Month: September 2018

Jacqueline shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

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The USPCA will host its Annual Open Day at the Animal Hospital in Newry on Saturday the 22nd of September from 10.00am to  2.00pm. The Q Radio Saturday Brunch show will broadcast live from the animal hospital and there will be competitions, loads of giveaways and fun for all the family.  Other open day highlights include family activities, PSNI Dog Display, USPCA Animal Hospital tours, BBQ, Bouncy Castles, Face Painting, Jumping Clay, Animal Advice including discounted microchipping, and lots of fun and games.  The USPCA will also host a Dog Show and visitors are encouraged to bring along their dogs to join in. Registrations for the Dog Show will take place on the day and there are some fantastic prizes up for grabs.

Armagh

Treat yourself to a sumptuous afternoon tea aboard the Big Red Bus at Loughgall Country Park, right in the heart of the Orchard County on 22nd and 23rd September.  Served on vintage crockery, you will be treated to a wide selection of savoury and sweet courses using the finest seasonal ingredients sourced from within the Food Heartland area.  Enjoy your scones, sandwiches, meringues and cakes to the sounds of vintage 50’s and 60’s music. This event is part of the Armagh Food and Cider Festival 2018. See the full programme at visitarmagh.com. Booking essential.

Fermanagh

It’s time for Festival Lough Erne, a celebration of the best local food and the Fermanagh Lakelands, 22nd and 23rd September.  A great weekend of activities on and off the water – enjoy the Lough Erne Cot Regatta, cookery demonstrations by local chefs, artisan food and drink producers PLUS live entertainment.  Come along and join the fun, Festival Lough Erne, Enniskillen Castle, 22 and 23 September.  For further information visit festivallougherne.com.

Tyrone

Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh are brewing up a storm in Lola’s at Silverbirch Hotel with the return of North West Brew Fest, Craft Drinks Festival on Saturday 22nd September. This exciting event is all about great drink and will showcase local Craft Gin, Vodka, Rum, Whiskey, Beer, Cider produced the North West and beyond featuring some of Ireland’s top distilleries and breweries. Festival goers will have the opportunity to taste for themselves a collection of craft drinks that have been hand crafted and locally made as well as meeting first hand some of the characters behind the ever growing Irish brewing scene while enjoying live entertainment by Anna’s Number & Monte Thompson.

Derry/Londonderry

For one night only at The Waterside Theatre Coleraine, Bray Lewis productions bring you 2 of Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads!  Bray Lewis Productions is a new company formed by Jeremy Lewis and Valerie Bray, both experienced actors.  This is guaranteed to be a good night’s entertainment. Thursday 20th September.

Antrim

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is holding a free two-day Health and Wellness Fair on the 23rd & 24th September at Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn.  This free event will feature expert talks, workshops, one-to-one consultations and you will also get the opportunity to purchase health and wellbeing products from local providers.  Statutory organisations as well as local healthcare providers will also be present.  Opening times are 1.00pm – 6.00pm on Sunday 23rd September and 10:00am – 7:00pm on Monday 24th September. Entry is free, however any donations received by visitors will go to the Mayor’s Charity, Cancer Fund for Children.

Belfast

Calling all families!  On Sunday 23rd September, have the ultimate family day out with W5 and the Stena Line Belfast Giants!  Discover over 250 interactive exhibits at the award-winning Science & Discovery Centre and then watch NI’s professional ice-hockey team hit the ice to take on the Fife Flyers in The SSE Arena, Belfast!  Save 47% by booking the Joint Family Ticket for 2 adults & 2 children or 1 adult & 3 children for £39.00! Free car parking is also included.  Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the SSE Arena, Belfast Box Office on 02890739074. Visit www.w5online.co.uk for full information and online booking.

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.

Jacqueline shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

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Down

Thousands of chocolate lovers and foodies from across the island of Ireland and beyond will descend on Killyleagh to celebrate the 2018 Finnebrogue Artisan Hans Sloane Chocolate & Fine Food Festival, 14th – 16th September. This year’s festival features many chocolatiers and local artisan food producers at the historic Killyleagh Castle.  The festival will kick off on Friday 14th September with the Chocolate Ball, held within the exquisite grounds of Killyleagh Castle, continuing on Saturday and Sunday with the Hans Sloane Chocolate & Fine Food Festival, where guests will be spoiled for choice with a vast range of chocolatiers’ displays, market stalls and local artisan produce to taste and purchase. The festival will also host a range of activities and entertainment for the whole family, offering a memorable weekend of fun for all in 2018!

Armagh

Foraging Sunday takes place this Sunday at Navan Fort.  Under expert guidance, you will learn to forage for food as the Celts would have. Explore the wealth of edible delights in our countryside and sample dishes made with foraged foods like berries, apples, cherries and even nettles – you are sure to be amazed!  This is a free drop in event.

Fermanagh

Plan a visit to Corralea Activity Centre, Belcoo for an Electric Mountain Bike Adventure – Ride, Discover, Explore! Explore the untapped wilderness using top of the range Electric Mountain bikes, cruise across old bog roads and forest tracks, discover megalithic tombs hidden in the forest and enjoy the sweeping views over Lough Macnean and its islands.  Whether you are tempted to buy an e-bike or you fancy tackling longer or more difficult trips but don’t want to be left behind… what better way to find out than booking an e-bike week-end package!

Tyrone

An autumnal treat, both visual and edible, is in store at the Woodland Trust’s Cabin Wood, Cookstown.  Saturday 15th September, 11.30am to 1.00pm, is the date for the diary. The charity has enlisted the support of foraging expert Dermot Hughes to lead a stroll through this charming woodland.  Dermot will identify the natural wares that are safe to eat, with some tasty recipes at his fingertips. The wood, bordered by the Ballinderry and Killymoon Rivers, was once part of Killymoon Estate.  Booking is essential.  Find out more and book a place at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/events or telephone 0330 333 5302.

Derry/Londonderry

Help Seamus Heaney HomePlace celebrate Roald Dahl Day this Saturday 15th September. Ten-year-old Sophie is in for the adventure of a lifetime when she meets the Big Friendly Giant. Naturally scared at first, the young girl soon realizes that the 24-foot behemoth is actually quite gentle and charming. As their friendship grows, Sophie’s presence attracts the unwanted attention of Bloodbottler, Fleshlumpeater and other giants. After traveling to London, Sophie and the BFG must convince Queen Victoria to help them get rid of all the bad giants once and for all.

Antrim

Join The Cancer Fund for Children for their Giant Coastal Challenge on Sunday 16th September and make a Giant difference to local children with cancer. Enjoy world class scenery on this 10 mile Atlantic adventure from Giant’s Causeway to Carrick A Rede. Highlights along the route include the ruins of Dunseverick Castle, the stunning Whitepark Bay, and Ballintoy Harbour. Funds raised will help to provide vital services for local families affected by cancer.  Sign up today at www.cancerfundforchildren.com.

Belfast

Belvoir Players present another great event and ideal for children aged 1-7 this Saturday 15th September – Goldilocks and the Three Bears Sing Along. Goldilocks and the three bears, Ruff The dog! and Mr Bunny, perform live on stage, right before their eyes in this exciting and fun filled musical production.  The popular tale takes a few twists and turn along the way with other new puppet characters and hopefully a happy ever after.  Kids will learn that music can be found everywhere as they sing and dance to all their favourite songs.

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.  

Quadrophenia Live!

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Concept Concerts Ltd are very excited to announce that Quadrophenia – the album, LIVE! is set for Theatre at The Mill on Friday 21 September.

This storming show pays tribute to the emotive music of The Who, the biggest-selling and most powerful band in the world for decades. Produced specifically for the stage and appealing to all generations, with full-on sound effects as used on the original album and state-of-the-art lighting to enhance the performance.

The Goldhawks, a world-class, eight-piece band, fronted by Doug Freeman who is widely regarded as the world’s greatest ever live tribute to Roger Daltrey, faithfully recreates the power, tension and visceral emotion of the music, backed by a large screen showing bespoke film, archive footage and visual effects throughout.

This show captures a tremendous piece of Mod musical history for all ages to experience today and a chance for all who were or are still part of the phenomenal Mod movement, to relive its glory. However, don’t be mistaken, it’s also about the angst of growing up in this day and age.

To send you home Shakin All Over there are a few all-time classic hits from The Who to close the show! Tickets from Box Office T: 028 9034 0202 or online theatreatthemill.com

Queen’s Film Theatre to celebrate 50 years of movie magic

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The internationally renowned Queen’s Film Theatre is set to host a month-long series of films and events to celebrate its golden year this October.

 

To mark its fiftieth birthday, QFT, which is an independent cinema based at Queen’s University Belfast, will host a range of events including brand new films and old classics. It will also show off its newly refurbished cinema which has now been completed after a £350,000 investment.

The month-long celebrations, funded by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund and the British Film Institute, will also see over thirty special events take place including in-depth Q&As with Mark Kermode, Jim Sheridan and the Derry Girls cast.

QFT50 will kick off on 5 October with the opening of a special exhibition that will showcase a range of artefacts, photographs and memorabilia from the past 50 years, as well as screen a preview of new film First Man starring Ryan Gosling.

President and Vice-Chancellor of Queens University Belfast, Professor Ian Greer said:

“As we begin this month-long programme of events, I am excited and honoured to lead the celebrations which mark 50 years of QFT. At Queen’s University Belfast, we are privileged to have such a unique cultural venue on campus, with vast experience of bringing a high quality film experience to Belfast audiences.

“As well as being a social hub for our students and the wider community in Northern Ireland, QFT brings many positive economic, cultural and social benefits to the local economy.”

Joan Parsons, Head of QFT Belfast said:

“We are so excited to be celebrating the golden year of Queen’s Film Theatre with an amazing programme of events that takes a trip down memory lane and also looks to the future of film.

“The QFT is deeply embedded in the fabric of student life at Queen’s but it has also been an  important part of culture in Belfast itself and I am really excited to be able to present this programme of events and welcome old friends and new faces to the QFT in October.

 “With more than 30 special events, as well as our regular programme of film screening there is quite literally something for everyone to enjoy and get involved with. We have films, workshops, talks with renowned film experts like Mark Kermode, book launches, Derry Girls and even a French themed disco with tunes provided by DJ David Holmes.

 “The celebrations will mark the contribution that the QFT and film has made to Belfast during some very difficult years in the past and is a testament to the power of film that the QFT is thriving today. We thank National Lottery players for supporting us to highlight and share our fascinating 50 year heritage. We hope that after QFT50 we will have welcomed a whole new audience to the QFT.”

 Angela Lavin, Senior Grants Officer, Heritage Lottery Fund Northern Ireland said:

 “QFT has been part of the fabric of Belfast for 50 years and many people have strong memories of watching the wonderful array of diverse films that have been shown there over the years. We were delighted to invest National Lottery funding to help the QFT to collate, share and celebrate their rich heritage.

 Sarah-Jane Meredith, Manager- UK Wide Audiences, BFI said:

 “We are delighted to be able to support QFT as it celebrates 50 years of screening films to audiences in Belfast.  The QFT50 programme demonstrates an ongoing commitment by the venue to screening the very best in cinema, bringing great cinematic stories to new and existing audiences and re-kindling a love for cinema in lapsed audiences.”

 

Highlights of the QFT50 Programme

14 October

Bloodyminded – First ever interactive live feature film broadcast online and at cinemas around the UK. The film will allow audiences to make its own decisions on the morality of war and decide the ending.

16 October

Themed 50th birthday celebration night with screening of Viva Marial, followed by a David Holmes DJ set.

19 October

Devils Doorway – Gala screening with director Aisling Clarke (former employee of QFT and first ever female-directed horror movie).

21 October

Mark Kermode book launch and Q&A.

23 October

Derry Girls screening of favourite episodes with Derry Girls cast and crew.

31 October

Closing Night Gala – ‘Widows’ by Steve McQueen with special guests to be announced at a later date.

The QFT 50 celebrations are generously supported by National Lottery funding awarded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and The British Film Institute.

‘THE MAN WHO FELL TO PIECES’ PUTS MENTAL HEALTH CENTRE STAGE AT THE CRESCENT

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With overwhelming responses from audiences NI theatre company Tinderbox is back with the hugely successful The Man Who Fell to Pieces at The Crescent 16th – 27th October.

Premiered as part of EdgeFest at The MAC in collaboration with Prime Cut Productions in February, The Man Who Fell to Pieces explores the stigma of mental health in Northern Ireland.

The play is written and directed by Tinderbox Artistic Director, Patrick J. O’Reilly, with stage design by Ciaran Bagnall and music by Katie Richardson.  It also includes a stellar cast featuring some of NI’s leading actors; Shaun Blaney (John), Roisin Gallagher (Caroline), Maria Connolly (Alice) and Patrick Buchanan (Henry).

The Man Who Fell to Pieces is a comedy which tells the story of John, a man who is literally falling apart. It is a physical, imaginative piece of theatre that celebrates what it means to be broken.  The play also reflects the personal experience of Artistic Director Patrick J.O’Reilly who used his own struggle of coping with depression to show strength and hope.

Tinderbox Artistic Director Patrick J O’Reilly said;

“I am delighted to be given the opportunity to create The Man Who Fell to Pieces at The Crescent. The story explores my personal struggle in dealing with depression and the immense power of the imagination to not only deal with the complexities of life but celebrate the beauty and fragility of being human. The Man Who Fell to Pieces inspired, entertained and most importantly shone a light on strength and hope back in February and I am delighted that it has the opportunity to empower people again in October.”

Gilly Campbell, Arts Development Officer for Drama and Dance, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, commented;

“The Arts Council of Northern Ireland is delighted to support this production from Tinderbox through National Lottery and public funding. The Man Who Fell to Pieces is a powerful drama which truly demonstrates the value of the arts in exploring challenging issues and I would encourage everyone to go along and see it.”

Director of The Crescent, Roger Courtney added;

“Having seen the show earlier this year, I am immensely proud to collaborate with Tinderbox to bring this play to The Crescent and to play our part in helping to reduce the stigma attached to mental health in Northern Ireland. If you missed out on seeing this play at The MAC in February we strongly recommend you don’t miss the opportunity to see it at The Crescent. We guarantee you will be moved and inspired by this incredible production.”

 

The Man Who Fell To Pieces will run at The Crescent  16th – 27th  October; 2.30pm &  7.45pm. For further details visit www.crescentarts.org

Inspire Young Imaginations at Aspects!

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This year’s Aspects Festival features a full programme of creative events aimed at little readers. Designed to inspire young imaginations the Young Aspects series of events includes reading, illustration, writing and more, running from 25 – 30 September.

Children’s Writing Fellow for NI, Myra Zepf and young readers Nico and Myles McCandless enjoying a story ahead of this year’s Young Aspects programme, a series of creative children’s events taking place 25 – 30 September in Bangor.

Reading With Your Little One at Bangor Carnegie Library on Friday 28 September is a relaxed workshop suitable for 0 – 2 year olds. Gain confidence and enjoy reading with your little ones and get some tips and advice on techniques for getting babies and toddlers interested in books. This is a free event, but booking is essential.

For more energetic youngsters –try a Book-Inspired Yoga Session with ‘David Walliams’ The First Hippo On The Moon!. Taking place at Boom! Studios on Friday 28 September, this amazing yoga adventure will bring the book to life with yoga postures, movement, breathing exercises, meditation and lots of fun! Suitable for 4 – 7 year olds, tickets cost £6.

Older children (8+) will enjoy the Tablets and Text event also taking place at Boom! Studios on Friday 28 September. Join Digital Artist Graham Ginty to create a unique audio-visual story mash up! Tablets are provided, all you need is a handful of words and a big creative brain! Tickets cost £6, booking is required.

On Saturday 29 September, also at Bangor Library, kids can enjoy ‘The Snail on the Tail of a Whale’ told in a Sensory Story Experience. Gather around to hear this Julia Donaldson classic, then explore a room full of sensory stations provided by Creative Natives. Suitable for 1 – 4 years olds, little folk will get stuck into all sorts of exciting textures, sights and sounds! Tickets £8, booking is essential.

Creative kids will love the Junior Illustrators Workshop and Original Comic Creative Workshop. Led by experienced artists and illustrators, these sessions will give children the chance to create their favourite character and their own comic! Junior Illustrators workshop is suitable for ages 4 – 6 years, tickets £5. Original Comic Creation Workshop, suitable for ages 7+, tickets £6. Both workshops are taking place at Bangor Carnegie Library on Saturday 29 September.

For the first time ever at Aspects, an Autism Friendly Story Telling Morning features on the programme. This relaxed story-telling morning will be tailored specifically for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Taking place in North Down Museum on Sunday 30 September, the storyteller will provide entertainment and playful education for families as they enjoy a once upon a time experience together. This is a free event, but booking is essential.

The Festival is delighted to once again welcome Children’s Writing Fellow for NI, Myra Zepf for a series of children’s workshops at North Down Museum on Sunday 30 September. ‘Rita Wants A Robot’ will inspire children to dress up and play, suitable for 4 – 6 year olds who enjoy stories and fun! ‘Writing Dragons’ is an exciting creative writing workshop full of dragon themed props and story writing tools designed to fire-up young imaginations. This workshop is suitable for 7 – 12 year olds. Each workshop costs £6 per child, booking is essential.

Download the full Aspects Festival programme and book tickets at: https://aspectsfestival.com/

The Aspects 2018 festival brochure is also now available. Pick up your copy today from any of our Visitor Information Centres, North Down Museum or The Town Hall, Bangor.

OFFERS OF THE WEEK

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Northern Ireland boasts an irresistible collection of 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.

 

  • Pilates and Wellness, The Green Holiday, Co. Down from £200 per person.

Located on the outskirts of Kilkeel, the four-star Green Holiday Cottages are based in an eight-acre woodland site. Enjoy a two-night stay and experience the therapeutic benefits of this tranquil rural setting. Price includes all food, which is locally sourced and is fish and vegetarian based but they can cater for other preferences if notified. Breakfast is provided in the cottages but other meals are communally prepared and eaten together. There will be additional cost for the off-site activity if chosen. To book call 078 6095 1841. Offer available 21-23 September.

  • One Night B&B and Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise, Manor House Country Hotel, Co. Fermanagh from £200 per night

Based just outside Enniskillen, in the heart of The Fermanagh Lakelands on the shores of Lough Erne, the four-star Manor House Country Hotel combines old world charm with modern hotel luxury and is the perfect place to put your detective skills to the test. Offer includes a one night stay and Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise on the hotel’s Lady of the Lake Cruiser with a full Irish breakfast the next morning. Experience a true sense of tranquillity and relaxation with the hotel’s full leisure facilities and the excitement of a unique evening with this murder mystery cruise. Price based on two adults sharing. To book call 028 6862 2200. Offer available until 30 September 2018.

  • Date Night, Dobbins Inn, Co. Antrim from £100 per couple

The three-star Dobbins Inn is situated in the heart of Carrickfergus, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere from the log fire in the bar lounge as well as quality service and top-class food in their new Landings restaurant. Its central location provides the opportunity to explore the nearby Carrickfergus Castle or take a stroll along the seafront. Offer includes overnight accommodation, a meal for two from their Cinema deal menu and two tickets for Carrickfergus Omniplex Cinema. To book call 028 9335 1905. Offer available until 31 March 2019.

10 Things to do Next Week Across NI

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DiscoverNorthernIreland.com has stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events. Here are ten exciting things taking place this week (10 – 16 September)

 

  1. Winterfell Festival, Downpatrick, 16 September. Game of Thrones® fans can step into the world of Westeros for the day at Castle Ward and join the residents of House of Stark at Winterfell. Meet the dire wolves, experience Kind Robert’s return with actor Mark Addy and face an ancient foe in the form of the White Walkers.
  2. Autumn Fair 2018, Belfast, 15 – 16 September. Sit back and relax in the Botanic Gardens, with live music, an array of children’s activities, local food, award winning prize blooms, must-see street performers and more.
  3. Finnebrogue Artisan Hans Sloane Chocolate & Fine Food Festival, Downpatrick, 14 – 16 September.  Held at Killyleagh Castle, thousands of chocoholics and enthusiastic foodies from Northern Ireland and beyond arrive to celebrate the best of local food and drink. The festival includes chocolatiers’ displays, market stalls, local artisan produce, family-friendly activities and entertainment.
  4. Eco Creative Getaway, Omagh, 14 -16 September. Come and join An Creggan for an Autumnal craft retreat. The weekend combines natural dyeing, eco printing, wild foraging and local tours.
  5. Mourne Mountain Marathon, Co. Down, 15 – 16 September. The Mourne Mountain Marathon is Ireland’s only two day endurance and navigation event held each year in the beautiful mountains of Mourne. A competitive event for teams of two, who can enter one of four categories, covering between 35km and 55km over two days, from walkers to elite runners.
  6. Neon Night Maize Maze, Limavady, 15 September. Locals and visitors alike will be pleased to hear that the Neon Night Maize Maze is back by popular demand. Missed this unique event last year? This is your chance to experience a night out with a difference – fun for the whole family or with friends.
  7. Foraging Sunday, Armagh, 16 September. Under expert guidance, learn to forage for food as the Celts did. Explore the wealth of edible delights in our countryside and sample dishes made with foraged foods like berries, apples, cherries and even nettles.
  8. The Producers, Belfast, 11 – 15 September. This runaway hit was given the Broadway treatment in 2001 and is now coming to The Waterfront. Producers Max and Leo attempt to stage the worst show ever written and run away with their investors’ money, but their plan goes ridiculously awry. With toe-tapping tunes, loads of hilarious jokes and sharp satire, this big-time Broadway musical is pure side-splitting fun.
  9. Who lives in a house like this?, Fivemiletown, 15 September. Enjoy this guided tour around Blessingbourne Estate. An historic 550 acre country estate, nestled in the heart of the woodlands and wildlife on the edge of the Clogher Valley and Fermanagh Lakelands – one of Northern Ireland’s most tranquil and magical locations.
  10. Jersey Boys,  Belfast, 11 – 22 September. This smash hit musical comes to the Grand Opera House, having won 57 major awards worldwide, including the Olivier Award for Best New Musical. Jersey Boys tells the true life story of four boys from the wrong side of the tracks who wrote their own songs, invented their own unique sound, and sold 100 million records worldwide.

 

For more information on these events or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland,

Jacqueline shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

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Down

Larchfield Community Development Association annual Family Fun Day and Vintage Rally takes place this Saturday 8th September at Rally Fields Hillsborough,  with something for all the family. Children’s activities include duck fishing, jelly baby bowling, target shooting, hoopla, crafts (boys and girls), cup cake decorating, face painting, nail painting, nature detectives trail, bulb planting and child friendly tractors.  All children’s activities are free!  Other activities include model farm, wood turning, rare breeds, donkeys, pony and trap rides, steam engine, archery, threshing and bailing display, and historical tractor exhibition. Stalls include Glenda’s knits, Genelle’s Buns, cakes and crafts; the Ice Cream van; and Auto Jumble. Local musicians Trevor Dixon and Billy McFarland will be providing music throughout the day.

Armagh

Don’t miss this  Saturday’s annual village fete in Richhill, with lots of fun and activities including food stalls, craft marquee, dog show , auction and children’s games. All the fun will be happening in the square at the top of Richhill Village from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm, Admission is free!

Fermanagh

European Heritage Open Days – Jewels of the Geopark Bus Tour. Join Geopark staff this Saturday for a guided tour of some of the key sites within Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark, learn about the intriguing history of the Cavan Burren Park, enjoy the stunning vista from Cornagee Viewpoint, refuel at the Market House in Blacklion, take an optional nature walk up Cladagh Glen, satisfy your appetite in the Marble Arch Café, and embark on a guided tour of the Marble Arch Caves!

Tyrone

Award-winning Belfast singer-songwriter Kaz Hawkins relaunched as a solo artist in 2018 with her brutally honest piano/vocal show. Along with special guest Sam York (Tom Jones/Ed Sheeran) on piano and as her support act, Kaz has been taking her new ‘non genre’ material on the road in an intimate and personal show about her life. See Kaz play live  this Saturday evening at Ranfurly House Arts and Visitor Centre, Dungannon.

Derry/Londonderry

An event not to be missed on Saturday 8th September at the Walled Garden Maghera is Peter’s tales and trails!  Join Peter Rabbit, Flopsy and Mopsy, Mrs Tiggy-Wiggle and Thomas MrGregor in the Walled Garden this Saturday for lots of fun, games and entertainment!  Give the garden trail a go, where you will visit 10 interactive areas around the garden, to complete an answer sheet with the clues that you find there.  There will also be face painting, messy play, seed planting and finger painting to enjoy, as well as real rabbits, chickens and a hedgehog.  Feeling peckish? Enjoy a delicious BBQ, sweet treats and hot and cold drinks to enjoy! You’ll find them on the lane.  On the Green take part in Peter’s Sports Day challenge with a sack race or egg and spoon. Or why not enjoy one of the many mischievous tales of Peter and friends with the story teller.  Admission is free!

Antrim

European Heritage Open Days at Carrickfergus Museum.  Don’t miss this unique tour experience, as you are joined by Sir Arthur Chichester himself, who’ll be giving some of his insights into historic Carrickfergus this Saturday 8th September! Join in with crafts, face painting and the latest addition to the museum and see the first instalment of the town model.  You can also explore Carrickfergus town walls through our free family fun app Kids ‘n’ Castles.  From 1.00pm to 4.00pm. Tour at 2.00pm.

Belfast

The Belfast International Tattoo 2018 is coming to The SSE Arena, Belfast on Friday 7 & Saturday 8 September 2018.  The Belfast Tattoo is now firmly established as an annual event for the Belfast city, and the show organisers are delighted to continually draw people from outside the City to attend the spectacle of this amazing production, and that our overseas visitors are growing year on year.

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.  

24 Hours in Armagh

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Get a taste of Armagh during European Heritage Open Day this weekend

If you are planning to Visit Armagh this weekend as part of European Heritage Open Day you won’t be disappointed!  Earlier this week I was invited on an exclusive preview of the City and what it has to offer.

My journey from Upperlands to Armagh took just over hour, on a beautiful sunny Monday morning where I was given a very warm welcome by my guide Carol Conlin at my first stop which was the Armagh Robinson Library & No 5.  Step back into the 18th century into this beautiful library is a feast for the eyes and the grey matter with one of their jewels being a first edition of Gullivers Travels by Jonathan Swift. Established in 1771 by Archbishop Robinson, the library is inviting to all ages with a vast collection of the Archbishop’s books numbering around 42,000.

Carol then took me to No 5 Vicar’s Hill, VERY deceiving, as from the outside it appear to be no different from the rest of the houses on Vicar’s Hill, but one inside I was amazed by the octagonal rooms and vaulted ceilings which are home to examples of the Library’s collections, such as Roman and Medieval coins, Neolithic stone tools, Bronze Age weapons, Irish hand bells and eighteenth century fine art.  No 5 will be holding a book sale during this  year’s #EHODNI, Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th September!  The opening hours will be 10.00am – 6.00pm on Saturday, and 2.00pm – 6.00pm on Sunday.

My next stop was the COI St Patrick’s Cathedral where my guide, David Bingham, gave me a whistle stop tour of both the Cathedral and the Crypt, which is well worth a visit. David is a very knowledgeable guide with a clear passion for the history of the Cathedral. Find out more at www.stpatricks-cathedral.org

Just a few minutes walk away is St Patrick’s Catholic Cathedral where I met Joe Ryan who gave me a tour of the Cathedral and as much history as he could impart in the time given including the stories behind the stain glass windows, renovations, architecture, architects and much more. To find out more and how to book a tour of the Cathedral go to www.armagharchdiocese.org/st-patricks-cathedral 

Next stop before lunch was a fun guided walking tour of the City by Sheila Rooney who I met at the Armagh Visitor Information Centre on English Street. Sheila gave me a detailed and animated tour of the city Centre including myths, legends and historical facts.  The tour took in the beautiful Georgian architecture, the Mall, the Cathedrals, and much more. This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to explore more of what the City has to offer.

Lunch was in Uluru – an Australian bar and grill that I have wanted to visit for years having followed them on social media and I was not let down.  I was greeted by Jonathan who is a very cool guy and made sure I was well looked after with the kitchen going out of their way to meet my vegetarian diet. I opted for the Beetroot Salad and the Stuffed Peppers, and dessert was very kindly off menu and a lovely fresh fruit bowl. This is a very comfortable affordable restaurant right in the heart of the city with something to suit everyone’s taste. Find them online at ulurubarandgrill.com 

After being very well fed and watered I got back into my car and drove the short journey to the beautiful village Loughgall where I met the lovely Hilda Winters at Dan Winters Cottage, where the initial idea of forming the Orange Order was hatched.  Orange Memorabilia adorns every wall of every room in the cottage which an historians goldmine.  Hilda very kindly gave me a tour of the cottage and a brief history of her husband’s family before treating me to THE best apple pie I have ever had!  (made with her own Armagh Apples of course!).  The cottage is still in original condition. You can find out more and book online at www.danwinterscottage.com 

Next on the itinerary was the relatively new Sloane’s House Museum. The Museum of Orange Heritage tells the story of the formation of the Orange Order, which was formed after the Battle of the Diamond in 1795.  Experience the early days of the Institution with an exhibition telling its story along with a replica parlour scene giving you a glimpse into that time. Thanks to Mervyn Walker for taking the time to show me around the museum and memorial gardens. Find out  more at www.orangeheritage.co.uk/museum-sloans-house-loughgall

My final stop of the day was the Armagh Cider Company situation between Armagh and Portadown where Danny Silverson gave me a very interesting insight into the business which produces cider and juices from it’s own apples in the orchards where we took a stroll.   He guided me through the harvesting, pressing, bottling and packing processes.  As the ‘Orchard of Ireland’, Armagh is famously known for its ‘Bramley Apple’ – a protected PGI product and as the first commercial craft cider company in Northern Ireland – a visit to Armagh Cider Company is truly a taste of our heritage! Acclaimed artisan producers – Helen and Philip Troughton will take you on an aromatic journey of discovery!  Learn about the history of the orchards surrounding Ballinteggart House and watch the complete cider making process from ‘blossom to bottle’.  Find out more and book your tour at www.armaghcider.com

The Armagh City Hotel provided the perfect place to rest for the night. The Hotel is located on the edge of the City with more than ample parking.  It is a  three-star hotel with every modern convenience. The ultimate in luxury, contemporary decor and spacious layout.  Dinner was a three course meal in the Callan Bar with an excellent vegetarian menu and something to suit everyone.  The hotel boasts 93 en-suite bedrooms, modern Irish cuisine in the Friary Restaurant (not open on Monday evenings) as well as the state of the art health and leisure club. I found the staff to be very friendly and professional, especially in the bar.  My hotel room was very well appointed with it’s own balcony and view of the nearby Franciscan ruins of Armagh Friary. The hotel is only 50 minutes from Belfast and one hour 30 minutes from Dublin. Weekly live entertainment every Friday & Saturday evening. Find out more and book your room online at www.armaghcityhotel.com

After a great night’s rest and a lovely breakfast at the Hotel it was time to meet Kieran McMahon for my guided tour of Navan Centre & Fort, only 2 miles away.  As one of Ireland’s most famous and important archaeological sites, the legendary Emain Macha home of the famous Red Branch Knights and Ulster Cycle of tales is a place were myth and reality meet. The Centre offers visitors a unique appreciation of the history of the area.

Learn about the mystical characters of Navan, such as Cu Chulainn, King Conchobar MacNessa, Queen Mebh and Deirdre of the Sorrows.  The exhibition will help you understand the history of this very important site,  Experience the remaining mounds, ditches and banks of Emain Macha – otherwise known as Navan Fort and learn about the massive circular ritual temple on the guided tour. Annual programme of events is listed on the  website www.navan.com 

If you are lucky enough to visit on a sunny day like me, you will be able to see Slemish and Cavehill Mountain in the distance!

My final stop on my visit to Armagh was The Cardinal Tomás Ó Fiaich Memorial Library and Archive which was established in 1999 and holds nationally and internationally important collections on Irish and Church history, the Irish language and Irish sport as well as the irish overseas atchive relating to migration to continential Europe since the sixteenth century. www.ofiaich.ie.  Roddy Hegarty was my host for this visit which is busy with visits and enquiries from academics and geneologists from all over the world. Walk ins are welcome. Details can be found at www.ofiaich.ie

It is clear that 24 hours is clearly not enough to explore everything Armagh has to offer. In my opinion three days and two nights would be more appropriate to cover everything on my itinerary giving each stop the time it deserves and needs to take everything in.

From historical houses to treasure troves of intriguing artefacts and fascinating connections to people and history, Tourism NI is encouraging people to explore local cultural heritage with the European Heritage Open Days taking place on 8th and 9th September.

 

Find out more at discovernorthernireland.com/events/European-Heritage-Open-Days

 

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