The Duke and Duchess of Abercorn will host a spectacular summer fete within the beautiful grounds of Baronscourt Estate in Newtownstewart on Saturday 6 June, from 10.30am to 5.30pm.
Money raised will support the creation of a special Centenary Wood, right by the banks of the River Faughan in County Londonderry. Part of the Woodland Trust’s Centenary Woods project, this is one of four flagship woods being created across the UK to mark the 100th anniversary of the First World War. The new wood will commemorate the sacrifice made by soldiers from the 32 counties of Ireland.
Visitors are invited to explore and enjoy Baronscourt and its striking surroundings – with woodland, parkland, gardens and house offering a warm welcome and brimming agenda.
Families, nature lovers, antique enthusiasts and historians can choose from a plethora of activities:
- Helicopter rides provided by Cutting Edge (£35 per person)
- Antiques fair in the Stable Yard ‘Carriage House’
- Antiques roadshow under a marquee in the Stable Yard. Antique enthusiasts can bring their own items to be valued free of charge, thanks to Adams Auctioneers from Dublin
- First World War memorabilia and talks – courtesy of the Somme Association and UTV’s Paul Clark – await historians in the Power House
- Craft fair in the Stables
- Plant stall in the Old Garden Centre, organised by Gary Baird
- Guided tours of the House (£10 per adult, £5 per child)
- Informal access to the gardens
- A guided woodland walk through the forests at Baronscourt, with Peter Archdale
- Vintage vehicle display
- St Joseph’s Brass Band
- Pipes and drums
- Climbing wall
- Fishing competition on the lakes run by the Loughs Agency. (A charge will apply)
- Irish Dancing and Highland Dancing (the McConomy School of Irish Dancing and the Blue Thistle Dancers)
- Bouncing castle
- Ice cream van
- Teas in the Stable Yard kitchen provided by the local Parish Church
- Wolf & Devour – Street Food Trailer
His Grace the Duke of Abercorn said:
“It will be a great pleasure and opportunity for my wife and myself to open the facilities at Baronscourt Estate on Saturday, June 6 in order to welcome families and individuals, thereby supporting the noble objective of the Woodland Trust to establish a permanent memorial tribute to all Irish Soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in the First World War.
“Every pound and euro raised will go towards this objective.”
Patrick Cregg, director of the Woodland Trust, enthused:
“This is a unique opportunity for families and individuals to explore the renowned and scenic Baronscourt Estate. There will be something for everyone: from arts and crafts to an antiques roadshow and more.”
“Money raised will support the creation of a precious Centenary Wood in the beautiful Faughan Valley. This new wood – named Brackfield Wood – will be a flourishing, lasting and respectful tribute to the people of Ireland who lost lives during, or were affected by, the war.”
“We’re indebted to the Duke and Duchess of Abercorn for opening up their home, and to Baronscourt Parish Church who have worked hard to coordinate a wealth of activities.”
Admission: £5 per adult and £2.50 per child (children must be accompanied by an adult). Many of the activities are free; while others are charged individually.
To find out more please contact: the Woodland Trust on 028 9127 5787; email wtni@woodlandtrust.org.uk or visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/events