Explore a preserved 1835 Ulster farmhouse filled with authentic family artefacts and discover the fascinating McKinney family story spanning generations.

Sentry Hill is a historic house museum offering visitors a rare glimpse into rural Ulster life during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Built in 1835 and continuously improved by the McKinney family over generations, the house has survived remarkably intact with its original contents. The extensive collection amassed by William Fee McKinney (born 1832) provides unique insights into the working lives, social activities, beliefs and values of rural families in this period. The house itself tells the story of how each generation adapted it to suit their times while maintaining its distinctive character. The venue features the historic house, beautiful gardens, and an on-site museum, all set in a heritage setting ideal for family exploration. Weekend guided tours of the house offer detailed historical context, while the gardens and museum are open daily (except Mondays) with free admission. The site hosts regular family-friendly events including hands-on workshops, picnic days, and history talks throughout the year, making it an engaging destination for all ages. Located in Newtownabbey with excellent facilities including toilets and pushchair access, Sentry Hill provides an educational and memorable experience for families interested in local heritage and social history.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

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Patricia Wilson

a year ago

So much history and well presented.

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Lorenzo Trojan

a year ago

Lovely historic farm house, possibly one of my favourites. Not your average manor house you'll find dotted everywhere across the British isles, a much more familiar and "lived in" place where one can truly take a plunge into the old way of farm life... Staff was excellent too!

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Marian Comer

a year ago

What a gem! Such a fascinating house with mix of different eras a Ross the family generations. Staff were a delight and we had an unexpected personal tour of the house. Thoroughly recommend you go!

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Brian McMahon

2 years ago

Super D day event at Sentry Hill. Very interesting exhibits especially the WW2 equipment Super place to visit

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Debbie

2 years ago

Visited the history house today for the guided tour which costs £4.50 with tea and biscuits included. Well worth the money. Our tour guide Lauren was amazing, so friendly and knowledgeable and obviously a history enthusiast. She was so engaging, made the tour very interesting and explained the history of Sentry Hill beautifully. Well worth a visit if you are a visitor or live locally.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026