Discover more at The Argory
Find out when The Argory is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Eating and shopping at The Argory
Take time out from discovering the beauty of the estate on your visit to The Argory and step into Courtyard Coffee Shop. The Blackwater bookshop is also on hand with a wide variety of second-hand titles to enjoy over a cup of coffee or take home.
Whether you're visiting for a stroll through the estate or a full day of family fun, The Argory offers more than just beautiful views. From homemade treats to handcrafted gifts and second-hand book finds, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Kitch Café – A Taste of Local Charm
Tucked into the historic courtyard, Kitch Café is a family-run gem where you can relax and refuel. Once alive with the sounds of farm animals, this space now offers a peaceful setting for a cream tea, light lunch, or sweet treat.
On the menu:
- Homemade pizzas, hot dishes, and sandwiches
- Freshly baked cakes and bakes
- A wide selection of hot drinks and cold refreshments
- Weekly specials to surprise your taste buds
Vegan or have dietary needs?
We’ve got you covered with plant-based options and alternative milks. Just let our friendly team know your requirements—we’re happy to help.
Allergen Notice: Our food is prepared on-site using a variety of ingredients. Please speak to staff for up-to-date allergen information.
Group bookings welcome!
Planning a group visit? Email KellyAnne on kitchn0@gmail.com to arrange cream teas, picnics, or light lunches.
The Coach House Collective – Shop Local, Shop Unique
Step into the Coach House Collective, a craft shop run by local artisans and led by artist and long-time volunteer Mairead Duffy. This treasure trove is filled with handcrafted items that reflect the heart and soul of our region.
What you’ll find:
- Jewellery, ceramics, and willow work
- Wool crafts, wooden pieces, and therapeutic creams
- Art inspired by local landscapes and wildlife
Every purchase supports local makers. Our crafters are often in the shop and love to chat—ask them about the stories behind their creations!
The Second-Hand Bookshop – A Hidden Gem
Rediscover the joy of reading at our volunteer-run second-hand bookshop. With shelves full of literary gems for all ages, it’s a haven for book lovers.
Why visit?
- Find everything from children’s favourites to rare editions
- Support our volunteers and conservation efforts with every purchase
- Enjoy a quiet browse or chat with our passionate bookshop team
Book prices are marked in pencil on the first page. If no volunteer is present, use the honesty box or pay at Visitor Reception.
Want to donate books?
Bring up to two boxes on advertised open days (11am–3pm). Let the admissions team know, and the duty manager will assist you.
Every Book Purchase Makes a Difference
Your support helps us care for this special place. Thank you for helping us protect nature, beauty, and history for everyone, forever.
Allergen information
Most of the food and drink served is prepared on site in our kitchen, using a wide range of ingredients. As a result, we can’t guarantee that any of our food and drink products are completely allergen free.
If you have an allergy or intolerance and would like ingredient information about the food and drink served, please ask the staff, who will be happy to help.
Always check when you visit
Visited before? We sometimes change our recipes to improve quality and flavour, including the ingredients. When you visit, please speak to one of our team to check the current allergen information for your favourite dish.
The Blackwater bookshop
Browse the shelves
There's a wide range of books to suit everyone. Pick up a novel to enjoy in the sun, get inspired by a travel guide, find new recipes in the cookery section or take home some new bedtime stories for the kids.
Pay in reception
The bookshop is open during The Argory’s normal opening times. There's usually a smiling face to welcome you in but at times when there's nobody available to volunteer, you’re more than welcome to browse and pay for your books in visitor reception.
The bookshop volunteers run two book fairs each year, which are always very well received by the local community and visitors.
Funding conservation projects
The Blackwater bookshop helps to raise money for ongoing conservation projects all around The Argory. Thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers and generous donations from visitors and the local community, the bookshop is full of fantastic titles in every genre you could imagine.
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Tuck into a great day out with our places to eat and drink across Northern Ireland. Enjoy classic scones in traditional tearooms and seasonal soups in courtyard cafes. With indoor and outdoor seating, dine in the doorway to nature, beauty and history.