Chapter IV: Part 4

LETTERKENNY, about 25 m. N.E. of Donnegal, and 15 m. W.N.W. of Londonderry, forms a good station for visiting the wild scenery towards the coast. At Ards Castle, see ruins of Castle and Baltimore Ch. Dunfanaghy has some castellated ruins in its vicinity. At Hornhead, 28 m. W. from Letterkenny, see a remarkable cavern called Mac Swine's Gun, on a rocky cliff 60 feet perpendicular. Of these rocks the lower stratum is porous sandstone, hollowed into a cavern by the violence and continual buffeting of the waves, from whence an aperture proceeds to the summit. When the wind comes from the N.W. the billows being driven with great violence into the cavern, the water thus forced to find a passage through the aperture, rises to the summit of the funnel, from whence it again descends with a most tremendous noise. Near this is MacSwine's Castle, an ancient edifice, now fitted up as a modern residence. See Rutland, a modern fishing-town, worthy the notice of the statistical tourist. Kilmacrenan, about 8 m. N., has some ecclesiastical ruins, founded by St. Columb, of which the parish Ch. forms a part. See the rock on which the O'Donnels, princes of Tyrconnel, were always inaugurated; also Lough Salt, in a romantic situation on the summit of a mountain. Murkish Mountain, situated within 4 m. of two deep and safe harbours, Dunfanaghy and Sheephaven, affords siliceous sand in great abundance. Rathmelton is a beautiful village on the banks of Lough Swilly: see Sir J. Stewart's handsome seat. The scenery around is delightful; much planting, a fine river, and every appearance of increasing industry and comfort. W. of Rathmelton is the bridge of Loughaugh, an arch of 52 feet span. Ascend Mount Alt, on the summit of which a lake with most extensive prospect, combining ocean and mountain scenery.

LIFFORD, 28 m. N.E. of Donnegal, is prettily seated on the river Foyle, and is the assize town for the county. The tourist will here find the inhabitants a complete Scotch colony.

RAPHO, 24 m. N.E. of Donnegal, was an episcopal city, but now a dilapidated village.--See the Episcopal Palace, once a Castle which stood a siege in the Civil Wars: also the modernized Cathedral. Near Ballybofy see Lough Mourne, and the dreary mountains of Barnsmore.

TORY ISLAND, which lies about 3 leagues from the main, N.W. from Sheephaven, contains the ruins of a monastery and of seven churches, having formerly been a "station," or place of Catholic penance.

MINERALS.

Sandstone and basaltes or whinstone, with pieces of coal imbedded, are frequent in Kilbarrow and Kildoney. Emery is also found in the same vicinity, and the chalybeates announce the existence of iron. Lead and iron ore are to be found in the mountains.

BOTANY.

_Galium boreale_, Crosswort Madder:--in mountainous meadows.

_Gnaphalium sylvaticum_, Upright Cudweed:--in sandy pastures and woods.

_T. Fielding fc._

_View from Warren Point Near Newry._]

DOWN.

The modern picture of this county, as sketched by Mr. Wakefield, is flattering to Irish pride, and shows what may be done by industry. He observes that in the western side in particular, the land is in a high state of cultivation, and inhabited by a middle class of opulent manufacturers, whose appearance and condition would do honour to any country in Europe. Their habitations are well-built, display great neatness, and are all whitewashed. The whole tract is embellished with plantations; and, whether owing to the wealth created by the linen manufacture, or the trade carried on at Belfast and Newry, every thing exhibits evident signs of increased population and industry. The banks of the rivers Bann and Lagan are covered with bleach-fields, and present that cheerful and pleasing scenery which characterizes a manufacturing country, and excites in the mind an idea of improved civilization. The whiteness of the linen spread out in those fields, contrasted with the greenness of the surrounding sward, produces an effect on the eye not easily described; and the concomitant objects, added to the bustle and activity of the people employed, render the whole scene most interesting. In the S. the mountains of Mourne raise their majestic heads to the sky, and afford much entertainment to the picturesque tourist, who may visit them from Rosstrevor; and it is a curious fact recently noticed, that a road leading to Carlingford over one of the loftiest, is actually cut through a stratum of sea shells (_Turbo littoreus_) of considerable depth, and more than 1 m. in length. The roads are good in all parts, and the accommodations comfortable. Bounded on the N. by Antrim, E. by St. George's Channel, S. by Louth, and W. by Armagh.

BALLYNAHINCH, 10 m. N.W. of Downpatrick, seated on a small river nearly in the centre of the county, has been long celebrated for its sulphurated chalybeate spa, at the foot of Slieve Croob mountain at about 2 m. dist. The vicinity is peculiarly romantic. See Ch., Charter-school, and Dissenting Meeting-house. See on the summit of Slieve Croob mountain a remarkable cairn, 80 yards in circumference at base, and 50 at top; another near Annadorn in its immediate vicinity with a rude stone chamber in the centre. The space between Slieve Croob and Ballynahinch is so completely occupied with rocks and hills, that anciently it bore the name of Magheradrol, or Field of Difficulties.

BANBRIDGE, about 18 m. W. from Downpatrick, has a bridge over the Bann, and is in the heart of the linen manufacture. At Gilford, 5 m. distant, is a chalybeate; and the river scenery, especially in the vicinity of its bridge of 18 arches, deserves notice. At Warringston see Ch. with curious roof of Irish oak; also a Danish rath.

BANGOR, a small town 21 m. N. of Downpatrick on Carrickfergus Bay. See ruins of Abbey founded by St. Carigel (555), with Ch. (1623). Near it is Groom's Port, where Schomberg landed with K. William's forces at the Revolution.

COMBER, a thriving little town on Strangford Lough, 13 m. N. of Downpatrick, with pleasant lake scenery. See ruins of Mount Alexander Castle; fine strand at low water, and most excellent race-course. In this place the tourist will hear much of a famous female spinner, Anne MacQuillin, some of whose finest yarn, spun into 105 hanks to the pound of flax, actually measured 214 English miles per pound. To spin this required about a fortnight, and could only be done in mild weather. At Castlereagh, 4 m., see ruins of ancient Castle. At Drumbo, 5 m. S.W. of Castlereagh, see ruins of Ch. and round tower, formerly an Abbey founded by St. Patrick; and 2 m. N. the Giant's Ring, already noticed as in the vicinity of Belfast. It is an ancient circle and mound of earth 842 paces in circumference, with a Druidical altar in the centre, consisting of four masses of stone, with a larger one laid horizontally. On the bank are the remains of a round tower. It is worth observing, that although there are some lofty mountains in its vicinity, yet a person standing at the Cromlech in the centre has his view completely bounded by the earthen mound, beyond which the sky alone is visible, and the effect sublime. About 3 m. distant on the banks of the Lagan is Newtonbreda, a pretty village with extremely handsome Ch.; and near to it the elegant seat and park of Belvoir. Saintfield, 5 m. S.W. of Comber, is an improving town; near which is a Danish rath worth seeing.

DONAGHADEE, the station for the Scottish packets, about 22 m. N. of Downpatrick, a comfortable town. See Gothic Ch. and new market-place. The pier forms a pleasant walk. See the rath 70 feet high on a natural mount, 140 feet in all. The summit is capable of holding 100 persons, and the view, over the channel, of Scotland and the Isle of Man is very extensive. Whilst in this vicinity, the tourist will be amused by a marine trip to the Copland Isles, on one of which, Cross Island, containing about 30 acres, there is a light-house constructed of limestone found on the spot. In one of them is a cemetery with the ruins of a Ch., also several cairns. See Portavo and ruins of Temple Ch. on the beach, on the spot where St. Patrick landed.

DOWNPATRICK, 74 m. N. of Dublin, is the county town, pleasantly seated on an arm of Strangford Lough. See remains of ancient Abbey and Cathedral, boasted of as the burial-place of St. Patrick, St. Columb, and St. Bridget: Town-hall; Market-house; Barracks; Gaol: on the N.W. is a conical rath, 60 feet high, inclosed by 3 ramparts; the race-ground 1 m. distant. Struel Wells, celebrated as a Penitentiary, about 1 m. from the town. At Ardglass, 5 m. S.E. in Irish Channel, ruins of several Castles. Ballycarn Bay in its vicinity has a beautiful grotto under a limestone hill, with an intensely cold well. W. of it is Ballyvaston. See an extensive tract of land, rendered sterile by sand from the ocean. Carreg Abbey; ruins of Abbey and St. Finian's Well are near Ardglass; also Castle Screan, built on a Danish rath, with several Druidical remains. Coil-bridge, the Port of Downpatrick, leads to Inis Courcey, where are some ruins of an Abbey (1180). Killough, 5 m. S.E., is a pleasant village, with good harbour on the Irish Channel. See Ch.; Horse-barracks; Charter-school, and near it a mineral spring. In a rock near the shore runs an oblong cavity, which at the ebbing and flowing of the tide emits a noise like a hunting-horn: St. Scordin's Well gushes out of a rock on the beach, and is never dry. Saul Abbey in ruins, with some castellated remains, is about 2 m. from Downpatrick.

DROMORE, about 18 m. N.W. of Downpatrick, is a bishop's see, but now merely a village.--See the very small Cathedral and neat modern Episcopal Palace. Danish rath on hill at N. side, with a covered passage 260 feet to the Lagan river. Chalybeate spring, said to be good in gravelly complaints. Neat Market-house; Dissenting Meeting-houses, &c. Dromaragh, 6 m. S.E., has some curious artificial caves of considerable extent. S.E. towards Slieve-croob, at Leganeny, a curious cromlech, and ancient stone cross near Drumgooland Ch. Magheralin, 5 m. N.W., has a handsome Ch.; see marble quarries. At Moira, 4 m. N.W., the scene of a sanguinary battle in 637, which lasted six days, between Congal Claon and Donald King of Ireland; see Moira Castle.

DUNDRUM, 7 m. S.W. of Downpatrick, is seated on a large bay open to the Irish Channel--See extensive ruins of ancient Castle on a rock, built by the Knights Templars, but dismantled by Cromwell. Here the noble mountains of Mourne appear to great advantage. Clogh, a small village 2 m. N.E., has a Danish rath surrounded by a broad deep fosse, with plain strong Castle; and near it Mount Panther, seat of the Annesleys. Castle Wellan has a small lake with pretty scenery; near it, Briansford, a village seated midst romantic mountain landscape, rocks, cataracts, &c. New Castle has some castellated ruins at the foot of Slieve Donard, the highest of the Mourne mountains; and is a much frequented sea-bathing place. The vicinity wild and sterile, but alpine and highly romantic. S. of Dundrum, at Slidderyford, are remains of a Druidical circle. Tullymore Park, near to it, is the seat of the Earl of Clanbrassil, and is situated at one end of the mountains of Mourne, and within 2 m. of the sea. The country around it is wild and rocky, exhibiting some scenes of singular beauty in the romantic style. Two mountain torrents join in the Park, and form sundry cascades in their passage to the sea, into which they fall at Dundrum Bay. The house stands in the park, and, though not lofty in itself, yet commands a fine prospect from its elevated situation. It is an extensive edifice with four fronts of 130 feet each, inclosing a square area, and each front is different from the others; 10 m. from Downpatrick.

HILLSBOROUGH, 18 m. N.W. of Downpatrick, a modern built town with excellent inn. See elegant Ch. with stained glass windows; the mansion of the marquis of Downshire; remains of Castle; handsome Market-house; Maze course, 1 m. distant, one of the finest in Ireland, with a hill in the centre. At Anahilt, 3 m. S., the sportsman will find plenty of pike and trout in Lough Erin, and wild-fowl in the extensive bogs.

KILLYLEAGH, 5 m. N.E. of Downpatrick, stands on Strangford Lough, and is a thriving place, with handsome Ch. &c. It was the birth-place of the venerable Sir Hans Sloane, founder of the British Museum. See the Castle. At Ardmillar, 6 m. N.E., is a chalybeate spring. Ringhaddy has some remains of a Castle, and has long been famous for its oysters.

LOUGHBRICKLAND, on the Dublin road from Belfast, is about 24 m. W. of Downpatrick, on the borders of the Jonesborough mountains, where there is much wild scenery, and a small lake in its immediate vicinity where the sportsman will find plenty of speckled trout. It is noted as an encampment of K. William's army on their way to the battle of the Boyne. From Ellenmoney, a bog near it, towards Points Pass, run two rivers, one N. the other S. Near it and at Scarvagh are remains of fortifications in the Civil Wars.

NEWRY, a thriving commercial town at the head of Carlingford Bay, on the verge of the county, and about 25 m. S.W. of Downpatrick.--A pleasant cheerful vicinity, and a good central station. See canal, drawbridges, &c. 1/2 m. distant are the Creeve rocks, with ruins of old Chapel. The mineralogist may here examine specimens of metallic spar, ponderous and ferruginous. At Crownbridge, 1 m. E., a Danish rath; and near it some Druidical remains. At Narrow-water, the port of Newry, see ancient Castle and Salt-works. N. of it 5 m. is Tuscan Pass, with several small lakes in which are plenty of pike. The tourist may also visit Warren's Point, where large ships are obliged to lie, and where the whole line of coast presents a continuation of gentlemen's houses and whitened cottages, enlivened in the bathing season by numerous parties.

NEWTONARDS, a comfortable town at the head of Strangford Lough, about 18 m. N. of Downpatrick. See venerable Ch., with some vestiges of an ancient monastery at Moville 1 m. distant. Gransha, about 5 m. E., has a good chalybeate, stronger than Tunbridge Wells, but little frequented being in a wild boggy district. Not far distant is Grey Abbey on the E. shore of the Lough, founded by a daughter of one of the kings of Man, whose statue is still preserved. Part of it is fitted up as a parish Ch., and the E. window is a noble specimen of Gothic tracery. About 1/2 m. S. of Newtonards is Scraba mountain, lofty, but cultivated nearly to the summit. Near to it are good freestone quarries; and 2 m. N. a loftier hill, sometimes confounded with it, called Karn Gaur or the Goat's Mount. The vicinity is famous for goat's whey. See Mount Stewart.

PORTAFERRY, 10 m. N.E. of Downpatrick, is a town of some trade at the mouth of Strangford Lough.--See ancient Castle of the Savages; Ch. and two curious chapels. Near it is Echlinville. At Kirkistown, 4 m. N.E., ancient Ch. of Slane, and ruins of Castlebuy.

RATHFRYLAND, about 21 m. W. of Downpatrick, is a large pleasant village.--On summit of a hill see ruins of a Castle. The country round it is very agreeable. See village of Hilltown: Lissize, seat of E. Clanwilliam; and Turkelly's Well, 2 m. N., a celebrated chalybeate for scrophulous complaints.

ROSTREVOR, about 22 m. from Downpatrick, is considered the Brighton of Ireland as a watering-place, and highly extolled for its romantic scenery; being seated on a well wooded bank on a small arm of the sea, which stretches into the country from Carlingford Bay. Sir R. C. Hoare describes the entrance to it as very striking on approaching from Dundrum; Carlingford Bay being so landlocked and surrounded by mountains as to resemble a large lake; and the tourist, passing through an irregular grove of tall and aged ash trees, with the sea and whitened houses glimmering between them, finds here a truly rural village retirement, commanding within its immediate vicinity more beauty than the generality of sea places; a dry soil, shady walks, diversified rides, and good bathing. He describes the most striking feature of this place to be a lofty mountain covered chiefly with oak wood, feathered down to the water's edge; underneath which is a little quay, from whence there is a walk of 3/4 m. along the banks of the bay completely arboured by oak trees, with a good road continued along the coast under the Mourne Mountains to Dundrum Bay. We recommend this spot more particularly to the tourist, as Sir R. C. adds that he has seen no place with a more pleasing combination of rural beauties; mountains agreeably varied with wood, heath, and down, on one side; others on the opposite coast (Louth) singularly cultivated in small portions or strips resembling a quilt of patchwork; between them an extended channel of water, on the banks of which is the town of Carlingford with its ruined Abbeys and Castle; a purling brook, fine trees, neatly whitened cottages, &c. and a clean good inn. Miss Plumptre speaks of it in equally picturesque and admiring terms. 1 m. see ruins of Kilbreny Ch. The tourist may examine a romantic mountain road to Rathfyland; and the mineralogist will find ample amusement on the lofty mountains of Iveagh and Mourne, which extend far to the E. along the Irish sea.

STRANGFORD, 7 m. N.E. of Downpatrick, is a small but very ancient town, at the entrance of the Lough.--See Charter School, and ruins of Castle Audley, and Walsh's Castle, from the former of which there is a most extensive view over the bay. Kilclief Castle has considerable remains. The Lough possesses some very fine scenery, especially towards its entrance, where through tracts of hilly grounds the Irish Channel is seen at intervals and the lofty hills of the Isle of Man. The town of Strangford in the bottom is pleasantly situated amongst trees, contrasting well with the bold mountains of Mourne in all their sublimity. Near is Castle Ward, the seat of Lord Bangor, with the peculiarity of two fronts, one Grecian the other Gothic. See the fine grounds and extensive prospects.

MINERALS.

Copper ore in several places amongst the mountains. Lead in a mine near Newtonards; rich specimens of ore amongst the rocks at Killough; near Dundrum; and Portaferry.

Freestone quarries at Scraba and Kilwarlin; and slates at Bangor and other places. The mineralogist and geologist will find much amusement in the limestone quarries near Moira, containing specimens of marine exuviæ.

Granite amongst the Mourne Mountains.

Iron has not been found in ore, but the numerous chalybeates attest its presence.

BOTANY.

_Asplenium Adiantum nigrum_, Black Maiden-hair:--on the mountains of Mourne.

_Fucus esculentus_, Broad esculent Sea Wrack:--on submarine rocks and stones.

_Galega officinalis_, (Linn.) Goat's Rue:--in the western parts.

_Juniperus communis_, Common Juniper:--on Mourne and Scraba.

_Juniperus Sabina_, Savine:--on the Mourne mountains.

_Lycopodium alpinum_, Mountain Club Moss:--in the Mourne district.

_Lycopodium clavatum_, Common Club-moss:--on the Mourne mountains.

_Nymphæa alba_, White Water Lily:--among the lakes in the western parts.

_Orobus sylvaticus_, Bitter Vetch:--in woods and hedges near Rosstrevor.

_Pyrola rotundifolia_, Wintergreen:--on Scraba.

_Serapias longifolia γ_, a variety of White-flowered Bastard Hellebore:--on a rotten bog by a lough side near Ballinahinch.

_Teucrium Scordium_, Water Germander:--in marshy places about Granshaw.

_Valantia cruciata_, Crosswort:--among the rubbish of the Cathedral of Downpatrick.

DUBLIN.

This county offers to the tourist a complete epitome of the whole Island. In the northern district are many bogs, yet in various points the most beautiful scenery opens to the view, presenting numerous villages with highly ornamented mansions and villas scattered around; except in some few spots, trees indeed are wanting; and extensive salt marshes spread towards the coast. S. of the Liffey there is very little tillage, but to the picturesque eye this is amply compensated by the wild uncultivated heaths, rocky mountains, winding glens, and sombre landscapes that extend on every side. The ancient inhabitants were the _Voluntii_ and _Eblani_; after them came the _Danes_ and _Ostmen_; in later times the county was always within the English pale. The Irish sea bounds it on the E., on the S. Wicklow, W. Kildare, and N. Eastmeath.

BALRUDDERY, 15 m. N. of Dublin, lies on the coach road, and, though but a village in decay, may form a temporary station for the tourist to examine the northern district; or he may stop at the Man of War Inn, 2 m. nearer to the capital. Balbriggan, is a good fishing village 2 m. distant; see Cotton Manufactory; and the mineralogist may examine the veins of sparry micaceous stone, of copper, and sulphur, recently discovered. Near the sea coast is Baldungan Castle, now a mass of ruins, having been taken and dismantled by Cromwell; yet enough remains to give interest to the legendary stories connected with it. Its architecture is of the 13th century, combining the domestic with the castellated form as a baronial residence, and said by tradition to have contained a nunnery and a friary within its walls, whose religious occupants sought protection here during the intestine warfare of early times. The situation is pleasant, with a most extensive view in all directions; and there still remain two large towers at the west end with a parapet in front that covers the passage between them, the whole richly mantled with ivy: besides which many of the domestic apartments may be traced in the adjoining building, the approach to which is by staircases in the towers, leading also to the battlements. See also the Chapel and cemetery. At Grace Dieu are some remains of a Nunnery (1190). Holm Patrick has some venerable remains of a Ch. dedicated to the tutelar saint, who made this place his residence. Naul, a small village 14 m. N. from Dublin, upon the borders of Eastmeath, deserves a visit to its very beautiful glen, whose romantic rocks, cascade, and rugged caves, are finely contrasted by the picturesque ruins of its ancient castle. See the waterfall called the Roches, and ruins of Snowton Castle. Patrick's Isle has the ruins of an ancient Ch.

DUBLIN, says Sir R. Hoare, is more remarkable for its fine public buildings than for its squares or streets: the latter, though planned upon an extensive scale, want neatness and symmetry; but the former unite elegance of design and grandeur with good execution. As this is probably the first spot visited, we may observe that the view in approaching the bay is delightful. On the left is seen a rich and well-cultivated bank covered with villages and cottages, and backed by the Wicklow Mountains, towering to a considerable height and fading into the purple of distance. To the southward are seen Sea View and the Black Rock, about 4 m. from the capital, studded with white cottages for summer residents; to the north a more level country extends towards the Hill of Howth covered with villas, amongst which is the architectural _bijou_ belonging to Lord Charlemont, known by the name of Marino. On approaching the harbour the stranger is agreeably struck with the appearance of commercial activity, the range of shipping extending nearly a mile into the city, their masts resembling an immense forest. As he advances the scene becomes more interesting; but to enable him to investigate it at his leisure we shall arrange all the objects of curiosity alphabetically under their various heads.

The _Bridges_ are numerous, convenient, and the new ones elegant. Carlisle bridge forms a magnificent junction of the finest streets in the city. Essex bridge, near the Castle, is a miniature of Westminster bridge. Sarah bridge of one arch, 104 feet span, is compared to the Rialto at Venice. The quays are well built and extensive; but the river is an unpleasant object except at high water.

_T. Fielding del. et fc._

_Dublin from the Circular Road._]

The _Churches_ are very numerous, besides Meeting-houses, and Catholic-chapels. Christ Church, the Priory of the Holy Trinity, is of ancient date, erected by a Danish prince in 1038, and much enlarged by the addition of various chapels by adventurers in the reign of Hen. II. Here they show a monument, said to be that of Strongbow Earl of Pembroke, the principal invading chieftain; an opinion certainly confirmed by Sir Henry Sydney, in 1570, who restored the monument after it had been broken by the fall of the roof; but Leland asserts that in his time an inscription in Gloucester Cathedral expressly stated that to be his place of sepulture. To the left of the high altar, see a costly marble tomb of an Earl of Kildare, in 1743; opposite to this, one of Secretary Agard in 1577; also the singular musical epitaph of Dr. Woodward. The architecture of the exterior is various, Saxon and Gothic; the inside an incongruous mixture of Gothic and Grecian. The Round Ch. deserves notice for the singularity of its form; and St. Catherine's on the S. side of Thomas-street has a handsome modern front. St. Patrick's Cathedral is a fine object of ancient ecclesiastical architecture, but surrounded by filth and poverty of the most disgusting kind. It is of various dates, from 1190 down to 1750, when the lofty spire was erected; and part, including the steeple, was re-edified in 1370, after partial destruction by fire. The Virgin's Chapel is of the year 1271; but the whole is now in such a ruinous state that Sir R. C. Hoare fears its speedy downfall. He recommends the Chapter-house and choir as the best specimens of its architecture. On the right of the altar see the very curious monument of the Boyle family, rising nearly to the ceiling; on the opposite side, the tomb of Lord Ranelagh; a tablet to the memory of Dean Swift, and near it one for Stella; another to Sir H. Wallop; and a bust of the celebrated but eccentric George Falkner.

The _Hospitals_ are numerous and well regulated. The principal are, the Blue-coat Hospital at Oxmanton Green, for sons of decayed freemen; Foundling, spacious and airy; Kilmainham, for soldiers, on the plan of Chelsea on a grand scale; Magdalen, in Leeson-street, with Sunday service; Marine School, on Rogerson's Quay; Incorporated Society's Establishment, in Lower Bagot-street, for females educated at public expense, until apprenticed; with many others.

_Literary Societies._--The Institution in Sackville-street has a good library, lecture- and news-rooms; good collection of minerals and marbles. The Dublin Society has a fine Museum of Natural History, particularly in minerals; good library, laboratory, lecture-room, exhibition of paintings; Botanic Garden at Glasnevin, and Observatory at Dunsink. Royal Irish Academy has literary meetings every Monday.

_Private Edifices_--are not very numerous. See Charlemont House; Leinster House, fine Corinthian front, rusticated, and Doric wings; Waterford House in Marlborough-street.

_Public Edifices._--The barracks consist of 4 noble squares. The Castle, mean on the outside but splendid within, contains Public offices, an Arsenal and Armory; elegant modern Gothic Chapel, and Bermingham's Tower. Commercial buildings on N. side of Dame-street. To see the Custom House with striking effect, it must be viewed from the opposite side of the river, where the statues and decorations present a fine spectacle. The internal arrangements deserve notice. The long room is 70 feet square and of course a practical bull. The Exchange merits peculiar architectural attention, being a fine rotunda within a square, having in the interior 12 fluted pillars of the Composite order, 32 feet high, with a highly enriched entablature crowned by a handsome dome. The Law Courts form a magnificent pile; the approach grand, the hall noble, and the arrangements well suited to the purpose. Sir R. C. Hoare objects to the architectural effect produced by the dome, especially when viewed from the opposite side of the river. See the Linen Hall. The Parliament House, no longer used for its original purpose, presents a façade of fine architecture perfectly in unison with the handsome front of Trinity College. Post Office in Sackville-street. Stamp Office occupies an elegant mansion in William-street; once Powerscourt House. Trinity College forms a very striking object when approached from Dame-street. The tourist will notice the fine effect on entering the principal court, particularly of two elegant stone buildings with correspondent Corinthian porticoes on the right and left. See the Library, a magnificent room, surpassed only in Sir R. C. Hoare's opinion, by that of Trinity College at Cambridge: it is 269 feet long, 50 broad, and 40 high. The æra of the University is the reign of Elizabeth, but the edifice itself is modern. A handsome but not very extensive park belongs to the University, in which, see the celebrated Anatomical School, with wax preparations; also the Museum and the Provost's House.

_Public Places_ are not very numerous. The Rotunda in Rutland-square, attached to the Lying-in Hospital, is open as a promenade with balls, concerts, &c. The Theatre Royal (Crow-street) is gloomy on the outside, but highly embellished and convenient within.

The _Squares_ and _Streets_ are often spacious. College Green has a statue of K. William III. in the centre. Fitzwilliam Square, small but pretty. Merrion Square, open and airy, with some good buildings. Mountjoy Square enjoys a most extensive prospect, and is elegantly laid out. St. Stephen's Green is the largest square in Europe. Sackville Street is also the widest street, having been originally a Mall, with houses built on each side. Great, however, as these are, Sir R. C. Hoare passes on them some severe criticisms, by no means unfounded.

In the _Environs_, see the Royal Canal and City Basin; ride round the circular road for good views of the city; visit the light-house at the extremity of a pier upwards of 3 m. in length; and ride over the Phœnix Park, 7 m. in circumference.

_Excursions_ from Dublin, to the extent of a day's ride, may be arranged in 4 directions, N.E., S.E., S.W., and N.W.

In the N.E., Beldoyle is a pleasant little village 6 m. near the Hill of Howth, with enchanting marine prospects. Clontarf, a neat village 2-1/2 m., a fashionable bathing-place. Here fell Brian Boru, the Irish king, in a battle with the Danes (1014). See the Castle and Ch.; also some lead ore in the neighbouring quarry. Drumcondra, a pleasant village, nearly unites with Dublin on the northern verge. The old Ch. is neatly modernized, and contains a handsome monument to the memory of Mr. Coghill, Chancellor of the Exchequer in the last century; but the picturesque tourist will be more interested by the grave of the late antiquary, Francis Grose, whose graphic hand here moulders in the dust. See the superb mansion of Santry, 1 m.; and the view from Cloghran Ch. on a lofty eminence. Howth, 7 m. E., is well worth visiting from the metropolis on account of its extensive prospects. See the Light-house; the rocky island of Ireland's Eye; the ancient Castle of the Earls of Howth; the ruins of an ancient Chapel. The botanist will also find several medicinal and fragrant plants among its rugged cliffs. Howth House presents a venerable picture of antiquity to the eye of taste. The surface of the peninsula on which it stands is sterile; but swelling into a lofty hill is usually denominated the Hill of Howth: its shores are rocky and precipitous, indented with creeks for small craft, and abounding with gloomy caverns in which seals and porpoises are often seen rolling their unwieldy bodies. Howth contains several religious fragments worthy of notice. The ruins of the Ch. are extensive and picturesque, and there is something interesting in tracing the vestiges of the ancient monastery which once stood close to its hallowed walls. Entering at the S. door the visitor passes into a hall, out of which a door opens into the church shaded by venerable foliage. Beyond this is the kitchen, with the ruins of several apartments. Close by it is an ancient moat; and a small rivulet flows beneath the old battlemented wall. See the new Pier; and make an excursion to Lambay Island, where are ruins of an old Castle, and plenty of shell-fish and rabbit shooting. Marino is a small Italian Casino, seated on a pleasing lawn, margined on the higher part by a luxuriant shrubbery. The whole possesses much elegance, lightness, and effect, and commands a fine prospect. The rising ground on which it stands slopes off to an agreeable accompaniment of wood, beyond which, on one side is the harbour, which here has the appearance of a noble river covered with shipping. See the venerable Ch. at Artane. Near it see the pleasant village of Raheny; and the venerable Ch. at St. Douloghs, built before the 11th century, most curious to the antiquary and architect.--In the SOUTH EAST see Black Rock, a pleasant watering village, 4 m. S.E., beautifully situated on the bay, with extensive prospects. Visit Sea point, and obelisk at Rochestown. Bullock is a village on the sea coast, 7 m. from the capital; much frequented as a watering place. On the cliffs are the extensive ruins of an old castle, of uncertain antiquity; also a Druidical cromlech in a glen, deserving the notice of the picturesque tourist. Dalkey, a village on the sea shore, contains the ruins of two old castles. The island opposite to it has the ruins of a Ch. and vestiges of an ancient sepulture. Also a martello tower. The iron-bound coast is very romantic towards Killeny Hill, from whence are some charming prospects, especially from the obelisk on the summit. In tracing the bold and striking scenery towards Bray, the tourist will not omit Mount Druid, the Circle, Gothic Tower, and ruins of Killeny Ch. Donnybrook, on the extreme limits of the city, has a venerable Ch.; go on to the magnificent mansion of Viscount Fitzwilliam, at Mount Merrion; and to Stillorgan, 4 m., with most extensive prospect from the Obelisk. Dundrum, 4 m., is noted for goats' whey: see deep Glen and ancient Castle; enchanting scenery, and extensive prospects. Dunleary, 5 m., is a thriving village, with numerous natural beauties and much recent improvement. See Martello Towers. At Rath mines, close to the city, see the ruins of Baggotsrath Castle, celebrated in the military history of this part of the island during the civil wars. Loughlinstown has in its vicinity the venerable ruins of Tallagh Ch., with curious sepulchral Crosses in an ancient cemetery, marked by legendary superstitions. Rathfarnam, 3 m., beautifully seated on an eminence, has near it the magnificent Castle of the Morgans of Ely. The elegant seat of Marloy, and Southwell's Glen, with most romantic scenery; Druids altar, and ancient Judgement Chair of the Brehon Laws. The pedestrian may here spend a day delightfully.--In the SOUTH WEST, Chapelizod, a handsome populous village, is close to the Phœnix Park, and famous for its Strawberries. See picturesque and venerable Chapel, and fine scenery towards Lucan. Clondalkin is a village about 4 m. from Dublin, and worthy the notice of the tourist for its round tower, 84 feet in height, close to a church of modern erection, but surrounded by ancient ruins supposed to belong to a Danish palace, and an archiepiscopal see. Tallagh, 5 m., a straggling village. See venerable archiepiscopal palace, now deserted: also fine prospect from summit of the hill; and Timoon Castle in ruins. In the NORTH WEST, see Castleknock, a small pleasant village, 4 m. W., and its old Castle in ruins, built in the reign of Hen. II. and commanding a fine view. Near it is the venerable ruin of Drymnagh Castle, in a most romantic spot; also Dunsink, where stands the Observatory. Glasmenogue, in the vicinity, is a station for the passage-boats on the Royal Canal; an excursion on which cannot fail to amuse the tourist.

GLASNEVIN is 2 m. N. of Dublin.--See the Botanic Garden of the Dublin Society, well laid out and conducted upon the Linnean System. Its hot-houses possess an immense variety of curious exotics, and the whole extent is little short of twenty acres. Luttrell's Town, 3 m. from Dublin, through the Phœnix Park: a fine seat, with handsome lawn bounded by rich woods, through which are many ridings 4 m. in extent, leading through a romantic glen by the side of a stream falling over a rocky bed, amidst the dark foliage of steep slopes through which the Liffey is heard or seen at intervals; the whole is of great extent, and forms a most picturesque retirement.

LEIXLIP is a pleasant town 8 m. W. of Dublin, on the very verge of the county, with a good Inn.--See Carton (Kildare), the elegant seat of the Duke of Leinster; also the Castle, with fine grounds and romantic scenery: the ruins of Confy Castle; and beautiful vale watered by the Liffey. Ballymore Eustace has a good bridge over the river, close by where the Liffey issues from the romantic dell of Phollaphuca (Wicklow). See ruins of a Castle. Lucan, 6 m., is a delightful village, with sulphureous chalybeate in a grove on the banks of the river. See the house and picturesque ground; also Iron-works, Calico-mills, and Limestone quarries.

SWORDS is 6 m. N. of the capital, on the great northern road, and contains several specimens of antiquity. See the Castle, of which a large square tower with massy fragments of walls still remains; also the ruins of the Ch., with a round tower 73 feet high and 55 in circumference, in very good preservation. Here also were an Abbey and Nunnery, of which some vestiges may yet be traced. At Brennanston, about 8 m. N.W., see Druidical Cromlech, six upright, and 1 horizontal stone, 14 feet long and 12 broad. Lusk, about 5 m. N., is highly deserving the notice of the antiquary for the curious architecture of its Ch., consisting of two long aisles, separated by a screen of seven arches. The east end only is at present appropriated to public worship; but the west end is remarkable for its square steeple with round towers at three of the corners, whilst opposite to the fourth is a round tower insulated, in very good preservation, and loftier than the others. About 3 m. W. on a rising ground near to the bay of Mallahide, is a curious old Castle, pleasantly situated on a rising ground, surrounded by fine timber, commanding a most extensive and beautiful view of the coast, together with a good prospect over the adjacent country; said to have been either built, or to have received considerable repairs and additions, in the reign of Edward IV. Latterly it has been solely used as a family mansion, but formerly as a place of defence. The edifice is large, irregular, and unequal in its height; it is nearly square, and has an area or court within. The entrance is on the east front, by a flight of stone steps; and the hall is large, its ancient appearance corresponding well with the outside. There are ten rooms on a floor; one of which, a parlour, is wainscoted with oak, which presents a curious specimen of antique carving. The lower story is vaulted, founded on a limestone rock, and contains the servants' offices.

MINERALS.

Crystals:--near Robs Well.

Coal slate, full of sulphur mixed with micaceous stones:--at Portrain.

Copper ore:--near Castle Knock, Cloghran, Rathbeal, &c.

_Gypsum striatum_, answers every purpose of plaster of Paris, and is found in several places.

Iron manifests its presence in a coarse reddish earth:--at Turvey.

On the S.E. coast of Lough Shinney, between Rush and Skerries, there are large rocks of the _Lapis Hibernicus_, or Irish slate, which in some places exhibit a vitriolic efflorescence.

Lead ore:--in the quarry near Stephen's Green; at the Black rock; and at Cloghran Church.

Limestone, hard, veined with quartz, impregnated with ferruginous matter, and full of crystallizations:--at Howth.

Limestone quarries:--at Malahide.

Pearls are sometimes discovered in the Poolbeg oysters.

BOTANY.

_Agaricus alneus_, Alder Agaric:--in woods.

_Alchemilla vulgaris_, Common Ladies Mantle:--in Closes between Glassmanogue and Finglass.

_Alisma Damasonium_, Star-headed Water Plantain:--in a pasture near Temple-oge in Dublin.

_Allium vineale_, Crow Garlic:--above Island Bridge, and in some meadows near Bally Griffin, in Fingall.

_Anthyllis vulneraria_, Kidney Vetch or Ladies Finger;--on dry hillocks near the Bay.

_Asperula odorata_, Woodroof:--among bushes between Ropers Rest and Mount Jerom.

_Asplenium Ruta muraria_, White Maiden-hair, or Wall-Rue:--at Tallagh Castle and Ball's Bridge.

_Aster Tripolium_, Sea Starwort:--underneath the Black Rock.

_Brassica oleracea sylvestris_, Sea Cabbage:--on sea cliffs.

_Chrysanthemum segetum_, Corn Marygold:--near Iniscore Hill, and in Patrick's Well Lane, Dublin.

_Chrysosplenium oppositifolium_, Common Golden Saxifrage:--near Harold's Cross.

_Cochlearia anglica_, Sea Scurvy-grass:--among the short grass below the Black Rock.

_Cochlearia danica_, Danish Scurvy-grass:--near Ringsend.

_Cochlearia officinalis_, Garden Scurvy-grass:--on the coast.

_Cotyledon Umbilicus Veneris_, Navel-wort, Kidney-wort, or Wall Penny-wort:--on old buildings at Mitchel's-town, and on the wall of a ruined Church at Lucan.

_Crambe maritima_, Sea Colewort:--on the sea beach near Dunleary.

_Drosera longifolia_, Long-leaved Sundew: near Edenderry.

_Empetrum nigrum_, Black-berried Heath, Crow or Crake-berries:--on mountainous heaths.

_Erigeron acre_, Blue-flowered Flea-bane:--in a dry hilly pasture facing the huts at the Black Rock.

_Eryngium maritimum_, Sea Holly or Eryngo:--Dublin.

_Erysimum cheiranthoides_, Treacle Wormseed:--about Temple-oge.

_Euphorbia hyberna_, Knotty-rooted Spurge:--on mountainous districts.

_Euphorbia paralia_, Sea Spurge:--on the sandy shore between the Warren House and Rahany.

_Fucus palmatus_, Handed Fucus:--on rocks about Dalkey Island.

_Geranium sanguineum_, Bloody Crane's-bill:--in a close near Simon's Court.

_Glaux maritima_, Sea Milkwort or Black Salt-wort:--above Bally-bough Bridge near the rivulet.

_Hieracium murorum_, French or Golden Lungwort:--under a hedge on Iniscore Hill.

_Lathræa Squamaria_, Toothwort:--on the sea shore between Dunleary and Newton.

_Linum perenne_, Perennial Blue-flax:--on the lands of Simon's-court.

_Lysimachia tenella_, Purple Money-wort:--in a rotten spongy pasture beyond Simon's-court and at Rathfarnham.

_Lithospermum officinale_, Gromwell:--at Iniscore Hills and above Palmerstown Mills.

_Lycopodium clavatum_, Common Club-moss:--on mountains.

_Narcissus Pseudo-narcissus_, Daffodil:--in closes near Clontarf, the Hill of Howth, and near Doulack's Well.

_Ophioglossum vulgatum_, Adders-tongue:--in moist places.

_Orchis pyramidalis_, Purple Lake-flowering Orchis:--on dry sea banks between Newtown and Dunleary.

_Ornithogalum luteum_, Yellow Star of Bethlehem:--in a low meadow between Finglass Bridge and Drumcondra.

_Osmunda Lunaria_, Moonwort:--on the hills, and in the pastures of Palmerstown.

_Polemonium cæruleum_, Great Valerian:--at Rathfarnam.

_Rosa spinosissima_, Pimpernel or Burnet Rose:--on the edge of the brow at Black Rock, and near Raheny Mills.

_Salsola fruticosa_, Shrub Stonecrop or Glasswort:--in Clontarf Island.

_Salsola Kali_, Prickly Glasswort:--near the Black Rock.

_Samolus Valerandi_, Round-leaved Water Pimpernel:--near Dalkey.

_Scilla verna_, Vernal Star Hyacinth:--in meadows and pastures, and near Temple-oge.

_Statice Armeria_, Thrift or Sea July Flower:--between the Black Rock and Dunleary.

_Viola grandiflora_, Yellow Violet or Pansies:--on the Hill of Howth.

EASTMEATH.

This county, sometimes only called Meath by preeminence, is an inland district, except in one spot where it borders for a few miles on the Irish Channel, between the shires of Louth and Dublin. It is inhabited by a numerous and opulent gentry, with the mansions and highly cultivated demesnes of many noblemen; and also contains numerous scenes to please the antiquary, in its mouldering piles of ruined Castles and Abbeys, frowning over the landscape in gloomy grandeur. Bounded by Louth on the N., Monaghan and Cavan, W., Kildare, S., Dublin and the Channel, E.

ATHBOY, 8 m. W. of Trim, is a tolerable town with a good inn, where the tourist may fix his head-quarters whilst visiting the various objects in the vicinity, particularly a farm of near 6000 Irish acres, kept in hand by Sir Benjamin Chapman; also Ballinlough, the well wooded seat of Sir Hugh O'Reilly. From hence, a road completely shaded with trees leads to the seat of Mr. Tigh, at Mitchelstown, near which are the grounds of Mr. Wood at Rosmead: indeed the whole neighbourhood is well planted and populous.

DULEEK, about 15 m. E. from Trim; once a famous episcopal city, now a paltry country town, but exhibiting in its ruin traces of former celebrity; particularly in the remains of the Abbey with its majestic tower, the first stone Ch. in Ireland. Grenogue, 4 m. S., has ruins of an ancient Ch. Gormanstown, 6 m. E., ancient seat of Lord G. Invercolpa, at the mouth of the Boyne, has some Abbey ruins. Kilbrue is an elegant mansion, 5 m. S.; near it ruins of Macetown Castle. Platten, 2 m., handsome seat built on the ruins of one of the largest Castles on the island. Ratoath, 10 m. S., a poor village. See Ch. erected on ruins of an ancient Abbey; also a lofty and conspicuous mount, celebrated for meetings of Parliaments in feudal times. St. John's Well, in this vicinity, is described by Mr. Wakefield as a penitentiary station for pilgrims for five days in the latter end of June.

KELLS, 12 m. N.W. of Trim, being pleasantly seated on the Blackwater, forms a good station for the western part of the county. See the Market-house on the site of an ancient Castle; also curious stone Cross, much decayed, but decorated very richly with figures of men, beasts, flowers, &c. Here is a remarkable round tower, 90 feet in height and 16 in diameter, with walls 3 feet in thickness. It is close to the Church, at an opposite corner of which, and detached, stands a square tower with a spire, the remains of an ancient edifice now destroyed. At the back of the town there is another small round tower; also a small stone building arched with flags, called Columkill's Cell, supposed to be the first Christian oratory erected here. The Ch. is modern; and in the cemetery a curious sculptured cross. See the noble mansion of the Marquis of Headfort in its vicinity, and its extensive grounds.

NAVAN, 7 m. N.E. of Trim, stands very pleasantly on the Boyne, and has a considerable trade. Its vicinity has much picturesque scenery for the pedestrian tourist. See the Tholsel; and the remains of several ancient tombs in the Abbey cemetery, adorned with sculpture. The beautiful episcopal palace of Ardbraccan, 2 m. W., displaying simplicity of design with accuracy of execution, is built of a remarkable limestone with a very fine grain, found in the immediate vicinity. The quarry is worth visiting. The limestone is capable of being worked into any form for building; is susceptible of a fine polish; and though white when it comes from the chisel, acquires a sober grayish tint after exposure to the air. Its strata are horizontal and of various degrees of thickness, from four inches to two feet; and columns have been raised and worked of 9 or 10 feet in length, and from 15 to 18 inches in diameter. A short distance from Navan, close to the village of Donoghmore, and standing on an eminence near the road leading to Slieve, is a round tower adorned with sculptures of the Crucifixion over the doorway. It is not in very good preservation; and the ancient Ch. attached to it is totally in ruins. Dunmore Castle is a building of very early date, but almost new built as a castellated house at the close of the 17th century, and now presenting a curious specimen of those turbulent times in its lofty towers and heavy walls, diversified only by a few windows close to the battlements. In the vicinity of Dunshaghlen see Dunsany and Killeen Castles, mansions of Lords Dunsany and Fingal. Near the latter examine the Ch. and sepulchral antiquities. The tourist who is partial to extensive prospects, may visit the Hill of Screen, on whose summit is a Ch., presenting from the battlements of the ruined belfry a most delightful view over a richly cultivated country. The edifice itself is in a state of dilapidation, except part of a chapel fitted up for divine service; but the antiquary may amuse himself with examining an ecclesiastical figure in relief over the southern entrance; also some crosses and curious old tombstones scattered over the surrounding cemetery. At New Grange is a very curious specimen of early Celtic antiquity, consisting of a most extensive barrow composed of stones and earth, formed with infinite labour and exhibiting considerable artificial dexterity. In this there is a cave which well deserves the notice of the antiquary: from the horizontal floor of this cave to the summit of the mount, is about 70 feet; the circumference at top is 300; and the base covers two acres of ground; the whole founded on an amazing collection of stones, and covered with gravel and earth. Slane, about 6 m. N.E., on the N. side of the Boyne, presents several curious ruins to the lover of antiquity. Some remains of an Abbey or College; lofty tower with Gothic windows. Here is also a Hermitage, said to be that of St. Ere, consecrated by St. Patrick in 512. Near this, on the banks of the Boyne, see the magnificent seats of Earl Conyngham (Slane Castle), and Mr. Lambert (Beaupark), whose grounds have the appearance of one domain, being separated only by the river running between romantic rocks, the summits and sides of which are partly adorned with wood; and the union of this scenery, combined with the dressed lawns of these two seats, renders the whole prospect highly interesting. Tarah has long been celebrated in Irish history as the place of coronation of the Irish monarchs. Here are some remnants of Danish fortifications, and the ruins of a Ch., sombre and picturesque. See ruins at Trevet.

TRIM, 22 m. N.W. of Dublin, is the assize town.--See picturesque ruins of an ancient Castle, celebrated through all the periods of Irish history; once the property of Mortimer Earl of March: situation romantic; many ruins of Monasteries. The ruins of Bective Abbey stand on a high bank of the Boyne, about 3 m. E. of Trim. Here the tourist may contemplate the domestic range of buildings connected with the Ch.; and, as the walls and division of the apartments are still pretty entire, may form a very good idea of monastic manners. The S. side a range of 12 arches, supported by clustered pillars, opens into a gallery which also runs along the W. From this gallery is an opening into a range of cells, gloomy and inconvenient, and seemingly fitter for the dead than the living. The whole place is indeed sombre in the extreme, with its Gothic doors and windows in several places, and projecting towers and turrets. The outline is picturesque, and deserves a visit. Clonard has some curious monuments in its Abbey ruins. At Newton are the remains of the Ch., belonging to a monastery founded in the 13th century; though much shattered, yet they have once been august, and are now sweetly enveloped in ivy. Tradition attributes (falsely) an ancient tomb to a daughter of King John. On the road from Trim to Mitchelstown see the ruins of a square fortress with circular turrets at the angles, called Scurlack's Town Castle, seated on the borders of the river Boyne, which is here a silent stream full of weeds and rushes.

MINERALS.

Limestone:--quarries at Ardbraccean, resembling marble.

Potter's clay:--has been discovered near Dunshaghlin; is deemed superior to that of Staffordshire.

Vitrescent stone:--found in quarries near Slane.

BOTANY.

_Drosera anglica_, Great Sundew:--on a bog near Isaac-tower.

_Nymphæa alba_, White Water Lily:--in the Boyne and other rivers.

FERMANAGH.

This county will always be an object of interest to the tourist, on account of Lough Erne, besides several smaller pieces of water, on all of which are situated some of the finest mansions and demesnes in the island. Its general surface is mountainous, interspersed with extensive boggy tracts, which rendered it, in early times, almost impregnable, when possessed by the sept of M'Guires. Bounded, S. and W. by Leitrim; N. by Donnegal and Tyrone; E. by Monaghan and Cavan.

BELLCOO, 9 m. S.W. of Enniskillen, and on the verge of the county, though a small is yet a neat village, and may form a station for the tourist, being seated on a considerable stream that runs into Lough Mac Nean, and thence to Lough Melve. The well called Davugh Phedric is noted as a cold bath, and nearly equal to Holywell in force. See ruins of Ch. 1 m. From hence also the tourist may visit Florence Court.

BELLEEK, 18 m. W. of Enniskillen, is a pretty village, with a very fine waterfall: ascend a hill with a battery on its top, from whence is seen a woody eminence with an insulated rock covered with shrubs, along which the stream passes with great rapidity, falling about twenty feet, and forming a most enchanting prospect. See it also from the bridge. It stands at the outlet of the lake, close to the verge of Donnegal. See Castle Caldwell on the northern shore, seated amidst promontories of thick wood that shoot into Lough Erne, with every variety of wood and lawn and water that can delight the eye. Near it is Lewrel, a demesne of singular beauty.

ENNISKILLEN, 80 m. N.W. of Dublin, is nearly in the centre of the county, and seated at the junction of the two divisions of Lough Erne, so as to form a convenient station for the whole county. It was celebrated in the wars of the Revolution by its heroic defence against James's army; and part of the military works yet remain near the bridge. See handsome barracks; superb school-house; and the Castle. Visit Bellisle, the romantic residence of the late Lord Ross; Castle Coole, 1 m. dist. Lord Belmore, an elegant mansion of Portland stone; Daughtons, 4 m. N.W., where are some curious caves; Florence Court, 7 m. S.E., on the southern shore, a very superb modern edifice, seated at the foot of lofty mountains, in the midst of a highly cultivated demesne, with most romantic prospects.