Grease is the Word this Summer at the Grand Opera House!

The Grand Opera House Trust’s hotly anticipated Summer Youth Production of Grease races onto the Theatre’s stage from Thursday 17 July 2025.

Sponsored for the first time by Aircoach, this electrifyin’ production features a cast of 78 talented young performers, aged 16 to 21, selected from over 390 who registered for auditions earlier this year.

The immensely talented young cast, from across Northern Ireland, will spend two weeks in intensive rehearsals, preparing to take centre stage for five unmissable performances on the iconic Grand Opera House stage from Thursday 17 to Saturday 19 July 2025.

Get ready to rock ‘n’ roll with the stars of tomorrow in 1959 at Rydell High. After a whirlwind summer romance, good girl Sandy and greaser Danny, along with The Burger Palace Boys and The Pink Ladies, navigate the ups and downs of love, friendship and the rollercoaster journey of teenage life.

Audiences will enjoy outstanding performances in a production accompanied by 20 musicians performing the phenomenal score with some of Grease’s greatest hits including Summer Nights, Hopelessly Devoted to YouYou’re The One That I Want and Greased Lightnin’.

The fully staged production, led by a professional director, musical director, choreographer and the Grand Opera House technical team, offers the talented young cast a truly unmatched experience to shine both on and off stage. The Summer Youth Production also offers the opportunity for five young people to work behind-the-scenes as part of the youth technical crew, gaining valuable insight and behind-the-scenes experience.

Now in its 13th year, the Grand Opera House Trust’s Summer Youth Production has become a springboard for emerging talent with alumni of past productions such as Sunset BoulevardOliver! and Bugsy Malone, going on to become professional actors, dancers and theatrical creatives working in the UK and beyond.

Grand Opera House Chief Executive, Ian Wilson said: “The Summer Youth Production has grown to become one of the biggest projects of its kind in the UK and Ireland, giving young people the experience of a lifetime and unique opportunity to perform on Northern Ireland’s most iconic stage.

“At the heart of the Theatre is a commitment to developing artistic talent and inspiring the next generation of performers. Through the project, our young participants will develop important life skills such as teamwork, confidence building and communication skills; all of which our performers will take with them into their future careers.

“Together with our sponsors, Aircoach, we are delighted to welcome audiences of all ages to enjoy this feel-good favourite, brought to life with heart and flair by an exceptional cast. Judging by the demand for tickets this is the one that you want to see this Summer!”

Aircoach Commercial Manager, Celine Coleman said: “We are both honoured and excited to play a part in supporting and promoting the Arts particularly amongst our younger generation. The Summer Youth Production helps nurture and develop an interest in the Arts that will remain with them throughout adulthood. Aircoach is delighted to navigate that journey of inspiration with the Grand Opera House.”

Performances of Grease will take place on Thursday 17 July at 7pm, Friday 18 July at 2pm and 7pm, and Saturday 19 July at 2pm and 7pm. For tickets, visit goh.co.uk.

Grand opening of Northern Ireland’s newest padel centres

Let’s Go Padel reveals ambitious plans for 100 new courts

The opening serve in a grand slam effort to make the sport of padel accessible for everyone in Northern Ireland takes place next weekend with the launch of new courts in Carryduff and Ballyclare.

Let’s Go Padel, the sister company of hugely popular adventure resort, Let’s Go Hydro, has ambitious plans to open 50 courts before Christmas with the ultimate aim of opening 100 courts across the country as soon as possible.

Combining elements of tennis and squash, padel is a racket sport typically played in doubles on an enclosed court about a third the size of a tennis court and surrounded by glass walls.

The first grand opening takes place at Let’s Go Hydro at Mealough Road, Carryduff on Friday, June 27 (5pm – 10pm), The complex has six doubles courts, two singles and two pickleball courts.

Open to the public, the family-friendly event will include free play sessions, kids coaching clinics, an exhibition match and a skills challenge with a BBQ and DJ helping to keep everyone entertained.

On Saturday, June 28 (11am – 4pm), Let’s Go Padel will launch its Ballyclare centre at Green Road with another packed programme similar to the Carryduff event and also open to the public. Ballyclare has two indoor and two outdoor courts.

The entrepreneur behind Let’s Go Padel, Pete Boyle, believes the potential for padel to take off in Northern Ireland is incredible.

He said: “Across the UK there were just 300 courts 18 months ago, by the end of the year there will likely be 2,000. In Europe, and around the world, the sport is hugely popular with 10,000 courts in Italy and another 10,000 in Spain, padel is without doubt the fastest growing sport on the planet.

“Local people are going on holidays and playing padel, but when they come home there are not enough courts to meet demand. Pending planning permission, we aim to open 50 courts before Christmas and are actively pursuing multiple sites to open another 50.

“We are initially aiming to open sites in Derry~Londonderry, Newry, Ballymena, and Newtownards while we hope to have people playing at courts in East Belfast by November.”

Despite the planned surge in court openings, Pete is convinced the demand for padel in Northern Ireland will mirror other parts of the world.

He said: “While there are elite elements to the game and people can play at a high level, primarily it is an inclusive sport which the whole family can play together.

“It is so easy to play and thoroughly enjoyable – once people begin to play we find that they really fall in love with the sport.

“At Let’s Go Padel we are committed to providing world class facilities and expert coaching where families, first-timers, experts and even corporate teams can come and feel a real sense of community.

“We currently operate 14 courts and they are currently all busy. Across Northern Ireland and between ourselves and other providers, we feel there is the potential for around 300 new courts. We really are just getting started.”

Tickets to the Carryduff and Ballyclare opening events are priced £5. To book your place visit Let’s Go Padel Grand Opening Events

Discover NI’s Ten Exciting Things to do This Week!

Here are ten exciting things to do 23 – 29 June

 

  1. Newcastle Food & Drink Tour, Newcastle, County Down, 28 June. Join Mairead Sweeney, a local tour guide on the Newcastle Food & Drink Tour and explore cafes, restaurants, and bars. This three-hour walking tour (1.4miles in total distance) visits six venues with four food stops and two cocktail/mocktails along the way. This adventure will introduce you to the town’s people, history, and local flavours, through wonderful tasting experiences in the heart of the beautiful Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion area.
  2. Planetarium Sound Journey Under the Stars at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, Armagh, County Armagh, 27 June. Immerse yourself in a unique experience as you listen to soothing sounds while journeying under the stars and through the expansive cosmos – all from the comfort of Armagh Observatory and Planetarium’s digital dome theatre. Let the music transport you to another world as you gaze up at the night sky. It’s the perfect way to start the week ahead.
  3. Todds Leap Family Open Park Days, Ballygawley, County Tyrone, 29 June. Join the fun at Todd’s Leap Family Open Park Days. Experience over 15 amazing activities, from ziplining and blindfold driving to the Big Yella Slide and Clip ‘N’ Climb. From 11am, there’s fun for everyone.
  4. Taste Summer Ards and North Down, Newtownards, County Down, 26 June – 6 July. Authentic food and drink experiences, celebrating the first feast of summer over two weeks at unique venues by local producers. A series of free and ticketed events showcasing the very best of Ards and North Down’s food and drink, with the popular Comber Earlies Food Festival on Saturday 28 June.
  5. Open Ground Guided Experience at Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, 25 June. Open Ground is a unique visitor experience centred on locations that shaped Seamus Heaney’s life and literature, including places from The Strand at Lough Beg to the Moyola River, which allows visitors the opportunity to discover the smells, sights and sounds that make his poetry so uniquely of this place.
  6. Guided Historical Tour of the Earl Bishop’s Estate at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, Castlerock, County Londonderry, 23 June. Join the National Trust and Hervey Heritage Group on a journey through time and history across one of the jewels of the Causeway Coast. Taking off from the Bishop’s Gate entrance of Downhill Demesne, this two-hour walk-and-talk will take you through the Earl Bishop Hervey’s estate, including his gardens and ‘castle’.
  7. The Archbishop’s Palace Tour, Armagh, County Armagh, 22 June – 31 August. This tour takes you on a visit to the Archbishop’s Palace in Armagh, telling the history and heritage of the building, viewing the art collection by local artist JB Valley as well as the servants’ tunnel and the Primates Chapel.
  8. Sundays on the Maritime Mile, Belfast, until 31 August. This summer, Belfast’s Waterfront comes to life every Sunday from June to August with free pop-up music and animation for all ages. Enjoy toe-tapping traditional music, jazz and DJ sessions, pop-up science demonstrations, mini-golf and more. Bring the family, meet friends, and enjoy Sundays on the Maritime Mile. Free event, no booking required.
  9. Golf Art Exhibition at The Bushmills Inn, Bushmills, County Antrim, until 31 July. Visit the exhibition by talented artist Kathryn Callaghan upstairs in ‘The Loft’ at the Bushmills Inn. Entry is free and the exhibition is open during hotel hours. Discover thirteen ‘poured’ golf course paintings plus ‘Master Swing’, a piece inspired by Rory McIlroy after his win at The Masters this year.
  10. Wine Geese Festival, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, until 28 June. Join in celebrating 300 years since Thomas Barton, one of the most famous Wine Geese, emigrated from Fermanagh to Bordeaux. This festival honours the Barton family’s rich connection to the Fermanagh Lakelands and will showcase the finest wine and food experiences the region has to offer.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Subject to availabilities with select dates.

 

Discover NI’s Offers of the Week!

The Rabbit Hotel, Templepatrick, County Antrim

 

Sip into summer at the Rabbit Hotel where your ultimate summer escape is calling. From £180 per room, enjoy an overnight stay, a complimentary bottle of bubbles, access to The Spa from noon, a private Duo Clay Ritual for two and a dreamy breakfast the next morning. Available Sunday – Thursday throughout June, July and August 2025, excluding 14th – 20th July. Visit www.rabbithotel.com for more information.

 

The Harrison Chambers of Distinction, Belfast

 

Add a little sporting legend to your summer with a luxurious stay at The Harrison Chambers of Distinction. Starting from £350, your boutique golf experience begins with two nights in one of their beautifully designed Aristocrat or Show Stopper rooms. Follow in Rory McIlroy’s footsteps with guaranteed tee times at Holywood Golf Club and enjoy a private tour of the historic clubhouse where his story began. Each morning, wake to a freshly prepared breakfast. Visit https://www.chambersofdistinction.com for more information.

  

For more inspiration or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com.  

  

Offers are correct at the time of publication and are subject to availability and change without notice. Terms and Conditions apply to each offer and can be viewed on the individual provider’s websites. Tourism NI acts as a promoter of third-party offers and accepts no responsibility for any changes, withdrawals, or inaccuracies made by providers. 

 

Summer Film Screenings at The Market Place Theatre – Fun, Friendly, and Inclusive!

The Market Place Theatre is delighted to announce two special film screenings this summer designed to welcome everyone to enjoy the magic of the movies in a relaxed and dog-friendly environment.

Relaxed Film Screening: A Bug’s Life
Saturday 19 July | 11am | Tickets: £5 / £3 (children)

Join us for a heartwarming adventure in A Bug’s Life, the beloved animated tale of Flik, a determined ant who recruits a troupe of circus bugs to save his colony from the intimidating grasshopper gang led by Hopper. This relaxed screening is perfect for individuals who benefit from a more comfortable, sensory-friendly environment — including those with autism spectrum conditions, learning difficulties, or sensory and communication needs. Of course, it’s open to all who want to enjoy the film in a calm, welcoming atmosphere.

Dog Friendly Film Screening: The Fox and The Hound
Friday 4 July | 11am | Tickets: £5 / £3 (children)
Bring your furry friends along to this special dog-friendly screening of The Fox and The Hound. Watch the touching story of unlikely friendship between Tod the fox and Copper the hound puppy unfold, right alongside your canine companions. Please note, dogs must remain on leads and owners are responsible for their pets’ comfort and cleanliness. We provide water bowls, blankets, and a relaxed setting for you and your dogs to enjoy the show together.

 

Book your tickets now and make the most of these unique cinema experiences at The Market Place Theatre this summer. Whether you’re seeking a sensory-friendly movie morning or a fun outing with your dog, these screenings promise joy and community spirit for all ages

Tickets can be booked online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre or through the Box Office on 03300 561 025.

Explore the magical world of the Dragonfly Festival at WWT Castle Espie this summer  

This summer get ready to explore activities that celebrate the wonderful world of dragonflies at WWT Castle Espie, the charity for wetlands and wildlife, at the first Dragonfly Festival.

From 21 June to 22 September, festival goers are invited to let their imagination run wild, enjoy an immersive experience in wetland nature featuring a dazzling line-up of dragonfly-themed events and activities all summer long.

Everyone from young and young-at-heart can follow, zip, dart and flutter their way to a great adventure and enjoy expert-guided walks exploring the secret lives of dragonflies that dwell in one of the UK’s blue spaces or enjoy the spectacular wild outdoor adventure area. Go pond dipping and discover the wonderful world of minibeasts living below the surface or take part in dragonfly challenges and giant outdoor dragonfly-themed games.

Headliners at the first Dragonfly Festival at WWT Castle Espie include: craft your very own eco-friendly pet dragonfly, relax to the soothing sounds of local musicians Daniel Halleron and Mark Hamilton during the Sunday music sessions, and immerse yourself in a tranquil sound bath with Tessa Ann. Let imaginations soar with shimmering dragonfly crafts, stretch and flutter through a fun-filled mini beast yoga session, and don’t miss a magical encounter with Bella Butterfly who will be ready for photos, friendly chats and spreading her love of wildflowers and pollinators.

 

 

 

As part of an ongoing volunteer relationship WWT Castle Espie and Strides Day Opportunities Service (DOS), who provide opportunities and experiences for young adults with additional needs aged between 19-30yrs in Bangor, Ards and across North Down to develop their potential to work towards supported employment, worked together to provide colourful festival dressings which will be located around WWT Castle Espie for festivalgoers to enjoy as they participate in the Dragonfly Festival. Strides DOS person-centred approach empowers these adults to learn, develop socially and stay active physically.

Paul Stewart, Centre Manager at WWT Castle Espie, said:
“WWT Castle Espie is looking forward to our first Dragonfly Festival. WWT  Castle Espie is a fantastic place to see species such as damselflies and dragonflies, and we hope many will take this opportunity to enjoy the amazing array of activities we have on offer this summer. We are also delighted that the young adults from our volunteer partner Strides Day Opportunities Service were able to help us prepare for the festival and I am sure everyone will enjoy the spectacular and colourful contribution they have made to the Dragonfly festival.”

Strides Director, Robert McGowan added:
“We are delighted to have been involved in the design of the dressings used for the first Dragonfly Festival at WWT Castle Espie!  When the invite came from Education Officer John McCullough, everyone was very excited, and the planning began!  The group have loved the whole process; getting together to do some research online, chatting about all our ideas, sketching and then finally recreating it all on the festival dressings.  Well done everyone at Team Strides; you can all be very proud of your efforts!”

Participation in the WWT Dragonfly Festival at WWT Castle Espie is included with the price of admission and is free to WWT members. Festival visitors booking online in advance, can take advantage of a 10% reduction in ticket prices. There are also reduced-price tickets (£5 per adult or £3 per child) for anyone who is in receipt of Universal Credit and Pension Credit. These must be pre-booked up to one day before the visit day.  More information and a full what’s on calendar for the WWT Dragonfly Festival at Castle Espie visit Dragonfly Festival at Castle Espie Wetland Centre | Summer Events & Activities | WWT.

LQ BID TUNES INTO BELFAST’S CULTURAL BEAT WITH MAKE MUSIC DAY AND TRADFEST

Public spaces to transform into a cultural stage for music and heritage

 
The Linen Quarter is turning up the volume this summer with the return of Make Music Day. Backed by LQ BID in partnership with Making Music NI – the membership organisation for leisure-time music groups – this major cultural event will celebrate the city’s diverse music scene and its vibrant future as a UNESCO City of Music.
Make Music Day will take place on Saturday 21st June with the BID, transforming the Linen Quarter into a live music stage with performances across three outdoor locations. From 12pm to 6pm, local and international musicians will bring rhythm and energy to public spaces, including Flaxx Outdoor Living Room on Brunswick Street, the Rory Gallagher Statue outside Ulster Hall, and Belfast Grand Central Station.
Performers will include Rebecca Hall Harp & Voice, Canadian singer-songwriter Natalie Haskins, and Fortwilliam Musical Society, among others, weaving a colourful musical experience for all to enjoy.
Stephen Maginn, Communications and Events Manager at LQ BID, said, “Music is woven into the fabric of the Linen Quarter, and hosting Make Music Day again reinforces our commitment to promoting culture and creativity in public spaces. We’re proud to partner with Making Music NI to deliver the Linen Quarter Belfast’s contribution to this global celebration of music, which will take place in 1000+ cities worldwide simultaneously – enhancing the everyday experience of workers, residents, and visitors through the universal language of music.”
In further commitment to cultural celebrations, the Linen Quarter will also host Belfast TradFest events for the first time, bringing a lively celebration of traditional music, dance, and culture throughout the month of July at Belfast Grand Central Station. Expect spontaneous céilís, bodhrán circles, and captivating performances from emerging and established artists, animating the new station – the gateway to the Linen Quarter and the city.
The festival’s Artistic Director, Dónal O’Connor, said, “Belfast TradFest is a celebration of the rich cultural traditions that shape our identity – through music, song, and dance that reflect the shared heritage of Ireland and Scotland. It’s about telling our stories, preserving our history, and connecting communities across generations. Since the festival began six years ago, we’ve seen an incredible rise in young people embracing traditional music. This year, we’re proud to partner with LQ BID to bring TradFest into the heart of the city and to iconic locations like Belfast Grand Central Station, inviting people to experience the energy and inclusivity of traditional arts in the heart of Belfast.”
Chris McCracken, Managing Director of LQ BID, added: “Bringing TradFest to the Linen Quarter is a major milestone. Alongside Make Music Day, it positions Belfast Grand Central Station as more than a transport hub – it becomes a cultural anchor for the city. These events not only animate the space but build momentum ahead of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026, which promises to be the biggest event Belfast has ever hosted. This is part of our wider vision to extend the city-wide festivals into the Linen Quarter and reimagine the district as a place where culture and connectivity thrive.”
In 2021, Belfast earned the prestigious designation of UNESCO City of Music – a recognition of its rich musical legacy and ongoing commitment to nurturing creativity across all genres. The return of Make Music Day and the addition of TradFest mark significant steps in that cultural journey.
To find out more about Make Music Day and TradFest events, visit linenquarter.org/events.

 Sip & Savour – New Summer Spirits and Beer Festival Launched

The flourishing local craft beer and whiskey distilling scene will be brought under one roof for a brand new food and drink festival, Sip and Savour at ICC Belfast on Saturday 16 August.

Celebrating the skills and unique stories of distilleries and breweries from across the region, Sip and Savour will provide the opportunity to sample some of the best beers and spirits the region has to offer.
There will be opportunities to “meet the maker” and hear their colourful tales of trial, error and triumph in the pursuit of the perfect process and the ultimate blend. The festival will also feature a tasty selection of top local food from Hospitality Belfast, as well as a programme of live musical entertainment.
The new event will see the exhibition space at ICC Belfast transformed with sipping and tasting stations and areas to sit and soak up the music and craic with friends and family.  It promises to be a highlight of the summer’s weekends in the city.
The event is organised by ICC Belfast as one of the first in a series of new consumer events designed to provide new attractions at the venue for visitors and locals alike.
Charlie McCloskey, Director of Events and Customer Experience at ICC Belfast, Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall explained the origins of the event, saying,
“When hosting international delegates at our large conferences and conventions we’re really proud to promote the array of brilliant local craft beers and to share the historical origins of a growing number of local distillers.  We wanted to find a way to showcase them all together, so we’ve created Sip and Savour as our own flagship event. We’ll be combing the finest local tipples with top class food and entertainment – perfect for a summer Saturday get-together.”
Peter McKevitt, Head of Entertainment at ICC Belfast, Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall said,
“I’m very pleased to reveal that our lineup will include McConnell’s Irish Whisky, Bullhouse Brew Co, Copeland Distillery and Hinch Distillery and something special from the experienced hands at Bushmills Irish Whiskey too. More will be revealed in the coming weeks. We want to keep the numbers manageable for the tasting experience, so we expect the tickets will be highly sought after.”
Tickets are now on sale from www.waterfront.co.uk with two sessions at 1pm and 5pm. Tickets are £42 plus booking fee and include tastings and food provided by ICC Belfast’s partner, Hospitality Belfast. The event is strictly for guests aged 18+ only and ID must be presented on entry.

Tee up a family friendly golfing break

With outstanding courses and experiences nearby, Northern Ireland is Made for Golf

As the return of The Open to Royal Portrush draws ever closer, golfers across the world are eager to secure tee times at Northern Ireland’s outstanding links and parkland courses.

Just minutes from their respective town centres, Royal Portrush and Royal County Down golf clubs regularly feature on lists of the best links courses in the world. And, with over 90 courses across Northern Ireland, including the award-winning Faldo Course at Lough Erne Resort in County Fermanagh, golfers – and their families – are only a ‘short drive’ from a giant adventure.

Just a short stroll from our fantastic golf courses, there are so many world class experiences to be enjoyed and places to stay, so why not combine a round of golf with a short break and let Tourism NI be your caddy for a trip to the towns in which some of our incredible courses can be found.

Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

Family Fun: Take a tour of Enniskillen Castle, enjoy some dramatic entertainment at Ardhowen Theatre or see Lough Erne your way with Erne Water Taxi’s chauffeur driven boats. For adventure seekers, explore Enniskillen with Erne Adventure’s Hydrobike experience.

Eat Here: Enjoy a delicious meal at Tully Mill Restaurant or discover a menu full of flavours at The Firehouse Bar and Grill. Embrace a cozy, traditional atmosphere at one of the town’s most cherished traditional bars – Charlie’s Bar.

Stay Here: The Westville Hotel is a great base to explore Fermanagh’s beautiful Lakelands and it’s perfect for gathering and socialising with family and friends. Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel & Lodges is another gem, with stunning views directly overlooking scenic Lough Erne.

Play Here: Established in 1986 Enniskillen Golf Club is a par 71, 18-hole parkland course. Adjacent to Castle Coole Estate, the course is within easy walking distance of Enniskillen town centre. Golfers eager for a challenge should also check out The Castle Hume Course at Lough Erne Resort.

 

Omagh, County Tyrone

Family Fun: Journey back in time at the Ulster American Folk Park and discover what life was like in rural Ulster and how peoples’ emigration had a lasting impact on North America. Embrace the western gateway to the Sperrin mountains and enjoy a network of five waymarked trails at Gortin Glen Forest Park.

Eat Here: Enjoy stunning food in sleek and stylish surroundings in Sallys Of Omagh or head over to An Creagán for a delicious bite to eat, from the start to your day right through to evening.

Stay Here: Dating back to 1890, The Governor’s Lodge is a delightful two storey building that can accommodate up to four people in the centre of Baronscourt Estate near Newtownstewart and offers stunning views over unspoilt parkland. The Silverbirch Hotel, located in Omagh, is another ideal base for discovering County Tyrone and the Sperrins.

Play Here: Embrace the challenge of Omagh Golf Club’s parkland course, just one mile from the town centre. Or at the foot of Bessy Bell Mountain, enjoy a round of golf in the ancestral estate of the Duke of Abercorn at Newtownstewart Golf Club.

 

Derry~Londonderry

Family Fun: You’ll find a unique blend of heritage and modern charm in the Walled City. Take a guided tour and learn about the rich history of the Maiden City with Derrie Danders. Reconnect with nature in a thrilling adventure with Far and Wild and unlock the best of the city with the Visit Derry Pass which provides access to 10 world class attractions including the Derry Girls Experience at the Tower Museum.

Eat Here: Try authentic handmade street food, at Pyke ‘N’ Pommes pod on the riverfront or their restaurant at 53-55 Strand Road. Embrace the full flavour of the Northwest and tuck into a McAtamney’s succulent ribeye on the bone at the multi-award winning Walled City Brewery.

Stay Here: Treat yourself to a refined stay at the exquisite B1 listed Bishop’s Gate Hotel, a residential experience in the heart of the city at The James Suites or unwind at the Everglades Hotel, located on the banks of the River Foyle.

Play Here: Enjoy picture perfect views over the River Foyle and the Donegal hills while you put your swing to the test at City of Derry Golf Club’s challenging parkland course or the championship standard par 71 course found at Foyle Golf Centre.

 

Ballycastle, County Antrim

Family Fun: Embrace a breathtaking tour of some of the Causeway Coast’s most spectacular wildlife habitats with Kintra Boat Tours, explore the award-winning Broughgammon Farm, uncover the rugged landscape and tranquillity of Rathlin Island and Ballintoy Harbour or embrace an adrenaline-filled adventure as you cross the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge.

Eat Here: Enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean from the Salthouse Bar and Restaurant, relax and unwind in Marconi’s Bar & Bistro at the Marine Hotel or the Fullerton Arms in Ballintoy.

Stay Here: Just two minutes from the beach and the Rathlin ferry terminal, you’ll find the Marine Hotel, Ballycastle,  or discover your coastal calm at the self-catering The Salthouse Eco-Lodges

Play Here: Offering a part-links, part-parkland championship course between the Causeway Coast and the Glens of Antrim, Ballycastle Golf Club is not to be missed. And, while in County Antrim, don’t miss out on the 18-hole, par 72 parkland golf course at Gracehill Golf Course.

 

Bangor, County Down

Family Fun: Hop on the Pickie Puffer or a giant pedal swan or test your skills at an 18-hole nautical themed mini golf course at Pickie Fun Park, get your cultural fill at Bangor Castle or North Down Museum and experience the thrills of high-speed racing at Eddie Irvine Sports.

Eat Here: Sample some delicious food using the finest local, seasonal produce at Coq and Bull, check out Lightfoot Kitchen and Deli, or the gastro-pub delights of The Jamaica Inn.

Stay Here: Get comfortable in a guest room, or amp up the luxury, with a suite at The Old Inn, enjoy the charm and service of the Clandeboye Lodge Hotel or the Victorian splendour of Shelleven Guest House.

Play here: Embrace the charming but challenging 18-hole championship course at Bangor Golf Club or the nearby part-seaside and part-parkland course on the County Down coastline at Donaghadee Golf Club.

 

Armagh, County Armagh

Family Fun: Immerse yourself in the place for space at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, catch a show or browse impressive collections at The Market Place Theatre and Arts Centre and explore Armagh County Museumthe oldest county museum in Northern Ireland.

Eat Here: Enjoy authentic cooking with an Australian twist at Uluru Bar & Grill, warm your soul with some delicious coffee and freshly cooked food at 4C Coffee House and Kitchen or a delicious home cooked meal at Keegan’s Bar and Restaurant.

Stay Here: Enjoy a stay in the heart of the city at Armagh City Hotel or unwind and enjoy a warm welcome in an elegant Georgian townhouse at the Charlemont Arms Hotel.

Play Here: Enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the Cathedral City from the beautiful 18-hole course at County Armagh Golf Club or the well wooded parkland course, set within the historic walls of the Duke of Manchester’s estate at Tandragee Golf Club.

For more inspiration and to plan your next short break and discover just why Northern Ireland is made for golf, visit the discovernorthernireland.com

Music for Domes set to take place at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium this weekend

A new planetarium dome show experience Music for Domes, featuring a breathtaking original soundtrack by award-winning Irish folk musician RÓIS, will launch this month at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium with two special screenings on Sat 21 and Sun 22 June at 4pm.

Music for Domes is a documentary planetarium-experience in the English and Irish languages, as well as Khmer and French, which explores the traditions and folklore connections of Cambodia and Ireland. This sweeping journey from Navan Fort to Angkor Wat blends new and archive footage to create a sensory odyssey of cosmic proportions. Mythological tricksters, ancient history and echoes of living memory come together in a unique 360° experience, taking you from the Lagan to the Mekong via the Milky Way.

Music for Domes uncovers parallels in how two distant cultures interpret spirit worlds, survive trauma and build strength through art,” said director Dawn Richardson.

Created by the Belfast-based Hosta Projects, Music for Domes is the third and final installation in their All Flesh is Grass trilogy which set out to explore generational trauma and cultural recovery in Belfast, Beirut and Phnom Penh.

“All our films have followed a fascination with how stories relate to specific places,” explained the film’s writer Paul Doran. “A planetarium dome is a perfect way to explore this by being able to show the viewer a location then overlay images and text that tease out the hidden stories.”

Tickets are available now via the Planetarium (£10) [link copied below] for screenings on Sat 21 June and Sat 22 June at 4pm. Ticket price includes general access to Planetarium.

Please note: This experience explores some adult themes through intense visuals and soundscapes. We think it’s best suited for children 11+. Please consider if its right for you if you have vertigo or sensory issues. If you have any access concerns or would like more information, please contact boxoffice@docsireland.ie