The Argory, located at 144 Derrycaw Road, Moy, Dungannon, Co. Armagh, BT71 6NA, is a 19th-century Irish gentry house managed by the National Trust. Built in the 1820s for the MacGeough-Bond family, this atmospheric estate overlooks the River Blackwater, offering a blend of historical charm, scenic walks, and unique features like its rare acetylene lighting system. Set within a 315-acre wooded riverside estate, The Argory is a hidden gem, approximately 4 miles from Moy and 30 miles from Belfast.
The Argory offers an immersive experience into the life of an Irish gentry family, with guided tours of the neo-classical house, extensive gardens, and a riverside estate recommended for walks and picnics. Its historical significance, quirky artifacts, and welcoming atmosphere make it a favourite for what Tourism Ireland marketing department calls the “culturally curious”, families, and nature lovers.
House and Guided Tours:
- Interior Highlights: Built in the 1820s by Dublin architects Arthur and John Williamson, The Argory is constructed with Caledon stone and Navan limestone, featuring an understated yet intimate interior unchanged since 1900. Visitors can explore rooms filled with MacGeough-Bond family treasures, including a rare cabinet barrel organ that survived a fire, acetylene lighting fixtures (a pioneering gas-powered system), and an extraordinary collection of modern Ulster art amassed by the last owner, Walter MacGeough-Bond. The house’s austere exterior belies its warm, history-rich interior, with “gadgets” like the acetylene system visitors.
- Guided Tours: Knowledgeable and entertaining guides lead tours, sharing stories from family letters, photographs, and servant records. Tours highlight quirky details, such as the house’s creation due to a will’s stipulation, and the grave site of the last owner, described as “a recommended place to spend eternity.” Reviewers praise guides for being “young, entertaining, and knowledgeable,” making the history accessible and engaging. Tours typically last 45–60 minutes and are included in the admission price.
- Historical Significance: The Argory reflects the lifestyle of Irish gentry in the 19th and early 20th centuries, with its art collection and preserved interiors offering a glimpse into Ulster’s cultural heritage. The acetylene lighting conservation project underscores its technological innovation.
Gardens and Grounds:
- Rose Garden and Pleasure Grounds: A small but impressive rose garden with a sundial leads to the pleasure grounds, featuring arbours and two pavilions. The gardens are colorful in spring and summer, with mature oaks, chestnuts, beeches, and striking pollard lime trees.
- Wooded Estate: The 315-acre estate includes a wildflower meadow, an oak plantation, and an avenue of lime trees, with gentle trails offering views of the River Blackwater and the house. The Lady’s Mile and River Walk are popular, with the latter providing scenic riverside paths. Most walks are accessible, with alternative routes for steep slopes, though Storm Eowyn may have altered some paths.
- Natural Play Area: A wooden play area near the main car park is ideal for children, with balance bikes available from visitor reception. Lawns provide space for picnics, augmenting the family-friendly appeal.
- Wildlife: The estate is home to red squirrels, otters, and kingfishers, with trails offering opportunities for nature spotting.
Visitor Amenities:
- Admission: National Trust members enter free; non-members pay approximately £6.50 (adult), £3.25 (child), or £16.25 (family), with Gift Aid rates slightly higher (£7.20/£3.60/£17.90). Prices are subject to change, so checkwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/the-argory.for updates.
- The estate is typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the house, café, shop, and bookshop open from noon to 5:00 PM, March to October.
- Café: The on-site café is highly praised, with reviewers calling it “probably the best NT café” for its cream cakes, traybakes, and tea. Offerings include soups, sandwiches, and massive traybakes, ideal for post-walk refreshments.
- Shops: A second-hand bookshop in the courtyard, run by volunteers, offers a range of titles. The Coach House Collective’s artisan pop-up shop showcases local crafts, supporting Ulster artists.
- The estate is largely accessible, with Blue Badge parking near visitor reception, an accessible toilet, and a mobility scooter available. Most walks are step-free, with alternative routes for slopes. The ground floor of the house is accessible, but upper floors have limited access due to the historic structure. View the full accessibility guide at AccessAble.co.uk.
- Parking: Ample free parking is available within the estate, with accessible spaces. Note that Bond’s Bridge access is closed on weekends, so use M1 junctions 13 or 14 (3 miles away). Pre-booking is recommended on weekends to guarantee admission, though not always necessary if space is available. Situated 4 miles from Moy and 30 miles from Belfast, The Argory is easily reached via the M1. Public transport is limited, so driving is recommended. The estate’s hilltop location offers stunning views over the Blackwater Valley.
- A visit typically lasts 2–3 hours, including a house tour, garden exploration, and café stop. Walks like the Lady’s Mile or River Walk may extend the visit.
- Hidden Gem: Reviewers describe The Argory as a “marvellous surprise” and “one of the NT’s absolute gems,” tucked away in the Irish countryside. Its austere exterior contrasts with a “family history that wraps around you,” making it a standout National Trust property.
- Friendly Staff: Staff, including car park attendants, are “encouraging” and “friendly,” with clean, functional toilets augmenting the experience. One reviewer wished for a concession rate for older visitors, but overall, the welcome is warm.
- Family-Friendly: The natural play area, balance bikes, and picnic lawns cater to children, while the house tours engage all ages with their storytelling. Backpacks for young explorers are available, similar to those at Springhill House.
- TripAdvisor Recognition: With 190 reviews, The Argory ranks No. 1 of 17 attractions in Dungannon, earning a Travellers’ Choice award in the top 10% worldwide. Visitors praise its “lovely walks,” “interesting house,” and “superb” café, ideal for a “chilly June afternoon.”
Nearby Attractions:
- Peatlands Park (5 miles): A nature reserve with bogland trails.
- Dungannon Park (6 miles): A lake and walking trails.
- Hill of The O’Neill & Ranfurly House (6 miles): A historical centre in Dungannon.
- Parkanaur Forest Park (8 miles): Scenic woodland walks.
- Moy Village (4 miles): A picturesque plantation village.
- Oxford Island (10 miles): Lough Neagh’s nature reserve and discovery centre.
What’s New:
- The Argory will offer free entry to the house, gardens, and estate on 13 September 2025 as part of European Heritage Open Day, celebrating its historical significance. This is an excellent opportunity for first-time visitors to explore without cost, though pre-booking will be required due to high demand.
- Summer Boat Trips on the River Blackwater: Argory will continue its popular summer boat trips along the River Blackwater, offering a unique perspective of the estate’s scenic beauty. These trips, available in June, July, and August, combine history and relaxation, with bookings recommended via the National Trust website. New, there will be expanded schedules or themed trips to enhance the experience.
- Walled Garden Open Days: The Walled Garden, typically accessible on Fridays in summer, will remain a highlight, with potential additional open days or guided tours to showcase its restoration and planting. Visitors can expect vibrant displays and insights into the estate’s horticultural heritage, bookable through www.nationaltrust.org.uk/the-argory.
- Yoga and Brunch Mornings: The Argory will host gentle yoga sessions followed by brunch in the on-site café during 2025, building on their popularity. These events offer a relaxing start to the day amidst the estate’s historic setting, with dates to be confirmed on the National Trust website.
Recommendations for Visitors
- Book for Open Day: Visit on 13 September 2025 for free entry during European Heritage Open Day, but book early to secure a spot, as weekends are busy.
- Reserve Guided Tours: Pre-book house tours via the website, especially on weekends, to guarantee admission. The engaging guides make this a must-do.
- Enjoy the Café: Don’t miss the café’s renowned traybakes and cream cakes, recommended after a walk. Bring cash for the second-hand bookshop or artisan pop-up.
- Explore the Estate: Walk the Lady’s Mile or River Walk for Blackwater views, and let kids enjoy the natural play area or balance bikes. Wear sturdy shoes, as trails will be muddy post-storm.
- Book Summer Boat Trips: Reserve a Blackwater boat trip in advance for a unique estate view, available June–August. Check the website for schedules.
- Combine with Nearby Sites: Pair your visit with Peatlands Park, Dungannon Park, or Moy Village for a full day. Armagh’s historical sites, like the Navan Centre, are 10 miles away.
- Allow Time: Budget 2–3 hours for the house tour, gardens, and café, with extra time for walks or events like yoga and brunch.
The Argory in Co. Armagh is a National Trust gem, offering guided tours of a 19th-century gentry house with unique features like acetylene lighting and Ulster art, alongside stunning gardens and a 315-acre riverside estate. Its welcoming staff, superb café, and family-friendly play area make it a delightful day out., expect free entry on 13 September for European Heritage Open Day, continued summer boat trips, Walled Garden open days, and yoga-brunch events. Enhanced regional tourism promotion will further highlight its charm. For updates, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/the-argory or www.visitarmagh.com
