Author: whatsonni

Jollyes, the pet people, invite dogs of all shapes and sizes to join the inaugural Jollyes Doggie Dander

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Lead on!

Calling all dogs in Belfast and beyond!

Pet superstore Jollyes is inviting you to take part in one of the biggest inclusive dog walks Northern Ireland has ever seen.

Starting in Victoria Park at 10:30am on Saturday, 2nd March, proud paw-rents and their loyal companions will make history as they join Cool FM’s Paolo Ross – and his best furry friend Olly the Poodle – at the inaugural Jollyes’ Doggie Dander.

This ‘walkies’ will be the perfect opportunity for you — and your loyal companion — to meet others, get active and enjoy a guided stroll through the famous C.S. Lewis Trail to Jollyes’ brand new Connswater store.

With fun games, signposted hydration stations and tasty treats dotted along the gentle route, the well-walked pups will be met at the store by Jollyes’ mascot Jolly Joe – who will present each finisher with a thoroughly deserved medal.

A caricature artist will also be on hand to capture your proud pooch’s finest moment, and everyone will be invited inside to enjoy some refreshments and Lifestage goodies.

Ahead of the doggy dander, Jolly Joe will be visiting its brand new Connswater store and Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park on Saturday, 24th February, where they will be handing out free dental treats for all canines to enjoy.

To find out more about the Jollyes Doggie Dander and the dental event, visit www.jollyes.co.uk or check out Jollyes’ social media on Twitter and Instagram.

Jacqueline shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

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Antrim

Internationally-acclaimed star of West End shows such as Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables and Evita, Mike Sterling is coming to Theatre at the Mill for an unforgettable night of wonderful music and entertaining chat this weekend.

Find out more HERE

Armagh

Springsteen – A Tribute is Europe’s biggest and best Bruce Springsteen tribute act and they are coming to the Market Place Theatre.

Find out more HERE

Belfast

In a magical kingdom beneath the sea, the beautiful young mermaid Ariel longs to leave her ocean home to live in the world above in Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Junior at the Belvoir Theatre.

Find out more HERE

Down

Enjoy a live performance from your favourite Disney Princesses including Elsa and Anna, Belle, Ariel, Snow White and many more at the Princess Academy, La Mon Hotel.

Find out more HERE

Fermanagh

There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly The 50th Anniversary Production!  Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen.

Find out more HERE

Derry/Londonderry

Cinemagic presents The Good Dinosaur at the Roe Valley Arts Centre, Limavady!

Find out more HERE

Tyrone”

“Mean Girls”  meets “Succession” meets “Downton Abbey” in arguably the greatest satire written for the stage. ’Oscar Wilde’s seminal comedy “The Importance of Being Ernest” comes to the Burnavon stage this February.

Find out more HERE

 

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Roe Park Resort, Limavady, County Londonderry,

Overlooking its own stunning 18-hole parkland golf course, Roe Park Resort is set amidst the gorgeous surroundings of the Roe Valley Country Park. It has all the charm of a country house estate and all the modern luxuries you would expect! Enjoy an overnight B&B and Spa break experience which includes a Swedish back massage and an Elemis taster facial. As part of your overnight break, you have complimentary use of all facilities including the pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and gym. From £144 pp based on two people sharing (Mon-Thurs). Visit https://www.roeparkresort.com/ for more information.

Post House Apartment D, Waringstown, County Armagh

The Post House Apartment D in picturesque Waringstown is the ideal base to tour the stunning Orchard County. This apartment consists of two bedrooms and sleeps up to four guests, with a spacious living/dining area. It is located in the centre of the village overlooking the 17th century Waringstown Mansion built by William Waring whose family gave the town its name. This special three-night offer is available from £150. Visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/accommodation/post-house-apartment-d-p693761 for more information.

Culloden Estate and Spa, Holywood, County Down

End your weekend on a lavish note with a Sunday Stayover at this five-star former Bishop’s Palace on the shores of Belfast Lough. You can relax in the spa, do a few lengths in the pool, or take a stroll around the grounds before enjoying a three-course lunch in Vespers restaurant. Enjoy a luxurious overnight stay and a full breakfast the next morning, plus a late checkout! From £350 per room based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.cullodenestateandspa.com/ for more information.

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

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

10 Exciting Things to do Next Week in NI

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Here are ten exciting things to do 19-25 February

  1. NI Science Festival 2024, Belfast, County Antrim, 19-24 February. This festival is celebrating its 10th year inspiring Northern Ireland in the fields of science, technology, engineering and maths! There are hundreds of events, spread across more than 90 venues, offering a glimpse of cutting-edge research and what the future might hold. From a range of workshops, interactive activities to talks and tours, you will have the chance to hear from scientists on their latest work. There are fascinating events for all ages.
  2. Belfast TradFest Winter Weekend, Belfast, County Antrim, 23-25 February. Hear this UNESCO City of Music come alive to the sounds of traditional music across a wide range of concerts, workshops, sessions, and talks across the city. This is the festival’s third outing and will showcase internationally renowned talent in traditional Irish and Scottish music, song and dance. The event is backed by Belfast City Council and the Arts Council among others.
  1. Kilcreggan Urban Farm & Garden Centre, Carrickfergus, County Antrim. This relaxed community space has a small farm where individuals and families can visit for free and get up close with animals including goats, pigs, ponies, poultry, waterfowl and geese. Pop into the garden centre or have a break in the not-for-profit Dancing Goat café which serves a range of soups, sandwiches and sweet treats. This community farm is operated as a charity helping support local people with learning disabilities.
  2. Garvagh Pyramid, Garvagh Forest, County Londonderry. A far cry from the sandy deserts of Egypt, this 21 ft pyramid was built in the 1800’s by Lord Garavagh, who was inspired by his grand tour of Egypt and planned to use the structure as his final resting place. It’s located at the south end of the village, on high ground, among mature woodland which is covered in bluebells in spring.  It’s not only a curious spot, it is wonderfully peaceful.
  3. Electric Escape, Belcoo, County Fermanagh. Explore the unspoilt wilderness of west Fermanagh in this guided tour across old bog roads and forest tracks and discover hidden megalithic tombs and sweeping views over Lough MacNean. Travelling on electric mountain bikes you’ll stop at Pollnagollum Cave, before a welcome break for refreshments at The Linnet Inn in the picturesque village of Boho. The route is suitable for all levels of fitness making it ideal for families and friend groups.
  4. ‘The Lucky Seventh’ – HMS Caroline Pump House, Belfast, County Antrim, 22 February. This lecture, in HMS Caroline’s Pump House, marks the 100th anniversary of the ship’s arrival in Belfast. HMS Caroline has clocked up 100,000 miles and saw action in the North Sea throughout the First World War. She looked set for the breakers yard before ending up in Northern Ireland as a drill ship. Will Heppa, NMRN Curator of Artefacts, will explore the early history of the Ulster Division of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve and look at HMS Caroline’s crucial role in the Second World War. Refreshments will be provided.
  5. Harry Avery’s Castle, Newtownstewart, County Tyrone. This castle is thought to have been built around 1320 by a local chieftain of the O’Neill clan. It’s unusual in both design and the fact that chieftains of the time rarely built stone castles. Its two towers look like a gatehouse, similar to Carrickfergus Castle, but in reality it functioned as a medieval towerhouse. Explore the remains of this historic building along with breathtaking scenery that surrounds it.
  6. Paddle Back in Time, Killinchy, County Down, 24-25 February. This award-winning kayak tour following a traditional smuggling route undertaken by Daft Eddie and the Merry Hearts. This exciting tour is led by Dr. Sarah Baccianti, a researcher in literature and history of medieval Scandinavia. At Mahee Island, Dr. Baccianti will guide you through the ruins of the monastic site of Nendrum, life in the monastery in the Middle Ages, and the role played by the Vikings in the Strangford Lough area between the 9th and 11th centuries. This tour includes a wetsuit and all the kit required for your adventure.
  7. The Argory, Moy, County Armagh. This is a great time of year to see blankets of snowdrops at this gentile 19th century property or see if you can spot a Kingfisher on the River Blackwater which skirts the estate. The Argory is a tranquil spot for a wander through beautiful woodland, or along its Lime Tree Walk.
  8. Castle Balfour, Lisnaskea, County Fermanagh. This castle sits at the edge of the parish graveyard just west of Main Street and was built around 1618 by Scottish planter, Sir James Balfour. It was in continuous occupation until the early 19th century. Conservation work was carried out on site in the 1960s and again in the 1990s. There is evidence on the site of an earlier ringfort which indicates the area had been inhabited long before the castle was built.

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

Make giant memories in Northern Ireland this spring

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Discover NI’s guide to the ultimate family getaway!

From hunting Gruffalos, searching for fairies or helping to save seals, Northern Ireland is bursting with giant experiences to enjoy during your spring family break.

With parents and kids often dragged in different directions by the daily demands of life, an affordable short break is the perfect opportunity to enjoy each other’s uninterrupted company and make memories to last a lifetime.

Discover Northern Ireland has put together the following guide to remind families they are just a small step away from making new giant memories this spring.

County Antrim

What to do

  • From the newly refurbished Titanic Belfast to the Ulster Museum and the resplendent Antrim Castle Gardens, culture vultures will be spoilt for choice. The thrill-seekers among us can plunge into the Irish Sea for a snorkelling session with Eagle Divers NI or swing on a zip-line at Colin Glen Activity Centre.

Where to stay

  • Unwind in the pet friendly, four-bedroom country house at Ned’s Brae View. Nestled in a quiet village, this coastal style home offers an enclosed garden and driveway with a play area for children and outdoor seating. For something completely different, enjoy waking up to ocean views from your glamping pod at Further.Space at Glenarm Castle.

County Armagh

What to do

  • Lurgaboy Adventure Centre invites its bravest guests to take a leap of faith from 14m and climb Jacob’s Ladder. Walk in the footsteps of ancient warriors at Navan Centre & Fort, visit rare livestock at Tannaghmore Gardens and Animal Farm or seek out fairies, spells and music in Slieve Gullion Forest Park.

Where to stay

  • For an unforgettably unique experience in the Orchard County, why not rest your weary head at Tepee Valley Campsite on the outskirts of Markethill or embrace the old-world rustic charm of bespoke log cabin apartments at Greenvale Cabins in the heart of the Ring of Gullion.

 

 

County Down

What to do

  • See marine life from around the world at Exploris Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary, hone your survival skills at Finnebrogue Woods Bushcraft, learn the importance of our wetlands at WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, or walk with the alpacas at Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes.

Where to stay

  • Escape into nature with your loved ones as you surround yourselves with 200 acres of farmland at Kilwarlin Self Catering Cottages or cosy up in front of a wood burning fire at the foot of Slieve Gullion in the pet friendly Clonlum Cottages.

County Fermanagh

What to do

  • Enjoy canoeing, kayaking and stand up-paddle boarding with outdoor activity provider, Blue Green Yonder, soak up some local history at Headhunters Barber Shop and Railway Museum or delve into the deep and marvel at the waterfalls and lofty chambers that make up the Marble Arch Caves.

Where to stay

  • Make your break extra special when you stay at the charming, pet friendly lodges at Lusty Beg, unwind in the midst of the Sliabh Beagh mountain range at Hidden Gem Cottages or bring your touring caravan, or tent, to the highly-accessible Share Discovery Village Caravan Park.

County Londonderry

What to do

  • Learn all about the maiden city at the Tower Museum, grab a selfie in the Quinn household or sit in Sister Michael’s chair as part of the Derry Girls Experience. Ride four-man Dragon SUPs on the Foyle with Far and Wild or saddle up with an experienced guide at the City of Derry Equestrian Centre for a Slow Adventure on horseback through the Faughan Valley.

Where to stay

  • For an adventure they’ll never forget, check-in to the cosy glamping pods at Benone Getaways – just two minutes from the renowned blue flagged Benone Beach and offering stunning views of Binevenagh Mountain and the Hills of Donegal – these glamping pods provide the perfect base to enjoy some quality alone time with your loved ones.

County Tyrone

What to do

  • Explore the Sperrin Sculpture Trail and pose for photos with its three giants – Ceoldán, Darach and Nowanois. Experience what life at home was like for Ulster’s emigrants at the Ulster American Folk Park, take a journey through time and space at OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory and set hearts racing at Todd’s Leap Outdoor Activity Centre as you descend the ‘Big Yella Slide.’

Where to stay

  • The self-catering cottages at An Creagán provide the perfect opportunity for your family to recharge and make memories by the campfire. Alternatively, enjoy magical views and spectacular sunsets at Gortin Glen Glamping pods. Each of these wheelchair accessible pods come with a private hot tub and fire pit and are within minutes of the forest park.

To create your own spring break itinerary or find out more about any of these great value accommodation offerings and experiences visit https://discovernorthernireland.com

Torvill and Dean The SSE Arena, Belfast

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Skating legends Jayne Torvill & Christopher Dean have returned to Sarajevo today (14th February) to commemorate their historic Gold medal winning performance to Ravel’s Bolero at the 1984 Winter Olympics – 40 years to the day. Torvill & Dean also announced today that they will be retiring from skating together in spring 2025, when they embark on their last ever live UK tour: ‘Torvill & Dean: Our Last Dance’

Kicking off at London’s OVO Arena in Wembley on 12 April, this will be the very last chance to see the world’s most famous skating superstars in action on the ice together. The 28 date tour will travel across the UK, culminating at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro on 11 May for their final performance and their last dance. Tickets go on sale at 8.00am on ‘Bolero Day’ (as Jayne and Chris affectionately call it), 14 February, from www.TorvillandDean.com and www.ticketmaster.ie

Following an invitation from the Mayor of Sarajevo to visit the city to mark the 40th anniversary of the Winter Olympics, Torvill & Dean are there today reliving the memories four decades on of their iconic heart-stopping performance which had a UK television audience of 24 million people on the edge of their seats. It became one of the greatest sporting moments of the 20th Century and set a new standard for world-class figure skating.

‘Torvill & Dean: Our Last Dance’ UK Tour will be the last time that Jayne and Chris will perform on ice together, 50 years since they formed their incredible skating partnership – giving audiences one last chance to see and celebrate the iconic duo.

Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean said: “Following the kind invitation from the Mayor, we are thrilled to be back in Sarajevo 40 years on from that memorable day. Returning to the city which provided such a life-changing moment for us is incredibly nostalgic and brings back so many wonderful memories. We’re also feeling very emotional as we announce our 2025 farewell tour: ‘Torvill & Dean: Our Last Dance’. Whilst we will continue to work together off the ice, this will be the final time we will skate together following our 50-year partnership. But not without celebrating one final time with all of our incredible fans across the UK, who have supported us constantly over many years. We promise to put on an amazing live show – and we really hope to see you there!”

Torvill & Dean are back on ITV1 every Sunday night, as Head Judges on the new series of Dancing on Ice.

Young Aspects Welcomes Big Wave Surfer Al Mennie

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Aspects Festival is delighted to welcome Al Mennie to its Young Aspects programme. The Big Wave Surfer, writer and athlete will be giving a special talk in Studio 1A, Bangor on Friday 1 March. Author of several children’s books, Al will share insights into his writing journey and what inspires him.

Al Mennie is probably best known for his big wave surfing exploits. From humble beginnings playing on the beach at Castlerock to eventually becoming a pioneer of big wave surfing in both Ireland and at the infamous location of Nazare in Portugal.

​Al is also a writer and has written a number of books, from an autobiography to books to help adults and children with fear, anxieties and being confident. His book Confident Kris tells the story of Kris and his life as a Viking child living with his widowed mum. It explains how he uses strength and confidence to combat fears and worries, and to not let other people’s opinions impact him. The book deals with bullying and how to make sure you don’t waste a minute of your day. Al’s latest book Billy the Basking Shark is designed to educate young people on the importance of protecting nature and the ocean from pollution.​

Speaking about his Aspects appearance, Al said: “I have been writing almost every day since I was a child. I am inspired by life and the environment around me and I look forward to speaking to the audience about this at Young Aspects Festival”. 

Aspects Festival Director, Patricia Hamilton said: “We are delighted to welcome Al Mennie to our Young Aspects programme. Al is an inspiration and I’m sure our audience will enjoy hearing about his writing. I would encourage everyone to book a ticket and come along.”

Young Aspects is presented by Ards and North Down Borough Council and will run from 1 – 3 March at various locations around Bangor. Tickets are on sale now.

To view the full programme and to book tickets, visit: https://aspectsfestival.com/whats-on

DEMENTIA NI LAUNCHES NEW EMPOWERMENT GROUP IN BALLYMONEY

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As part of its ongoing mission to improve the lives of people living with dementia, leading local charity Dementia NI has chosen Ballymoney as the location for its new Empowerment Group, with the launch event taking place on Thursday 22nd February 2024, 12pm-2pm, at Ballymoney Town Hall, 1 Townhead Street, Ballymoney, BT53 6BE.

Dementia NI has more than 12 Empowerment Groups across the whole of Northern Ireland. These Groups provide a place for local people in the early to middle stages of dementia to come together, share experiences and provide peer support to one another. The Groups are also a place for Dementia NI members to press for changes in policy and services and challenge the stigma of dementia.

The charity is inviting everyone in the local area to join them for their Dementia NI Engage and Connect launch event. Whether you would like to talk with Dementia NI members about their experiences of living with dementia or are looking for information on practical support available in your local area, Dementia NI encourages you to come along. The event also offers the chance to find out about volunteering and fundraising opportunities with Dementia NI.

Dementia NI Founding Member John McErlane, who set up the charity with four other people with dementia after being diagnosed in his early fifties, comments, “I am delighted that Dementia NI is starting an Empowerment Group in Ballymoney. Bringing people together with a dementia diagnosis is very powerful. We can learn a great deal from each other as we are all in the same boat. Starting a new group in Ballymoney is very exciting for me, the new members and the people of Ballymoney”.

Reflecting on the support he received following his diagnosis with early onset dementia seven years ago, Dementia NI Member and Trustee, Davie McElhinney, 60, says, “Since joining Dementia NI, the support I’ve received has really helped me. After my first group meeting, I felt better. Getting to meet the other members has provided me with confidence and a new outlook.”

Commenting on the upcoming event, Conor Lawell, Empowerment Facilitator at Dementia NI, says, “Dementia NI is coming to Ballymoney with some of our existing members and championing our message of hope – that with the right support, it is possible to live well with dementia. We invite members of the public to join us to come and hear what we have to offer. We look forward to seeing you on the day.’’

Come and talk to the Dementia NI team, get involved and help the charity make a real difference to the lives of local people. See you there!

For further information on Dementia NI’s Empowerment Groups, please contact Empowerment Facilitator Conor Lawell on 07734 375 583 or email conor@dementiani.org

To find out more about the work of Dementia NI, visit our website at www.dementiani.org

Walking Festival 2024 showcases spectacular Glens of Antrim

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Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is encouraging visitors to explore spectacular walking routes in Ballycastle and the Glens of Antrim during the upcoming Walking Festival 2024 from Friday March 15 – Sunday March 17.

Local activity providers, Far and Wild will deliver the festival – now in its 4th year – over a variety of stunning forest, mountain and clifftop trails, highlighting the unique history, heritage and mythology surrounding this location.

Launching the event, the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Steven Callaghan said: “The quality and variety of walking trails within our Borough is unsurpassed and the Causeway Coast and Glens Walking Festival provides a valuable opportunity for visitors to the destination and residents of the borough to discover the beauty of our mountain trails and coastal paths.

“I am delighted to welcome walking enthusiasts to discover our magnificent landscape and scenery, both on popular routes and lesser-known paths.”

Kerrie McGonigle, Council’s Destination Tourism Manager added: “The Causeway Coast and Glens Walking Festival 2024 further enriches the superb walking product available to visitors in the Borough and adds to the world class visitor experience that the Causeway Coastal Route offers.”

The Walking Festival begins on March 15, with ‘Fairy Lore and the Glens’, a moderate looped way marked walk on Ronan’s Way, taking in the historic landscape of one of the nine Glens of Antrim, Glendun.

This walk showcases the environmental and human heritage of the Glens and how local lore governs the ways native populations have interacted with landscape down the ages.

The second day of the Festival on March 16 explores ‘The Living Edge: Where the Land Meets the Sea’, along the dramatic cliff-scape at Fairhead and Murlough Bay, overlooking the Sea of Moyle.

This walk will illuminate the connection with Rathlin Island and the Scottish western seaboard through the ages, from the pre-Christian period to the modern era.

The final walk of the Causeway Coast and Glens Walking Festival on March 17 will take place on open country, trails and minor roads, on the challenging ascent to the summit of Lurigethan Mountain.

With ancient remains dating from neolithic times and beyond, ‘Settlement in an Iconic Landscape’ entwines history with glacial geology in a breathtaking location overlooking Waterfoot Bay and Cushendall.

Accompanied children over 12 years can be accommodated on these walks, but the adjacent high cliffs and steepness of the ascent should be noted by parents.

These walks are suitable for everyone with good fitness levels and walkers with prior hillwalking experience.

Waterproofs and hiking boots are required and a packed lunch with at least one litre of water is recommended.

The nature of the landscape determines that unfortunately dogs cannot be accommodated on these walks.

Each walk is £10 per person, including refreshments, and bookings can be made via https://www.farandwild.org/causeway-coast-and-glens-walking-festival.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 5-11 February

  1. The Blue Lights Story, Belfast, County Antrim, 7 February. As part of the 4 Corners Festival, the screen writers behind the highly successful BBC TV show will take part in an evening of conversation followed by a question and answer session. Screen writers Declan Lawn and Adam Patterson will be in All Saints College in West Belfast, where part of the first series was filmed. To book this event visit the website.
  1. Irish Spirits & Chocolate – The Echlinville Distillery, Kircubbin, County Down, 10 February. Begin your visit with a hands-on experience as you are guided through the process of making chocolate truffles by Geri before you enjoy a spirits and chocolate tasting session. Complete your afternoon with a visit to the distillery shop, then stroll through the historic Echlinville Estate and the visitor walkways. To book this experience visit the website.
  2. Homes in Focus: Cruckaclady Farmhouse, Cultra, County Down, 10 February. This is one of a series of intimate talks that take place in one of the Ulster Folk Museum’s many beautiful buildings. Join Victoria Millar, Senior Curator of History, at Cruckaclady Farmhouse to learn how it was cleverly constructed and discover what life was like for those who lived here during the early 1900s.
  3. Belfast Punk Music Walking Tour, Belfast, County Antrim, 10 February. Explore the story of punk music in Belfast, which is now recognised as a UNESCO City of Music. Find out more about bands like the Outcasts, Rudi, Stiff Little Fingers, and Victim. See some of the sites celebrated in the film ‘Good Vibrations’, lauding Terri Hooley’s role as the Godfather of Belfast punk and round off your tour with a trip to the Oh Yeah Music Centre to discover some great punk memorabilia.
  4. Tully Castle, Blaney, County Fermanagh. This atmospheric ruin is located on the southern shore of Lower Lough Erne. This fortified house and bawn are set on Tully Point and were built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641, when it was attacked and burned on Christmas Eve by Rory Maguire. It was never lived in again. It’s free to look around and is a lovely spot for a wander. Check out the visitors’ centre in a restored farmhouse, with exhibitions of local stories relating to the castle.
  5. Derry’s Famous Beer & Cheese Tour, Claudy, County Londonderry, 9 February. A real treat for the tastebuds awaits at Dart Mountain Cheese & Northbound Brewery. Indulge in the best of both worlds – beer and cheese. Discover the perfect pairings and learn about the fascinating process of crafting these culinary delights.
  6. Ardress House, Portadown, County Armagh. A wonderful place to take in the best of the season on the grounds of this 17th century National Trust Property. This is a real feast for the senses. Walk amidst stunning woodlands, admire the blankets of snowdrops, berries on bare branches and primroses peeking through the hedgerow. Listen to the chorus of robins, finches, blue tits, starlings, and if you time it right, enjoy the swirling birds overhead with some wonderful winter sunsets. No admission until March, so it’s a perfect time to visit wherever you are in Northern Ireland.
  7. QEST Northern Ireland Showcase Exhibition, Belfast, County Antrim, throughout February. This partnership between Craft NI and the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) supports the training and education of talented and aspiring craftspeople across the UK. This exhibition at the Craft NI gallery in Belfast city centre brings together the work of 17 QEST alumni. There’s a huge range of crafts and talent on display from glass, handloom weaving, willow sculpture and hand crafted silver.
  8. Bessy Bell Walk, Omagh, County Tyrone. This is a pleasant and interesting walk showcasing the beautiful and unique terrain of the Sperrins landscape. Starting at the Mellon Country Inn, the track travels along the main road before turning uphill on a country lane. The track ascends the summit through a variety of tarmac, rough grassland and heather, where walkers will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding area. This walk is approximately six miles in total.
  9.  ‘Derry Woodland’ Cycle Tour, County Londonderry, 10 February. An expert local guide will accompany you from St Columbus Park in the heart of the buzzing city centre along the Foyle Greenway. You will cycle across the Peace Bridge and along the river. There’ll be refreshments at the half-way stage in the arboretum area of Brookhall Estate including a hot beverage and a finger buffet with a range of local artisan food. On your return to the city, you will cross back from the west to the east bank of the River Foyle and learn the myth which gives the river is name.

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

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