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The Church History

The Church was built in 1901 and was formally known as The Gilchrist Methodist Memorial Church, the beautiful building is nestled in at the foot of the Mourne Mountains and on the shores of Carlingford Lough. The quaint Church is adjacent to the beautiful picturesque Fairy Glen, the ideal setting for some wonderful unique wedding photographs.

Originally built in the 20th century, The Church first opened its doors to the congregation on Wednesday 9 January 1901. The Church was the very first Methodist church to be built in Ireland in the 20th century, making its uniqueness and history so important to both the parishioners and the local community.

The Church ceased to be used as a place of worship around 2004 and was then purchased by a local family in 2014.  The Hughes family seen an opportunity to restore a building that had become misused and unfortunately derelict, into a place that the community could once again enjoy and admire. The building underwent an extensive but sympathetic restoration, ensuring the original character and features would be maintained and enhanced. Many of the original features have been kept or reused all be it in a different way. In achieving this, the original stain glass windows are in place, the ceiling lights, the pews are integrated into the seating area, original hand crafted doors and beautifully exposed brick work.  

Events

By selecting The Church for your special celebration, you also get seasoned and certified experts without any pretension: experienced coordinators, a host of kitchen teams to choose from as well as the setting in the wonderful Rostrevor Village, at the base of the Mourne Mountains which steep down to the sea, it is a unique experience for you and your guests. 

The Church has been host to a wide range of special celebrations — from traditional Irish banquet-style to multi-course, family-style tapas tasting dinners, each event is unique and tailored to your liking. Our vaulted ceilings are the limits. 

Let our team design the perfect day, one that will be remembered for all that attend. Whether you’ve already planned out your day, minute by minute we are here to help transform your vision into one of the most memorable days of your life. 

Approachable. Professional. Flexible. Creative. This is The Church way.