Here are ten exciting things to do 15-21 January
Seedheads Arts Streets Walking Tour, Belfast, Country Antrim, 21 January. Explore the changing face of the city through its ever-evolving street art. On this gently paced, two-hour guided walking tour, you’ll see the incredible work from artists across the globe who are leaving their mark, particularly in the Cathedral Quarter. Hear their stories and get a better understanding of Belfast’s relationship with street art and how a city, long associated with murals, is changing the narrative.
- Copeland Distillery Tour, Donaghadee, County Down, 20 January. Situated in the old picture house a stone’s throw from the Harbour and lighthouse. This was once the busiest port in Northern Ireland with global seafarers landing with spirits and spices. Immerse yourself in the magic of the this coastal distillery where whiskey, gin and rum are made. Experience the tales of this beautiful part of the world and the great stories of smugglers and long ago battles and voyages.
- W5, Belfast, County Antrim, 15-28 January. A special offer this month helps make the New Year more fun for less, for all the family! Get hands-on with over 250 interactive exhibits across eight action-packed zones, marvel at daily science shows and experience the Ghosts of Winterly Manor, all for only £7per person. This offer applies to adult, child and concession tickets only. Check website for availability.
- Crawfordsburn Country Park, Helen’s Bay, County Down. Located on the southern shores of Belfast Lough, this park provides a relaxing natural retreat with two excellent beaches, spectacular scenery and a tranquil walk through wooded glens and a long coastal path. There’s also a café if you need to stop to refuel. A great day out for the family.
- Ritual Landscapes walking tour, County Tyrone, 20-21 January. This is a unique tour which starts at An Creggan where storytelling, ecology, archaeology and folklore are combined. During this four hour walk, Martin from Foyle trails will provide many fascinating insights into the ancient ritual sites and habitats that have survived in this undiscovered part of Northern Ireland. You will explore pagan sites and standing stones and hear the stories behind them. A memorable day out.
- St Aidan’s Church and Holy Well, Magilligan, County Londonderry. While the ruins of the church are thought to be 13th century, the remains of St Cadan (a follower of St Patrick) are buried here, as are those of Denis Hempson a renowned blind harper known as the last of the bards. He died in 1807 at old age of 112! Explore this ancient site and learn the tales that have made it famous. Visit the water from the nearby holy well, which is said to cure ills when applied to the afflicted area!
- Sundar Yoga at Carrick-a-Rede, Ballintoy, County Antrim, 19 January. Wanting to kickstart 2024 with some winter wellness? Why not join yoga instructors Hatha and Chrissie for a one-hour morning session of complete relaxation at Carrick-a-Rede. After your morning flex, take a dander along the stunning 1km coastal path, taking in the breath-taking views of the North Coast, and then cross the 20-metre chasm to the island of Carrick-a-Rede!
- Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, Armagh, County Armagh,16-19 January. Come along midweek and enjoy the afternoon “Birth of Planet Earth” show for a specially discounted price of £5 per person, or explore the exhibition area for just £3 per person. The show tells the twisted tale of our planet’s origins. The film explores some of the greatest questions in science today: how did Earth become a living planet in the wake of our solar system’s birth? Come along and find out!
- Winter Blues Floral Workshop, Ballynahinch, County Down, 21 January. Come along to the stunning surroundings of Montalto Estate and learn how to arrange your very own winter floral arrangement. Using seasonal foliage and blooms, you will be shown how to prepare and condition your stems. The workshop will be in The Coach House and is perfect for all levels. This is the perfect activity to relax and let your creativity flow. Enjoy refreshments and wonderful homemade traybakes after you create your masterpiece.
- Enniskillen Castle Tour, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, throughout January. Experience Fermanagh’s unique heritage in the beautiful setting of Enniskillen Castle on the banks of the River Erne. The self-guided visit takes in the historic Castle buildings, Watergate and Courtyard. The castle is home to the Fermanagh County Museum where you can learn about the area’s prehistory, natural history, traditional rural life, local crafts and Belleek, and history of the castle.
For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/