Don’t forget – Sunday, June 21 is Father’s Day!

FATHER’S Day is just around the corner and as Northern Ireland is simply bursting with exciting events, fun things to do, and interesting places to visit, you won’t be stuck for ideas on how to show your Dad how much you really care.

Tourism NI’s Destination PR Officer Pauline Gormley said: “Most Dads spend all year ferrying their children about, dispensing advice and just being there when they’re needed, so this is your chance to say a big ‘thank you’ and give your Dad a day to remember by taking advantage of the fantastic events, exciting days out and great activities that are taking place all over Northern Ireland.

“To help you plan a fun Father’s Day we have pulled together some of the top highlights so you and your Dad can have a unique and special day,” she added.

Get Active with Dad
If your Dad just loves to get out and about then why not treat him to an exhilarating day at The Jungle NI in Moneymore where he can try his hand at a range of exciting activities including zorbing, archery, Segway riding and even llama trekking.

If you have a really adventurous Dad take him to We Are Vertigo in Belfast, where he can try his hand on the ski slopes, wall climbing or trampolining or to really test his abilities visit Todds Leap in Ballygawley, Co Tyrone where he can choose from a whole host of fun things to do including archery, clay pigeon shooting and a rodeo bull – yeehaw!

For something a little different take your Dad on a Segway Tour of the Titanic Quarter where you can really test his sense of balance! Or why not go to the Navan Centre in Armagh which is hosting a special Father’s Day BBQ along with a wattle and daub fence challenge.

The Share Centre in Lisnaskea Co Fermanagh, Ireland’s largest residential outdoor activity and adventure centre, is simply jam packed with things to do and if your Dad is a water baby then this is the perfect day out as he can choose from banana boating, dinghy sailing, kayaking, canoeing and power boating, to name a few.

Delve into history with Dad

If your Dad has a love of all things historical then why not treat him to a day  on board the SS Nomadic in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter.  Dads can explore over 100 years of maritime and social history as well as the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience, Titanic Belfast.

For a real adventure, take a trip to the walled city of Derry ~Londonderry. The city is rich in heritage, culture and is the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland. Embark on a fascinating walking tour or visit some spectacular attractions such as the Tower Museum, Saint Columb’s Cathedral or the stunning Guildhall.

Northern Ireland is simply bursting with stately homes and if your Dad is interested in this type of history and heritage then the only trouble you will have is deciding where to take him. Options include Mount Stewart House and Gardens in Newtownards, Lissan House in Cookstown, The Argory in Co Armagh or Castle Coole in Co Fermanagh. If the weather is dry, why not bring a picnic and treat him to an alfresco dining experience!

Get back to Nature with Dad

If your Dad is a nature lover and enjoys getting out and about then why not pay a visit to Tollymore Forest Park in Co Down, Roe Valley Country Park in Limavady or Gortin Glen Forest Park in Co Tyrone. All these places offer wonderful walks and trails set against a backdrop of stunning scenery. The perfect place for enjoying some quality time with your Dad.

Dads can try their hand at archery at the Crom Estate in Co Fermanagh before learning more about the local wildlife including rare butterflies and the largest heronry in Ireland.

Northern Ireland is one of the best destinations for fishing with many areas to choose from including the rivers of the Causeway Coast in Co. Antrim such as the Bush River which is located near the world renowned Old Bushmills Distillery – another treasure for your Dad to explore.
Perfect gift ideas

If your Dad is a Game of Thrones fan then he will be delighted if you surprise him with an Archery Experience at Winterfell, aka Castle Ward, in Strangford, Co Down which includes dressing up as characters from the show and a tour of the movie set.  Alternatively why not take your Dad on your very own tour of some of the filming locations like the Dark Hedges or Ballintoy Harbour.

If your Dad enjoys the occasional tipple then the Walled City Brewery in Ebrington Square in the City of Derry will prove an ideal day out. Dad can sup ‘til his heart’s content on authentic, premium quality and flavoursome craft beers inspired by local recipes and new-world brewing techniques.

June 21 is also the day that the Gran Fondo Giro d’Italia Northern Ireland is in Belfast.  Cycle on down to the Titanic Quarter where Dad can take in the excitement on the Titanic Slipways before enjoying a special Father’s Day Afternoon Tea at Titanic Belfast in the plush surroundings of the Titanic Suite featuring the stunning replica staircase.

Live jazz music will add atmosphere to your afternoon as you dine and all Dads will also receive a special gift from Titanic Belfast!

To find out more about activities and events taking place to celebrate Father’s Day in Northern Ireland click on discovernorthernireland.com/fathersday/ or visit your local tourist information centre.