About
Visit the beautifully restored Old Church Centre in Cushendun and enjoy a programme of engaging heritage activities:
Daily short presentation at 12.30pm by founding member Katy English, sharing the inspiring 20-year journey to save and restore the building
Guided historic walk (Sunday 13 September, 10.30am) led by Jude McNeill of Cushendun Tours (meeting at the Old Church Centre)
Insights into this year’s theme, “Heritage at Risk,” exploring how buildings can be protected and brought back to life
The Old Church Centre is now a thriving heritage, arts and community space, set within the former Church of Ireland Church of Cushendun, originally built circa 1839. After the congregation declined, the church was deconsecrated in 2003 and faced an uncertain future.
In 2006, the local community came together to form the Cushendun Building Preservation Trust (CBPT), determined to rescue the building from dereliction. That same year, the project gained national recognition when it was named regional winner of the BBC’s Restoration Village competition. Today, the building stands as a powerful example of community-led regeneration.
Both the presentation and guided walk highlight the challenges of heritage at risk and demonstrate how dedication and local action can successfully protect and reimagine historic places.
Booking essential: www.theoldchurchcentre.com
EHOD activities at the Old Church Centre form part of the wider Cushendun Culture Month programme running throughout September.
