From druids to deep space — there's rich pickings for all the family in Armagh

Time travel, myths and magic make Armagh a surprise family hit, writes Adrian Russell

Adrian Russel family take a trip to Armagh to experience all the Orchard County has to offer

‘Now, here’s a warrior who’s seen a few battles,” the druid says as I duck into her tented dwelling. Welcome to Armagh … and the Iron Age. We sit — two kids and two adults — around a crackling fire pit at Navan Fort, just outside Armagh City, a place where, we’re promised, myth and reality meet. Earlier, our 11-year-old daughter Robin pulled on a mustard-coloured tunic and grabbed a spear with unsettling enthusiasm. Her sister, eight-year-old Ruby, has her face painted with elaborate Celtic designs and peruses the bows. I hold the coats.

Navan Centre and Fort is one of Ireland’s most important archaeological sites; “Emain Macha” is said to have been home to the famous Red Branch Knights and the hero Cú Chulainn. It’s also one stop on our packed two-and-a-bit-day family visit to the Orchard County.