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Places to shop in Ballynahinch, County Down, Northern Ireland, are the focal point of this part of our guide.

Ballynahinch was founded in the late 17th century on lands confiscated from the McCartan clan and sold to Sir George Rawdon. In 1683, King Charles II granted a royal patent, allowing a weekly market every Thursday and two annual fairs, which laid the foundation for the town's market square and linen trade. Under Sir John Rawdon, later Earl of Moira, the Market House was constructed in 1795, and the linen market thrived, grossing around £300 per week by the end of the century. Although industries have evolved, the town remains proud of its heritage as a market square.

The Market House is a Grade II listed building, originally constructed in 1795, and now serves as a community centre managed by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council since 2010. Each Thursday, stalls fill the square, offering fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and antiques, continuing a tradition that dates back over 330 years. Local farmers and artisans still trade seasonal vegetables, artisan cheeses, and homemade preserves, all under the same roof where linen once dominated.

Ballynahinch's compact town centre is anchored by four streets (Lisburn Street, High Street, Main Street, and Belfast Road) radiating from the square, and lined with both national chains and independent shops.

Ballynahinch is well-known for its heavy traffic congestion. Due to this, a bypass has been proposed, although no dates have been set. A town-wide regeneration committee has set its sights on expanding the retail offerings and improving traffic flow around the square. Plans include pedestrian-friendly enhancements, new signage for artisan trails, and the potential use of disused mills on the fringes of the town.

 

 

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