Author: whatsonni

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 22-28 July

 

  1. Armagh Summer in the City, Armagh, County Armagh, until 7 September. Don’t miss Summer in the City in Armagh with crafts, football, pom-pom cheerleading, cooking for kiddies, dance for older kiddies, science, magic, music and lots more. All activities are free and will take place around the Market Square, McCrum’s Court and outside the Market Place Theatre.
  2. Big Wild Pyjama Party at Belfast’s Window on Wildlife, Belfast, 26 July. Join RSPBNI at Belfast WoW as they bring a new take to their award-winning event The Big Wild Sleep Out with an eve of nocturnal activities. From bat walks and campfires to storytelling and toasting your own marshmallows, they guarantee an eve of fun and exploration. Taking place from 19:00-22:00, nature will come to life for you and your family. This event is guaranteed to sell out, with limited ticket availability so purchase your tickets well in advance. You can also check out their Zoology of Cartoons on 27 July, where you will join artist, illustrator and conservationist Dan Collin for a workshop like no other.
  3. Belfast Tradfest, various locations across Belfast, 21 – 28 July. Belfast TradFest, the pinnacle of world-class traditional music concerts and fiery pub sessions, is set to celebrate its 6th edition this July across Belfast UNESCO City of Music. The internationally renowned festival will mark this milestone with its most ambitious programme of music. Featuring concerts with the likes of Lúnasa, Lumiere, Cherish the Ladies, Moya Brennan, Pólca 4, Bow Brothers, JIGGY, Zoë Conway & John McIntyre, BIIRD, Mary Dillon, Dónal O’Connor & Neil Martin, Seamie O’Dowd, Seán Maguire Fiddle Concert, tutor concerts, céílís and the annual TITANIC CÉILÍ which attracted 6,000 last year.
  4. NI Open, Ballymena, County Antrim, 23 – 28 July. The Black Desert NI Open presented by Tom McKibbin relaunched for 2024 and is back on the European Challenge Tour as one of the elevated events on the Tour’s international schedule. The NI Open takes place at Galgorm from July 23-28, 2024 and is free entry for everyone.
  5. Literature, Lough and Local Flavours Tour with Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, 24 and 27 July. Enjoy a day filled with literature, stunning landscapes, and delectable food. Begin your day at the Seamus Heaney HomePlace. Take a 45-minute journey from Toome Canal along the Lower River Bann to Lough Beg, turning at Church Island for the return. Conclude your day with a delicious three course dinner at The Taphouse. Drinks not included and supplement charges may apply to dishes outlined on the menu.
  6. SuperCupNI, Coleraine, County Londonderry, and venues across the Causeway Coast & Glens, Mid & East Antrim and Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council’s, 21 – 26 July. SuperCupNI is a magnet for top football clubs from all over the world. The 2024 Tournament kicks off on Sunday 21st July with the Opening Parade and Welcoming Ceremony in Coleraine Town Centre and Coleraine Showgrounds football stadium. Finals Day is scheduled for Friday 26th July, when venues across the Causeway Coast & Glens, Mid & East Antrim and Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council’s will play host to the tournament champions of the various categories which make up the event.
  7. Seal Painting at Murlough Nature Reserve, Dundrum, County Down, 24 July. Spend an unforgettable afternoon with your family at the Family Ceramics & Rock Painting event. They’ll provide all the supplies you need to paint your very own ceramic seal figurine and decorate colourful rocks. Adults accompanying those painting enter free and need not buy a ticket.
  8. Hats Off to the Forthill, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 26 July. It will be ‘Hats off to the Forthill’ on Friday 26 July 2024 when the historic Forthill Park in Enniskillen hosts an afternoon of free family fun and entertainment from 2.00pm to 5.00pm. Everyone attending the event is encouraged to pack a picnic basket, wear their favourite hat and spend the afternoon in one of the Council’s most popular public parks.
  9. Ulster Fleadh, Dromore, County Tyrone, 21 – 28 July. Fleádh Uladh is a cultural festival for traditional music, song, dance and language in Ulster. Fleádh Cheoil, which means “feast of music”, is a magnificent mix of competitions and cultural events which showcase each element of Irish traditional culture.
  1. Boatyard Distillery Tour, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, visit website for dates and times. Visit the distillery on the banks of Lough Erne to see how they produce the finest spirits using the highest quality botanicals and ingredients. Come and meet their team and discover the secret behind the famous ‘Érainn’ Copper still. Each tour lasts 90 minutes and includes: a gin and tonic reception, the history and origins of the Boatyard Distillery, a neat tasting of their full spirits range, two cocktails and a behind-the-scenes tour of the distillery from distilling to labelling, along with insight into future projects. Plus, sign and label your own personalised 70cl bottle of Boatyard to take home with you.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Keep a look out for additional dates of the above events throughout the year.

THE ROBOT EXHIBITION ARRIVES THIS SUMMER AT   ARMAGH OBSERVATORY & PLANETARIUM

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Get ready to embark on a journey through time and imagination as the Armagh Observatory & Planetarium proudly announces its upcoming “Robot Exhibition”, running from 2nd July to 31st August 2024.

This summer, science-fiction enthusiasts and curious minds alike will have the unique opportunity to explore a mesmerising collection of robots, cyborgs, and androids. 

 

Science-fiction fans are sure to recognise their favourite metal movie stars in this comprehensive exhibit. The Robot Exhibition showcases memorable and iconic robots from science-fiction movies and TV shows, highlighting their role in storytelling and exploring how they represent our changing relationship with technology.  

Visitors are invited to delve into the past, present, and future of robots in science-fiction, considering how these machines might shape our world in the years to come. Robots have long been a staple of science-fiction storytelling, captivating audiences with their mechanical precision, superhuman strength, and human-like personalities.  

As technology advances and artificial intelligence becomes more prevalent in our world, the role of robots is evolving. No longer simply automated tools designed to serve humans, robots are now being developed to think, reason, and learn independently. This shift has the potential to revolutionise our lives, from how we work and communicate to how we think about what it means to be human. 

Speaking on the upcoming exhibition, Martina Glass, Operations Manager at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium says: “We are thrilled to bring the Robot Touring Exhibition to Armagh. It is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to explore the fascinating intersection of technology, art, and storytelling. Robots have always captured our imagination, and this exhibition will inspire people of all ages to think about the future of technology and its impact on our lives.” 

The Robot Exhibition offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with a cast of full-size heroic robots, vintage tin toys, and sculptures in all shapes and sizes from comics, books, and the silver screen over the past 40 years. Around every corner lurks another metallic star, each with its own story and significance. 

Join us for an unforgettable journey through the world of robots, where you can meet some of the most iconic and beloved metal stars from the realm of science-fiction. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or simply curious about the evolution of robotic technology, this exhibition promises to be a highlight of the summer. 

Along with the Robot Exhibit, a series of dome shows will be running throughout the summer. These are: Our Wee Planets, Our Night Sky, Tales of a Time Traveller, Perfect Little Planet, Accidental Astronauts, We Are Allens; and Our Solar System.  

 

Family tickets are £32 and include one dome show, workshop, access to exhibition area and entry into the Robot exhibit. Individual and group tickets are also available. To book tickets now, please visit www.armagh.space  

Public Invited to Lough Neagh Consultation Webinar

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As part of the consultation process for the Lough Neagh Resilience Plan, the public is being invited to attend a consultation webinar on Tuesday 30 July at 7.00pm where they will have opportunity to hear from four experts who will speak on landscape acquisition and management; considering the development of a new Lough Neagh heritage resilience plan and the various environmental and conservation challenges surrounding Lough Neagh together with examples of innovative techniques and practices that could help address these current issues.

Oxford Jetty at Lough Neagh

Speakers are Dr Liam Campbell, who was instrumental in delivering the Lough Neagh Landscape Partnership project; Dr Peter Doran, Senior Lecturer from the School of Law, Queen’s University Belfast; Dr Alastair McIntosh, who is a pioneer of modern land reform in Scotland; and Dr Michael Meharg, a specialist in on-farm carbon auditing and providing conservation/wildlife advice.

The webinar will provide a platform for exploring responses to recent questionnaires which were completed by the public in relation to the project.

Funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the project is aimed at preserving and protecting the unique landscape of Lough Neagh, ensuring its vitality for generations to come.

The webinar follows almost 30 stakeholder meetings which have taken place since the consultation process began in January of this year, and the feedback and insights received by Lough Neagh Partnership from stakeholder meetings, the completion of the recent questionnaire and this webinar, will be vital to developing a robust 10 year plan for the area’s future.

Michael Browne, Lough Neagh Partnership Heritage Plan Coordinator, said: “Lough Neagh is a mirror reflecting both beauty and challenges and together we can protect it, so we are inviting anyone with an interest in Lough Neagh to attend this webinar and contribute to the sustainable stewardship of Lough Neagh.

“We are actively seeking engagement from the public in attending as it is anticipated that the information gathered from the webinar, responses received to the questionnaire and the insights gleaned at stakeholder meetings, will shape the heritage needs of Lough Neagh.”

The insights from the consultation process will form the basis for the creation of the 10 year resilience plan for the Lough and will also identify potential avenues for funding and establish new sustainable management structures to ensure the enduring vitality of Lough Neagh.

After the formulation of the draft 10 Year Heritage Resilience Plan, a forthcoming conference is scheduled to facilitate constructive discourse and gather valuable insights from stakeholders, governmental bodies, as well as representatives from the local and wider communities. It is anticipated that the conference will be scheduled for the spring of 2025. The project’s anticipated completion date is November 2025.

To register your attendance at the upcoming webinar on Tuesday 30 July, please visit: https://loughneaghpartnership.org/consultation-webinar

To keep up to date with the Lough Neagh Resilience Plan project, follow Lough Neagh Partnership on its social media channels – facebook, linkedin and X.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 15 – 21 July

 

  1. Belfast Pride, Belfast, 19 – 28 July. Belfast Pride hosts over 150 events across 10 days. The wide-ranging programme includes the Belfast Pride Family Fun Day on 20th July, as well as a full schedule of workshops, panels, quizzes and more. The festivities culminate in a colourful display of support and solidarity during the Pride Parade and afterparty on 27th July, with music from one of Northern Ireland’s biggest Abba tribute bands The Bjorn Identity, and a crowd-pleasing performance guaranteed by former UTV presenter Julian Simmons with his Ibiza Dance Show.
  2. Belfast Whiskey Week, various locations across Belfast, 19 – 27 July. Belfast Whiskey Week celebrates whiskey and Belfast’s deep-rooted history and connection in the production of whiskey spanning centuries, as well as providing experiences for all levels of whiskey drinkers, and even those who don’t. For nine days between the 19th and 27th of July Belfast Whiskey Week presents 100 events that allow you to come and experience whiskey, great food, live music, walking tours and more.
  3. UEFA Under-19 European Championship 2024, Belfast, 15 – 28 July. Don’t miss the future stars of international football right on your doorstep. The UEFA Under-19 European Men’s Championship is coming to Northern Ireland this summer. Holders Italy will face Norway in the first match of the 2024 UEFA Men’s European Under-19 Championship finals.
  4. Summer Seisiún 2024, Omagh, County Tyrone, 16, 23, 30 July and 6, 13, 20 August. One of the longest running summer shows of its kind, Seisiún attracts increasing numbers of visitors from overseas and nearer home with a show that captivates its audiences and welcomes participation. The evening begins with authentic Irish traditional music, song, dance and storytelling before light refreshments are served and the second part of the evening’s entertainment unfolds. Guests are invited to join the Comhaltas Seisiún experience, taking to the floor as they wish, with a step, tune, song or story.
  5. Armagh Summer in the City, Armagh, County Armagh, 20 July – 7 September. Summer in the City returns to Armagh with crafts, football, pom-pom cheerleading, cooking for kiddies, dance for older kiddies, science, magic, music and lots more. All activities are free and will take place around the Market Square, McCrum’s Court and outside the Market Place Theatre.
  6. Echoes of Summer at Marble Arch Caves, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 21 July. This event offers guests a unique experience with local Caritas Chamber Choir performing a selection of classical to contemporary music in the show cave. As you walk, accompanied by your guide, summer song echoes through the 340-million-year-old rock formations, carried beyond the chambers and along the rivers of the show cave. And, after you’ve worked up an appetite, why not enjoy a delicious outdoor BBQ feast, rustled up in partnership with Tully Mill Restaurant.
  7. Hillsborough Castle and Gardens LGBTQ+ Tour, Royal Hillsborough, County Down 19, 21, 26 July and 2, 4 August. The Royal Residence at Hillsborough Castle is inviting people to attend LGBTQ+ tours led by an expert guide on 19th, 21st, 26th July and 2nd and 4th August. The tours will shed light on everything from royal relationships and scandals to activism and shifting societal attitudes. The tour will fuel interesting discussions while also providing a look at the Castle’s beautiful collection of artefacts and paintings.
  8. Teddy Bear’s Picnic at WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, Comber, County Down, 15 – 28 July 2024. Join Castle Espie for a delightful Teddy Bear’s Picnic when you go down to the woods today. Bring along your teddy bear or toy companion, a picnic blanket and your favourite treats and enjoy an afternoon of nature-themed adventures. Gather around for story time, rhymes and games galore. Call the centre to reserve your place on 02891 874146.
  9. The Spirit of the Bann, Coleraine, County Londonderry, 21 July. Causeway Coast Foodie Tours’ ‘Spirit of the Bann’ river whiskey tasting experience is an ideal and unique opportunity to slowly savour distinctive colours and flavours, enjoy a warm glow and celebrate the beautiful blend of natural & man-made wonders our stunning Causeway Coast has to offer.
  10. Wild & Fired BBQ School Beer & BBQ with Kate O’Driscoll, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 20 July. You’re invited to join an unforgettable culinary adventure at LO & SLO’s Wild & Fired BBQ School. This hands-on experience includes a bonus bespoke tour of the enchanting private estate and gardens of Brook Hall. Their BBQ experts help you get stuck-in, learn to make your own fire and cook a delicious wood-fired meal in the historic walled garden in Brook Hall estate.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Keep a look out for additional dates of the above events throughout the year.

VISITORS TO GET A NEW TASTE OF TITANIC BELFAST WITH AUGUST AFTER HOURS EXPERIENCES

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TITANIC Belfast is giving guests the opportunity to visit After Hours with the launch of two unique experiences on Thursday and Friday evenings throughout August.

The world-leading visitor attraction has partnered with local drinks experience, The Spirit Circle to introduce Titanic by the Glass which takes guests on an immersive journey through the galleries of Titanic Belfast with brand new incredible audio-visual installations telling stories of Belfast, its people, its past and its drinks.

Press Eye – Belfast – Northern Ireland –
VISITORS TO GET A NEW TASTE OF TITANIC BELFAST WITH AUGUST AFTER HOURS EXPERIENCESÉ Phil Ervine, Founding Director of Taste & Tour NI, ÔDockerÕ Mark Claney, Visitor Experience Crew and Eimear Kearney, Associate Commercial Director of Titanic Belfast are pictured as the world-leading visitor attraction announces the launch of two unique experiences on Thursday and Friday evenings throughout August. For further information or to book, go to www.titanicbelfast.com
Photo by Darren Kidd / Press Eye.

Throughout the 90-minute experience each Thursday evening, visitors will enjoy four cocktails which have been expertly created by skilled mixologists by combining tastes, innovative ideas and historical information to reflect the particular story that is being told.

The second After Hours offering to be launched is Titanic Experience By Night, giving guests the opportunity to enjoy a guided highlights tour of the Titanic Experience each Friday evening after it has closed to the public. Led by one of the expert guides, the tour will be animated with living history characters who will bring the story to life making the guests feel more immersed than ever in the Titanic Story. The tour continues into the new Dockers and Dolls: The Art of Terry Bradley exhibition which will be transformed into a relaxed bar, serving a variety of drinks, sharing platters and live entertainment, where all visitors can choose a complimentary cocktail mixed by our partners at The Spirit Circle.

Eimear Kearney, Associate Commercial Director of Titanic Belfast said: “We are excited to launch two unique After Hours experiences, both of which are new additions to Titanic Belfast’s summer offering. Titanic by the Glass and Titanic Experience By Night will give people the opportunity to see the galleries in a new light while enjoying the very best of local hospitality from our own visitor experience crew and The Spirit Circle.

And with summer being one of our busiest times of the year, both with domestic and international visitors, we hope that these fabulous unique experiences will encourage new and returning visitors to the Titanic Quarter and the Maritime Mile After Hours throughout August.”

Phil Ervine, Founding Director of Taste & Tour NI added: “The Spirit Circle is delighted to be able to partner with Northern Ireland’s leading tourist attraction to create these unique experiences.  As part of this, we have developed four new cocktails with the aim of bringing scent and taste into the telling of the Titanic Story. We can’t wait for people to avail of this one-of-a-kind immersive experience and be able to enjoy Titanic Belfast After Hours this August.”

Tickets are priced at £45 per person for Titanic by the Glass (non-alcoholic options available) and £30 per person for Titanic Experience by Night. For further information or to book, go to www.titanicbelfast.com

 

7 HILLS BLUES FEST RETURNS TO ARMAGH CITY

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The unmissable weekend featuring over 40 free gigs across 16 venues

The long running 7 Hills Blues Fest makes a welcome return to Armagh City this Summer.  The unmissable weekend featuring over 40 free gigs across 16 venues, is a musical celebration of blues and roots music. The festival takes place from Friday 2 – Sunday 4 August 2024.

The festival attracts a wide range of local and international blues artists and bands. This year’s lineup includes award winning Cork based Two Time Polka, along with the legendary Rob Strong, who is known as Ireland’s Godfather of Soul and is celebrating 60 years on the road, Fan’s Favourite the Pat McManus band and the critically acclaimed Ben Reel.

Welcoming the event Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Councillor , Councillor Sarah Duffy expressed her enthusiasm:

“Come celebrate music and culture with us! We look forward to welcoming you to Armagh for the 7 Hills Blues Fest. A packed weekend of world class blues, rhythm and roots music in a variety of unbeatable venues across the city. There is something to suit everyone, whether visiting the city to shop, eat, drink or to see the sights, those bluesy tones won’t be far away. Hosting such events is an opportunity to showcase what our city has to offer, attracting visitors from far and near, boosting footfall and benefiting our local traders.”   

Newcomers include 16-year-old Guitar Sensation Zac Mac, from Lurgan, who is a singer songwriter tipped to be a rockstar in the making.  Dublin Based Mr Castle’s Blues Band and the high energy Blues Confidential.  Local acts performing this year include Courtnay Giffin, The 4 Shuck Men and The Dirt.

The weekend is one the major annual events organised by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, and attracts hundreds of visitors, local and from further afield.

As well as over 40 free gigs, the packed weekend features some fantastic family friendly entertainment in Market Street. Kick starting the festival on Friday 2 August, at lunchtime a selection of musicians will take to the bandstand. The family fun continues on Saturday with MD Rafferty Music School Live Lounge, free street entertainment, face painting, balloon modelling, music entertainment and much more, it’s an afternoon not to be missed.

The 7 Hills Blues Fest programme is now available to view and download at visitarmagh.com/7hills

Armoy Road Races Set to Welcome Over 10,000 Visitors During Race Week

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Event Brings ‘Significant Boost’ to Local Economy Says Hotel Owner

ATTRACTING some of the biggest names in road racing, over 10,000 fans from across the world are expected to descend upon Armoy during Race Week, which is culminating in the iconic Armoy Road Races and the Bayview Hotel Race of Legends, taking place in the County Antrim village from Friday 26th – Saturday 27th July.

Over 10,000 fans are expected to descend upon Armoy during Race Week which is culminating in the Armoy Road Races and Bayview Hotel Race of Legends, taking place on Friday 26th and Saturday 27th July. Pictured are, members of the Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club, road racers, Dominic Herbertson, Ryan Whitehall, Jeremy McWilliams and Neil Kernohan, Trevor Kane, owner of the Bayview Hotel, Portballintrae and Councillor Ciarán McQuillan, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.

Alongside drawing a huge number of visitors, this year’s event will see some of the most prestigious names in road racing taking on the circuit including Davey Todd, Jamie Coward, Derek Shiels, Michael Sweeney and Mike Browne. Competing at the Isle of Man TT a few weeks ago, Dominic Herbertson, Paul Jordan and Sam West will also be taking part in the Armoy Road Races this year.

According to William Munnis, Chairman of the Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club and Clerk of Course, the event has grown in popularity since its inception in 2009.

“We’re so proud that the Armoy Road Races has grown over the last 15 years to become one of the ‘must attend’ events in the Irish road racing calendar,” he said.

“The event commonly hosts thousands of fans from across Europe and the rest of the world including Australia and the United States of America and we hope that it will be the same this year, especially with the calibre of riders that will be taking part.”

Meanwhile, Trevor Kane, title sponsor of the Race of Legends and owner of the Bayview Hotel, in Portballintrae, says that the event provides a “significant boost” for businesses and local tourism in the area.

“Events like the Armoy Road Races are vital as they contribute a huge amount to the local economy,” he said.  

“The Races not only showcase Northern Ireland’s rich road racing history and its picturesque landscape, but it also provides an essential economic uplift for the area as it draws many thousands of visitors year on year.

“Our staff at the Bayview Hotel are busy preparing to welcome our global visitors in just a few weeks’ time and I have no doubt that they’ll enjoy an action-packed weekend of racing.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported the Bayview over the years and continue to do so. It is vital that everyone continues to support the races in whatever way they can even by buying the programme package. The Club and its members who give of their time freely must be commended, so it’s only fair that we do our bit too and as local businesses and fans we must continue to support this fantastic sport and these exceptionally well run road races!”

Meanwhile, Councillor Ciarán McQuillan, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council added: “Over the last 15 years, the Armoy Road Races has grown to become an event not to be missed and on behalf of Council, we’re very proud to continue to support this much-loved event.

“From hotels and restaurants to local retailers and transportation, this event helps boost the economy, while also attracting visitors to the Borough and showcasing what we have to offer. 

“The North Coast is synonymous with road racing and has produced some of the world’s greatest riders and we are delighted to see this continue.

“On behalf of the Borough, I hope that all those who travel from near and far to attend the Armoy Road Races, have a safe and enjoyable weekend, while also experiencing the world-class hospitality Causeway Coast and Glens is famous for.”

Part funded by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, the Armoy Road Races are set to take place on Friday 26th and Saturday 27th July, culminating with the prestigious Bayview Hotel Race of Legends.

Programme packages are currently on sale via the website, that includes a vehicle parking pass and a limited-edition event lanyard which enables spectators to enter specific vantage points around the circuit.

Race Week is also taking place from Sunday 21st July until Saturday 27th July with various events scheduled including a ride out and barbecue, a classic car display and a classic bike display.

For more information on Armoy Road Races and Race Week, visit: www.amrrc.com or search for ‘AMRRC’ on Facebook or follow on X @ArmoyRoadRaces.

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Marine Hotel, Ballycastle, County Antrim

Escape to the beach this summer with Marine Hotel’s ‘Summer One Night Family Break’ offer starting from £199 midweek. This offer includes bed and full breakfast for two adults and up to two children, additional children £22.00. Explore Ballycastle Beach with complimentary buckets and spades for your little ones on arrival and discover the local area with Penny’s Summer Scavenger Hunt. Enjoy some family time playing board games in the lounge or explore the children’s play park just outside the front of the hotel. Offer available until the end of August. Visit www.marinehotelballycastle.com for more information.

 

The Valley Hotel, Fivemiletown, County Tyrone

Tick Cuilcagh off the bucket list and enjoy an overnight stay with The Valley Hotel before or after your climb, with bed and breakfast, bubbles and packed lunch. Starting from £129 for a double room, the offer includes an overnight stay, delicious full Irish breakfast in the morning, bottle of bubbly, packed lunch in picnic backpack and complimentary car parking for all guests. Offer available from Sunday to Thursday, until 30 September. Visit www.thevalleyhotel.com for more information.

 

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

 

For more information on what’s on or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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La Mon Hotel and Country Club, Gransha, County Down

La Mon Hotel and Country Club is a fantastic base for a great family holiday. From £178 per family of four, enjoy a family friendly escape, including an overnight stay and full breakfast, kids goodie bag, access to La Mon Country Club with 15 Metre Swimming Pool and Kids Pool, and free parking. You’ll find fun all around this location from Streamvale Open Farm, WWT Castle Espie, Let’s Go Hydro and so much more. Offer valid until 31 August 2024. Visit www.lamon.co.uk for more information.

Lough Erne Resort, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

From £182.50 per person sharing, experience bliss with Lough Erne’s overnight stay and spa offer. Your tranquil escape awaits as you journey to The Thai Spa for a 60-minute Full Body Aroma Therapy Massage with use of the relaxation facilities. Retire to your luxury guest room to enjoy a relaxing overnight stay with breakfast the next morning and access to the Collop Walk. Offer valid until 24 December 2024. Visit https://www.lougherneresort.com/ for more information.

 

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

 

For more information on what’s on or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com

 

10 Exciting Things to do Next Week across NI

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Here are ten exciting things to do 1-7 July

 

  1. American Independence Weekend Celebrations at the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 6-7 July. Don’t miss this American Independence celebration. Discover what it was like for emigrants who left Ulster and arrived in America just as they declared independence. Watch the reading of the ‘Act of Independence’ on American Street, see demonstrations of traditional skills and try tasty food samples like cherry and almond cake or succotash. There’ll be live music on the frontier, face painting, air rifle shooting range, plus entertainment for kids (and big kids) alike including ‘Punch and Judy’ and magic shows.
  2. Kayak Sunset Sessions, Rostrevor, County Down, until 1 September. Each week during the summer months of July and August, enjoy kayak sunset sessions on the amazing Carlingford Lough. It is run from Rostrevor slipway behind the Pier. The sunset sessions will be run every Monday and Wednesday evening 6pm – 8pm, depending on weather, and will be £15pp (charges may apply when booking online). The price includes hire of all equipment (kayak and paddle, wetsuit, buoyancy aid).
  3. Summer of Play at Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down, 1 July – 1 September. Get your heart racing in nature this summer. Challenge friends and family to a host of games sure to get you active in the sun. Play volleyball or badminton on the front lawn, stroll through the Pleasure Ground in search of sporting adventures or explore the play area and test your abilities as you duck under and clamber over the obstacles.
  4. A Collection of Robots, Cyborgs and Androids at the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, Armagh, County Armagh, 2 July – 1 September. Visit Armagh Planetarium this summer for a robotic exhibit showcasing memorable and iconic robots from the last 40 years of Science Fiction. Marvel at full size heroic robots, vintage tin toys and sculptures in all shapes and sizes from comics, books and movies. Around every corner lurks another metallic star. Admission to the robots is included with a dome show ticket. Exhibit only ticket also available.
  5. Children’s Bushcraft at Old Castle Archdale Forest, Enniskillen, Fermanagh, 6 July. Join Geopark Guide Stephen at Old Castle Archdale to sample life in the great outdoors and connect with your inner Bear Grylles. Learn all about shelter-building and cooking outside during the two-hour Introduction to Bushcraft session. Please dress for the outdoors.
  6. Stendhal Festival, Limavady, County Londonderry, 4-6 July. Get ready to have fun at the Amazing Stendhal Festival, Northern Ireland’s biggest and much-loved independent music and arts festival since 2011. Kickstart your summer with singing, dancing and all modes of merriment courtesy of a stellar cast of performers from all artistic walks of life. Music, comedy, poetry, a dedicated family programme and a host of visual arts for your senses to feast upon.
  7. Kid’s Choccy Rocky Summer Experience, Castlerock, County Londonderry, 5 July. Join the Chocolate Manor team in Castlerock for the tastiest kids experience on the Causeway Coast. In this one-hour kids only experience, participants will make three fabulous chocolate creations using the finest Belgian chocolate. They will be offered a hot chocolate while their creations set and then package them up to take home and enjoy.
  8. Glass Runway, Belfast, until 25 July. Showcasing the unexpected potential of glass and fashion, the Glass Runway is brought to NI craft audiences by the Glass Society of Ireland, in collaboration with The Council of Irish Fashion Designers. Expect hot topics, hard truths, thought-provoking reflections and an unyielding focus on what beauty, gender and equality mean to different people. The exhibition will feature 20 glass artists and fashion designers showing collaborative and individual pieces which include glass bags, millinery, dresses and jewellery.
  9. Secret Garden at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, Belfast, 5 July. Enjoy an evening stroll through Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, famous for the International Rose Garden. This walk will focus on some of the less well-known aspects of the grounds and the local history of the park. Meet at Lower Stables car park, Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park at 7pm. Cost £6 per person. Booking and pre-payment essential.
  10. County Antrim Junior Senior and Masters Tennis Championship, Ballycastle, County Antrim, 6 – 13 July. The County Antrim Tennis Championships are back again this Summer! Held in the beautiful setting of the Ballycastle tennis courts, close to the beach, the tournament features events from age 8 to 80, with junior, senior and veteran events taking place in the same venue during the tournament week.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Keep a look out for additional dates of the above events throughout the year.

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