A bit more modern than many of the other towns throughout Ireland, Portstewart has a past that reaches to the 1730's when the 5th Earl of Antrim proposed leasing surrounding lands and the port town of Port na Binne Uaine to the family Stewarts of Ballylease.  Due to the prominence of fishing and safe harboring for vessels, more and more people arrived, and in 1792 the area's name was changed, officially becoming Portstewart.  A little easier name to say for sure.

Over the next few decades, founder John Cromie developed the area into a seaside resort.  Stunning beaches and a rail station brought people from villages throughout Northern Ireland (and beyond) for fresh air, frolicking near the icy Atlantic Ocean waters, and hiking through the enormous dunes. Train and rail stations were increasing throughout the country, making travel easier and more accessible from various counties and regions. In neighboring towns such as Portrush, vacationers were frequent, adding growth and prosperity.  Due to Mr. Cromie's belief that transportation to the area would impact worship, especially on Sunday, rail travel became blocked. Through a meeting of local people, a compromise with Cromie passed, and the building of a railway began just a mile down the road.  It was hoped that the train would increase the number of patrons into Portstewart. However, due to the delay, Portstewart’s growth and prosperity stunted in comparison, becoming more the sleepy village nestled next to the sea.  Although a bit quieter than a few of its counterparts, Portstewart was also home to those with big dreams.