Month: December 2018

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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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 (31 December – 6 January)

1.       The Governor’s NYE Ball, Belfast, 31 December. Celebrate your New Year’s Eve with fabulous food, fun and laughter at The Governor’s Ball in the Crumlin Road Gaol. The unique Victorian Era prison provides a stunning backdrop to your New Year’s Eve party which will kick off with a magical drinks reception, followed by a three course meal and entertainment from live five piece band Conspiracy.

2.       Vienna!, Derry~Londonderry, 6 January.  Vienna! Ah Vienna! Let the Ulster Orchestra and charismatic guest performers take you to the glittering world of Strauss for the waltz of your life at the Guildhall Square.

3.       New Year’s Eve, Belfast, 31 December. Enjoy a fabulous cocktail on arrival and a light supper at Titanic Belfast this New Year’s Eve, before dancing the night away in front of the stunning Titanic staircase

4.       Dippy on Tour, Belfast, 6 December – 6 January. As part of a road trip across the UK, Dippy is venturing out of London for the first time since 1905. He is currently in the Ulster Museum until 6 January 2019 – and he’s on a mission to inspire five million natural history adventures, encouraging families to explore nature on their doorstep.

5.       Winter Circus, Belfast, 14 December – 1 January. Following their run of sold out shows at this year’s Eastside Arts Festival, those wonderful, wacky folks down at Tumble Circus are back again with The Winter Circus Show at Writer’s Square.

6.       The Three Amigos, Belfast, 5 January.  Jimmy Buckley, Robert Mizell and Patrick Feeney have played a major part in the transformation of country music in Ireland. All three enjoy hugely successful solo careers and when they come together for this unique performance at the waterfront Hall, the chemistry and the magic generated on stage is truly very special.

7.       Homegrown, Derry~Londonderry, 4 January. Homegrown, the annual local music extravaganza, returns for its seventh year to the Millennium Forum. Featuring Paul Casey with his band, Paddy Nash and the Happy Enchiladas, PORTS, and newcomers ‘The Inside Out’ featuring George Hutton.

8.       Winter Skate at SSE Arena, Belfast, 15 December – 4 January. Skating sessions at the home of the Belfast Giants, the SSE Arena, take place this festive season. Enjoy a family day out by purchasing a site pass which allows access to skating, W5 and a Giant’s Game. Please note

9.       Vienna!, Ballymena,5 January. Vienna! Ah Vienna! The Ballymena concert is a special celebration of the music of Vienna, which instantly transports you to a bygone age of glitz and glamour that saw the Austrian capital become a hub for the composers and musicians of the day. Whether it’s the Merry Widow, The Blue Danube or the unforgettable Radetzky March, it’s a wonderful opportunity to welcome the new year with an uplifting celebration of live orchestral music.

10.   Gandeys Greatest Snowman Circus, Belfast, 20 December – 6 January. This one-hour show is packed full of comedy from Chico Rico – Europe’s superstar clown – and thrilling circus acts, which has been specially created, costumed and choreographed to be Belfast’s must see show this Christmas.

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

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

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Down

A weekly Saturday Market is held in Conway Square, Newtownards. This market caters for all your needs. A diverse range of stalls including local fruit and vegetables, seafood and meat; there are also tools, clothing and accessories, toys, flowers and plants, to name just a few. Something for all the family. Next date Saturday 5th January.

Armagh

Bagatelle have shared stages with legends like Bob Marley, John Denver, The Pogues, Duran Duran, Van Morrison, George Micheal, U2, Jose Feliciano and UB40. See them perform live on stage this Saturday 5th January at the Market Place Theatre in Armagh.

Fermanagh

Lose the January blues by getting out in the fresh air, helping the Rangers remove and burn the invasive rhododendron bushes at Crom Estate in Newtownbutler this Saturday, and finish the day off by toasting some delicious marshmallows on the fire.  Tools and training provided by the Rangers to ensure that you have fun in a safe environment. Suitable for children aged five and above. This is a free event and booking is not required. 10.00am to 3.30pm.

Tyrone

In his new show ‘Nobody Shouted Stop’ Jake O’Kane will be casting his caustic, comedy eye on the good, the bad and the very, very ugly.  If you have been before you will want to come again, if you haven’t seen Jake O’Kane live then the advice is to book early to see who everyone is talking about. Once again Jake will be joined by Terry McHugh one of Ireland’s finest young comedy talents.  Show contains adult reference for 16+ only. Strule Arts Centre, Omagh, Saturday 5th January.

Derry

Vienna! Ah Vienna! Let the Ulster Orchestra and charismatic guest performers take you to the glittering world of Strauss for the waltz of your life at the Millennium Forum this Sunday evening.  Welcome the New Year with an uplifting and enchanting evening of your much-loved Viennese music from the Merry Widow to the Blue Danube. Not forgetting that all-time favourite, the Radetzky March!

Antrim

Just returned from the USA to deliver his funniest and most incredible show yet, Mindreader David Meade, the first mentalist to win a Million dollars in a Las Vegas casino, will blow your mind as he does the impossible live on stage right in front of you.  Now performing all over the world, David is coming back to home soil to blow minds across the country.  His last record-breaking tour sold out everywhere, so grab your tickets now for the Old Courthouse Antrim this Friday 4th January, and look forward to a jaw dropping performance that your whole family of all ages will never forget.

Belfast

This Saturday The Crescent Arts Centre  welcomes one of Ireland’s greatest female jazz and blues singers, Mary Coughlan.  She is a true artist who has carved out a timeless and highly regarded career and a legion of devoted fans worldwide. Described as “Ireland’s Billie Holiday’ Mary has overcome trauma and addiction to become a musical force like no other.  Mary live is in a league of her own. Her glorious husky voice pulling every ounce of emotion from the music. This is the real thing, sung from the depths of a woman’s heart and soul, a survivor who (to paraphrase Leonard Cohen’s famous words) “was born with the gift of a golden voice.” This is why she is so loved.

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

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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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 (24 – 30 December)

  1. Turkey Run Rally, Limavady, 29 December. The annual Turkey Run Rally, organised by the Maiden City Motor Club, has risen in popularity over the last number of years, with visitors coming from all over the island of Ireland to both compete and spectate. Visitors to the Turkey Run Rally can expect to experience an exciting day out watching high-speed action. A fantastic family day out for over the festival holidays.
  2. Brian Kennedy Concert, Newcastle, 27 December. One of Northern Ireland’s favourite performers, singer-songwriter, Brian Kennedy will return to the Slieve Donard Resort & Spa for an unmissable concert this Christmas. Brian will perform his classic hits on the night including ‘You Raise Me Up’, ‘Danny Boy’, ‘Brown Eyed Girl’ and lots more.
  3. Christmas at St George’s Market, Belfast, 21 – 30 December. While Santa spreads his festive cheer, the traders will bear treats for one and all. From locally grown ingredients for that mouth-watering Christmas feast to one-of-a-kind handmade gifts for that perfect treat, all at St George’s Market this festive season.
  4. Christmas Ghost Stories with Ian McElhinney, Hillsborough, 28 December. Ian McElhinney is an actor and director from Northern Ireland. He has appeared in many theatre, film and television productions in a critically acclaimed career spanning more than thirty years; notable appearances include Taggart, Game of Thrones, Cold Feet and Derry Girls.
  5. Conal Gallen – Happy Head, Newry, 29 December. When it comes to comedians there is none better or funnier than the King himself, Conal Gallen. Conal is bringing his comedy show, “Happy Head” to the stage in Newry at the Canal Court Hotel.
  6. The Fureys, Derry~Londonderry, 27 December. Legends of Irish music and song The Furey’s, renowned for their hit songs ‘I will love you’, ‘When you were sweet 16’ and ‘The Green fields of France’, return to the Millennium Forum in their 40th Anniversary year.
  7. Abbamania, Limavady, 28 December. Abbamania’s widely acclaimed tribute to ABBA is a sensational two hour show featuring record breaking and timeless hits from Waterloo to Dancing Queen which will have you dancing in the aisles at the Roe Valley Arts Centre.
  8. Winter Circus, Belfast, 14 December – 1 January. Following their run of sold out shows at this year’s Eastside Arts Festival, those wonderful, wacky folks down at Tumble Circus are back again with The Winter Circus Show at Writer’s Square.
  9. Johnny Cash Tribute with June Carter, Belfast, 27 – 28 December. Just like Johnny Cash took the stage in his famous gig in Folsom Prison, he will perform some of his biggest hits live at Crumlin Road Gaol. Capturing the unmistakable sound of the ‘man in black’, and accompanied by June Carter and band, you will experience what it was like to be at a real Cash show.
  10. Dippy on Tour, Belfast, 6 December – 6 January. As part of a road trip across the UK, Dippy is venturing out of London for the first time since 1905. He is currently in the Ulster Museum until 6 January 2019 – and he’s on a mission to inspire five million natural history adventures, encouraging families to explore nature on their doorstep.

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

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

By

Down

Newry Chamber Music presents its annual Christmas concert on Wednesday 19th December at the Sean Hollywood Arts Centre Newry. Joining NCM’s artistic directors David Quigley and Joanne Quigley McParland will be the celebrated Irish soprano Máire Flavin.  Expect a wonderful evening of classical and Christmas favourites. Early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.  If you wish to reserve tickets by telephone please call 02830 828 632.

Armagh

Celebrate the Winter Solstice with a lantern-lit walk to Navan Fort and take part in a solstice ritual of morning meditation reflecting on the past and welcoming the arrival of new light.  Appreciate the calmness and serenity of watching the sun rise over the sacred site of Emain Macha on the shortest day of the year, before returning to the centre for an optional breakfast.   Pre-booking is essential although tickets are free, with the option to purchase a breakfast ticket at just £4.00 per person. Friday 21st December.

Fermanagh

Everyone across Fermanagh, Tyrone and beyond will have the opportunity to support the great work of Air Ambulance NI by visiting their fund raising Christmas Tree Festival which will be held in the Bawnacre Centre, Irvinestown next week, from Tuesday 18th until Sunday 23rd December. The spectacular display will consist of over 60 decorated Christmas trees presented by local groups, clubs, schools and voluntary organizations to reflect their good work in the local area. All funds raised will be presented to Air Ambulance via their local Trustee Mr Rodney Connor. Everyone is warmly invited to visit the Festival next week anytime Tuesday to Friday between 10 am and 10 pm; Saturday 10 am to 5 pm or during the special opening on Sunday 23rd December between 2 pm and 5 pm. Complimentary refreshments will be provided and families can also visit Santa’s Grotto in the Bawnacre for a beautiful family photograph.

Tyrone

The Christmas Country Concert Tour comes to the Mellon Country Inn Omagh on Friday 21st December.  Doors open at 7.30 pm with the show beginning at 8.00 pm.  With Ray Lynam, Philomena Begley, Dominic Kirwan, Louise Morrisey, Colm Kirwan, Barry Kirwan, Aidan Quinn, Stacey Breen, Chrissy Mac, MC Brian Cunningham.  Dine & Dance/ Dine, Dance and Stay Packages Available!  Tickets £22.50.

Derry/Londonderry

This Friday evening enjoy a Christmas Carol Service in the atmospheric setting of Mussenden Temple. Mulled wine and mince pies will be served in the interval. Please note that booking is essential for this event.  Phone: 028 7084 8728 or email: downhilldemesne@nationaltrust.org.uk.  Unfortunately dogs are not welcome at this event.  Tickets : Adult: £7.50 | Child: £5.00 | Family: £20.00.

Antrim

A special screening of Frank Capra’s enduring and classic Christmas movie, It’s a Wonderful Life, will take place this Saturday afternoon at the Old Courthouse in Antrim.  George Bailey has so many problems he is thinking about ending it all – and it’s Christmas! As the angels discuss George, we see his life in flashback. As George is about to jump from a bridge, he ends up rescuing his guardian angel, Clarence – who then shows George what his town would have looked like if it hadn’t been for all his good deeds over the years. Christmas gift included in ticket price.

Belfast

“Do you wanna build a snowman?”  Join the Crescent Arts Centre this Saturday afternoon for an extra special Christmas treat and join Elsa, Anna and Olaf for an afternoon of sing-a-long cinema!  There will be music, singing, films and even snow!  The film will be shown with lyrics on a huge projector, blasting those famous tunes through the state of the art sound system.  There are cinema seats and even popcorn, and don’t forget to dress up as your favourite character!

 

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 McGonigle

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.

 

  • Book six nights and enjoy the seventh night free, Co. Down, Cedar Cottage from £530 per stay

This charming 19th century cottage has recently been renovated to provide spacious, comfortable accommodation. The four-star self-catering property sleeps up to four people and   is within walking distance of Newry city centre, local shops and restaurants as well as the beach and promenade. It is also ideally located for visits to the Mourne Mountains and Cooley Peninsula. To book call 028 4175 2999. Offer available until 31 December 2018.

  • Here Come the Girls, Dobbins Inn, Carrickfergus from £100 per stay

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 one night’s bed and breakfast accommodation and afternoon tea for two with Prosecco. Price is based on two people sharing. To book call 028 9335 1905. Offer available until 31 March 2019.

  • One Night Wine and Dine, Westville Hotel, Co. Fermanagh from £148 per stay

Perfectly located in the heart of Enniskillen’s waterside historic quarter, the four-star Westville Hotel is a sophisticated, yet understated, boutique destination. Offer includes one night’s luxury accommodation, a three-course dinner in the evening with a bottle of house wine and a traditional Irish breakfast in the morning. To book call 028 6632 0333. Offer available until 30 June 2019.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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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 (17 – 23 December)

 

  1. Daniel O’Donnell, Derry~Londonderry, 19 December. No stranger to the Millennium Forum stage, Daniel O’Donnell returns to delight his many local fans. It’s no surprise he is one of the best loved artistes of our time, both at home and abroad. After more than thirty years in the spotlight as an engaging entertainer, he is still in love with performing and with audiences the world over.
  2. Ulster v Munster, Belfast, 21 December. There will be a wide variety of food and drink options available, as well as live music from a local artist in the Clubhouse Bar. All topped off with an intense battle on the field as Munster descend on Kingspan Stadium.
  3. Gandeys Greatest Snowman Circus, Belfast, 23 November – 6 January. Gandeys, Britain’s largest circus company, comes to Belfast Winter Wonderland with an all-new show, The Greatest Snow Man Circus. This one-hour show features international circus artistes from Mexico, Ukraine, Switzerland and Europe. Packed full of comedy from Chico Rico – Europe’s superstar clown – and thrilling circus acts, it has been specially created, costumed and choreographed to be Belfast’s must see show this Christmas.
  4. The Hedgehog Prince, Limavady, 22 December. The Hedgehog Prince is based on an old traditional folktale and uses puppetry, object theatre and original music which will enchant young and old alike. The perfect Christmas outing for the family at the Roe Valley Arts Centre.
  5. Winter Solstice, Armagh, 21 December. Celebrate the Winter Solstice with a lantern-lit walk to Navan Fort and take part in a solstice ritual of morning meditation reflecting on the past and welcoming the arrival of new light. Appreciate the calmness and serenity of watching the sun rise over the sacred site of Emain Macha on the shortest day of the year, before returning to the centre for an optional breakfast.
  6. Lisburn Light Festival, Lisburn, 22 November – 25 January. Share the Magic of the Season at Lisburn Light Festival. Over one million lights will illuminate the City Centre with a spectacular Light Canopy, glimmering the length of Bow Street. Experience the dazzling 40 foot Christmas Tree in Market Square and get into the festive spirit as you dance on the interactive light floor below glistening disco balls.
  7. The Magic Of Christmas, Belfast, 19 December. Following its huge success last year, this magical concert is now a central part of the Ulster Orchestra’s annual festive offering. Playing all your favourite songs such as Winter Wonderland and Santa Claus is Coming to Town, it’ll definitely ‘look a lot like Christmas’ at the Waterfront Hall.
  8. Santa Claus is Coming to The Boulevard, Banbridge, 6 – 24 December. As the festive season begins to get under way, The Boulevard in Banbridge is the perfect place to take your little elves (and canine companions) along to meet Santa Claus, unwrap fantastic offers across stores and avail of late-night shopping.
  9. Winter Skate, Belfast, 15 December – 4 January. Skating sessions at the home of the Belfast Giants, the SSE Arena, take place this festive season. Enjoy a family day out by purchasing a site pass which allows access to skating, W5 and a Giant’s Game.
  10. Margaret Keys ‘The Gift of Christmas’, Derry~Londonderry, 21 December. Due to popular demand, chart-topping internationally renowned Irish Soprano Margaret Keys returns home once again to perform an exclusive evening of beautiful music this Christmas at the Waterside Theatre.

 

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

Special Announcement for HomePlace June Events Programme

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Seamus Heaney HomePlace is delighted to announce The Unthanks will be taking to the Helicon stage as part of the Summer Events Programme.

Where does a band go after a symphonic journey that peaks with orchestral performances at the Royal Festival Hall and Royal Albert Hall? Back to the beginning of course. Before fronting one of the most artistically brave and revered banks working today, Tyneside sisters Rachel and Becky Unthank grew up singing songs without accompaniment, in weaving, unschooled vocal harmony.

As if to prove that creativity should never be about ambition or aspiration, The Unthanks move on from their recent orchestral explorations by going back to what they know and do best – singing in unaccompanied harmony – joined on this tour by Unthanks member Niopha Keegan to make a vocal trio.

The three have already established a band within a band in The Unthanks, with the success of haunting harmony signature pieces like Magpie, recently brought to wider attention by Mackenzie Crook’s beautifully poignant series, Detectorists. On this tour, they fully explore their rich and unique vocal combinations, with brand new material and arrangements, alongside more familiar Unthanks material.

“They run from the root of folk music to the very tip of the branch.” Elvis Costello

“There are few times when you hear an album or discover a band and they stalk immediately to the heart of everything you love and hold dear.” Maxine Peake

“The Unthanks are capable of such beauty that sometimes I can hardly bear to listen to them. And sometimes, when I know I need it, I’ll listen to them to open me up and clean me out.” Martin Freeman

Tickets are available on the Seamus Heaney HomePlace website www.seamusheaneyhome.com and are priced at £22 per ticket.

 

DISADVANTAGED FAMILIES ENJOY MAGICAL SANTA STEAM TRAIN EXPERIENCE

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The team behind the Santa Special trains, brought extra festive cheer to less fortunate families as they enjoyed a special steam train ride, whilst meeting Santa Claus!

Whitehead Railway Museum and The Railway Preservation Society of Ireland (RPSI) teamed up with the Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul (SVP) on Saturday 1st December to take around 100 parents and children on a magical journey, stretching from the city centre, along the scenic coastline to Whitehead town and a trip to Whitehead Railway Museum.

Children met Santa and his elves on the steam train and received a specially-chosen Christmas gift. Passengers travelled in style in one of the society’s enchanting steam locomotives, No. 85 Merlin, built in 1932. A Salvation Army band played atmospheric Christmas music, giving passengers a Christmas send-off.

Siobhan Dillon, Whitehead Railway Museum’s General Manager said, “The Santa Special is a wonderful experience for children and families alike. We are grateful to all those involved from the RPSI and respective charities who made this trip a memorable and magical day out.”

Kirsten Hewitt, the Salvation Army’s regional homelessness manager, said: “Christmas is ultimately about love. To bring children and families together is special and we are so grateful to everyone involved, we simply could not do the work we do without the generous support of others.”

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

By

Down

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has announced that its first Hillsborough Christmas Market will take place in the idyllic setting of the Dark Walk at Hillsborough Fort, for one evening only this December. Visitors can expect to feel festive as they will be greeted with the sights and sounds of Christmas as soon as they walk through the gates.  A host of local artisan food producers and crafts people will be ready and waiting to proudly present their products as dusk descends from 3.00pm – 9.00pm on Friday 14th December.

Armagh

Grainne Duffy is a blues and roots artist hailing from Castleblayney. She is a pioneer of her own style while also paying sincere homage to her roots, soul, blues, country and rock traditions. She is a seasoned artist and has been spending the last number of years touring in Europe, Scandinavia, Asia and Canada.  With a voice that is as passionate as it is raw and honest, accompanied by simple, melodic and well-phrased guitar lines, this is what you have in Grainne Duffy. See her perform live at the Market Place Theatre this Saturday 15th December evening in the Studio Theatre with an unreserved, cabaret-style seating layout.

Fermanagh

This Saturday 15th December, Enniskillen Castle will showcase a wide range of bespoke craft items created by craft designer-makers and artists from the Fermanagh & Omagh District at their festive Christmas Craft Fair.

Tyrone

Join the Silverbirch Hotel s this Christmas for a festive celebration for the whole family, with their Santa Sunday Lunch.  Children will be thoroughly entertained with the kids Christmas party, disco and entertainment by the fabulous Mr Majestic from  2.00pm to 4.00pm. Includes 4 Course Sunday Lunch.  Adults – £18.95pp | Kids – £9.80pp | Under 3 – £5.00pp.

Derry

George Hutton will play a special hometown concert in the city of Derry this Friday 14th with support from Paul Casey at the Guildhall.  George encompasses that of an extremely versatile performer. Having received classical training under the tutelage of tenors Ciáran Kelly, Eoin O’Callaghan and Benito Rodriguez he has developed a depth of control that allows him to sing across a great range of musical genres. Tickets £13.00.

Antrim

Carrickfergus Christmas Market takes place this Saturday 15th December.  Enjoy the seasonal atmosphere and find your Christmas in Carrickfergus, where there will be carefully selected, delicious artisan food and unique, locally produced Arts and Crafts. The markets are managed by Mid and East Antrim Borough council in partnership with award-winning Naturally North Coast and Glens Touring Artisan Markets. Admission is free.

Belfast

This Christmas will see J.M. Barrie’s magical story of Peter Pan brought to life in gigantic proportions at the SSE Arena.  Reprising his role as the ultimate baddie Captain Hook is acclaimed actor and Spandau Ballet star Martin Kemp, and playing Hook’s simple-minded right-hand man Mr Smee, is the pun-tastic hilarious comedian and star of BBC Two’s Mock The Week, Milton Jones, who will be swashbuckling his way across the seven seas for the very first time. Matt Knight, who is once again playing the role of Peter Pan was in the band Iron Sun, who were semi-finalists in the BBC entertainment series Let It Shine. 15th and 16th December.

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 McGonigle

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.

 

  • Shop and Stay Offer, Wellington Park Hotel, Belfast from £50 per person sharing

The ideal place to stay when you come to Belfast, this three-star, family run hotel is located in the fashionable Malone Road area. The Wellington Park Hotel offers a personalised service and is famous for a casual and relaxed atmosphere with value for money. The Ulster Museum, Botanic Gardens and many great restaurants are just steps away. Offer includes an overnight stay, a complimentary taxi fare into Belfast City Centre so you can shop until your heart’s content, a complimentary drink on your return and a full Irish breakfast the following morning. To book call 028 9038 1111. Offer available until 21 December 2018.

  • Seamus Heaney Package, Ardtara Country House, Maghera from £116.50 per person sharing

The four-star Ardtara Country House is nestled in ten wooded acres in the heart of Mid Ulster. The nineteenth century country house has been lovingly restored to provide guests with an authentic experience. Offer includes an overnight midweek stay, a three-course evening dinner, a cooked breakfast the following morning and two tickets for admission to the Seamus Heaney Homeplace. To book call 028 7964 4490. Offer available until 31 January 2019 (Available on Wednesday/Thursday evenings only)

  • 3 Night Weekend Break, Glenavon House Hotel, Co. Tyrone from £109 per person sharing

The three-star Glenavon House Hotel is situated on the outskirts of Cookstown. Overlooking the Ballinderry River and set in nine acres of its own mature grounds, this luxurious hotel offers a wide range of high standard facilities. The hotel’s central location makes it an ideal base to explore Northern Ireland. Offer includes overnight accommodation for three nights and a cooked breakfast each morning. To book call 028 8676 4949. Offer available until 31 December 2018.

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