Helen's Tower

Location

About

Helen's Tower is a historical landmark located in Northern Ireland that is a must-see destination for tourists interested in history and architecture. Built in 1861, Helen's Tower is a beautiful and unique structure that sits on the top of a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The tower was built in honor of Helen, the sister of Lord Dufferin, who was the Governor-General of Canada from 1872 to 1878. The tower was designed by William Burn, a Scottish architect who was known for his work on Gothic Revival buildings.

The tower is made of local stone and features a circular stairway that leads up to the top of the tower. The tower is three stories tall and has a lookout platform at the top that provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The tower also features a number of stained glass windows and is adorned with various carvings and decorations.

Visitors to Helen's Tower can take a guided tour of the tower and learn about its history and significance. The tower is open to the public during the summer months and offers visitors the opportunity to climb to the top and take in the breathtaking views.

In addition to the tower itself, Helen's Tower is surrounded by beautiful gardens and walking trails that are perfect for exploring. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and enjoy the beautiful flowers and plants that are in bloom during the summer months. The walking trails also offer visitors the opportunity to explore the surrounding countryside and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Helen's Tower is located in County Down, Northern Ireland, and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. The tower is a popular destination for tourists who are interested in history and architecture and is also a great place to visit for those who enjoy hiking and exploring the outdoors.

Overall, Helen's Tower is a fascinating historical landmark that is well worth a visit for anyone visiting Northern Ireland. With its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and breathtaking views, Helen's Tower is sure to be a highlight of any tourist's trip to this beautiful part of the world.

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Things to do nearby

Helen's Tower, located in County Down, Northern Ireland, is a unique and historic tower that attracts visitors from all over the world. Built in 1867, this tower was named after Helen, the sister of the owner of the nearby Clandeboye Estate, Lord Dufferin. The tower is a popular tourist attraction due to its rich history and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. If you are planning to visit Helen's Tower, here are some other places and things to do nearby that you won't want to miss.

1. Mount Stewart House and Gardens: This grand Georgian mansion and its beautiful gardens are only a short distance from Helen's Tower. The house, which was once the home of the Marquess of Londonderry, is now open to the public and features exquisite interiors and an impressive collection of artwork. The gardens, which cover over 80 acres, are renowned for their beauty and variety, with rare plants, water features, and stunning vistas to explore.

2. Castle Ward: This 18th-century mansion is another must-see attraction in the area. The house, which was used as a filming location for the popular TV show "Game of Thrones," is now a National Trust property open to visitors. Visitors can explore the elegant interiors of the house, stroll through the gardens, and take in stunning views of Strangford Lough.

3. Tollymore Forest Park: Just a short drive from Helen's Tower, Tollymore Forest Park is a natural paradise that offers visitors the chance to explore ancient woodland, rivers, and mountains. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including red squirrels, otters, and birds of prey, and is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and nature photography.

4. Ulster Folk Museum: This open-air museum offers visitors a glimpse into life in Northern Ireland in the early 20th century. The museum features a recreated village with period buildings and costumed interpreters, as well as exhibitions on traditional crafts, farming, and industry. Visitors can also enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, traditional music performances, and other special events throughout the year.

5. Strangford Lough: This stunning lough, which is the largest sea inlet in the British Isles, is a haven for wildlife and a popular spot for boating, fishing, and birdwatching. Visitors can take boat tours of the lough, explore its many islands and coves, and enjoy seafood at one of the many local restaurants.

6. Ards Peninsula: This scenic peninsula, located just east of Strangford Lough, is a popular destination for hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching. The area is home to a variety of habitats, including salt marshes, sand dunes, and heathland, and is rich in history and culture.

In conclusion, Helen's Tower is a fascinating and unique attraction that is well worth a visit. However, there are also many other places and things to do nearby that offer visitors the chance to explore the rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture of Northern Ireland. Whether you are interested in art, history, nature, or adventure, there is something for everyone in this beautiful and diverse region.