Reviews

A Hidden Gem

Whether you are planning your first trip along the Ards peninsula or you are making a return, this guidebook is an unmatched travel companion. The author has a fantastic knack for capturing the true charm of this hidden gem jutting out into the Irish Sea, expertly weaving local folklore with a high understanding of the region.

What sets this guide apart from others is, its deep, localised insight. Instead of simply listing major tourist attractions, it provides a unique backdrop to the historical and cultural life to this charming corner of Ireland, that is so often overlooked by other books.

Through the telling the stories of so many colourful historical characters and events from neolithic times right up to the twenty first century, the author enriches the traveller’s experience. I highly recommend this book to both first-time visitors and seasoned explorers looking to get off the beaten track

A labour of love, the definitive reference book on the history of the Upper Ards. 

This book is clearly the culmination of a lifetime of collecting and collating information on the area, but equally clearly a labour of love on the part of Mr Tohill. I believe it will be now seen as the definitive reference book on the history of the Upper Ards.

It can be seen as a well produced coffee table book for dipping into as required, but I preferred to read it from cover to cover and was well rewarded for the effort. Tohill writes with the ease of someone who knows and loves his subject, and the addition of sections at the back on local people of interest such as Joseph Tomelty and Vincent McNabb only add to the value of this book. I thoroughly recommend it to anyone with an interest in the area.

An essential read for anyone with an interest in our local heritage 

This remarkable book by local historian J.J. Tohill is a mine of information on the history of the Upper Ards. Packed with fascinating stories, forgotten places and memorable characters, it takes the reader on a journey from prehistory to the present day.

The result of a lifetime of meticulous research, it is lovingly written and beautifully presented, with high quality maps and photographs that greatly enhance the experience. Every page reveals another gem of local history and offers a new conversation starter.

Its a fitting tribute to the author's lifelong passion and dedication, and a volume that richly rewards dipping into at any time. This is a book that will be treasured for years to come and is an essential read for anyone with an interest in our local heritage.

J.J. Tohill’s book  The Upper Ards is a treasure chest of rare gold and precious gems.

These 317 pages are the definitive exploration of the peninsula’s history, geography, culture and character. The narrative is exhaustively researched, enriched by authorial reflections and commentary, and reinforced by detailed maps and photographic illustrations.                                                                                   This is not a dry academic study of a forgotten local region, but an affectionately personal presentation of a beloved place, its people,its past and present, its anecdotes, legends, living poetry.  JJ Tohill unearths facts and features that surprise, amuse and engage the reader; the notorious Dick Turpin was a visitor to these parts. John Wesley, the celebrated Methodist hymn writer, made 21 visits to the Ards.

Add to the mix numerous ballads, songs and rhymes and the result is a uniquely informative, entertaining and enjoyable work that only this writer’s knowledge and passion for his subject could produce.