Press Releases10 Mar 25

Cathedrals feature in Catherine Fulvio’s St Patrick’s Way

RTÉ1 ∙ 13th & 14th March 2025 ∙ 8.00pm

St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral, on the Hill of Armagh, Armagh Robinson Library, Saul Church and Down Cathedral will feature in a two–part series with Irish celebrity chef Catherine Fulvio on St Patrick’s Way.  Catherine Fulvio’s St Patrick’s Way is being funded by Tourism NI and will encourage more visitors to come and enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of Counties Armagh and Down.

The first programme, taking in various places of interest in County Armagh, will air on Thursday, 13th March, at 8.00pm on RTÉ1, and be followed by a counterpart programme on County Down at the same time on Friday, 14th March, which will include a visit to Saul Church and St Patrick’s Grave at Down Cathedral.

The Dean of Armagh, the Very Revd Shane Forster, said: “We were delighted that Catherine visited the Hill of Armagh giving us the opportunity to share some of the history and treasures of this place with her and ultimately with those who will watch the programme on RTÉ1.  Every year we welcome thousands of pilgrims and visitors from around the world and yet we often find that people living within driving distance have never visited the ecclesiastical capital. We hope this programme will whet their appetite!”

The Dean of Down, the Very Revd Henry Blair, said: “We’re thrilled that Catherine’s programme will highlight Saul Church and St Patrick’s Grave, both such special places of pilgrimage for thousands of people each year. Indeed, the site at Saul is known as the Cradle of Christianity in Ireland. We look forward to welcoming many more visitors to this beautiful part of County Down and sharing Patrick’s powerful story with them.”

A word from the presenter

Catherine is a TV chef, food writer, and owner of Ballyknocken House & Cookery School. Working with Discover Northern Ireland, Catherine said: “It was an absolute delight and during this two–part series I had the privilege of exploring the breath–taking scenery of Armagh and Down while delving into the rich history of St Patrick along the pilgrim way.

“Not surprisingly, I also got to indulge in some of the most delectable local cuisine while meeting interesting characters along the route who were able to show me some of the best of Northern Ireland.  It was a truly memorable experience that ignited my passion for Irish heritage and am delighted to share some incredible experiences with viewers that can be found right here on our doorstep.”

The series concludes with Catherine reflecting over her journey in Armagh and Down as she highlights how the route supports not only personal growth but also the social and economic vitality of the communities along its way.