Had a fantastic time at The Finnebrogue Chocolate and Fine Food Festival celebrating the Life of Sir Hans Sloane. It took place on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th September at the Killyleagh Castle Towers. We (my wife and two kids) went on the Sunday. Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Tourism NI and Tourism NI Year of Food and Drink are big supporters with principal sponsor being Finnebrogue Artisan.
Hans Sloane was born in Killyleagh in 1660. He was a famous physician and was President of The Royal Society and the Royal College of Physicians. As a young man he travelled to Jamaica and tasted chocolate which he described as "nauseous". He believed chocolate was medicinal and came up with a recipe with milk and sugar to make it taste better. The recipe was adopted by the Cadbury brothers chocolate confection took off.
So we had our fair share of locally produced sweets, chocolates, preserves, cakes, bakes, meats to name but a few. There were live cookery demos also. Loads of things to keep the kids entertained. A really great family day out!! read more