Cultural and Literary Talks: Benedict Keily, Rambling man of song and verse
2025-11-13 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London)
The great Tyrone novelist and short story writer, Benedict Kiely , was throughout his life a collector of songs and ballads and his repertoire was well-nigh inexhaustible. He picked up ballads here and there on his many rambles across Ireland and further afield and referred to them often in his long-time contributions to ‘Sunday Miscellany’ on RTE radio.
Kiely’s 1996 publication, ‘And As I Rode By Granard Moat’ is a wonderful journey around Ireland through its ballads and verse and he often said that for a ballad or poem to live and breathe it had to be sung or recited.
In this presentation fellow Omagh man, ballad singer and folk historian, Tom Sweeney, will sing and recite selections from Benedict’s book. Sweeney knew Benedict Kiely and visited him occasionally at his home in Donnybrook.
Kiely’s informative and entertaining comments about each selection from the book will be read by Benburb’s own literary scholar and historian, James O’ Kane.
For a fascinating evening of ballads and the spoken word as chosen by Ireland’s master raconteur and literary giant, Benedict Kiely, this is a presentation not to be missed.
To book tickets click here

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Turning Pages Book Club
2025-12-04 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-01-01 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-01-29 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-02-26 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-03-26 19:00 - 21:00
Are you a bookworm looking for a reason to get out of the house, meet new people, and share your love of stories? The Turning Pages Book Club is starting up at Benburb Priory, and you’re invited to the free launch and information night.
The club meet every four weeks, making it easy to fit into busy schedules. Membership is just £2 every four weeks, and participants must also be a member of a library to access the chosen books.
Expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere where you can connect with fellow readers, discover new authors, and enjoy great discussions.
Light refreshments will be served.
Whether you’re an avid reader or simply looking to reignite your love of books, this is the perfect opportunity to turn the page and join a new chapter.

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Santa’s Enchanted Magical Tour - Santa Experience
2025-12-05 17:00 - 18:00, 2025-12-06 14:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-07 14:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-12 17:00 - 18:00, 2025-12-13 14:30 - 18:00, 2025-12-14 14:00 - 18:00, 2025-12-19 17:00 - 18:00, 2025-12-20 14:00 - 18:00
This December, Benburb Priory is set to transform into a festive wonderland for Santa’s Enchanted Magical Tour, a family-friendly Christmas experience that promises to delight visitors of all ages.
Santa’s Enchanted Magical Tour Includes:
Guided tour of Benburb Priory Manor House (approx. 1 hour)
Elf on the Shelf School in the Grand Library
Storytelling with the Snow Queen
Making Reindeer Dust with Mrs Claus
Mulled wine and shortbread for adults
A present from Santa
One family photo with Santa (additional photos available to purchase)
Optional visit to the Crib in the Chapel
Walk through the illuminated Priory grounds
Price:

Child (over 2): £20.50

Adult: £15.50

Child (under 2): £10

Book your tickets now click here

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Express Santa at Benburb Priory
2025-12-05 17:00 - 18:00, 2025-12-06 14:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-07 14:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-12 17:00 - 18:00, 2025-12-13 14:30 - 15:30, 2025-12-14 14:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-19 17:00 - 18:00, 2025-12-20 14:00 - 15:00 and 1 more date
Express Santa – A Short but Sweet Visit
Families short on time can book the Express Santa experience — a mini version of the main event that still includes a gift from Santa, a photo opportunity, and time to enjoy the beautiful Christmas lights around the Priory’s courtyard and gardens.
Express Santa Includes:

A present from Santa

One family photo with Santa (additional photos available to purchase)

Optional visit to the Crib in the Chapel

Access to the Priory’s illuminated grounds

Price:

Child (over 2): £12.50

Adult: £8.50

Child (under 2): £10
Book your tickets now – click here

Important Information & Small Print
Wheelchair Access:

Express Santa – All areas are accessible on the ground floor.

Santa’s Enchanted Magical Tour – All activities are wheelchair accessible. Please note there are steps in the upstairs hallway; however, wheelchair users may use the lift to access the upper floor and rejoin their group, with assistance from one of our helpful Elves. When returning to the ground floor, our team will again be on hand to assist.We kindly ask that you advise us in advance if wheelchair access is required so we can prepare for your visit. To ensure a comfortable experience, we recommend booking an early time slot, when the tour is less busy.

Parking:Parking is available in the main car park. Please plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before your tour, as it may take time to park and make your way to reception.
Dates & Times:All times and dates are subject to change. Please check our website or Ticket Tailor page for the most up-to-date event schedule and availability.
Group Bookings:If you’re attending with a large family or group of friends, we can accommodate private tours for up to 30 people. To arrange a group booking, please email marketing@benburbpriory.com so we can allocate additional time and ensure your group enjoys the full magical experience.

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Benburb Priory announces Christmas Carol Service featuring the renowned Clonmore Choir
2025-12-07 19:30 - 21:00
Benburb Priory is delighted to announce its annual Christmas Carol Service, a festive celebration dedicated to the birth of Jesus Christ, taking place Sunday, 7 December at 7:30 PM in the historic and scenic surroundings of the Priory.
This special evening will feature a full performance by the acclaimed Clonmore Choir, a choral ensemble widely admired for its rich harmonies, uplifting arrangements, and long-standing dedication to community music-making. Known for their dynamic performances at churches, festivals, and cultural gatherings, the choir will bring a joyful and reverent musical programme suited perfectly to the Christmas season.
Please note this event will be held in the Priory Chapel.
A Venue Steeped in History and Reflection
Situated on the picturesque banks of the River Blackwater, Benburb Priory is a spiritual and cultural landmark in Northern Ireland. Founded in the 1940s and managed by the Servite Order, the Priory has long served as a place of retreat, reflection, heritage, and community engagement. Its historic buildings, peaceful grounds, and commitment to hospitality make it an ideal setting for a sacred Christmas celebration.
The Priory continues to support the arts, spiritual formation, and local initiatives, and the annual Carol Service is one of its most beloved community traditions.
An Evening of Music, Meaning, and Community
The Christmas Carol Service promises a blend of traditional carols, contemporary choral pieces, and moments of quiet reflection. Attendees can expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere that embraces the true spirit of the season.
Families, friends, and visitors from across the region are invited to come together for this uplifting event.
Event Details
Date: Sunday, 7 December
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Benburb Priory, County Tyrone
Featuring: Clonmore Choir
To book your tickets click here

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Santa’s Enchanted Magical Sensory Tour
2025-12-13 12:00 - 12:30
At Benburb Priory we believe that every child deserves to experience the wonder of Christmas in a way that feels comfortable, joyful, and inclusive. That’s why we’re delighted to present Santa’s Enchanted Magical Tour at Benburb Priory — a truly heartwarming, sensory-friendly festive adventure for families.
Step back in time as you and your loved ones explore the historic Benburb Priory Manor House, transformed into a winter wonderland of gentle lights, soft sounds, and festive magic. Each moment of the hour-long tour has been carefully designed to engage the senses in a calm, enchanting way — ensuring a magical experience for children of all abilities.
What’s Included in Your Sensory Tour:

Join the ‘Elf on the Shelf’ School in the magnificent Grand Library — where laughter and learning meet a sprinkle of Christmas mischief.

Settle in for Storytelling with the Fairy Godmother, as she brings festive tales to life with soothing voices and sparkling imagination.

Visit Mrs Claus in her cosy kitchen to make your very own magic reindeer dust — a gentle, hands-on sensory activity that’s sure to delight little fingers and big hearts alike.

Take a quiet peek into the Elves’ bedroom (shhh!) before meeting the Elves hard at work in the Workshop.

Adults can enjoy a moment of festive calm with mulled wine and shortbread, while children receive a special present from Santa.

Capture the memory with one family photo with Santa (additional photos available for purchase).

Optionally, take a peaceful visit to the Crib in the Chapel, before stepping outside to stroll through the beautifully illuminated Priory grounds and courtyard, aglow with the spirit of Christmas.

Ticket Prices:

Child over 2 years – £20.50

Adult – £15.50

Child under 2 years – £10

Special Sensory Tours are available on Saturday 13th December — designed with smaller group sizes, relaxed pacing, and a supportive environment for families who may benefit from a gentler experience.
To book your sensory-friendly visit please click
Please note spaces are limited due to the nature of this event

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Sensory Express Santa at Benburb Priory
2025-12-13 12:00 - 12:30
Sensory Express Santa at Benburb Priory – A Calmer Christmas Experience
If your little ones can’t wait to see Santa but would prefer a gentler, more relaxed experience, join us for our Sensory Express Santa at Benburb Priory.
This special session is designed with sensory needs in mind — offering a peaceful, supportive environment where families can enjoy the magic of Christmas at their own pace.
Meet Santa and his friendly Elves in the Workshop, receive a thoughtful gift, and take time to explore the Priory’s beautifully lit courtyard and grounds. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the season in a calm, welcoming space — and don’t forget your camera to capture the moment!
What’s included:• 🎁 A present from Santa• 📸 One family photo with Santa (extra photos available for purchase)• ✨ (Optional) Visit our crib in the Chapel• 🌟 A peaceful walk through the illuminated Priory grounds and courtyard
Prices:• Child over 2 – £12.50• Child under 2 – £10• Adult – £8.50
To book your tickets click here.
Please note spaces are limited due to the nature of the event

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Benburb Priory to open 2026 talks with tribute to Poet Charlie Donnelly
2026-02-26 19:30 - 21:30
The 2026 lecture series at Benburb Priory will open with a powerful reflection on the life and legacy of Charlie Donnelly, the Tyrone-born poet and political activist best remembered for his role in the Spanish Civil War.
The talk, titled Portrait of a Poet, will be delivered by Eileen Quinn, who will explore Donnelly’s short but remarkable life. Audiences can expect fresh insight into his political convictions, his involvement in the international struggle against fascism, and the poetry that continues to resonate with readers and activists alike.
Charlie Donnelly, who grew up in Dungannon, is remembered not only for his literary talent but also for his passionate belief in justice and equality. He was just 22 when he lost his life at the Battle of Jarama in 1937, yet his words endure as a testament to both the artistic and political spirit of his generation.
Benburb Priory’s opening lecture promises to be a moving tribute, situating Donnelly within the wider story of Irish cultural and political history while highlighting the continued relevance of his voice today.
To book tickets click here

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Eddie Stones Retreat
2026-04-18 | Benburb Priory, 10 Main Street, Benburb, Northern Ireland, BT71 7JZ, United Kingdom
Join us on Saturday 18th April, 9:30am – 5:00pm 🙏✨
Eddie Stones Retreat – A full day of faith, reflection, and renewal including:
Mass • Rosary • Prayer & Praise
Confessions • Inspiring Talks • Testimonies
Healing Service
Lunch available to purchase on the day
Registration at 9.30 am

Tercentenary of the Canonisation of St Peregrine
2026-05-04 20:00 - 21:30, 2026-06-13 09:30 - 16:30 | Benburb Priory, 10 Main Street, Benburb, Northern Ireland, BT71 7JZ, United Kingdom
Tercentenary of the Canonisation of St Peregrine
4 May 2026 – 4 May 2027
The St Peregrine Centre at Servite Priory Benburb marks 300 years since the canonisation of St Peregrine Laziosi, patron saint of those suffering from cancer.
Born in Forlì, Italy, in 1256, Peregrine’s life was transformed after seeking forgiveness from St Philip Benizi. He later joined the Servite Order and was miraculously healed of cancer through prayer before the Crucifix.
Canonised on 27 December 1726, his feast day is celebrated on 4th May.
Devotion to St Peregrine continues to bring healing, strength, and peace to many.

Tercentenary Opening Celebration
St Peregrine Healing Mass
Monday 4 May 2026 at 8pm
Celebrant: Fr Collie McGlynn OSM

Monthly Healing Mass
First Monday of each month at 8pm

St Peregrine Day Retreats
Saturday 13 June 2026
Saturday 21 November 2026
Saturday 20 February 2027
All events take place at Servite Priory Benburb
All are welcome
