The annual Summer meeting for members and guests has been arranged for the evening Friday 7 June 2019 and will be to the Clandeboye Estate and Gardens, Bangor – commencing at 6.15 pm.
Clandeboye Estate is home to the Marchioness of Dufferin and Ava and was first settled in 1674. The present Clandeboye House was designed by Robert Woodgate (of Barons Court fame) and was built between 1801 and 1804. The 1st Marquis (1826-1902) commissioned further alterations, creating the gardens, lake and woodlands. The park-lands have the largest area of broadleaved woodland in Northern Ireland.
Milk from the Estate's dairy herd is used to make its own brand of yoghurt and crops grown on the Estate are anaerobically digested to provide electricity for the Estate. The Estate has developed the Banqueting Hall and Courtyard for holding functions such as weddings and arts events.
Timetable
The planned itinerary for the evening is –
Arrive 6.15 pm
- Eat 6.30 pm (sharp)- Steak Pie, veg and new potatoes. Followed by a light dessert (to include Clandeboye Yoghurt), tea & coffee.
- Talk by John Witchell, Clandeboye Estate Manager.
- Guided tour of the gardens (lead by head gardener), court yard and anaerobic digester (if time).
- Finish approximately 9.30 pm.
- Cost £25 per person – including meal and tour.
Directions
Clandeboye Estate (not to be confused with Clandeboye Lodge Hotel) is just off the main Belfast Bangor Road (A2)
From Belfast City Airport continue on Sydenham Bypass and stay on the main A2 road for 7.9 miles.
As approach Bangor The Clandeboye Estate is on the right.
Go through the front gates and follow signs to the Courtyard.
Thanks to Peter Frost for making the arrangements and we hope you can join us for what promises to be an excellent evening.
PLEASE NOTE: Confirmation of attendance, numbers (including guests) and any special dietary requirements, MUST be provided to Ian Duff 07876 060616 by Monday 3 June 2019, at latest
