Kilmore: Church History and a Rural Village Centre

Kilmore brings together a long history of the church and a historic village centre with a rural character. St Aidan’s Church and traces from different periods in the village tell the story of the area and make local history a central part of your stay.

St Aidan’s Church and the History of Kilmore

St Aidan’s Church was founded around 422 AD. According to tradition, St Patrick visited Kilmore in 444 on his way to Armagh. The nave was rebuilt in 1814; the tower of an earlier building was retained. The building therefore brings together different periods: the rebuilt nave and the older tower.

The Norman bell tower contains a bell rung by hand. The historic Hill organ is another notable feature of the church: William Hill built it in 1865 for Trinity Church in Dublin. Finds from the cemetery at St Aidan’s Church include an early Christian fibula, a silver penny from the 13th century and a silver ring from the 12th century.

The name Kilmore derives from the early Christian and medieval church on the hill. The grounds of St Aidan’s Church are the site of a probable ecclesiastical site from the early Christian or medieval period. Kilmore House may contain the foundations of a monastery located near the church.

Village Character and Historic Traces

Kilmore’s historic village centre is grouped around its crossroads. Its traditional rural character is concentrated around the junction and the church. Together, the village centre and church form a shared picture of the village, while each historic detail tells its own story.

Kilmore Cottage is marked on a 1707 map of Kilmore and has existed since at least the early 18th century. Mounting blocks still stand at the corner of Kilmore Road; they once protected Cottage 66 from the wheels of passing carts. A holy well lies east of the former rectory garden.

Service Times and Getting Around

St Aidan’s Church welcomes walkers and cyclists. The service schedule provides for Holy Communion at 12 noon on the first Sunday of the month, Morning Prayer on the second, third and fifth Sundays, and a family service on the fourth Sunday. If you plan to attend a service, check the current schedule before you arrive.

The nearest bus connection to Kilmore runs along the A3, the road between Portadown and Armagh. As routes may change, check the operator’s latest information before travelling. There are footpaths along Kilmore Road and within Kilmore’s modern housing estates. This information can help you find your way, but does not replace checking the current bus service.

Discover more destinations: Armagh, Acton.

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