Here are ten exciting things to do 12 – 18 February
The Big Hide Out, Comber, County Down, 12-16 February. All birdwatching enthusiasts are invited to grab a pair of binoculars and head on down to the wonderfully varied wetlands of Castle Espie on the shores of Strangford Lough. This is a wonderful opportunity to get the chicks in your brood outside and imaginations will soar as budding ornithologists learn the difference between a Shelduck and an Eider! There is a delightful shop and fantastic café, stocked with delicious homemade savoury snacks and traybakes on site. Castle Espie makes for a great half-term day out.
- Family Chocolate Experience, Castlerock, County Antrim 13-16 February. It’s chocs away for fantastic family fun at The Chocolate Manor. The Family Chocolate Experience is perfect for both adults and kids to get stuck in and craft a selection of chocolate creations. You can even design your own bar if you submit your design/photo before you arrive! These 90-minute sessions also allow participants to enjoy a hot chocolate as they learn about the origin of the sweet treat and see, smell and touch real cocoa beans and a cocoa pod from Africa.
- Valentine’s Murder Mystery, Navan Centre & Fort, County Armagh, 16 February. Immerse yourself in an evening of spine-tingling murder mystery at Navan Centre & Fort this Valentine’s weekend. A murder has just been committed at the home of King Conor and as you sip on a welcome drink of wine or mead, brace yourself for an evening of excitement and intrigue. Enjoy a hearty two-course meal and decipher the enigmatic hints that could lead you to uncover who is responsible for the demise of this brave warrior.
- Oyster and Stout Festival, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 16–17 February. Enjoy a totally unique festival celebrating the wonderful Lough Foyle Native Oyster and the Walled City Brewery’s unique Foyster Stout. Local seafood company Foyle Bia Mara will be shucking fresh oysters, the brewery’s Head Chef, Chris Moran, will be rustling up some seafood delights and brewers will be creating Ireland’s most diverse local stout with a range of intriguing flavours including Tabasco and Chocolate Chipotle.
- Kids Forest School, Ballynahinch, County Down, 17 February. Two hours of wonderful wild play awaits young intrepid adventurers as they explore dense beech tree woodland with a trained forest leader. There are two areas to explore. One has a large canopy, so its suitable for all weathers, while the other has a campfire and a water area, suitable for pond dipping. At the end of each session, you will be taken along the scenic trail for hot chocolate and refreshments. Suitable for toddlers up to age 12.
- Foraging Afloat, Killinchy, County Down, 17 February. Join Rory Martin and improve your paddling skills as you embark on a kayaking tour of Strangford Lough. Along the way you’ll learn some local history and have the chance to spot some wildlife. Rory grew up on the shores of Strangford Lough and has a real affinity for the area. After the tour you will be joined by two ecologists (David Thompson and Celia Spouncer) who have thirty years’ experience in conservation on the lough. Enjoy a foraging workshop, shoreside picnic and cooking on an open fire before the day is done.
- Lough Fea, Cookstown, County Tyrone. Nestled between wild mountain scenery, this lovely natural beauty spot is one of many lakes dotted around the Sperrins. It’s an anglers dream and also supplies the entire area and beyond with fresh water. A 4.1km walkway around the lough offers up fantastic panoramic views and makes for a gentle and idyllic stroll. The toilets and children’s play area on site help make it a great spot for a family outing.
- Half-Term Treasure Hunt at Carrick-a-Rede, Ballintoy, County Antrim, 15 February. If you’re on the lookout for a giant adventure this half-term, look no further than the treasure hunt at Carrick-a-Rede. Solve riddles and decipher clues to uncover the secrets hidden around Carrick-a-Rede. If you get the most answers right, you are in with the chance of getting your hands on a year’s free National Trust Membership. Online booking is strongly recommended.
- Monea Castle, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh. Built for Malcolm Hamilton and completed in 1618, this dramatic ruin has a Scottish look about it, with its corner turrets and two huge round towers. The castle was burned in the 18th century and abandoned. Located on private land, the public can visit but, as it is on an active farm, dogs are not permitted.
- Legenderry Couple’s Cooking Class, Derry~Londonderry, 17-18 February. An interactive dining experience perfect for the loved ones in your life. Make and eat five courses of delicious, locally sourced food, full of Legenderry flavours. Chef, Fairley Ramraj will take you through a simple but delicious menu featuring samosas and a choice of main. Participants will also get the chance to try locally made cheeses, chocolates and sauces. There are three sessions per day. Tickets are sold in pairs and each session is capped at a maximum of eight guests (four couples).
For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/