landscapes of County Down before reaching their destination.

Once inside the tower, visitors can climb the spiral staircase at their own pace, pausing to catch their breath and admire the views through the narrow windows. Upon reaching the viewing platform, they are greeted with a breathtaking panorama that showcases the beauty of Northern Ireland’s countryside in all its glory.

Nineteenth Century

1859 William McKay moved into the tower as a caretaker with his family. Together, they also ran a tearoom in the tower until 1966.

Later on, the tower and the grounds were acquired by the state. In 1977, the tower was listed as a Grade B+ historic building. In 2017, the tower was fully reopened to the public after extensive renovations over the past two decades.

Activities and Events

In addition to its role as a tourist attraction, Scrabo Tower serves as a venue for various events and activities throughout the year. From guided tours and historical reenactments to art exhibitions and cultural festivals, there is always something happening at Scrabo to entertain and educate visitors of all ages.

During the summer months, the grounds surrounding the tower come alive with picnics, family gatherings, and outdoor concerts, providing a vibrant atmosphere for locals and tourists alike. In winter, the tower is magical, especially when dusted with snow, offering a picturesque backdrop for holiday celebrations and festive events.

Scrabo Tower in Pop Culture

Universal Pictures filmed several scenes of Dracula Untold at Scrabo Country Park & Killynether Wood. This was one of many locations used for filming across Northern Ireland.

Game of Thrones at Scour Scrabo Tower

The creators of the popular HBO fantasy series Game of Thrones chose the area to shoot some of their scenes in the show’s fifth season back in 2014.

In Fiction

The authors also drew inspiration from the Scrabo Tower. Including a story by the Northern Irish writers Walt Willis and Bob Shaw titled The Enchanted Duplicator. The story features the Tower of Trufandom (true fandom), inspired by Scrabo Tower.

Scrabo
Scrabo Tower

Exploring Beyond Scrabo Tower

In addition to Scrabo Tower itself, the surrounding area of Newtownards and County Down offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some notable destinations near Scrabo Tower:

  1. Mount Stewart House and Gardens: Just a short drive from Scrabo Tower, Mount Stewart is a stunning 18th-century mansion set amidst expansive gardens overlooking Strangford Lough. Managed by the National Trust, Mount Stewart boasts beautifully landscaped grounds, including formal gardens, woodland walks, and picturesque lakeside vistas. The house is renowned for its lavish interiors and an extensive collection of art and antiques, making it a must-visit for history and nature enthusiasts alike.
  2. Strangford Lough: A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Strangford Lough is the largest inlet in the British Isles and a haven for wildlife and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the lough by boat, kayak, or paddleboard, taking in the scenic beauty of its tranquil waters, secluded islands, and diverse birdlife. The nearby Strangford village offers charming cafes, shops, and traditional pubs, making it an ideal stop for a stroll or a seafood lunch overlooking the water.
  3. Exploris Aquarium: Situated in Portaferry on the shores of Strangford Lough, Exploris Aquarium is Northern Ireland’s only aquarium and seal sanctuary. The aquarium features a fascinating array of marine life, including native species such as Irish Sea anemones, seahorses, and jellyfish, as well as exotic creatures worldwide. Visitors can also learn about the conservation efforts to protect Strangford Lough’s delicate ecosystem and observe rehabilitated seals in their natural habitat.
  4. Castle Ward: Another National Trust property, Castle Ward is a historic house and estate located on the shores of Strangford Lough. The estate encompasses sprawling gardens, woodland trails, and scenic vistas, offering ample exploration and outdoor recreation opportunities. Castle Ward is also famous for its dual architectural styles, with one-half of the house designed in the classical Palladian style and the other half in the Gothic Revival style, making it a fascinating destination for architecture enthusiasts.
  5. Nendrum Monastic Site: For history buffs, a visit to Nendrum Monastic Site provides a glimpse into Northern Ireland’s early Christian heritage. Located on Mahee Island in Strangford Lough, Nendrum is one of the best-preserved monastic sites in the region, featuring the ruins of a 5th-century monastery, round towers, and medieval churches. Visitors can explore the archaeological remains and learn about the daily life of the monks who inhabited the site over a thousand years ago.

These are just a few attractions near Scrabo Tower that showcase County Down’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and diverse offerings. Whether visitors are interested in history, nature, or outdoor adventure, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this picturesque corner of Northern Ireland.

Scrabo Tower is a place that should not be missed. If you’ve ever been to the area, let us know about your experience in the comments below.

Also, don’t forget to check out other places and attractions around Northern Ireland that might interest you: Castlewellan Forest Park | The Game of Thrones Tapestry | Exploring Holywood Town | Down County Museum | Greyabbey in Newtownards | Crawfordburn

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