An estate in Derry that was the scene of one of the most consequential events in Irish history has opened its gates to the public, becoming another asset in the city’s growing tourist industry.
Brook Hall has opened for tours some 335 years after the boom across the River Foyle, built by the forces of King James II at the location, was broken by three ships, ending the 105-day siege of Derry.
David Gilliland is the sixth generation to run the estate since his family bought it in the 1850s and relocated from east Donegal.
The Gilliland family have embraced new technology methods and sustainable farming down the years.
Tourism marks the latest evolution of the family farm business, with guided tours and a new wild fired BBQ school, opened in collaboration with ‘Lo & Slo’.
The new enterprise was celebrated last week, with Brook Hall welcoming tourism and food industry stakeholders for a special showcase event supported by Tourism NI.
The event took place in Brook Hall’s famous Foyleside walled garden, where King James II decided to encamp his forces in 1689.
Brook Hall and its gardens played a key role in feeding the City of Derry in the 17th century, said David Gilliland.
Its beauty and plentiful bounty of food proved irresistible to King James.
“If it wasn’t for the walled garden, King James would have built the boom further down the river where it was narrower,” said David.
Instead, the Jacobites built a defensive boom across the Foyle at Brook Hall, five-times longer than it needed to be.
“Because of that, The Mountjoy and two sister ships sailed up the river where they were able to avoid cannon fire and break the boom to relieve the siege,” said the estate owner.
“If it hadn’t been for the Brook Hall walled garden, the boom would not have been broken and the siege would not have been lifted.
“That really would have caused quite a difference in Irish history… No Battle of the Boyne in 1690!
“From this one site, these ripple effects have crossed over oceans and land, all from the people who started here with the pure purpose of growing food for their city.”
In the latest milestone for the estate, Brook Hall’s new Wild & Fired BBQ School has joined nine new food and drink experiences promoted by Tourism NI.
The experiences include Mrs C’s Home Kitchen in Dundrum, where visitors can learn to make wheaten bread in the Mournes, not far from Newry, where visitors to Two Stacks can discover the story of Irish whiskey bonding and blending.
In Co Armagh, guests can enjoy Noreen’s Nettlefest, sampling nettle-based food and drink and learning about the natural remedies, while in Maeve’s Kitchen in Greencastle, Co Tyrone, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the Sperrins and a variety of bakes connected to the seasons.
On the other side of the Sperrins, the Dart Mountain Cheese Experience offers an exclusive peak into the world of artisan cheese production in Claudy.
Co Fermanagh’s experiences include an estate dining experience with the National Trust and Tully Mill at Florence Court, while in Derrylin, Wilde Dining offers a more nomadic adventure dining experience.
Finally, Willow & Lore in the Glens of Antrim, offers fire, feast and folklore in Newtowncrommelin, with a window into an older way of life.
“These passionate producers open their homes and hearts to visitors, continuing to tell the rich story of our food and drink history,” said Tourism NI’s food and drink tourism manager, Gary Quate.
“We were delighted to use this event as an opportunity to shine a light on our amazing food and drink.
“It was a magical evening at the beautiful Brook Hall Estate, amongst fellow food champions and friends. Guests let their taste buds do the talking, as every bite and sip told a story of our giant spirit.”
