Local History

For history buffs, Coleraine is steeped in history, over 9,000 years of it! As far as we know, Coleraine is the oldest known settlement in Ireland, dating back to the Middle Stone Age.

Mountsandel Fort

Mountsandel is the setting for the remains of the earliest known hunter – gatherer settlements in Ireland, dating before 7000BC. Today, you can still see the remains of the 12th century Mountsandel Fort, on the Mountsandel Road just outside the town.  While you are here be sure to enjoy the woodland and Riverside walks.

St Patrick’s Church

Situated in the heart of Coleraine Town Centre, St Patrick’s Church is located on the original site of the Early Christian Church founded by St Patrick in the 5th Century AD.  Parts of the present church date from 1613 and to the rear of the church, are the remains of the earthen wall or rampart that surrounded Coleraine in the early 1600s. Visitors are welcome but are advised to check opening times by telephoning the Parish Office on 028 70344213

The Phoenix Peace Fountain

This international gift from the communities of the United States of America to the 26 communities of Northern Ireland is permanently displayed in the Rose Gardens in Coleraine.
www.colerainebc.gov.uk

Camus Cross and Balluan Stone

On the A54 Coleraine/Kilrea  Road, about 3 miles from the town centre, you will find the only high cross in County Londonderry.  This cross stands in a roadside graveyard, finely carved with biblical scenes in red sandstone.  Beside a railed grave in the graveyard is a Balluan Stone, a stone with a large hollow used as a primitive font.

Causeway Museum Service

In Coleraine the Causeway Museum Service provides temporary exhibitions in Coleraine Town Hall. For further details of our schedules please contact Leisure Services. Coleraine Borough Council has plans to build a new regional museum within the Market Yard, in Coleraine.
www.colerainebc.gov.uk