Kircubbin – The Ards Peninsula: An Ulster-Scots Heartland

Episode Seven in a series of 360° videos around the Ards Peninsula & North Down is from Kircubbin, a village situated on a bay on the East coast of Strangford Lough.

In this episode you will hear how the origins of Scottish settlement in this area lie with Alexander Bailie from Wigtownshire, Scotland and whose great-great-grandson, James Bailie, established the village of Kircubbin in 1769. You will learn of the area’s strong history of flax spinning, embroidery and bonnet making, a place that has always been a home to women who crafted an income and independence from their sitting rooms.

We meet Christine Casey, owner of Kiri Cottage Crafts and a traditional hand spinner and weaver who is keeping the skills alive which have flourished here for generations. Produced with the support of Northern Ireland Screen’s Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund, over this series the Virtual Visit team are going to be tracing the legacy of Ulster-Scots settlers in this area and giving you a guided “in-person” virtual tour of the local heritage, history, stories and culture, accompanied by a local tour guide. The series has been shot using a 360° camera.

You can use your mouse (or a VR headset) to look all around you. For best experience, watch using a desktop, laptop, tablet or VR headset.