Event Description

Enjoy an adventure that blends outdoor exploration with rich local heritage on this award-winning kayak tour (National Heritage Week 2021), taking you along a historic smuggling route to Mahee Island, once traveled by Daft Eddie and the Merry Hearts. Starting in Whiterock, you’ll gear up with a wetsuit and buoyancy aid before receiving a briefing from local guide and kayak instructor Rory Martin, who provides a keen insight and knowledge of Strangford Lough’s waterways and heritage.

At Mahee Island, Dr Frances Kane – linguist and researcher in the origins of Northern Ireland’s place names ( Place Names NI and OS200) – will guide you through the stories behind the place names of the area. Polly Garnett – Project Coordinator for Maps and Memories, will lead a tour of the Nendrum monastic ruins, exploring monastic life and Viking influence in the area from the 9th to 11th centuries. All equipment provided along with tuition.