Author: whatsonni

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend filled with Northern-Irish talent! Up and coming local musician, Taylor Lally will take the stage on Friday 9^th Feb with support from Market Place favourite, Marty Rafo.

Taylor has recently opened shows for Steve Forbert and Mary Coughlan, receiving standing ovations, and she has been awarded the coveted Artist in Residence spot at this year’s Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival. Marty has also been stirring up quite a bit of interest in the music industry since the release of his first two EP’s, ‘Last Brigade’ and ‘Atlantic Crossing’.

Taylor Lally will be on stage at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre on Friday 9^th February at 8pm. Tickets are priced at £11.

Then, the following night, Ulster Touring Opera’s exceptional soloists will take you on a musical journey from aincent Carthage to the factories of Seville via a rather bohemian Parisian apartment.

They will be joined by the talents of the Ulster String Quartet and the passion of Armagh City Choir in for a truly unique event that is also rooted in a very local favourite: cider! Join the Armagh Cider team in the foyer of The Market Place Theatre for a complimentary drink on arrival and the latest news about this home-grown success story.

‘Opera and Orchards’ will be on stage at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre on Saturday 10 February at 8pm. Tickets are priced at £19.50.

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

Discover NI’s ultimate gift guide to Looking for a unique gift this Mother’s Day instead of the usual flowers and chocolate? Don’t panic, Discover Northern Ireland has got your back.  

Mother’s Day falls a little early this year on March 10, but instead of burnt toast and crumbs in bed, why not show her just how much you care with an experience she will cherish forever.

In Northern Ireland, you’re always just a small step away from a giant experience. Discover NI has put together this Mother’s Day gift guide to help you show how much her hard work, love and sacrifice is valued by everyone.

Get crafty at Midtown Makers Studio, County Antrim

• From crocheting, felting, painting with watercolours, to plant and home décor, if your mum is a crafter, you’ll find the workshop for her at Midtown Makers Studio and Shop. Celebrating it’s tenth year in 2024, this handmade craft and gift shop offers a wide variety of workshops allowing your mum the chance meet the makers behind the items on sale and create their very own products. Booking for each workshop is essential.

Take to the water with Island Discovery Tour, County Fermanagh

• The best way to truly appreciate the majesty of Fermanagh’s Lakelands is from the water, so hop on board and get ready for a private tour of the many islands of Lough Erne. A fully electric passenger boat, Island Discovery will take your mum and your family on a 90-minute journey of cosy comfort as a knowledgeable guide has you laughing and learning about the legends of this picturesque landscape and its people. A delightful way to spend quality time together.

Make fleecy friends at Mourne Alpacas, County Down

• Enjoy a day out with a difference in Dromara and spoil your mum with a unique fleecy experience at Mourne Alpacas. Home to the largest pedigree alpaca herd on the island of Ireland, get ready for selfies with your new fleecy friends and embrace the adorable sight of the centre’s weanlings and young alpacas. On Mother’s Day, every mother that visits will receive a complimentary glass of bubbles.

Unleash the foodie with Far and Wild, County Londonderry

• Treat mum to a taste of Derry~Londonderry on Far and Wild’s Foodie City Cycle. Saddle up and indulge the senses as you enjoy the fresh air and local eateries. On this tour your mum will take in two mouth-watering culinary experiences as she ambles along the city’s vibrant streets and experience St Columb’s Park, Ebrington Square, the Peace Bridge and the city’s Walls on two wheels.

Indulge in a luxury at Blackwell House, County Armagh

• Enjoy an amazing afternoon tea at Blackwell House, a magnificent country house on the outskirts of Scarva. Let your mother unwind in this peaceful haven as you keep mum and serve Thompson’s luxury loose-leaf tea in fine bone china cups, hot seasonal soup, bite-sized pasteries, light-as-air scones and homemade classic finger sandwiches. A special treat perfect for all weathers.

Spend quality time together at Wee Buns Cookery School, County Tyrone

• A great experience for mum and her little star, the Wee Buns Cookery School near Moy, will teach her and a child aged 7+ how to make the most delicious Victoria sponge cake, vanilla buttercream and buttermilk scones. The relaxed and friendly atmosphere ensures that, whether they’re baking novices or seasoned home cooks, they’ll share an enjoyable day baking together neither will forget in a hurry.

For more fantastic experiences in Northern Ireland perfect for gift this Mother’s Day visit https://discovernorthernireland.com

Ards Arts Centre in Newtownards is delighted to open two new art exhibitions for the month of March: The Nature of Things, a joint exhibition by Eleanor Wheeler and Anushiya Sundaralingam and The Searchers, a solo exhibition by Paul van Reid.

The Nature of Things, by Eleanor Wheeler and Anushiya Sundaralingam, encompasses themes each artist has been exploring, together and separately, in their work and are constantly revisiting and refining in the continuing development of their arts practices.

The artists will present a selection of sculpture and works on paper that are inspired by the natural world; using form, pattern, texture, colour and metaphor. The works will be both contrasting and complementary; coming together as a whole and creating a visual conversation about the common themes that inspire them. The exhibition can be viewed in the Georgian Gallery.

Paul van Reid is a Belfast based artist who has work published with Tangerine Press, Dig with It magazine and shown in QSS and The Engine Room galleries. Reid’s paintings explore ideas around themes of power, desire, belief, mortality and consciousness.

The Searchers will feature a series of miniature oil paintings, measuring 5 inches by 5 inches, inspired by the work of Jakob van Ruisdael, the 16th century Dutch landscape painter. Despite oil painting being in some ways a traditional medium, the nature of the subject matter and the production of the source image supported by artificial intelligence ensures that the end product is radical and unusual. The body of work will explore ideas of the sublime and spirituality. This exhibition will be on display in the Sunburst Gallery.

Both exhibitions open on Thursday 29 February. The Nature of Things runs until Friday 29 March and The Searchers closes on Tuesday 26 March.

 

All are welcome to attend a preview event in Ards Arts Centre on Thursday 29 February at 7pm.

 

For more information visit; www.andculture.org.uk

From navigating one of Europe’s largest mazes in Castlewellan, discovering waterfalls in Navar Forest to admiring the splendour of Ardress House in Annaghmore, Northern Ireland is full of amazing adventures for the whole family to enjoy.

Often, memories of fun-filled family day trips are a highlight of our childhood and something that we hope to create with our own children.

Thankfully, making giant memories needn’t cost the earth and, in Northern Ireland, you are never more than a small step away from a fantastic free family activity.

Discover Northern Ireland has put together the following guide to help you plan a delightful day out that won’t break the bank.

1. Kilcreggan Urban Farm, County Antrim

This relaxed community farm invites individuals and families to visit, for free, and go face to face with farm animals including geese, goats, pigs, ponies, poultry and waterfowl. Pop into the garden centre or unwind in The Dancing Goat Café and enjoy any of its delicious soups, sandwiches or sweet treats. The farm is a registered charity while the café and garden centre are social enterprises. All three facilities are run by local people with autism, learning disabilities and acquired brain injuries.

2. Headhunters Barber Shop and Railway Museum, County Fermanagh

Explore one of the largest collections of Irish railway memorabilia on display anywhere at this quirky barber shop and museum in Enniskillen. Start your Headhunters journey at the reconstructed booking office and experience what railway travel through Fermanagh and the border counties was like before the closure of the lines in 1957. The collection includes a range of memorabilia from three local railway companies and is perfect for railway enthusiasts.

3. Castlewellan Peace Maze, County Down

One of the world’s largest permanent hedge mazes, Castlewellan Peace Maze features 6,000 yew trees, many of which were planted by people from all over Northern Ireland. With a hedge length of over two miles, it’s a fun and free family adventure that should take around 40 minutes as you attempt to make your way to the peace bell in the centre. When you’ve made it safely through the maze, let the kids enjoy playing in the adjoining ‘Animal Wood’ playpark, take a stroll through Castlewellan Arboretum or around the park’s serene lake.

4. The Guildhall, County Londonderry

One of Derry~Londonderry’s most iconic landmarks, the Guildhall has been at the heart of the city’s life since 1887. Everyone is free to enter the neo-gothic, sandstone building and gaze upon its stunning stained-glass windows that feature everything from fishmongers to musicians. New interpretative panels dotted throughout the building, bring to life its many special features. Don’t miss the John Hume Peace Prize Exhibition – a special collection of world-renowned peace accolades. John Hume is the only person to ever receive the Nobel Peace Prize, the Martin Luther King Jnr Non-Violent Prize and the Mahatma Gandhi Peace Prize and all three awards are now proudly displayed at The Guildhall.

5. Ardress House, County Armagh

Immerse yourself in the apple orchards, charming woodland and riverside walks that surround Ardress House — a stunning 17^th century farmhouse that was remodelled in the 18^th century. Enjoy a short stroll through the forest along the Lady’s Mile walk. This National Trust property provides a glimpse of a bygone age and walks around the property can be accessed free of charge Monday to Friday. Admission charges apply to enter the house and traditional cobbled farmyard when they open on weekends.

6. St Patrick’s Chair and Well, County Tyrone.

Hidden among the trees in Altadaven Glen is a beautiful place that is magical any time of year! It’s said that St Patrick’s Chair and Well used to be a meeting place for druids before it was Christianised by St Patrick. The large sandstone ‘chair’ is shaped like a throne and, according to local folklore, has healing properties. The ‘well’ which has associations with St Brigid is also thought to have healing properties and is said to never run dry.

7. Blackslee Waterfall Walk, County Fermanagh

This 6km walk begins at Aghameelan Viewpoint and takes you on a trail through areas of mature planted aspen, conifers and willow. Along the way, see if you can spot the willow sculpture and an area of huge sandstone boulders left behind at the end of the last ice age over 13,000 years ago. As the journey nears its end, gaze in wonder at the sight and sounds of Blackslee Waterfall cascading over a 20-metre cliff before continuing its journey down an undercut rocky gorge.

8. Drum Manor Forest Park, County Tyrone.

Drum Manor Forest Park has something to delight in every season and is a great place to enjoy a scenic walk. Explore the Japanese garden, arboretum, ponds, and mixed woodlands. There’s a variety of waymarked trails which follow a circular route, pick the one that suits you best! There’s a lovely play park, good car parking and public toilets, as well as a wheelchair accessible area.

9. Kearney Village, County Down,

This traditional 19th century fishing village has been carefully restored by the National Trust. Just three miles from Portaferry, there is a great walk to the eight-acre sandy beach at Knockinelder and along the shore to Stinking Point. Once a flourishing fishing community, Kearney is now an idyllic place to unwind offering fantastic views of the Isle of Man, Mourne Mountains and Scotland. It’s also a great spot to bring a picnic – and your binoculars – and watch the birdlife.

10. Stormont Estate, County Antrim

Having been awarded nine green flags in a row, Stormont Estate is widely regarded as one of the best green spaces in Northern Ireland. Its home to a variety of walks, beautiful gardens, fitness and adventure trails, barbecue areas, historic buildings, monuments and — most importantly for the little ones — Mo Mowlam Play Park. With over 40 pieces of play equipment, this inclusive play park has seven themed areas and hosts a quiet hour every Sunday from 9:30am to 10:30am.

For further information on fantastic free family activities in Northern Ireland visit https://discovernorthernireland.com

Tourism NI’s ultimate guide to help you embrace nature this spring

From watching Red Kites soar over the Dromara Hills, catching trout as you look down on the Walled City to watching red squirrels leap through the trees in Fermanagh, Northern Ireland is bursting with giant experiences to spark a lifelong love for nature in both the young and young at heart.

World Wildlife Day (Mar 3) is the annual celebration of wild animals and plants and the unique contribution they make to people and planet. This year’s theme is Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation.

Discover Northern Ireland has compiled the following list of places and experiences perfect for connecting people and planet.

Red Kites Tours NI, County Down

• Marvel at the amazing wildlife, flora and fauna in raptor heaven along South Down’s countryside and coastline with Red Kite Tours NI. Led by founder Shelagh Henry from her base in Rathfriland, these unforgettable tours are perfect for experienced bird watchers and budding ornithologists alike. Spot the majestic Red Kites soaring against the backdrop of the Mourne Mountains, discover otters and seals along the Irish Sea’s coastline and keep your eyes peeled for rare wildlife and wildflowers among the dunes and heathlands.

Creggan Country Park, County Londonderry

• Enjoy a fun day out at Creggan Country Park, a 100-acre site hosting three freshwater lakes, woodland, hedgerow and an activity centre. Just a five-minute drive from the centre of Derry~Londonderry, watch spring unfurl as you catch fish at its put and take rainbow trout fishery, explore natural habitats and get up close to wildlife at its Forest Academy.

Gosford Forest Park, County Armagh

• Keep your eyes peeled as you trek the trails of Northern Ireland’s first designated conservation forest on the outskirts of Markethill — you never know when you might encounter any of the red deer, red squirrels and other rare breeds that call it home. Admire the wide variety of conifer and broadleaf tree species in Gosford Arboretum and take a stroll along walkways adorned with flowering shrubs and plants. There are also a number of kids’ play zones with zip-lines and ropes courses and for Game of Thrones fans, Gosford Castle is a must-visit as it was a filming location in season three.

Belfast Window on Wildlife (WOW), County Antrim

• Offering panoramic views of Belfast Lough, as well as the birds and wildlife that call this RSPB nature reserve home, Belfast WOW certainly lives up to its name. Situated in the heart of the bustling Belfast Harbour Estate, there are hundreds of species to be observed. You’ll find Lapwings and Terns and even Konik Ponies that graze the land. Two hides, which have been specially constructed from shipping containers to blend in with the harbour’s industrial landscape, offer different perspectives on the reserve which is also set to welcome the returning Sand Martins from the start of March.

Crom Estate, County Fermanagh

• An important conservation site on the shores of Upper Loch Erne, at Crom Estate you can explore the 2,000-acre 19^th century demesne and try to spot the wild deer, pine martens, red squirrels and other rare species that live there. Gaze in wonder at the almost 400-year-old yew trees near the old castle ruins, enjoy unrivalled views of Derrymacrow Lough from the bird hide and, keep your eyes peeled for Fermanagh’s unique blue-eyed grass – while it’s the national flower of Bermuda, it’s found locally in only a few sites around Lough Erne.

OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, County Tyrone

• Northern Ireland’s only international Dark Sky Park, OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, is found in Davagh Forest. Its Stars and Stones experience offers a unique glimpse at the night sky and a fascinating exploration of the seven mystical circles, 10 rows of stones and 12 cairns that make up the Beaghmore Stone Circles. Enjoy a new 3.4km ‘Solar Walk’ and gain a better understanding of the link between what can be seen in the skies and the arrangements on the ground at Beaghmore. While exploring Davagh Forest’s many wonderful walks, keep your eyes peeled for the impressive Sika deer that call the forest home.

Faughan Valley, County Londonderry

• Just ten minutes from Derry~Londonderry and one hour from Belfast, Faughan Valley is home to a collection of enchanting oak trees, so rare these habitats cover less than 0.1% of Northern Ireland. The city of Derry~Londonderry’s Irish name, Doire, means Oak-Grove. The Woodland Trust has bought up small clusters of native woodlands in this valley including Brackfield, Oaks, Red Brae, Burntollet and Killaloo with the aim of connecting them. New walking trails have been developed to help showcase the unique flora and fauna of this breathtaking landscape.

Murlough National Nature Reserve, County Down

• Owned by the National Trust, the 6,000 year old sand dune system that makes up Murlough National Nature Reserve near Newcastle is one of the most extensive examples of dune heath within Northern Ireland and is an excellent spot for birdwatching. Managed as Ireland’s first nature reserve since 1967, the site is also of international importance for wintering wildfowl and waders as well as a haul-out for common and grey seals. As you walk the Dundrum Coastal Path see if you can spot herons, egrets and oystercatchers who enjoy the rich abundance of foodstuffs on the mudflats or even the foxes or stoats that reside on the reserve.

Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre, County Antrim

• Just six miles off the Causeway Coast lies Rathlin Island. Before arriving by ferry from Ballycastle, be on the lookout for gannets, gulls and dolphins and brace yourself for a welcome from the thousands of birds that raise their chicks and cling to the island’s dramatic cliff edges. If you’ve always talked about seeing the puffins, now’s your chance as Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre, which is located at Rathlin’s famous ‘upside down’ lighthouse reopens on Easter Sunday (Mar 31) — just in time for the highly anticipated return of these adorable seabirds.

To find out more visit www.discovernorthernireland.com

Here are ten exciting things to do 12 – 18 February

1. The Big Hide Out, Comber, County Down, 12-16 February. All birdwatching enthusiasts are invited to grab a pair of binoculars and head on down to the wonderfully varied wetlands of Castle Espie on the shores of Strangford Lough. This is a wonderful opportunity to get the chicks in your brood outside and imaginations will soar as budding ornithologists learn the difference between a Shelduck and an Eider! There is a delightful shop and fantastic café, stocked with delicious homemade savoury snacks and traybakes on site. Castle Espie makes for a great half-term day out.

 

2. Family Chocolate Experience, Castlerock, County Antrim 13-16 February. It’s chocs away for fantastic family fun at The Chocolate Manor. The Family Chocolate Experience is perfect for both adults and kids to get stuck in and craft a selection of chocolate creations. You can even design your own bar if you submit your design/photo before you arrive! These 90-minute sessions also allow participants to enjoy a hot chocolate as they learn about the origin of the sweet treat and see, smell and touch real cocoa beans and a cocoa pod from Africa.

 

3. Valentine’s Murder Mystery, Navan Centre & Fort, County Armagh, 16 February. Immerse yourself in an evening of spine-tingling murder mystery at Navan Centre & Fort this Valentine’s weekend. A murder has just been committed at the home of King Conor and as you sip on a welcome drink of wine or mead, brace yourself for an evening of excitement and intrigue. Enjoy a hearty two-course meal and decipher the enigmatic hints that could lead you to uncover who is responsible for the demise of this brave warrior.

 

4. Oyster and Stout Festival, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 16–17 February. Enjoy a totally unique festival celebrating the wonderful Lough Foyle Native Oyster and the Walled City Brewery’s unique Foyster Stout. Local seafood company Foyle Bia Mara will be shucking fresh oysters, the brewery’s Head Chef, Chris Moran, will be rustling up some seafood delights and brewers will be creating Ireland’s most diverse local stout with a range of intriguing flavours including Tabasco and Chocolate Chipotle.

 

5. Kids Forest School, Ballynahinch, County Down, 17 February. Two hours of wonderful wild play awaits young intrepid adventurers as they explore dense beech tree woodland with a trained forest leader. There are two areas to explore. One has a large canopy, so its suitable for all weathers, while the other has a campfire and a water area, suitable for pond dipping. At the end of each session, you will be taken along the scenic trail for hot chocolate and refreshments. Suitable for toddlers up to age 12.

 

6. Foraging Afloat, Killinchy, County Down, 17 February. Join Rory Martin and improve your paddling skills as you embark on a kayaking tour of Strangford Lough. Along the way you’ll learn some local history and have the chance to spot some wildlife. Rory grew up on the shores of Strangford Lough and has a real affinity for the area. After the tour you will be joined by two ecologists (David Thompson and Celia Spouncer) who have thirty years’ experience in conservation on the lough. Enjoy a foraging workshop, shoreside picnic and cooking on an open fire before the day is done.

 

7. Lough Fea, Cookstown, County Tyrone. Nestled between wild mountain scenery, this lovely natural beauty spot is one of many lakes dotted around the Sperrins. It’s an anglers dream and also supplies the entire area and beyond with fresh water. A 4.1km walkway around the lough offers up fantastic panoramic views and makes for a gentle and idyllic stroll. The toilets and children’s play area on site help make it a great spot for a family outing.

 

8. Half-Term Treasure Hunt at Carrick-a-Rede, Ballintoy, County Antrim, 15 February. If you’re on the lookout for a giant adventure this half-term, look no further than the treasure hunt at Carrick-a-Rede. Solve riddles and decipher clues to uncover the secrets hidden around Carrick-a-Rede. If you get the most answers right, you are in with the chance of getting your hands on a year’s free National Trust Membership. Online booking is strongly recommended.

 

9. Monea Castle, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh. Built for Malcolm Hamilton and completed in 1618, this dramatic ruin has a Scottish look about it, with its corner turrets and two huge round towers. The castle was burned in the 18th century and abandoned. Located on private land, the public can visit but, as it is on an active farm, dogs are not permitted.

 

10. Legenderry Couple’s Cooking Class, Derry~Londonderry, 17-18 February. An interactive dining experience perfect for the loved ones in your life. Make and eat five courses of delicious, locally sourced food, full of Legenderry flavours. Chef, Fairley Ramraj will take you through a simple but delicious menu featuring samosas and a choice of main. Participants will also get the chance to try locally made cheeses, chocolates and sauces. There are three sessions per day. Tickets are sold in pairs and each session is capped at a maximum of eight guests (four couples).

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/