Carfin Pilgrimage Centre popped up in 1996, and has been a popular visitor attraction ever since. I am not Catholic, but the centre is not exclusively for those of the Catholic faith.
Over the years, I have been inside the centre many times, as they have a large cafe. My mum and I used to go up for lunch every Wednesday and it was always lovely, real home cooking and friendly service.
The unique thing about this centre is the Pilgrimage exhibition. On the upper level of the centre, the display is audio-visual, and takes you through an account of the pilgrims who travelled to the site, which is interesting regardless of faith. It costs a small fee to enter the exhibition, all of which goes towards the upkeep of the Grotto.
A nice place to stop off for a cup of coffee and a cake, or have a break if you are visiting the Grotto. read more