Author: whatsonni

Take the time to truly connect with people and place

In a world that’s always rushing, Northern Ireland offers a refreshing invitation to slow down, breathe deeply, and truly connect with the landscape, culture, and people around you.

‘Slow Tourism’ is more than just a travel trend – it’s about visiting places in a way that’s helpful to the environment and uncovering the beauty in unrushed experiences by staying longer. It’s not about doing less, it’s about feeling more.

Discover Northern Ireland has suggested six themes of experiences that invite you to slow down, pause and embrace the moment.

1. Remote Getaways

Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life or simply enjoy the beauty of the countryside, Northern Ireland provides the perfect balance of off-grid and unique accommodation. Sperrinview Glamping in County Tyrone located in a designated Dark Sky Park offers pods with its own stargazing viewing window.

Lough Neagh Mirror Houses feature floor to ceiling reflective glass exteriors that make them almost invisible, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of nature in privacy. Rainfall showers, private hot tubs, and a shared sauna make these cabins the ultimate unwind and relax unique stay. Retreat to Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes in County Down where adult-only luxury lodges combine experiences such as alpaca trekking, yoga classes and foraging for complete relaxation.

2. Glorious Gardens

Voted one of the top ten gardens in the world, Mount Stewart’s bold planting schemes coupled with the mild climate of Strangford Lough allows rare and tender plants from across the globe to thrive in this celebrated space. For a different view of the 19th century house, stroll around miles of walking trails and woodland. Garden Show Ireland, set amidst the stunning grounds of Antrim Castle Gardens from 12-14 June, is a three-day extravaganza promising a vibrant celebration of flowers, food, and fun for the whole family.

3. Sauna & Sea

Is it even 2026 without a sauna and sea experience? Northern Ireland has some fantastic offerings in iconic locations. Try the energising HotBox sauna experience on Benone Beach in County Londonderry for a dip in the wild Atlantic waters or the Hidden Garden Warrenpoint at the foot of the Mourne Mountains. Sauna & Sea are based on the Blue Flag Beach at Portstewart while Revive Saunas at Rostrevor Mountain Lodge offer unparalleled relaxation at the Natural Spring Water Plunge Pool.

4. Savour the flavours

Slow down and let your senses do the exploring, with culinary delights and local produce around every corner. Lir in Coleraine showcases a delicious menu that changes daily based on the freshest ingredients. The Enniskillen Taste Experience brings the flavours of Enniskillen’s vibrant food scene to life. Meet Emily at Lo & Slow Wild & Fired BBQ School where she combines foraging, dining, and live fire workshops in a historic, private walled garden in Derry~Londonderry. Savour the crisp and quenching taste of Armagh’s ciders on a tour of Orchard County with Armagh Cider Company or Long Meadow Cider.

Explore Northern Ireland’s passion for distilling with the Northern Ireland Spirits Trail. From Wild Atlantic Distillery Gin School & Distillery Tour in Castlederg to McConnell’s Distillery, located in the historic A-wing of Crumlin Road Gaol in Belfast, there is a whole world of spirits to discover here, with a special welcome for everyone who explores it.

5. Whatever Floats Your Boat

Host to some of the most beautiful coastlines and bodies of water, Northern Ireland offers an incredibly diverse selection of unique experiences such as cruising on the Fermanagh Lakes or dolphin-spotting along the Causeway Coast.

Explore the sights of Strangford Lough on board a canoe or limber up as the sun comes up with stand-up paddle boarding (SUP). Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the River Foyle with Foyle Adventures. Experience the Northern Ireland’s longest river on a River Bann boat trip with White River Charters or savour the panoramic views of Lough Neagh as your guides regale you with stories of history and legends.

6. Tracks and Trails

The benefits of a good walk in the outdoors and connecting with nature has been proven to lift our moods. With a magnificent array of walks around our Lakelands, beaches, mountains and more, there are endless opportunities to embrace the natural beauty of this land. Let our landscapes do the talking and hear how they’ve shaped our history through a guided walk, such as a gentle 6km walk up the Carntogher Mountain in County Londonderry with The Emigrant’s Walk, led by renowned famine expert Cathy O’Neill or enjoy a clifftop walk with Eimear Flanagan from Away A Wee Walk along the Causeway Coast. Tourism NI also recently launched their first signature walk, from Castlerock to Mussenden Temple with fabulous views and open windswept cliff top walks.

May is the start of many summer festivals. Check out the Ballyscullion Park Book Festival (16 – 17 May) in County Londonderry, or switch off to the soothing sounds of the International Guinness Blues on the Bay Festival in Warrenpoint (20-26 May).

For inspiration and itineraries visit discovernorthernireland.com

– Call out for buskers to come along and be in with a chance to win a share of the £4,500 prize pot –

Shining a spotlight on a wealth of talent, from solo acts to groups, and with the introduction of a new youth category to enable younger performers to have their moment to shine, both emerging and seasoned artists will join in this celebration of live music and  compete for a chance to win a share of this year’s increased prize pot which now stands at a fantastic total of £4,500.

‘I’m just a daft lad who wants to come to the North West and ride a motorbike and take in the atmosphere.’

BSB star, Storm Stacey, says that is his mindset as he prepares to make his debut on the Briggs Equipment North West 200’s 8.9 mile Triangle course this week. The announcement that the 23 year old is to race a V4RR Superbike-spec Ducati at Portrush for Michael Rutter’s Bathams AJN Racing team has been met with great excitement by road racing fans.

‘I think there is maybe a gap in the market at the North West for Storm Stacey.’ he smiles. The rising star had his first taste of the event as a spectator 12 months ago.

‘I like the Irish fanbase and I love how passionate they are for motorbike racing.’ Stacey smiles.

‘You can see they really believe in it and I want to be part of that, in amongst it.’

Does he have any particular goal or expectation from his North West debut?

‘Everyone has hidden expectations in their head and if I’m feeling comfortable and I’m up for it who knows but I also think it is perfectly OK to say that I am nervous as well. It is quite a big thing to take on, isn’t it? So, we will see how we get on.’

Stacey paid a recent fact finding visit to the north coast where the young racer was given a guided tour by former BSB champion and NW200 veteran, Josh Brookes, in the company of fellow 2026 newcomer, Franco Bourne.

‘We had a good look around with Josh but the biggest struggle for me was seeing the roads as a race circuit, imagining riding a motorbike around it.’ Stacey reflected afterwards.

‘I kept thinking we were driving to the supermarket! It was nice of Josh to show us around and I trust what he says. He said we would all be on different bikes. It is up to us to understand what we feel and he showed us what to look out for – the bumps, the manholes, grip levels and stuff like that. It is just going to be about finding that feel myself. The road surface looks amazing and I can’t wait to get out there.’

Stacey will be in full race mode as he arrives at Portrush direct from the opening BSB round of the 2026 season at Oulton Park. He intends to retain at least some of that approach for the North West.

‘I am really looking forward to coming into the chicanes.’ he smiled.

‘Big heavy braking, backing it in sideways and seeing how quickly I can get through them without messing up!  Coming past the church and under the railway bridge looks amazing too.’

‘There’s not really one part of the course that you can pin down and say I can’t wait for that bit. I can’t wait for all of it! I’m glad I’ve come today, it has been a worthwhile visit. Sitting at home you just think I’ll go there and just get on with it but I’ve a few different things to think about now with the bike that are different to BSB.’

Slated to ride only the fearsome Ducati on his North West debut, the young BSB star admitted to some nervousness alongside his excitement to get going.

‘Everyone says that after five laps you’ll know where you are going and that looks pretty true but seeing it this morning brought me back down to earth.’ Stacey reflected.

‘It’s getting close and it will be a baptism of fire on a Superbike. It’s going to be a fast first practice session round there on a Superbike. It might have been good to have had a Supersport bike for the first few laps but that’s the way it goes.’

Balancing his nervousness, the young star talked up the reassurance that comes from having the vastly experienced Michael Rutter in his corner at Portrush this year. The 14 times North West winner has competed in 100 races around the famous Triangle circuit and Stacey says he will rely upon his mentor’s steadying influence

‘Michael is a big influence and I sponge up his knowledge. He knows the place inside out and I knew that if I was going to do the North West, now is the time because I know he has my best interests at heart.’

‘I want to go home having achieved my first appearance at the North West with a nice safe ride, no crashes and not having given my Mum too much of a heart attack!’

Coleraine BID is bringing the Irish Cup Final to the heart of the town this Saturday, 2nd May, with a live big screen showing at the Event Space at Coleraine Town Hall.

As Coleraine FC prepare to take on Dungannon Swifts at Windsor Park, local supporters who can’t make the trip to Belfast will still have the chance to be part of the occasion.

The free, family-friendly event will run from 1pm to 5pm, creating a matchday atmosphere in the town centre. Alongside the live screening, there will be family activities and the opportunity to win a signed Coleraine FC shirt.

Coleraine BID is encouraging locals, businesses and visitors to come together, show their colours and get behind the Bannsiders as they aim to lift the Irish Cup.

Event Details:

Event Space, Coleraine Town Hall
Saturday, 2nd May, 2026
1pm – 5pm
Free

Wear your blue and white, and cheer on the Bannsiders as Coleraine FC chase Irish Cup glory.

Castlerock’s historic Victorian railway bridge will reopen next Friday, May 8, following a major restoration project commissioned by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.

The listed wrought iron structure, originally removed in October 2018, due to safety concerns and significant decay, has now been carefully restored and reinstalled, marking an important milestone for local heritage in the Causeway Coast and Glens area.

The restoration, carried out by Adman Civil Projects, at a cost of £730,000, involved complex overnight operations over the past two weekends to safely return the bridge to its original position.

Welcoming the reinstalment, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Oliver McMullan said: “I am delighted to welcome the return of Castlerock’s historic railway bridge.

“This has been a significant investment for Causeway Coast and Glens Council, and we have worked hard to ensure it delivers long-term value by preserving an important part of our local heritage.

“This well-known landmark holds a special place in the hearts of the local community here in Castlerock, and it’s been encouraging to see such strong local interest and support throughout the restoration process.”

Chief Executive of Causeway Coast and Glens, David Jackson added: “This has been a complex and demanding project requiring specialist engineering, delivered under significant constraints, including the closure of the railway line, which inevitably impacted the progress of the project.

“Throughout, the safety of railway users and the wider public remained our highest priority.

“After many years of closure and a substantial investment of ratepayers’ money, we are pleased to see this iconic structure fully restored and preserved for future generations.”

Paul McBurney, Translink Head of Structures said: “Translink welcome the restoration of this historic pedestrian bridge at Castlerock Train Station.  

“We have worked with Causeway Coast and Glens Council, who carried out the restoration work, to facilitate their plans to reinstate the bridge and hope it will be enjoyed by the local community, passengers and all those that visit the village.”

Spring has arrived in all its colour and energy, creating the perfect backdrop for the launch of the newly branded ‘Antrim and Newtownabbey in Bloom’ competition. Formerly known as the Best Kept Garden competition, this refreshed initiative invites residents, community groups, schools and businesses to celebrate spring and showcase their outdoor spaces.

As bluebells and other spring wildflowers fill local woodlands, residents are encouraged to take inspiration from nature and enter this year’s competition. BBC Gardeners’ Corner presenter and Irish Garden editor David Maxwell is set to return for the Awards Ceremony.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, said, “We are delighted to launch this year’s brand‑new In Bloom campaign, offering more categories than ever for our residents, businesses and community groups.

“Gardening has no barriers, anyone can take part, from planting seeds in a window box to creating a front or back garden bursting with colour. We also want to see more schools involved, helping pupils learn the importance of growing their own food and developing skills that will last a lifetime. Across the Borough, our community groups and businesses take great pride in their surroundings, and I would encourage everyone to get involved.”

Antrim and Newtownabbey In Bloom 2026 Categories:

• Best Front Garden
• Best Rear Garden
• Best Commercial Premises
• Best School Gardening Project (Nursery & Primary)
• Best School Gardening Project (Secondary)
• Young Gardener of the Year
• Best Allotment Plot
• Gardening for Wildlife Award
• Best Community Garden
• Best Communal Garden
• Volunteer(s) of the Year (individual or group)

The closing dates for entries is 29 May 2026 for schools and allotments, and 17 July 2026 for all other categories. Entries should be submitted online at: antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/in-bloom

The Cushendun Big Arts Weekend is offering A Walk in the Woods with a difference this Saturday 2nd May, as dancers from Maiden Voyage Dance will perform live during a guided tour of Cregagh Wood.

Set in one of the most beautiful villages in the Glens of Antrim, the Big Arts Weekend is now in its 13th year, and brings together artists, performers and the community for a celebration of creativity, heritage and place.

The short performances being presented during the walk will invite participants to experience contemporary dance in everyday settings, bringing the work directly to audiences.

Sarah Flavelle, one of the dancers who will be taking part in A Walk in the Woods with Dance Encounters for the second year, said:

“I have danced in many unusual places including car parks, fields and school playgrounds, but the forest is a very special place to perform. In the forest it is easy to find inspiration from my surroundings and allow them to influence my movement. Performing in the forest feels more immersive as I am responding to nature in different ways, collaborating with the sounds, trees and terrain to create something that is deeply rooted in the environment.

A Walk in the Woods is a beautiful event that will allow you to connect with forest in new and exciting ways. You will become part of a movement journey that will explore the surroundings through connection, response and intuition. You will experience a dance performance that will bring an exciting, peaceful, reflective and connected energy to the beautiful surroundings of the forest.”

A Walk in the Woods with Dance Encounters takes place at Cregagh Wood on Saturday 2nd May from 11am-1pm.  The walk lasts approx 1.5 hours and involves steep climbs and uneven footpaths, so please wear good walking shoes. This event is weather dependent.  To check on the day, call Katy on 07932 776107.   Meet at St Patrick’s Church Car Park, Glendun Rd, BT44 0PZ.

Tickets for the event are £7 – book online at https://theoldchurchcentre.com/event/big-arts-weekend-a-walk-in-the-woods-with-dance-encounters/

Ferry company embarks on major investment in its Irish Sea fleet

As the trend for multi-generational travel continues to grow, Stena Line has unveiled luxurious refurbishments to lounges onboard its Belfast to Cairnryan service, as well as a new state-of-the-art Family Hub.

The refurbishment, boasting the work of some of Scandinavia’s finest designers, means families can travel in greater comfort than ever before with onboard facilities to keep young and not-so-young entertained.

The upgrade of Stena Superfast is part of the Swedish-owned ferry company’s multi-million-pound investment in its Irish Sea operations.

Orla Noonan, Travel Commercial Manager, said: “We have been listening closely to feedback from our customers and have shaped these improvements with every type of passenger in mind. Whether travelling as a multi-generational family, with young children, or as adults seeking their own space, we’ve carefully considered how to make each journey more enjoyable.

“We care deeply about making the journey a great experience for everyone and these changes help us deliver that.

“We hope that our passengers enjoy the upgrades and that the new spaces make their journey even more comfortable, engaging and memorable for the whole family.”

An abstract map of Belfast and Scotland now features prominently across wall artwork and glass in the Stena Plus Lounge.

Designed by Gothenburg-born artist, researcher and designer, Hannes Arvid Andersson, the piece presents an interpretation of nautical maps charting the journey between Belfast and Cairnryan.

The newly refreshed Stena Plus lounge puts a strong emphasis on style, comfort and relaxation.

While maintaining the same high-quality facilities, the space has been completely reimagined with a blend of fabrics, textures, imagery and art inspired by Scandinavian design principles.

Designed by Vertti & Co, who specialise in experiential interiors for travel environments, the spacious lounge offers a variety of seating options, including the ever-popular chaise lounges, providing passengers with a calm and comfortable environment.

The Family Hub has been thoughtfully designed with parents, grandparents and children all in mind. At its heart is an interactive floor, with Xbox consoles, interactive screens, games and a movie lounge to keep everyone entertained.

The Superfast Suites have also been given a fresh new look, offering an enhanced private space for passengers. Each suite features a comfortable double bed, coffee table, 50-inch TV and en-suite facilities, creating a relaxing environment for the journey.

The Superfast refurbishment is part of a substantial investment of approximately £14 million by Stena Line in the ongoing refit and upgrades of its Irish Sea fleet.

To book your next trip with Stena Line visit www.stenaline.co.uk.

Belfast City Council and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann have marked 100 days until Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann by unveiling seven new headline acts set to perform at the world’s biggest celebration of Irish music and culture.

As Belfast prepares to host the All-Ireland Fleadh for the first time from Sunday 2 to Sunday 9 August, the newly announced line-up reflects the event’s core traditional music programming, as well as the city’s contemporary creative energy.

Already revealed for the opening event on Sunday 2 August are the legendary Sharon Shannon and her Big Band, award-winning group Goitse and former All-Ireland winners, Blackwater Céilí Band. The seven new acts announced will also perform on the iconic Gig Rig stage which will be located outside Belfast City Hall.

On Wednesday (5 August), audiences can look forward to performances from two dynamic quartet groups, Tempest Ceol and NxNW. The following evening, Thursday (6 August), acclaimed uilleann piper Conor Mallon will take to the stage, captivating crowds with his extraordinary skill alongside band members.

The weekend will be ushered in on Friday (7 August) with Glasgow ensemble TRIP, before Saturday evening (8 August) kicks off with rising talents Peter Street and the electrifying Mec Lir.

The main stage will also host free live performances across all eight days of the event. Following a callout earlier this year, visitors can expect to enjoy a diverse mix of multi-cultural performances and cross-community collaborations throughout the week.

To mark the 100-day milestone, it was also announced today that the opening celebration will include over 100 children from primary and secondary schools across North Down and Belfast as part of a school choir project.

There will also be a special collaborative performance from host branch Ards CCÉ, South Asian Dance Academy and Belfast Bands Forum, as well as an array of champion Irish dancers, led by Riverdance lead, Lauren Smyth.

In celebration of the 75^th anniversary of Comhaltas and the 50^th anniversary of Ards CCÉ, Fleadh 2026 will also see the return of a series of long-standing flagship events which celebrate excellence, creativity, participation and inclusion across the traditional arts. This will include a special anniversary concert by Ards CCÉ in the Ulster Hall, a famous live music venue in Belfast with an equally impressive musical legacy.

‘Ceol na Cruinne’, the Comhaltas International Showcase Concert celebrating global connections and exceptional talent from Comhaltas branches worldwide will also take place in the Ulster Hall, alongside a performance from the Comhaltas National Folk Orchestra, a 60-member ensemble of exceptional young musicians, singers, and dancers from across Ireland.

The Flanagan Award, taking place in the impressive Assembly Buildings, will pay tribute to the great banjo players across the traditional Irish music world, whose artistic talents, intellectual gifts, and creative passions represent the very best of Michael Flanagan’s music and spirit.

Comhaltas have announced that this year’s recipient will be Cathal Hayden. Cathal, who hails from County Tyrone, is an accomplished banjo and fiddle player with a distinguished career in traditional Irish music.

Events will also be held inside Belfast City Hall, including the Gradam Inclusion Awards, an uplifting event which celebrates traditional Irish musicians with additional needs, helping to ensure the Fleadh is a place where everyone can share their love of music.

The festival will come to a close on Sunday 9 August with an impressive closing set from the 2026 winners of the prestigious Senior Céilí Band competition – a famous highlight which will bring the eight-day celebration to a powerful finale. 

More details on closing events and wider plans for the eight-day extravaganza will be shared in May, including details of a fringe programme that will help create a ‘Culture Night’ style feel to the festival.

Taking in both the city centre and local neighbourhoods, the fringe activity will help to showcase Belfast’s diversity and musical heritage and encourage visitors of all ages to take part, through instrument making workshops, talks and family activities.

 Volunteering opportunities are also still open, with Volunteer Now reaching a milestone 1,500 registrations this week.

This interest reflects the scale of local enthusiasm for the event, with volunteers set to play a vital role in welcoming visitors from around the world and helping deliver a memorable Fleadh experience across the city for everyone.

Tickets for the Comhaltas events will go on sale from Friday 1 May from fleadhcheoil.ie, with further details on the wider programme to be shared later in May.