Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week (July 20-26).

• Flavours of the Foyle, Guildhall Square, Derry~Londonderry, Co Londonderry, July 25-26. Tantalise your taste buds at Northern Ireland’s biggest seafood festival! Local and celebrity chefs will cook a range of delicious fresh produce, providing authentic seafood dishes to try and buy. There’s lots of fun and games for the children on offer as part of Flavours of the Foyle, with themed arts and crafts, face painting and street entertainment, as well as the Loughs Agency Touch Tank so don’t miss it.

• Pop Up Camping at Florence Court, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, July 24. Join in on an overnight camping experience on the front lawn at stunning, Florence Court. A campfire, no doubt with a sing-along, with entertainment and an estate walk is also included. Check in time 6pm.

• Woodland Warriors, Mount Stewart, Portaferry Road, Newtownards, Co Down, July 22. Woodland warriors is an action packed day of adventure for everyone to learn how to survive in the woodlands.  Participants will build shelters and bonfires as well as finding out more about Northern Ireland’s native wildlife and plants. Kids can be dropped off at the event which is suitable for young people aged 11 – 14 years. From 10am-4pm.

• Portaferry Gala Week, Portaferry, Co Down, until July 24. Portaferry Gala takes over the coastal town of Portaferry with a week full of events and activities for all the family. There will be a fair with plenty of stalls to purchase some goodies as well as treasure hunts, relay races, entertainment, fancy dress competitions, parades and plenty more.

• Donaghadee Ulster Scots Festival, Ards Visitor Information Centre, Regent Street, Newtownards, Co Down, July 22-26. Celebrate the town’s strong Ulster-Scots heritage with an extensive programme of themed entertainment, including the re-enactment of Montgomery’s arrival at Donaghadee Harbour, historical displays, live music and dance performances, Ulster Scots culinary fair, craft demonstrations and children’s activities.

• Victorian Tea Party, The Argory, Moy, Co Armagh, July 26. At the Victoria Tea Party you can step back to the 1800s to see what really went on behind closed doors in the Victorian big house. Get the gossip from the Housekeeper and the Lady’s Maid and enjoy a delightful afternoon tea of finger sandwiches, Victoria sponge, homemade scones and other traditional delights. Afternoon tea sittings: 1.30pm, 3pm, 4.30pm.

• Big Splash Triathlon and River Festival, Main Street, Portglenone, Ballymena, Co Antrim, July 20 – 25. Come to Portglenone and enjoy activities each evening finishing with a full day of activities. There will be a soap box derby, vintage parade, teddy bears picnic, Ceili-Ceilidh in The Square and of course the Big Splash Triathalon along with many more activities to enjoy.

• Glenelly Rockin By The River Festival, Plumbridge, Strabane, Co Tyrone, July 22-26. Enjoy this five day festival that will provide lots to do for the entire family. There will be a gentle family friendly walk, a treasure hunt, Hip Hop dance classes, a disco, vintage rally, craft stalls, amusements and much more.

• Belfast Music Tour, Oh Yeah Music Centre, Cathedral Quarter, Belfast, July 25. Take a bus journey through the heart of this rock and roll city. Sit back, relax, and enjoy tunes and tales from the band ‘Them’ and ‘Van Morrison’, by way of awesome guitar players, traditional and folk, to punk rock and Hollywood soundtracks before finishing up at the Belfast Music Exhibition at the Oh Yeah Music Centre. Tour starts 2pm at the Ulster Hall, Bedford Street.

• Dalriada Festival, Glenarm, Ballymena, Co Antrim, July 18-25. Enjoy one of Northern Ireland’s biggest cultural family events. The festival has something for everyone from Highland Games, Fine Foods, Celebrity Chef demonstrations, arts and crafts, live music and children’s entertainment to large outdoor concerts which to date has featured the likes of The Priests, General Fiasco, Duke Special, Ronan Keating and many others.

Please note some of the events require pre-booking. For more details on these and other events click on www.discovernorthernireland.com/events, visit your local tourist information centre or log onto www.facebook.com/discovernorthernireland.

Saturday 18 July – Friday 24 July

Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 July, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Groomsport Harbour

Free entertainment, 2pm-4pm.

Sat 18:  Louie the Magician and Caricaturist

Sun 19: Clayrazy, Children’s Crafts, Ulster-Scots Agency Entertainment

Cottages open to the public 11am-5pm. Free admission

Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Sunday 19 July, Live Music at the Bandstand

Ward Park, Bangor

Free entertainment, 3pm – 5pm

Join us for the summer season of FREE live music every Sunday in Ward Park, with a fantastic line up of eclectic music that everyone is sure to enjoy.

This week’s act: The Russian Dolls (Country Rock)

Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Sunday 19 July, Summer Band Concert

Conway Square, Newtownards

Free entertainment, 3pm – 4pm

Join us for the summer season of FREE band concerts every Sunday in Newtownards, Comber or Donaghadee.

This week’s band: Ards Silver Band

Info: Ards Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9182 6846, ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Thursday 23 –Sunday 26 July, Donaghadee Ulster Scots Festival

Various Locations, Donaghadee

Celebrate the town’s strong Ulster-Scots heritage with an extensive programme of themed entertainment, including live music, a cookery masterclass, Living History Fayre and themed tours.

Info: Ards Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9182 6846, ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Saturday 18 July, Nautical Past, Short Sea Cruise Belfast Lough

Tour departs from The Jetty, Bangor, 2pm
Tickets: £10

Discover the rich nautical history of Belfast Lough as you explore Bangor’s role in World War I and II

Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Sunday 19 July, Copeland Island Boat Tour

Departs from Donaghadee Harbour, 2pm

Tickets: £8 (Ad), £7 (Con), £4 (Ch)

Departing from Donaghadee your trip to Copeland Island will be enhanced by tails of those who have travelled across that stretch of water over the centuries.

Info: Ards Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9182 6846, ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk visitardsandnorthdown.com

Sunday 19 July, Helens Bay in 2 World Wars: St Johns Church and Grey Point Fort

Tour departs from St John’s Church car park, Helens Bay, 2:30pm

Tickets: £3

This fascinating Tour of two of North Down’s hidden gems explores their strong connections to both World Wars.

Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Thursday 23 July, Newtownards Historical Walking Tour

Tour departs from Town Hall, Newtownards, 7:30pm

Tickets: £3

Discover the wealth of historical treasures Newtownards has to offer and how some of history’s most notable civilians including the Normans, Celts and Vikings shaped the town.

Info: Ards Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9182 6846, ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk visitardsandnorthdown.com

Saturday 25 – Friday 31 July

Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July, Family Fun at Cockle Row Cottages

Groomsport Harbour

Free entertainment, 2pm-4pm.

Sat 25: Plant & Play Garden Workshop & Crafts

Sun 26: Children’s Crafts, Archery, Ulster-Scots Agency Entertainment

Cottages open to the public 11am-5pm. Free admission

Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Sunday 26 July, Live Music at the Bandstand

Ward Park, Bangor

Free entertainment, 3pm – 5pm

Join us for the summer season of FREE live music every Sunday in Ward Park, with a fantastic line up of eclectic music that everyone is sure to enjoy.

This week’s act: Johnny and the Riviera (Swing, Jazz)

Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Sunday 26 July, Summer Band Concert

Comber Square

Free entertainment, 3pm – 4pm

Join us for the summer season of FREE band concerts every Sunday in Newtownards, Comber or Donaghadee.

This week’s band: Comber Silver Band

Info: Ards Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9182 6846, ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Saturday 25 July, Kids Nature Trail, Castle Park, Bangor

Tour departs from North Down Museum, 10:30am

Tickets: Free

Learn about the natural habitat or the birds and animals who live in the picturesque grounds of Castle Park

Info: Bangor Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9127 0069, bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk, visitardsandnorthdown.com

Saturday 25 July, Strangford Lough Twilight Boat Tours

Tour departs from The Slipway, Portaferry, 6:30pm

Tickets: £8 (Ad), £7 (Con), £4 (Ch)

Find a little inner peace and harmony as you take an evening cruise across the beautiful Strangford Lough

Ards Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9182 6846, ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk visitardsandnorthdown.com

Sunday 26 July, A Forenoon Aroon the Ards

Tour Departs from the Ards Visitor Information Centre, 1pm

Tickets: £18 (Ad), £16 (Con), £9 (Ch)

This Ulster-Scots tour of ‘the Ards’ traces the history of the 1606 Hamilton/Montgomery settlement. (Includes afternoon tea)

Ards Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9182 6846, ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk visitardsandnorthdown.com

Sunday 26 July, Dander around the Dee

Tour departs from Pier 36, Donaghadee, 3pm

Tickets: £3

Step back through the ages with local historian Harry Allen as he leads you around the history-rich town of Donaghadee.

Ards Visitor Information Centre, (028) 9182 6846, ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk visitardsandnorthdown.com

Exhibitions

North Down Museum, Bangor

Castle Park Avenue, located by Bangor Castle (Town Hall) BT20 4BT

T: 028 9127 1200. Admission Free

Thursday 2 July – Sunday 2 August

Here Comes The Bride – Come along and enjoy an exhibition of bridal dresses from over the decades, on loan to the Museum from local ladies.

Portaferry Visitor Information Centre

The Stables, Castle Street BT22 1NZ

T: 028 4272 9882. Admission Free

Tuesday 30 June – Wednesday 29 July

Maritime Exhibition by Portaferry and Strangford Trust – This exhibition will showcase the great maritime past of the ports of Portaferry and Strangford.

Saturday 4 – Saturday 25 July

Art in the Loft – ‘Portaferry Reflections’ – Portaferry Art Society’s annual exhibition.

Down

Castlewellan Show is getting ready for another great show on Saturday 18th July 2015.  Over 4000 entries across cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, poultry, rabbits, dog agility, home industries and schools.  Entry is £10 for adults, under 16s are free and Young Farmers are £5 (with their card).  There is free parking on site and visitors also have free access to Castlewellan Forest Park on the day with beautiful walks, mountain bike tracks, kids playground and the Maze.  There will be over 300 traders from agricultural machinery to local food and crafts.

Armagh

The Shambles Yard will host their monthly Artisan Food & Craft Market this Saturday 18th July.  A feast for the senses the Artisan Food and Craft Markets offer a range of food, drinks and crafts from local and regional producers and crafters; which are home grown, reared, brewed, baked, processed, made and carved by the stall holders themselves. Budding crafters and chefs can learn the secrets of the crafts and pick up a few culinary tips at one of the many demonstrations and be entertained by the musical talent of our local musicians.

Fermanagh

Belvoir Players presents ‘ALLO ‘ALLO, Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen 16^th to 18^th July.  A comedy by Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft, Their latest play, a staged version of the popular T.V. comedy series, features the café owner René Artois in war torn occupied France, as he and wife Edith struggle to keep a priceless portrait stolen by the Nazis. René is hiding two British airmen and has the Resistance as well as the Germans to cope with. Things come to a head when the Fuhrer plans to visit the town. Suitable for 14+ years and upwards.

Tyrone

Enjoy the lovely summer nights filled with the sounds of rhythm and blues from renowned jazz musicians ‘Jazz Gazette’ at the Alley Theatre Strabane this Friday 17th July.    Jazz Gazette will be joined by special guests and welcome anyone that would like to come and ‘jamm’ with them.

Derry

The Red Sails Festival Portstewart gets underway on Sunday 19th July.  All of the entertainment at the Crescent is free and includes a variety of music & drama, Irish & Scottish dancing, art, cheerleading and fancy dress. There are various competitions and challenges. On Saturday 25th at 10.30pm there is a firework display to mark the end of the festival.

Antrim

It is the Summer of 1961, and one year after their honeymoon, the Pepper’s return to Seaview Guest House in Portrush for a holiday. After being welcomed by the landlady, the formidable Mrs Austin, they soon discover that the other guests include Daphne Pepper’s parents, the Hemingways.  When personal items start to go missing, suspicion soon turns to the other guests, which include the rather eccentric Miss Windermere.  The stage is set for a hilarious romp by the sea where everyone gets a real basinful of the briny.  This performance takes place at The Courtyard Theatre this Friday 17^th and Saturday 18^th July, and is part of the Summer Theatre Season of amateur plays. Performed by Dove Theatre Group.

Belfast

Join RSBP warden Chris Sturgeon this Saturday at Belfast Harbour Estate to explore Belfast’s Window on Wildlife as summer is in full bloom. At this time of year wonderful views over the lagoon are complemented by the sound of squabbling terns on the man-made rafts and the reserve will also be all-a-flutter with beautiful butterflies.  £5 for adults, £4 for RSPB members. £2.50/£2 for children aged 5 to 17. Under 5s go free.

Add your events free at www.whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.

The weeklong Red Sails Festival organized by the Portstewart Community Association in conjunction with Causeway Coast and Glens Council, D.C.A.L., and Coleraine Borough Arts Committee will be from 19^th-25^th July

The 2015 festival includes the usual feast of free entertainment for all ages. Including:

Ritchie Remo’s Big Band

2014 Britain’s Got Talent Semi Finalist’s-The Innova Irish Dance Company

And Hugo Duncan’s Radio Ulster Road Show, featuring several guest artists.

Plus lots more music inc tributes to Elvis and Pink Floyd. There will also be a variety of artists performing music and poetry in the local cafes.

Plus lots for the Kids-Workshops, Street Theatre and Talent, Sandcastle, Pavement Art, Fishing and Fancy Dress Competitions.

A special feature this year will be a skiffle version of The Beatles Lonely Heart’s Club Band album performed by the Really Rubbish Orchestra Band, using instruments fashioned from a piece of driftwood washed up at Portstewart Crescent.

It all finishes on Saturday 25^th July with a spectacular Fireworks display at 10.30pm

For full details of the program visit www.redsails.co.uk

This year’s festival celebrates the 80^th Anniversary of the publication of “Red Sails In The Sunset”.  The lyrics of the song were written by Jimmy Kennedy, whilst staying in his family holiday home in Portstewart. The song was inspired by the “Red Sails” of Kitty of Coleraine and the beautiful scenic views in Portstewart. It was a massive hit around the world, when published in 1935. Sheet music was the popular format of the day and it was the biggest seller that year in the UK and the second best seller of the year in America. Over the next 25 years it was recorded by many of the top artists of the time-Bing Crosby, Louis Armstrong, Fats Domino, Nat King Cole, Connie Francis  to name but a few. It was the first song Vera Lynn ever broadcast and formed part of The Beatles set list before they became famous. In 1977, over 40 year’s after publication,  Jimmy Kennedy received an award in Nashville, as the song had been the most played song on US country music stations that year.  It continues to be recorded and inspire today. In 2012 popular American TV Crime Drama The Mentalist had an episode entitled “Red Sails In The Sunset”.

To mark this special occasion the yacht “ Kitty”, which is possession of the Council’s Museum department, will be on display at the crescent on Monday 20^th July. ( The anniversary of Jimmy Kennedy’s birthday 20^th July 1902).

Local artist, Jonny Thompson, is releasing his self penned Red Sails inspired single-“Red Sails Romance” and this will be available at an information stall at the crescent during the week. He will also be performing at a couple of the cafes during the festival as well.

In further tribute to Jimmy Kennedy’s song writing, there will be a Teddy Bear’s Picnic Children’s workshop and Story Time session.

It has been announced that the UK Space Agency is investing over £1.5 million in education and outreach projects that harness inspirational power of European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Tim Peake’s space mission.

W5 at Odyssey Belfast has been chosen as one of the nation’s top science and discover centres to launch an inspirational and exciting hands on programme.

Backed by the UK Space Agency, W5 is one of twenty science centres across the UK that have joined forces with the European Space Agency’s first British astronaut, Tim Peake, to provide children all over the UK with a unique opportunity to learn about human space flight and follow life on the International Space Station.

With over 20 million visitors to UK science centres every year, Destination Space will give children across the nation the chance to learn about Tim Peake’s mission through hands-on experiments, rocket demonstrations, space equipment and live video from the International Space Station.

As well as learning about Tim Peake’s work on the International Space Station, the programme will celebrate the team behind Tim, highlighting great opportunities for young people across the science and space sector.

The programme is being developed with teams at the National Space Centre in Leicester, Science Museum in London and Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre in Cheshire, and led by the UK Association for Science and Discovery Centres in Bristol.

Families and schools will be invited to join Destination Space through a calendar of family shows and live events at W5 running from October 2015 including special events for Tim Peake’s launch, meet-the-expert sessions and a fabulous astronaut show that will engage and inspire family audiences with Tim’s mission. Special curriculum-linked activities for school children aged 5-14 will be starting from January 2016 whilst Tim is in space.

Online, Destination Space will allow people to follow Tim Peake’s adventures in space in real time, find out what role in the crew would suit them and learn about inspiring figures within the field of human space flight.

Dr Penny Fidler, the CEO of ASDC and Director of Destination Space said:

“Tim Peake is the European Space Agency’s first British astronaut and we want children and families to feel they are truly a part of his exciting mission. His journey and time on the International Space Station provides a great opportunity to encourage children to be more curious, ask big questions and to enjoy science.

“By following Destination Space online or joining us for one of our science centre events, young people all over the UK can explore human space flight in a hands-on, fun and involving way.

“We want to show there is a huge crew of women and men from all areas of science and engineering who work to make space missions possible. This is a chance to celebrate their endeavours, giving young people the confidence and curiosity to explore and ask questions long after they leave the science and discovery centres.”

Organisers of upcoming ‘festival for everyone’ Sunflowerfest have announced an exciting line-up of events featured this year in the Bliss realm of the festival.

Offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the vibrant weekend-long festival, this year Bliss will feature a packed programme of complementary therapies, all-inclusive yoga sessions, and a unique chill-out zone sponsored by Vita Coco coconut water.

“As Sunflowerfest grows each year, we are finding more and more visitors attracted to the Bliss Area,” said Vanessa Magowan, festival organiser.  “The complementary therapies and opportunities to relax and reconnect against the gorgeous backdrop of Tubby’s Farm have contributed to making Bliss a hub for festival goers looking to re-energise during the exciting, action-packed three-day festival, and this year we are delighted to welcome our sponsor, Vita Coco, who we believe fit perfectly with our festival’s ethos of a back-to-nature, chilled out weekend.”

We’re looking forward to teaming up with Sunflowerfest to offer a unique space for festival goers to chill out and get away from the heat and hustle and bustle of the festival,” said Cara Millaney, Vita Coco.  “The Vita Coco chill-out zone will anchor the Bliss realm and include bean bags, lounge chairs, palm trees and free Vita Coco coconut water for guests to rehydrate and relax away from the sun.  Festivals are a highlight to our summers here in Ireland, but it’s important to stay hydrated during long summer days outdoors and Vita Coco is offering a service to improve the festival experience this year.”

Bliss will also feature a village of tents hosting unique opportunities like chocolate shamanic yoga by Northern Ireland’s only chocolate shaman Helena Lavery as well as a sound healing bath, crystal healing, aroma therapies, a drum circle, reiki and massage, among other therapies.

“In addition to some of the lesser known complementary therapies available in Bliss, many festival-goers are expected to take advantage of our wide range of yoga classes offered throughout the weekend,” said Kathy Barenskie, Director of The intention is Love and Bliss organiser.  “We feel that Sunflowerfest – an all-inclusive festival – is about head-to-soul healing, and we will be offering a range of one to one therapies and treatments, workshops including  meditation, Shake your Soul Dance and a variety of yoga classes including kids’ yoga and baby reflexology with Adele Quinn, and designated yoga sessions for happiness, deep relaxation, and energy as well as our well-known laughter yoga sessions to help festival goers connect with nature and unplug during their weekend at Tubby’s Farm.”

Last year Sunflowerfest  broke the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest laughter yoga class, which saw nearly 400 festival guests partake in a half hour session held at the festival’s main stage.  This year, festival organisers plan to recreate last year’s laughter yoga session on the Sunday morning of the festival, hoping that more guests will join in on the invigorating session before kicking off the final day of the festival.

Also planned to feature in the Bliss realm and the adjacent Enchanted Glade will be sonic artist Gus Leudar’s magical invisible forest sound installation which will encourage guests of all ages to interact with the forest, while the community garden will offer a plethora of gorgeous summer blooms in the heart of Bliss ahead of the annual all-Ireland Permaculture Gathering.

Sunflowerfest kindly acknowledges the assistance of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council and Tourism NI in the production of this year’s event.

For further information or to purchase tickets visit www.sunflowerfest.co.uk

The Railway Preservation Society of Ireland’s Portrush Flyer steam train will be offering holidaymakers and daytrippers the opportunity to travel on a unique and stylish excursion to Portrush on Sundays 26^th July, 9^th and 23^rd August.

Passengers on The Portrush Flyer will travel in vintage carriages from the 1960’s and 1970’s behind the beautifully restored, 103-ton, blue locomotive, “Merlin”.   Merlin was re-launched last year at the end of a 10 year engineering overhaul carried out at the workshops of the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland, in Whitehead, County Antrim.  A lot of the work was carried out by volunteers and, this volunteer activity, over the last 50 years, has earned the RPSI a coveted Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2015.

Railway Preservation Society of Ireland Operations Officer Mervyn Darragh commented “We are pleased to be able to share our wonderful steam train The Portrush Flyer again.  These annual trains are the high point of a great year for our Society.  The Flyer will start from the RPSI depot at Whitehead Excursion Station, picking up at Carrickfergus and Belfast Central en-route to Portrush and we love to see the passengers on the train waving at the holidaymakers on the beach as we weave along the coast for our arrival at leave Portrush.

“To be awarded the Queen’s Award, the equivalent of a MBE for a voluntary group like ours, is the high-point of a very busy year.  Our volunteers have now restored three mainline steam locomotives to active service and are preparing one of them, our largest, Merlin for Portrush action.

“Each train will offer passengers travel in lovingly restored carriages, the opportunity for children (and more nostalgic adults) to get close to the steam engine and talk to the driver and fireman (if he has the energy after shovelling up to 4.5 tons of coal into the fire), and a relaxing journey through city suburbs, leafy countryside and North Atlantic seascapes to Portrush and back.  We’ll be operating this train on 26^th July, 9^th August and a final time on 23^rd August.

“We always enjoy helping the public and especially children get closer to the industrial heritage we maintain.  A steam train just oozes atmosphere and we would especially appreciate the public sending us drawings, notes or poems about their day out on the steam train for posting on our website.”

The Railway Preservation Society of Ireland is a charitable not-for-profit organisation and has it’s main workshops at Whitehead in County Antrim.  Restoration and preparation of the trains is entirely managed by and, largely carried out by, volunteers.

The Portrush Flyer departs Belfast Central at 1130 sharp on 26^th July, 9^th and 23^rd August with pre-pickups at Whitehead Excursion Station (0935) and Carrickfergus (0950).   Return tickets to Portrush cost £22 Adult, £15 Child and £66 Family (2 adults and 2 children).  Tickets can be purchased in advance by telephone or call-and-collect from Belfast Welcome Centre, tel 028 9024 6609 or online from www.steamtrainsireland.com.

Northern Ireland has a unique collection of irresistible places to stay this summer including quirky B&Bs, luxurious spa hotels and hidden gem properties for the perfect ‘Staycation’  with family or friends and Discover NI has selected the best offers for you to choose from.

• Westering, four bedroom self-catering holiday home, Portaferry. From £495 per week. Westering’s 4-star rating by Tourism NI means guests can be assured of the high quality of the facilities and an outstanding standard of cleanliness and attention to every detail. The house sleeps 8 guests in four bedrooms – two bedrooms with a king sized bed, one with a double bed and a bedroom with bunk beds. Relax and enjoy the magnificent views of Strangford Lough from the first floor living room, explore nearby Castle Ward, play a round of golf or go for a stroll along the sea front, you’ll be spoilt for choice! There are many delicious restaurants nearby where you can enjoy a glass of wine as the sun goes down and the private garden means there is a safe place for the kids to play.  All linen, towels, electric supplied as well as free WiFi included.  Available until Aug 31. To book call 07743 378 818.

• Hilton Belfast Ultimate Tour Experience. From £150pps.  Hilton Belfast has teamed up with McComb’s Luxury Coach Tours to bring you the Ultimate break. Enjoy luxury accommodation in the heart of Belfast and discover the backdrop to HBO’s award winning Game of Thrones or Giant’s Causeway Tour.  Includes two nights’ accommodation, 3 course dinner on the first evening in Sonoma Restaurant, buffet breakfast, Game of Thrones Tour or Giant’s Causeway Tour (Wed/Sat/Sun). Tour can be taken on day of arrival or departure. Available until 31 Dec. To book call (028) 9027 7000.

• Dine and Stay, Roe Park Resort, Limavady. From £70pps. Package includes one night B&B and one evening meal per adult, full access to the Fairways Health Club which includes indoor heated swimming pool, steam room, jacuzzi and sauna. Whilst in the area you can explore the Causeway Coastal Route or visit nearby Derry~Londonderry which is one of the finest examples of Walled Cities in Europe, or you could even play a few holes on some of Northern Ireland’s best golf courses. Available until Dec 31. To book call (028) 7772 2222.

• Sunset Dinner Cruise and Stay, Manor House Country Hotel, Irvinestown, Enniskillen. From £125pps for a mid-week two night stay including B&B, dinner in Belleek Restaurant and a dinner cruise on-board ‘Lady of the Lake’ Cruiser. (Sailings Tuesday & Thursday). Complimentary access to Manor Leisure with swimming pool, toddler’s pool, steam room, Jacuzzi, sauna, fitness suite and outdoor hot tub. Available until Sept 9. To book call (028) 6862 2200.

All offers are subject to availability.

For further information, contact TNI on 028 9023 1221 or view on www.discovernorthernireland.com/offers.

As the SGS International ‘Race of legends’ draws near, the Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club has spoken about how support from the local community and businesses have been the key to their success.

Speaking ahead of the Armoy Road Races, Bill Kennedy, Clerk of the Course explained how local sponsors have contributed to proceedings: “There are many ingredients to ensuring a successful road race: the riders and their wholehearted support by racing at our event; the sponsors and their very generous and committed financial support and the many members of the Club and volunteers that give freely of their time.

“The local community and businesses are instrumental to our races and we would be lost without them. I can’t say more good things about the fantastic support we’ve had from different areas of the local and business community.

“For instance, there are a number of sponsors that have stuck with us over the years, Trevor Kane of Bayview Hotel is one of them.  Trevor has been unswerving in his assistance with the Club and the races, nothing is too much and he has kindly hosted our launch over a number of years. Basically we take over the Bayview Hotel in Portballintrae, an absolutely beautiful spot, for most of a day and thankfully I don’t get too many complaints from him or his regulars.

“Other sponsors that have stood side by side with us over a number of years include; the Ballycastle Credit Union, Armoy Homes & Property Services, Armoy Construction Co Ltd, the Mermaid Club, the Diamond Bar, James W Hickinson & Co, Harrigan Fuels, Solitude Motors and PMA Contracts along with our title sponsor SGS International as well as Tourism Northern Ireland, Tourism Ireland and the now Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council.

“Each and everyone of these sponsors play an instrumental part in making the Armoy Road Races happen. I must take this opportunity to also extend a huge thank you to the landowners in and around Armoy as each year they kindly contribute the use of their land for the races.

“The Road Races bring a significant tourism and economic boost to the area and I think people have seen that, and that’s why they are keen to get involved and support the races. Local Armoy Companies, IJ Lynn & Sons and McAuley Car Dismantlers, have come on board this year along with Coleraine’s First4Printing, and Kells based Torquetronix.

“They have all been spectacular, with First4Printing also providing a very professional service in helping design and print our programme and we are really very thankful that the guys have given their support.  A special thanks also goes to new sponsors, the Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club for their input in the Junior Classic Race.

“Companies and individuals help in many different ways. RiverRidge Recycling has been a brilliant supporter of the race in the past and will continue to support us by providing bins and skips again this year, with many other individuals donating their time and money to the club.

“John and Valerie Crichton, along with their grandson, Jonathan Reilly are just one other example and along with Chief Timekeeper, Richard Agnew, they come year on year to ensure that each and every working part is ready for this major national event.

“I’m sure there are many more I haven’t mentioned but nonetheless, my thanks and that of the Club’s are heartfelt.”

The event is part funded by Tourism Northern Ireland and Bike Week runs from Sunday 19^th July until Saturday 25^th July 2015 with the SGS International ‘Race of Legends’ featuring on the Saturday 25^th July 2015.

Please support the Armoy Road Races by buying a programme. They are available from the AMRRC office and the Petrol Station in Armoy from the Saturday 18^th July 2015 and cost £10.00 or €15.

For more information visit www.amrrc.com or search for ‘AMRRC’ on Facebook and join the official fan page and you can also follow us on twitter at @ArmoyRoadRaces.

Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week (July 13-19).

• Scarva Sham Fight, Scarva, Co Down, July 14. This event is firmly established as one of the major events on the Northern Ireland cultural and tourism calendar. It will be an amazing occasion packed with music and pageantry, a day the whole family can enjoy. Video screens and other stage equipment will be provided for people to enjoy the day and a special marquee will be set up to allow visitors understand the history of the Royal Black Institution and the Sham Fight.

• Ulster Fleadh 2015, Dromore, Co Tyrone, July 18-26. The Fleadh kicks off on July 18 with an eagerly anticipated concert. July 23 will see the final chapter of the ‘Families of Ulster’ series featuring talent from each of the nine counties in Ulster. The Official Opening of the Fleadh takes place on July 24 featuring the All-Ireland Champions who will give an open-air performance.  The feature weekend of Fleadh Uladh shall see the streets come alive with music, song and dance with many lively sessions from Friday July 24 until Sunday Jul 26. It is the perfect experience for young and old to soak up the talent and culture from all across Ulster with something for all the family.

• Teddy Bears’ Picnic at the Ark Open Farm, Newtownards, Co Down, July 17. Bring along your teddy or favourite cuddly toy for a day of fun at the Ark Open Farm. Punch and Judy will be there too! So pack your picnic and cuddly toy and help the Ark Open Farm celebrate 25 years of welcoming visitors. Come along between 2 and 4pm.

• Rose Week, Sir Thomas & Lady Dixon Park, Belfast, July 14-19.  The International Rose Garden at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park is amongst the best in the world and you are invited to enjoy over 45,000 roses in bloom at this stunning location. A full programme of events takes place in the park during Rose Week including music and a variety of entertainment for all ages. From 1pm – 5pm each day.

• DinoStories, W5 Lite, Outlet Park, Banbridge, July 1- August 19. Get ready to roar as you join a storyteller for some interactive stories and rhymes featuring all of your favourite Dinosaurs! An event perfect for young visitors. Every Wednesday 2.30 – 4.30pm.

• Seaside Country Music Showtime Concert, Newcastle Centre, Newcastle, Co Down, July 15. Come and enjoy Newcastle’s Seaside Country Music Concert on Wednesday 15th July in the Newcastle Centre with all your favourite country stars including country legend John Hogan, Eugene O’Doran and Boxcar Brian. Show starts at 8pm.

• Shambles Artisan Food & Craft Market, Shambles Yard, Armagh, Co Armagh, July 18. A feast for the senses the Shambles Artisan Food & Craft Market will offer a range of food, drink and crafts from local and regional producers and crafters. Budding crafters and chefs can learn the secrets of the crafts and pick up a few culinary tips at one of the many demonstrations and be entertained by the musical talent of our local musicians. From 10.30-4pm.

• Oliver! Workshop, Theatre at The Mill, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim, July 13 – August 1. Now in its fifth year, this Workshop will provide an in depth focus on training and preparation for stage performance, the vital skills required for any aspiring young theatre performer and experience the thrill of being part of a fully staged, live, performance on a professional stage with a live orchestra. Open to all young people aged 8 – 18 years of age and auditions will be held at the Theatre at The Mill. See website for timings.

• ISLAND Children’s Arts Festival 2015, ISLAND Arts Centre, Lisburn, Co Antrim, July 1-August 31. This has something for all ages – tiny tots, kids and teenagers – plus events the whole family can enjoy together. Festival highlights include mini festival events, including workshops, film screenings with a difference, community outreach and a fun-filled interactive Children’s Exhibition which will keep even adults entertained. See website for timings.

• Summer Stroll, Window on Wildlife, Off Airport Road West, Belfast, July 18-19. Join Warden Chris Sturgeon to explore Belfast’s Window on Wildlife as summer is in full bloom. At this time of year wonderful views over the lagoon are complemented by the sound of squabbling terns on the man-made rafts and the reserve will also be all-a-flutter with beautiful butterflies. From 10.30 – 12.00.

Please note some of the events require pre-booking. For more details on these and other events click on www.discovernorthernireland.com/events, visit your local tourist information centre or log onto www.facebook.com/discovernorthernireland.