Month: December 2017

OFFERS OF THE WEEK

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Northern Ireland boasts a unique collection of irresistible places to stay including beautiful B&Bs, luxurious spa hotels and great value self-catering properties. Discover NI has selected the best offers of the week to help you plan a short break.

 

5 nights for the price of 4, Gorse Hill Farm, Co. Down from £300 per stay.

Gorse Hill is a magnificent two bedroom self-catering cottage set in the heart of the Mourne mountains. The property caters for up to four people and is ideal for a family retreat. Enjoy five nights for the price of four on midweek stays at this four-star accommodation. To book call 028 4321 9314. Offer available until 28 February 2018.

 

Time Well Spent, Belmore Court and Motel, Co. Fermanagh from £45 per room, per night.

Offering value pricing and relaxed convenience, the four-star Belmore Court and Motel is situated in Enniskillen Town. Save up to 50% with the ‘Time Well Spent’ package, a three-night break from £45 per room, per night. To book call 028 6632 6633. Offer available until 31 March 2018.

 

Midweek Winter Offer, Causeway Hotel, Co. Antrim from £130 per room.

The three-star Causeway Hotel is a grand and homely building set on the magnificent Causeway Coast, overlooking Portballintrae bay and on the doorstep of the Giant’s Causeway. Offer includes a two night’s bed & breakfast stay, full access to the Giant’s Causeway visitor experience and a two-course table d’Hôte dinner for two people. Offer available Sunday to Thursday. To book call 028 2073 1226. Offer available until 27 March 2018.

 

All offers are subject to availability.  For further information visit www.discovernorthernireland.com

10 things to do Next Week in NI!

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Discover Northern Ireland has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are 10 exciting things taking place this week (1-7 January 2018)

 

  1. Out To Lunch Arts Festival 2018, Belfast, 5-28 January. Now in its 13th year, the utterly unique and totally boutique Out To Lunch serves up a feast of music, comedy, spoken word and theatre with a thrilling mix of familiar favourites and fresh talent. For the full programme of acts and dates visit cqaf.com.
  2. Ulster Rugby V Munster, Belfast, 1 January. In their third interprovincial battle, Ulster go head to head with Munster at Kingspan Stadium, hoping the Christmas break will have prepared fans to be of good cheer. To book tickets visit ticketmaster.ie.
  3. New Year Train Rides, Drumawhey Junction Railway, 1 January. Enjoy miniature train rides at Drumawhey Junction Miniature Railway this New Year’s Day. This miniature railway, built and run by volunteers, captures the atmosphere of a full sized railway with a station, signal box, bridges, platform, cuttings, tunnel and level crossing.
  4. Ulster Orchestra Viennese, Derry~Londonderry, 7 January. Start 2018 with this glittering tribute to Vienna and Strauss which is a true delight for the eyes and ears at the Millenium Forum. Featuring a stunning programme of whirling waltzes and sweeping melodies accompanied by guest artists, let the luscious bars of the Blue Danube Waltz leave your heart beating in triple time.
  5. Run Forest Run, Tollymore Forest Park, 6 January. Tollymore 5K/10K is the fifth race in the Belfast Telegraph Run Forest Run Series and a great New Year challenge to work off the festive treats. The race route takes in panoramic views of the Mourne Mountains and through the beautiful forest where scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed.
  6. Conal Gallen in Concert, Ballynahinch, 6 January. The hilarious comedian Conal Gallen will have everyone in laughter with his fun, laughter and stories. Followed by dancing to The Barry Doyle Band, so get your dancing boots on and head for the Millbrook House Hotel for this live show.
  7. The High Kings, Derry~Londonderry, 6 January. ’Folk and Roll’, multi-platinum artists ‘The High Kings’ showcase their incredible versatility, bringing a great acoustic flavour to original songs as well as some old favourites at the Millennium Forum. Together they play thirteen instruments during their performances and their singing is especially noted for its close harmonies.
  8. Winter Skate 2017/2018, Belfast, 29 December 2017– 6 January 2018. This Christmas you can skate at the home of The Stena Line Belfast Giants. Enjoy skating on the ice rink at SSE Arena on a range of selected dates in December 2017 and January 2018.
  9. Kickstart Your Wellbeing Saturday Sessions, Newtownards, 6 January. Dedicated to you and your wellbeing, each session consists of an outdoor fitness burst, a personal energy management with insights and self-assessment techniques, which will allow you to make the right nutrition choices and enjoy a wonderful healthy brunch prepared by The Kingfisher Kitchen at Castle Espie. Registered Nutritionist Dr Danielle McCarthy (PhD) will then provide a talk on maximising your energy, with hints and tips for mind and body wellbeing. To book call 028 9187 4146.
  10. Jake O’Kane – Still Sittin’ On The Fence, Belfast, 4-5 January. Jake O’Kane, one of Northern Ireland’s top comics and star of the BBC panel show ‘The Blame Game’, is back with a brand new show at the Crumlin Road Gaol. In his traditional end-of-year review show, Jake will be casting a satirical eye over the preceding 12 months, combining stories and pictures from the Irish News with the madness of the Internet to debunk the great, the not so great, and himself.

 

For more information on these events or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit  www.DiscoverNorthernIreland.com.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Discover Northern Ireland has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are 10 exciting things taking place this week (25-31 December).

 

  1. Winter Skate 2017/2018, Belfast, 29 December 2017– 6 January 2018. This Christmas you can skate at the home of The Stena Line Belfast Giants. Enjoy skating on the ice rink at SSE Arena on a range of selected dates in December 2017 and January 2018.
  2. Boxing Day Races, Lisburn, 26 December. The Boxing Day Races at Down Royal Racecourse are a Christmas tradition. This long established event, held at Ireland’s oldest race course, guarantees to blow away those cobwebs after a day of excess. Popular with families, everyone is welcome. Gates open at 11am with the first race starting at 12.30pm.
  3. New Year’s Eve at Titanic, Belfast, 31 December. Join Titanic Belfast this New Year’s Eve to celebrate in style. Enjoy a fabulous cocktail on arrival and a light supper before dancing the night away in front of the stunning Titanic staircase. To book tickets visit TitanicBelfast.com.
  4. The High Kings – Decade Tour, Enniskillen, 29 December. ’Folk and Roll’, multi-platinum artists ‘The High Kings’ showcase their incredible versatility, bringing a great acoustic flavour to original songs as well as some old favourites at the Ardhowen theatre. Together they play thirteen instruments during their performances and their singing is especially noted for its close harmonies.
  5. New Year’s Eve Black Tie Gala Ball, Belfast, 31 December. The traditional splendour of the luxurious Europa hotel is the backdrop for this black-tie gala ball. This amazing evening unravels with a stylish champagne and canape reception, followed by a sumptuous five-course dinner, while live music from Dave Martin and the Casino Cats will have you up on your feet and dancing the night away. The host for the evening is U105’s DJ Johnny Hero with Santa’s Divas, plus there will be a piper at midnight to herald in the New Year.
  6. 2017 Winter Gathering – Causeway Coast Foodie Tours, Coleraine, 22-30 December. 2017 Winter Gathering is an informal boat trip on the beautiful River Bann offering a relaxed and informative afternoon of whiskey sampling, food tasting and a light sprinkling of stunning scenery and wildlife on the Bann Estuary. A marvellous opportunity to appreciate this historic town from a different perspective at this most wonderful time of the year. Meeting at Waterside Pontoon, Coleraine.
  7. Abba Tribute Show, Newcastle, 27 December. The Björn Identity are now one of the finest and most authentic tributes to ABBA in the UK; re-creating ABBA in concert experience like no other. Boasting live musicians and singers with West End, European & International tours behind them they really know how to bring the Abba experience to the Slieve Donard Resort and Spa. Enjoy this wonderful band as they rock the night away with all your Abba favourites.
  8. Jack and the Beanstalk, Derry~ Londonderry, 1 – 31 December. Telling the story of peasant boy Jack and his attempts to please his impoverished mother and win the hand of Princess Jill, Jack and the Beanstalk remains one of the best-loved pantomimes of all time. Packed with great song and dance routines, hilarious comedy, dazzling scenes and magical special effects is this spectacular show at the Millennium Forum, starring William Caulfield as Dame Trot.
  9. Jake O’Kane – Still Sittin’ On The Fence, Ballycastle, 28 December. Jake O’Kane, one of Northern Ireland’s top comics and star of the BBC panel show ‘The Blame Game’, is back with a brand new show coming to the Marine Hotel. In his traditional end-of-year review show, Jake will be casting a satirical eye over the preceding twelve months, combining stories and pictures from the Irish News with the madness of the Internet to debunk the great, the not so great, and himself.
  10. The Fureys, Lisburn, 28 December. Legends of Irish music and song The Fureys return to Lagan Valley Island for a fantastic night’s entertainment. They will be performing all of their hits, including ‘I Will Love You’, ‘Sweet 16’, ‘Leaving Nancy’ and many more. To book tickets visit LaganValleyIsland.co.uk.

 

 

For more information on these events or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit  www.DiscoverNorthernIreland.com.

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Down

See Santa at Hillmount Bangor this Friday to Sunday from 1.00pm to 5.00pm.  Cost is £10 per child which includes a present.  You’re welcome to bring your own camera and professional photographs will be available to buy as an optional extra.

Armagh

We all dream of a White Christmas and Happy Holidays, so Armagh’s sensational a cappella group ‘Cantilena’ pour some festive spirit into our Christmas Celebrations as they ring in the festive season in their own inimitable a cappella style this Wednesday 20th December at the Market Place Theatre. This evening of well-known traditional carols and popular Christmas songs, accompanied by the festive atmosphere, mulled wine and mince pies, will definitely put a Christmassy glow in your cheeks. Early booking is strongly recommended for this ever-popular show that welcomes the holidays in true festive style.

Fermanagh

Relax in the charming surroundings of the festive Garden Hall at the Lough Erne Resort and enjoy the limited edition Festive Afternoon Tea, which brings together a delectable mix of savoury snacks, sweet fancies and spicy teas which are sure to make merry mouths water this Christmas season. Available until 31st December.

Tyrone

The Silverbirch Hotel Omagh  continues its festive calendar of events at Lola’s with Lisa McHugh on Friday 22nd December! Festive Jive & Dine In 4 course Dinner in Barreta Bar & Grill & Country Dance at Lola’s. Pre-booking essential.

Derry/Londonderry

The Roe Valley Arts Centre are giving their annual family festive screening of Frozen a break this year for another superb Christmas favourite – ELF! The hilarious Will Ferrell plays the unforgettable Buddy, raised in the North Pole by Santa’s elves. Discovering that he is actually a human, Buddy sets off on a festive trip to New York to find his real father. Saturday 23rd December 2.00pm.

Antrim

Celebrate in style with family, friends or colleagues and enjoy a Christmas night out at the movies at the Bushmills Inn this Wednesday 20th December.  Indulge in a 4 course Christmas Banquet followed by a festive movie and popcorn in the exclusive surroundings of the Still Room Cinema.

Belfast

The award-winning Children’s Theatre Company, Cahoots NI, are casting a spell over young theatre goers at the Crescent Arts Centre this Christmas as they bring the enchanting tale, Shh! We Have a Plan to life. So why not bring along the family this Christmas to the Crescent and prepare to be enchanted and amazed by this unique production featuring Magic, Music, Puppetry and lots more! Runs until Sunday 24th December and is suitable for age 3+.

For more details on these events and to add your events free go to 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.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year!

 

CastleCourt opens new facilities for disabled people in NI

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CastleCourt has become the first shopping centre in Northern Ireland to have a Changing Places facility installed, and is the first facility of its kind in Belfast City Centre.

The Changing Places Consortium has welcomed the new, fully accessible toilet facilities for people with profound disabilities that have been installed at the centre.

The new toilets, which represent a significant investment by the owners are wheelchair accessible and offer a height-adjustable adult-sized changing bench, a ceiling track hoist, and plenty of space for carers.

It is hoped the addition will significantly help people with disabilities and their carers to be able to get out more around Belfast City Centre and in CastleCourt with the confidence that there are adequate toilet facilities nearby.

According to Muscular Dystrophy UK and the Changing Places Consortium, over a quarter of a million people with severe disabilities need access to Changing Places facilities. These toilets provide a safe and clean environment for users to use the toilet in a safe, clean and dignified manner.

Without Changing Places toilets, many thousands of disabled people, their families and carers, are denied equal access to the services that most people take for granted.

Paul McMahon, Centre Director for CastleCourt said:

“The new Changing Places facilities are an important addition to CastleCourt. Part of our centre’s commitment is to be accessible to everyone and the Changing Place facility is a massive part of that commitment.

“We have listened to feedback from customers and fully understand that standard disabled toilets do not meet the needs of all people with a disability. We’re delighted to be able to offer this new facility and hope it will have a positive impact on many people with disabilities, their family and carers.”

Nic Bungay, Director of Campaigns, Care and Information at Muscular Dystrophy UK said:
“Muscular Dystrophy UK and the Changing Places Consortium are delighted that the CastleCourt shopping centre has made its facilities accessible to profoundly disabled people.   Without access to Changing Places toilets, over a quarter of a million people who have severe disabilities are faced with a choice of not going out, or being changed on a toilet floor.

“Seeing a Changing Places toilet sign shows that a shopping centre, airport or tourist attraction is fully accessible for a disabled person. We hope others will follow CastleCourt’s lead, so we can see many more of these important signs going up all over the UK.

“By building more Changing Places toilets, we can help to tackle the exclusion many disabled people face.”

Michaela Hollywood, user of the Changing Room facilities and a Trailblazers Campaign Officer with Muscular Dystrophy UK spoke of the new facilities at CastleCourt:

“I’m over the moon that CastleCourt is home to the first Changing Places in a shopping centre in Northern Ireland and the first for shoppers in Belfast City Centre. I’m unable to use any toilet which doesn’t have a hoist and bench. I frequently shop in CastleCourt which is a great location during these winter months. Until now, I couldn’t spend a penny when out shopping – so I had to restrict my fluid intake, and this impacts on my enjoyment of a day out with family.”

To be registered as a Changing Places toilet it must include the right equipment; offer enough space; and provide a safe and clean environment.

It is estimated that there are around 250,000 people in the UK who cannot use standard accessible toilets. This includes people with profound and multiple learning disabilities, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy.

CHRISTMAS MAGIC CONTINUES AT THE MARKET PLACE

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The superb Christmas performances continue at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre, providing some much-needed respite from the Christmas hustle and bustle this December.

 

The festive favourite, ‘Christmas With Cantilena’ is back at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre on Wednesday 20 December. We all dream of a White Christmas and Happy Holidays, so Armagh’s sensational a cappella group ‘Cantilena’ pour some festive spirit into our Christmas Celebrations as they ring in the festive season in their own inimitable a cappella style. This evening of well-known traditional carols and popular Christmas songs, accompanied by the festive atmosphere, mulled wine and mince pies, will definitely put a Christmassy glow in your cheeks. Early booking is strongly recommended for this ever-popular show that welcomes the holidays in true festive style. Tickets are priced £19 for this fantastic event, which includes a glass of mulled wine and mince pie.

Then on Saturday 30 December, and following two standing ovations at last year’s show, Ireland’s leading country and gospel recording star, Trudi Lalor, returns by overwhelming demand to top the bill at this year’s ‘Christmas Country Showtime’. Trudi will share the stage with Stephen Smyth, Ireland’s most exciting and versatile entertainer; the true voice of Country, Joe Moore; the Scania143 Man himself, Boxcar Brian; star vocalist Olivia Douglas, and 13 year-old singing sensation Owen Mac who is taking the country music world by storm. The brilliant Country Harmony is the backing band and compere is Sean Wallace. Tickets are priced £17 each.

Visit the website at www.marketplacearmagh.com for full details and bookings, or contact the Box Office on [028] 3752 1821. And to keep up-to-date with the latest news at the Market Place Theatre, you can follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) where you will find all the latest information, special offers and video previews.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Discover Northern Ireland has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are 10 exciting things taking place next week (18-24 December)

 

  1. Titanic Tea and Movie Experience, Belfast, 19 December. Join Titanic Belfast as they kickstart their programme of events celebrating the 20th Anniversary of ‘Titanic: The Movie’. Celebrate this milestone anniversary in the opulent Titanic Suite as Titanic Belfast host a red-carpet movie themed Afternoon Tea by the replica Grand Staircase – perfect for the ultimate movie fan to enjoy the film in First Class style.
  2. The Spectacular Aladdin, Belfast, 14- 27 December. SSE Airtricity, The SSE Arena and M & J Pantos have combined forces to announce Northern Ireland’s newest and biggest Christmas pantomime, The Spectacular Aladdin, starring Rhydian, Jake Carter, Nadia Forde, Nuala McKeever and Ross Anderson-Doherty. To book your ticket  visit SSEArenaBelfast.com.
  3. A Night With The Stars Christmas Show, Lisburn, 20 December. Following a sell-out show last year, the hugely popular ‘A Night with the Stars Show’ returns for an unmissable night of Country Music with a festive touch. The stellar line-up includes Ray Lynam, Ritchie Remo and many more.  All will showcase their biggest hit songs in the company of a fabulous line band. Book your tickets at LaganValleyIsland.co.uk
  4. 2017 Winter Gathering – Causeway Coast Foodie Tours, Coleraine, 22-30 December.  2017 Winter Gathering is an informal boat trip on the beautiful River Bann offering a relaxed and informative afternoon of whiskey sampling, food tasting and a light sprinkling of stunning scenery and wildlife on the Bann Estuary. A marvellous opportunity to appreciate this historic town from a different perspective at this most wonderful time of the year. Meeting at Waterside Pontoon, Coleraine.
  5. Winter Solstice, Co. Armagh, 21 December. Applaud the arrival of the Winter Solstice with a wonderful celebration which mirrors how the Celts would have celebrated such an occasion at the Navan Centre and Fort. In the company of the Celts, follow some traditions and customs associated with the Winter Solstice, before taking part in a lantern-lit walk to Navan Fort, where re-enactors will welcome the breaking of dawn.
  6. Johnny Brady Dance & Entertainment Night, Co. Down, 22 December. Known for his powerful vocals, energetic performances and charismatic personality, Johnny Brady has a unique sound and is continually pushing the boundaries in a new generation of Irish country music artists. Get your dancing boots on and head for the Millbrook House Hotel in Ballynahinch for a night of dance and Christmas entertainment.
  7. AMAZEing Christmas Crafts, Belfast, 16-31 December. Just like Hansel and Gretel, get lost this Christmas in The MAC’s aMAZEing crafty workshop. Make your own Christmassy 3D maze and unwrap the puzzle to help Hansel and Gretel find their way home. To book your ticket visit TheMacLive.com.
  8. Christmas Wonderland, Magherafelt, 1-23 December. The Jungle’s Christmas Wonderland is the perfect festive family day out. Share a meet and greet with Santa, have a giggle with his colourful Elves, enjoy The Jungle’s exciting adventure activities, get creative with a spot of arts and crafts or grab a cuddle with the curious creatures in the Woodland Petting Farm. To book visit TheJungleNI.com.
  9. Here Comes Santa, Co. Down, 9-22 December. Make magical memories this Christmas at Castle Espie and visit Santa in the enchanted gardens. Activities include snowflake making, golden snowflake hunt filled with winter wonderland surprises along the way, storytelling and marshmallow toasting.
  10. Bubbles in a Boat, Derry~Londonderry, 2-24 December. Go on a Christmas cruise with Bubbles the elf and help him find the missing items from Santa’s sleigh. Afterwards make a Christmas clay tile with Mrs Claus and enjoy hot chocolate and a Christmas cookie. To book call 028 7136 3133.

 

For more information on these events or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit  www.DiscoverNorthernIreland.com.

OFFERS OF THE WEEK

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Northern Ireland boasts a unique collection of irresistible places to stay including beautiful B&Bs, luxurious spa hotels and great value self-catering properties. Discover NI has selected the best offers of the week to help you plan a short break.

 

Phew It’s The Weekend, Kilmorey Arms Hotel, Co. Down from £120 per person sharing.

Nestled in the Mournes, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the three-star Kilmorey Arms Hotel boasts a prime location for any holiday. Includes two-nights’ accommodation, a cocktail on arrival, a three-course meal for two and a full Irish breakfast the next morning. To book call 028 4176 2220. Offer available until 7 July 2019.

 

Two Night Getaway, The Enniskillen Hotel, Co. Fermanagh from £80 per person sharing.

This four-star hotel situated in Enniskillen town, prides itself on being relaxed yet formal, quirky and quintessential, with rooms offer contemporary sophistication. Relax with a whiskey in their Oscar Wilde inspired bar, Wildes, or enjoy a meal in their Samuel Beckett inspired restaurant, Becketts Grill. Enjoy two nights in a double room or upgrade to a superior room from £10. Price based on two adults sharing. To book call 028 6632 1177. Offer available until 1 March 2019.

 

1-night Romance at the Inn, Bushmills Inn Hotel from £198 per room.

The luxurious four-star Bushmills Inn is situated in an enviable location; a stone’s throw from The Giant’s Causeway and Old Bushmills Distillery. Offer includes a bottle of chilled Prosecco and chocolate dipped strawberries on arrival. Relax and enjoy the ambience of the Gas Lit Bar, then indulge in a delicious a la carte dinner. Finally enjoy a restful night’s stay and full cooked Irish breakfast the next morning. A la carte dinner credit of £50 per room (does not include drinks). To book call 028 2073 3000. Offer available until 18 April 2019.

 

All offers are subject to availability.  For further information visit www.discovernorthernireland.com

 

Rev up your support for Triple World Superbike Champion Jonathan Rea

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The Council is revving up to support triple World Superbike Champion, Jonathan Rea in his bid to win the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award.

On Sunday 17 December Jonathan will be aiming to round off a spectacular year and pick up the accolade. He faces tough competition from Harry Kane, Anthony Joshua, Lewis Hamilton and Mo Farah.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Paul Hamill, is encouraging the whole Borough to get behind Jonathan and take part in the public vote on Sunday evening: “Jonathan has achieved something amazing and to be shortlisted for the award is well deserved.  We are extremely proud to have him as one of Northern Ireland’s sporting ambassadors and I would urge everyone to cast their vote for Jonathan.”

Voting for the main award will be from a shortlist of contenders presented during the live show on Sunday 17 December 2017.

Voting will be available by phone or via the BBC website. The number to call for each contender will be revealed during the programme. There is no voting via email, Red Button or by text. The telephone numbers will be available through Red Button and via the BBC website.

The Discover NI Christmas gift guide

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Struggling for the perfect gift? Buy an unforgettable experience in Northern Ireland

For those who have everything, or for that unique gift no one else will think of, check out these alternative gift ideas. Forget the bath sets, perfumes and making sure to get a gift receipt – instead give your loved ones something new and exciting right on their doorstep.

Tourism NI’s Communication Officer; Claire Cromie said: “This year Northern Ireland has seen an abundance of new and unique experiences emerge, many of which would make wonderful gift experiences.

“These activities create long lasting memories, whether it’s an insight into craft beer brewing, a Game of Thrones tour or a luxurious hotel stay.”

The foodie

For a budding baker or someone who enjoys having a go at new things, give the special gift of a traditional Irish bread-making experience with NI Food Tours in County Down. NI Food Tours offer a memorable lesson in a thatched cottage on the shores of Strangford Lough, in making potato bread, soda bread and traybakes.  Or learn to cook traditionally at home, with local food hero Norah Brown at the Grange Lodge, County Tyrone. Norah’s food really does represent the best in family cooking, traditional but nutritious, and full of new twists and flavours, emphasising the opportunity to make the best seasonal use of local produce. These food experiences in Northern Ireland are guaranteed to cook up a storm and leave you dishing out the best gift of the season.

The tea lover

From the lavish to the quaint, there are many stunning locations hosting some very special afternoon teas, from the renowned five-star Merchant Hotel’s afternoon tea in Belfast City Centre. to County Armagh’s Ballydougan Restaurant & Coffee Lounge.  The Merchant provides delicately served afternoon tea in the decadent surroundings of the Great Hall, on a silver tea stand with a choice of tea, coffee or for that extra treat, champagne. Ballydougan Restaurant & Coffee Lounge allows you to relax and enjoy scones and sweet treats in the wonderful surroundings of a restored linen barn. All freshly prepared with the finest local produce, and served on Ballydougan’s famous hand-thrown pottery. You can even make a day of it and join in on one of the pottery classes. The perfect gift for the tea lover with a bit of indulgence.

Something a little stronger

For the craft beer or gin aficionado a taste and tour experience would be the ideal unique gift. They can become immersed in a botanical journey and full Shortcross Gin tasting experience at the Rademon Estate distillery in County Down. David Boyd-Armstrong, the head distiller, talks through the fascinating process, from how they harvest local botanicals, draw fresh water from the distillery well, distill on a bespoke copper pot still and bottle and label the finished product on site. Or learn about the ancient craft of beer brewing at Hilden Brewery in County Antrim, a working brewery with licensed restaurant in a beautiful and historic setting at Hilden House. Visitors can discover the magic of brewing from the master brewer and share in his enthusiasm for the wonderful process which converts malt and hops into one of the finest beverages known to man, traditionally brewed beer.

For someone who deserves a spa break

If you’re looking a gift for someone who would appreciate some well-deserved relaxation time, treat them to a city day spa, ultimate getaway or beautiful retreat– depending on your budget, all offering luxurious pampering. Sitting proud in the Hollywood Hills overlooking Belfast Lough in County Down is the majestic five-star Hastings Culloden Estate & Spa. Just a short drive away from Belfast’s city centre, it’s the perfect retreat for couples looking for some sought after pamper time, great for a day-trip. Or the four-star Hilton Templepatrick in County Antrim, complete with 18-hole championship golf course, onsite restaurant, spa and swimming pool, makes for the perfect weekend break in Northern Ireland. These are just a few of the many spa options throughout Northern Ireland offering a range of choices for the perfect gift voucher.

For the Games of Thrones Fan

For “Thronies” who have enough DVDs, mugs, and novelty t-shirts, treat them to a Game of Thrones experience at Castle Ward Estate. Located just 40 minutes from Belfast, it was used extensively for the filming of George R.R. Martin’s epic adaption of his Game of Thrones® novels.

Bed down for a night in one of the quirky glamping pods deep in the forest of ‘Winterfell’. Explore the sprawling demesne and its many filming location hotspots and recreate your very own Game of Thrones® moments. Packages include archery, cycling and filming experiences.

Alternatively, for the thrill-seeking fan, try Cutting Edge Helicopter’s Game of Thrones Air Tour. Enjoy stunning aerial views and the picturesque scenery of the North Antrim coast used as film locations by HBO in the award-winning series plus the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle and Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge.

From boat tours, walking tours and door tours – there are enough Game of Thrones experiences in Northern Ireland to keep any fan busy until Season 8.

For the budding craftsman

For those who like to get their hands dirty, treat them to a blacksmithing class at Hot Milk Forge in Ballymena. An unmissable infusion of fire and artistic expression, create something truly traditional by welding with fire, not electricity. Learn the basic skills of bladesmithing, such as tempering and hardening as well as modern bladesmithing techniques, to ensure you gain a rounded insight into the art of blacksmithing. Attendees can create their own fireside set, wrought iron gate or knife.

For the starry-eyed romantic

Finally, for the perfect romantic gift, treat someone to a great escape with a star-gazing break at the Finn Lough Resort in County Fermanagh.  Immerse in the tranquility of nature with a unique night in a bubble dome in the middle of one of County Fermanagh’s forests. These unique domes feature 180-degree transparent walls, allowing guests to truly escape the noise of the outside world whilst admiring the beauty of nature.

For more Christmas ideas or short break inspiration, visit DiscoverNorthernIreland.com.

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