Overview
St Macartan’s, popularly known as The Forth Chapel, sits quietly on Springtown Road in Augher, County Tyrone. Set against the rolling hills of the Clogher Valley, the chapel is surrounded by a historic graveyard and offers panoramic views of the countryside. It is a place where faith, art and community intertwine – a modest sandstone building that has earned national recognition as the UK Church of the Year 2022 (awarded 2023) and a Heritage Angel Award in 2021.
History
Constructed between 1838 and 1846, the chapel was built on the site of an ancient ring‑fort, a location that local folklore links to secret Masses celebrated during Penal times. Dedicated to St Macartan (d. 506), who is traditionally believed to have founded a monastery at Clogher under St Patrick’s direction, the church reflects the deep spiritual roots of the area.
The interior is dominated by four Clarke Studio stained‑glass windows, all installed in 1922. Three of these commemorate the Kavanagh family, prominent parishioners: the St Macartan window honours Rose Kavanagh (c. 1859‑1891), a poet and editor whose work resonated with W. B. Yeats; the Revd Hughes window memorialises Archbishop John Joseph Hughes (1797‑1864), the first Archbishop of New York, born locally and instrumental in the construction of St Patrick’s Cathedral on Fifth Avenue; the third window depicts St Patrick and commemorates Katharine Campbell (née Kavanagh), Rose’s sister. The familial connection between the Kavanaghs and Archbishop Hughes gives the windows a unique, intertwined narrative.
In recent years the chapel has become a showcase for community‑led heritage work. Martin McKenna, a parish committee member, spearheaded a phased restoration that began with a detailed conservation survey in 2019. The project secured grants totalling £10,000 in 2020 and involved local volunteers trained as guides. The effort was recognised with the National Churches Trust’s Church of the Year award and a Heritage Angel Award for craftsmanship.
Awards and Recognition
- National Churches Trust – Church of the Year 2022 (presented July 2023) – praised for the strength of its building‑care approach, volunteer involvement and promotion as part of Tyrone’s heritage.
- Heritage Angel Award 2021 – for excellence in restoration craftsmanship.
- International visitor interest – the chapel now attracts tourists from as far away as New Zealand, drawn by the Harry Clarke‑style stained glass and the story of its community‑driven revival.
What to See & Do
- Clarke Studio Stained‑Glass Windows – Examine the vivid blues and intricate iconography of the four 1922 windows. Guides explain the symbolism behind each pane, from the poetic legacy of Rose Kavanagh to the trans‑Atlantic link with Archbishop Hughes.
- Unique Brass Crucifix – Positioned behind the altar, this handcrafted crucifix was designed by former volunteer guide Geraldine McKenna, adding a personal artistic touch to the sanctuary.
- Historic Graveyard – Wander among the gravestones, including the resting place of Rose Kavanagh. The cemetery also contains a large bush that once concealed lantern‑bearing Catholics during the Penal era.
- Heritage Trail – A self‑guided trail, available as a printed booklet or downloadable PDF, leads visitors around the interior and the surrounding landscape, highlighting the chapel’s connections to local writer William Carleton and the Carleton Trail/Ulster Way.
- Group Guided Tours – Pre‑booked tours are offered for schools, heritage groups and larger parties. The tours are led by knowledgeable volunteers who bring the chapel’s stories to life.
Community Projects & Events
- Centenary Bell Restoration – A 100‑year‑old bell, silent for decades, was restored and rang again for Christmas 2023, a highlight for locals and visitors alike.
- Stained‑Glass Art Competition – In partnership with a local primary school, the chapel ran a competition for pupils to design their own stained‑glass motifs. Winning designs were exhibited in the chapel, fostering a link between heritage and the next generation.
- School Heritage Outreach – Regular visits from nearby primary schools include talks on the chapel’s history, the Clarke windows and the wider Clogher Valley heritage.
- Volunteer Guide Programme – Community members receive training to lead tours, maintain the building and assist with events, ensuring the chapel remains a living place of worship and learning.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday – Sunday | 09:00 – 17:00 |
Admission
| Visitor Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| General public | Free (donations welcome) |
| Group tours (pre‑booked) | Free (donations support the restoration programme) |
Getting There The chapel is located on Springtown Road, Augher (BT77 0EA). It is easily reached by car from the A5, with free on‑site parking available within 250 m of the entrance. Disabled parking spaces are provided, and level access runs throughout the building. Accessible toilets are situated nearby.
Public Transport The nearest bus stop is in Augher village (approximately 1 km away); services run to Dungannon and Omagh. Taxis are also available from nearby towns.
Contact & Booking
- Phone: 078 1818 6979
- Email (group tours): forthchapel@gmail.com
- Website / Facebook: St Macartan’s The Forth – Facebook
Mass is held each Sunday at 11:15 am, and the chapel welcomes walkers and cyclists exploring the Carleton Trail or Ulster Way.
Accessibility
The chapel offers level access throughout, disabled‑friendly toilets nearby, and guide‑dog permission. Parking for cars and coaches is free, with dedicated spaces for disabled visitors.
Nearby Attractions
A short drive brings you to the Sliabh Beagh Way, Aughnacloy Golf Club, Carleton’s Cottage (home of novelist William Carleton) and the Knockmany Passage Grave, all of which enrich a day spent exploring the cultural landscape of County Tyrone.