The Argory House in County Armagh, NI

Another fine example of Neo-classical 18th-century buildings in Ireland is the stunning Argory House. The incredible house was first built in the 1820s and is surrounded by its 130-hectare wooded riverside estate. Its excellent hillside location offers views over the gardens and the surrounding wooded estate.

Nothing much has changed about the house today, as it still carries its beautiful 18th-century charm and design. Much of this is due to its ownership by the National Trust, which does its best to preserve heritage sites in Ireland.

To visit The Argory House, you must head to County Armagh in Northern Ireland.

History of the Irish Mansion

The house was designed for the McGeough Bond family by two brilliant Dublin Architects, Arthur and John Williamson. The Argory was designed in the Greek Revival style, a hugely popular architectural movement in the late 18th and 19th centuries. Many houses and buildings in Ireland during this century were designed in this unique style.

In 1989, an awful fire broke out within the house. The Argory had to be rebuilt and modified shortly after. Much of the remodelling of the mansion took place during the 19th century. It still contains some original Victorian furniture, just as the Bond family had left it.

The interior is just as impressive as the exterior, which includes ornate metalwork, marble walls, and polished brass staircase balusters.

The McGeough-Bond Legacy

Family Life

Life at The Argory was a blend of aristocratic grandeur and pastoral simplicity. Like many of their contemporaries, the McGeough-Bond family led lives marked by a strict social hierarchy and a strong sense of duty towards their tenants and estates. The mansion served as a vibrant centre of social activity, hosting lavish parties, hunting expeditions, and cultural events. Yet, it was also a family home, with the daily rhythms of life shaped by the seasons, agricultural cycles, and the personal interests of its inhabitants.

Significant Events

Over the years, The Argory witnessed numerous significant events, both personal and historical. During the 19th century, the family played a crucial role in local politics and the administration of justice, with several members serving as High Sheriffs and Justices of the Peace. The house also served as a refuge during social unrest, providing a haven for those displaced by the Great Famine and subsequent economic hardships.

Impressive Art Installation at The Argory

Besides visiting the house for its historical value and beautiful design, an incredible new art installation is inside. You can check this out during a guided tour at the Argory.

In 1906, Argory first installed its original acetylene gas lighting system, which was considered cutting-edge at the time. The lighting system created a distinctive glow.

Over the last few years, the Argory has been undergoing a conversion project to remove 100 years of dirt and tarnish from the unique collection of brass fittings. The last phase of this project was to remove the magnificent chandelier located in the west hall for restoration. The National Trust took the opportunity to use the space excitingly and innovatively. That’s when the art installation idea was put forward.

Emma Cunningham, the general manager of the National Trust in Mid Ulster, says, “Remarkable strides were made at The Argory in the development of modern lighting systems. We wanted to celebrate that innovation.”

This was also the first time a modern art installation has been added to one of the Trust’s historic houses. Northern Irish Artist Kevin Killen was asked to create the art installation. He specialises in the unique creation of neon light sculptures.

Behind the Design Creation

The idea was to create a bespoke art installation with a contemporary design at the forefront. The result was inspired by the glow of the acetylene gas flame that lit up the Argory. The new art installation offers a more modern take on the celebrating form of lighting.

The artist likes to use neon light to map out people’s stories, lives, and histories, which helps create his design.  “Using the tour of the house as a starting point, I photo-documented a staff member traversing the tour route and translated that into a neon map. The piece embodies the owners, staff and visitors throughout the house’s history. While the spiral patterns inspire the spiral shape in the house’s décor.” Explained Kevin Killen, the artist.

The art installation isn’t short of a masterpiece and is open to the public until November 2019.

The installation is only the starting point of a more extensive programme to bring the story of The Argory’s technology and innovation to life. This will include new interpretations, trails, events, and an exciting science room, all coming into place in 2019. So, if there is any time to Visit Argory House, it is the year. Amazing things are happening.

The Grounds and Gardens

Landscape Design

The grounds of The Argory are a testament to the art of landscape gardening, blending formal and informal elements to create a harmonious whole. The formal gardens, with their geometric layouts and carefully tended flowerbeds, contrast beautifully with the naturalistic woodland walks and sweeping lawns. The estate, which covers approximately 320 acres, includes a variety of habitats, from ancient woodlands to river meadows, each supporting a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

Notable Features

Among the many highlights of the grounds are the rose garden, its stunning blooms, and the walled garden, which once supplied the house with fresh produce. The woodland walks, lined with ancient oaks and chestnuts, offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. At the same time, the riverside paths provide breathtaking views of the River Blackwater and the surrounding countryside.

Gift Shop and Blackwaters Books

While visiting the house, you must stop by the Blackwater Bookshop, which helps to raise money for the ongoing projects at the Argory. The bookshop is full of unique titles in various genres—something to suit all book lovers, from novels to travel books, cooking books, children’s books, and more.

Also, don’t forget the on-site gift shop, which offers a wide variety of items to buy for you or as a gift. Items at the gift shop include throws and rugs that are perfect for adding to your house. With new stock coming to their shelves, I’m sure something will interest you.

Visitor Experience

Guided Tours

Visitors to The Argory can explore the house and grounds through guided tours, each offering a unique perspective on its history and heritage. The standard house tour provides an in-depth look at the mansion’s architecture, furnishings, and family history, while the garden tour highlights the beauty and diversity of the estate’s landscape. Special themed tours, such as the Christmas tour, offer a seasonal glimpse into the McGeough-Bond family’s life and the Georgian-era traditions.

Family-Friendly Activities

The Argory is a family-friendly destination, offering a range of activities designed to engage and entertain visitors of all ages. The children’s trail, for example, takes young visitors on a journey of discovery through the house and grounds, with interactive activities and quizzes along the way. The woodland play area, with its natural play structures and picnic spots, provides a perfect place for families to relax and enjoy the estate’s beauty.

Events and Festivals

The Argory hosts various events and festivals annually, celebrating everything from local crafts and produce to music and theatre. For example, the annual spring and autumn fairs feature stalls selling artisan goods, local produce, handmade crafts, live entertainment, and family activities. The Christmas season, meanwhile, sees the mansion adorned with festive decorations, offering visitors a magical experience with candlelit tours, carol singing, and visits from Father Christmas.

Other things not to miss on a visit to Argory:

• The Beautiful Courtyard Displays
• Woodland and riverside trails offer gorgeous views
• The Adventure playground and environmental sculpture trail
• Afternoon tea at Lady Ada’s tearoom

Conclusion

The Argory House is more than just a historic mansion; it is a living testament to the rich cultural heritage of County Armagh and the enduring legacy of the McGeough-Bond family. Its architectural splendour, artistic treasures, and stunning landscapes offer visitors a unique and immersive experience, transporting them back to the elegance and grandeur of the Georgian era. Under the stewardship of the National Trust, The Argory continues to thrive as a centre of education, culture, and community, ensuring that its timeless beauty and historical significance are preserved for future generations to enjoy.

For those seeking to explore Northern Ireland‘s heritage, The Argory House is a must-visit destination. It offers a rare glimpse into the past and a chance to experience the enduring charm of one of County Armagh’s most treasured landmarks. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of architecture, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in the countryside, The Argory promises an unforgettable journey through time and tradition.

Other worthy reads:

Florence Court: 18th Century House in County Fermanagh| Springhill House: A Pretty 17th Century Plantation House| County of Armagh: A Home of Northern Ireland’s Most Worth-Visiting Sites| Castle Ward: A Place with a Remarkable History| The Charming Town of Carlingford|