Discover Moy: Village History and Country House Heritage

A trip to Moy can take in several distinct themes: the village’s layout and St James, the tree-lined Diamond, the history of the horse fair, and The Argory, a country house on the River Blackwater. Moy Antiques adds another dimension, with old-world-style cottages to browse. For visitors choosing a destination with historic buildings, local history and scenery in mind, these themes offer a range of points of interest.

St James and the Village’s History

St James is a Grade I listed building and more than 200 years old. The church was built in 1819 and forms the centre of the village of Moy, whose layout was designed to a plan by the Earl of Charlemont in 1764. The village plan and the church building therefore date from different periods: the village was planned before the church was built. St James’s stained-glass windows are noteworthy; these include a large south window in the transept above Lady Charlemont’s door.

Outside service times, St James may be opened to visitors by calling the number displayed on site; please check this by phone before your arrival. Moy Gates and Screen are also part of the area’s history: they mark the entrance to Roxborough Castle, which no longer exists.

The Diamond and Moy Horse Fair

The central, tree-lined square known as the Diamond is the focal point of Moy’s settlement. Moy’s Diamond is said to have been modelled on the Lombard village of Bosco Marengo. The young Viscount Charlemont visited Bosco Marengo during his Grand Tour.

A monthly horse sale organised in Moy in 1761 is considered the beginning of the Moy Horse Fair. Over the course of its history, the fair grew into one of Europe’s largest horse fairs. Alongside the village plan, horse trading and its historical significance are therefore among the themes associated with Moy.

The Argory and the River Blackwater

The Argory, an Irish country house dating from the 1820s, stands at 144 Derrycaw Road in Moy, overlooking the River Blackwater. The estate covers 315 acres. It includes oak, chestnut and beech trees, as well as impressive rows of lime trees.

The River Walk at The Argory follows the River Blackwater and crosses Bond's Bridge, a bridge from the industrial age. The river and bridge are therefore specific points of interest along the walk. Visitor facilities include a nature play area in the woods and picnic lawns, in addition to the main car park; balance bikes are available at visitor reception.

Browse at Moy Antiques

Moy Antiques offers the chance to browse at leisure among numerous old-world-style cottages. This provides a different way to experience Moy from its architectural and village history or the landscape around The Argory. Check the latest information about Moy Antiques before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Dungannon, Fivemiletown.

Back to the main travel overview: Dungannon.