In Sir Van Morrison’s 1989 album ‘Avalon Sunset’ he describes a road trip to Coney Island.
His beautifully mundane descriptions of a day out in the south Down area has become one of the most evocative songs ever written about any part of the world. This particular road trip guided tour with the ultimate Celtic soul soundtrack, along with stunning visions of the Mountains of Mourne, has touched the heart of many Van Morrison fans and others.
Along the way he name-checks Downpatrick, St John’s Point, Strangford Lough, Shrigley, Killyleagh, the Lecale District, Ardglass, and finally, Coney Island. Follow in the footsteps of a lyrical genius in this half-day guided tour, and depending on availability, perhaps sample some potted herrings in case we get famished before dinner.
The Van Morrison ‘Coney Island’ Irish Heartbeat Tour normally starts at Downpatrick at the grave of Saint Patrick and costs £85 per group tour (industry standard rate). Hotel pick-ups/drop-offs are available at additional cost (Belfast, Newcastle and surrounding areas).
For further details and bookings:
email: irishheartbeattours@yahoo.com
tel : 07807015403 / 07779102448.
‘Coney Island’ by Van Morrison
Coming down from Downpatrick
Stopping off at St John’s Point
Out all day birdwatching
And the craic was good
Stopped off at Strangford Lough
Early in the morning
Drove through Shrigley taking pictures
And on to Killyleagh
Stopped off for Sunday papers at the
Lecale district, just before Coney Island
On and on, over the hill to Ardglass
In the jamjar, autumn sunshine, magnificent
And all shining through
Stop off at Ardglass for a couple of jars of
Mussels and some potted herrings in case
We get famished before dinner
On and on, over the hill and the craic is good
Heading towards Coney Island
I look at the side of your face as the sunlight comes
Streaming through the window in the autumn sunshine
And all the time going to Coney Island I’m thinking,
Wouldn’t it be great if it was like this all the time.