Author: whatsonni

Offers Of The Week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Corick House Hotel & Spa, Clogher, County Tyrone

Set on a private estate, with beautiful Victorian walled gardens in the rolling Clogher Valley countryside, the Corick House Hotel & Spa is an oasis waiting to be explored. This summer escape to Corick House Hotel & Spa for just £99 per person sharing and enjoy an overnight stay in a room type of your choice (prices may vary) and full Irish breakfast on the morning of departure. Or check out other available offers including a ‘Twilight Pizza & Prosecco Serenity Spa’ experience from £55 per person. The offer includes pizza and prosecco served in the Serenity Suite, one-hour thermal suite and one hour in a private hot tub. Visit corickcountryhouse.com for more information.

 

Finn Lough, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

Taking cues from nature, Finn Lough incorporates considered design and elegant spaces to create a lakeside haven where the switched-on come to switch off. Book an unforgettable experience with Finn Lough’s Elements Spa Escape package starting from £162.50 per person, per night based on two guests. The offer includes a stay in your choice of accommodation (Suites or Bubble Domes), Elements Trail Spa experience (2hrs) and breakfast hamper delivery. Visit finnlough.com for more information and to learn about other seasonal offers.

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 discovernorthernireland.com

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 3-9 June

 

  1. Belfast Punk Music Walking Tour, Belfast, 8 June. Come explore the story of punk music in Belfast on this walking tour, with a specialist music guide who has loved punk music since the 1970s. Since bands like The Outcasts, Rudi, Stiff Little Fingers, Ruefrex and Victim erupted onto the scene in Belfast back in the late 1970s, Belfast punk has held a special place in music history, near and far.

 

  1. Belsonic, Belfast, 7 – 29 June. Belsonic returns to the idyllic setting of Ormeau Park, Belfast. The popular music festival will bring a host of international headline acts to the heart of Belfast city centre across the month of June. This year’s sensational line-up includes Derek Ryan, Picture This, Limp Bizkit, Becky Hill, Sting, Blondie, Take That and Shania Twain.

 

  1. Gig in the Garden at Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down, 8 June. Join an unforgettable evening at Rowallane Garden. As the summer sun sets on the garden immerse yourself in an atmosphere of live music, delicious food, and fantastic company. From 6.30PM to 11PM, groove to the tunes of local alternative pop sensations Beauty Sleep and the Cool Hand String Band. The White Horse Bar in Saintfield, will be supplying beverages throughout the evening from their ‘pop-up bar’. Hot food will also be available to add to the evening’s festivities.

 

  1. Paddle and Pizza on Strangford Lough, Killinchy, County Down, 8 June. Once you have mastered the basics of staying afloat on a Stand-Up Paddleboard, Joe, your paddle sports instructor will guide you around Ballymorran Bay and you’ll take a tour around the beautiful islands on Strangford Lough. By now you’ll have worked up an appetite so take a two-minute stroll back to Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen where the aroma of freshly cooked Pizzas will welcome you.

 

  1. Montalto Estate Garden Tour with Head Gardener, Ballynahinch, County Down, 9 June. This tour is perfect for those who have an interest in gardens and want to gain an insight into what it takes to be shortlisted for the UK Garden of the Year. Your tour will start with a short talk about the history of the estate by its Head Gardener as you enjoy tea/coffee and scrumptious homemade shortbread. Following this, you will be inspired by the sights and scents of one of the most beautiful gardens in Northern Ireland.

 

  1. Mind Of Sound – In The Heart Of The Cave, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 8 June. Go with the flow and immerse yourself in a spiritual sound journey deep within the heart of the Marble Arch show cave. Join in a musical meditative event that will quiet your mind and relax your body, while you recline and breathe in the ambience of the cave.
  2. Orchard Cider Tour Experience with Tastings, Tea/Coffee, Apple Tart & Fresh Cream at Long Meadow Farm, Portadown, County Armagh, 6 June. Take part in a fully immersive orchard/cider experience in the company of the McKeever family. Enjoy an orchard walk explaining the various orchard plantations in place. This will change with the seasons. Visitors can experience the apple blossom in May or the trees laden with fruit from June-October.

 

  1. Summer Jamm in Strabane, County Tyrone, 8 June. Join the fun from 12pm – 5pm on Saturday 8th June when Strabane Town Centre comes alive with live music, dance and street entertainment. There will be music and entertainment across Strabane, the Roar Roar Dinosaur Show will bring an interactive learning experience to Castle Street and the Alley Theatre will host a fun-filled afternoon of exciting workshops, arts & crafts, face-painting, entertainment and refreshments.

 

  1. The Derry Girls Experience, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, visit website for open times. Visit the home of Derry Girls at the Tower Museum and discover where it all began. See original memorabilia from the hit show, like Erin’s diary, Aunt Sarah’s famous pyjamas and Ma Mary’s Woolworths sweater, not to mention the infamous Spice Girls’ costumes. Step into the set of the Quinn household and feel like one of the family.

 

  1. Limitless Adventure Centre, Limavady, County Londonderry, visit website for open times. If you’re up for a challenge, then Limitless Adventure Centre is a must for you. Set a few miles off the Causeway Coastal Route and close to the River Foyle, this is one of our most beautiful rural locations. Adrenalin junkies and thrill seekers will love the array of experiences on offer. Or, if you’re a little less adventurous then target archery, laser clay shooting, laser tag or football golf are worth a turn.

 

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

LINEN QUARTER SUMMER WALKING TOUR LAUNCHES AT HEALTH WEEK  

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LQ BID is giving access to nearly 80 free events including fitness classes, health checks, CPR training and sound healing

Linen Quarter Business Improvement District (LQ BID) has introduced a summer walking tour to mark the return of its annual Health Week, now it its fifth year.

Nearly 80 free events will take place across the district to inspire and support improved health and well-being. Developed in partnership with Creative Tours Belfast, Spinning Yarns Walking Tour will dive into the history of the Linen Quarter weaving together stories of its people and bringing to life a legacy spanning over 250 years.

Kicking off June 10, new additions this year include sound healing, Bollyfit dancing, a group run, and new cycling exhibition Gears and Beers taking place at The Ewart which will highlight the transformation of the modern bicycle and showcase the latest in cycling technology. Health Week will also see employees across the Linen Quarter receive access to almost 50 classes at Pure Gym on Adelaide Street as well as the return of yoga classes, dog petting and personal health checks. All sessions are free to attend, but space is limited. To secure a spot at any of the events visit linenquarter.org/event/linen-quarter-health-week/

In a move to enhance emergency preparedness within the district, the BID is also encouraging its members to invest in life-saving equipment, covering up to 50 per cent of costs for Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). The devices can deliver crucial shocks to restore normal heart rhythms during sudden cardiac arrest significantly increasing the chances of survival.

Lawrence Geoffrey Tingson, Linen Quarter BID Healthy and Sustainable Manager said, “Health Week is a crucially important initiative for the BID. Not only does it serve as reminder for us to prioritise our health and wellbeing, but it highlights the role of employers in ensuring their employees are both happy and healthy – which should be a priority for all businesses as a happy workforce is a productive one.

“This year we’re delighted to partner with Creative Tours Belfast to launch our summer Walking Tour which will share the fascinating journey from the heart of the linen industry in the 1800s to the vibrant and distinct district it is today. Our aspiration is to make Spinning Yarns a permanent attraction to drive local tourism and increase footfall in the area. It aligns perfectly with our broader mission to make the Linen Quarter an exceptional place to live, work, visit and enjoy.”

The first Spinning Yarns Walking Tour will take place on June 13 and will run for ten-weeks on a trial basis.  A limited number of free tickets for each tour will be available to employees of Linen Quarter-based organisations.

Dolores Vischer, Founder of Creative Tours Belfast said, “We’ve designed the ‘Spinning Yarns’ Walking Tour in a way that helps people learn about the area’s rich heritage, including the importance of the linen industry and how it earned us the title of ‘Linenopolis’ – as well as seeing how vibrant it is today. Along the way people can expect many entertaining ‘yarns’. They will discover where the largest bell in the city rang out from and why it was silenced for a time, visit historic venues such as the Grand Opera House where Luciano Pavarotti made his UK debut in 1963, and the Ulster Hall were Led Zeppelin first played ‘Stairway to Heaven’ live in 1971. As well as taking in the area’s impressive architecture and historic bars, they will see super street art and fantastic eateries.”

LQ BID is dedicated to sustaining the Linen Quarter’s health and wellbeing with the installation of outdoor parklets and planting, advocacy for active and sustainable travel, and a pioneering new project to monitor and improve air quality throughout the district.

To celebrate Health Week the BID has also partnered with Belfast based clinic ACCA to offer advanced technology and wellness treatments such as Cryotherapy, Oxygen Therapy, and IV Nutrient shots with £25 vouchers available to its members.

For more information on Linen Quarter Health Week, visit linenquarter.org/event/linen-quarter-health-week/or to reserve a ticket for the Spinning Yarns Walking Tour email stephen@linenquarter.org or visit Www.creativetoursbelfast.com

For non-members tickets are priced at £18 and can be booked directly via Visit Belfast.

Classical Drama at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre

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After last year’s tour of ‘Sense and Sensibility’, Hotbuckle Theatre Company are back with their unique style of adaptation of classic novels.

The virtuoso troupe have been entertaining audiences for over 12 years with their inventive interpretations of familiar texts and this June they are bringing ‘Pride and Prejudice’ to The Market Place, Armagh.

In this fast-paced, multi-role adaptation, Hotbuckle invites us to enter the world of the Bennets. From the headstrong Elizabeth Bennet to the proud Mr. Darcy, Hotbuckle’s rich characterisations abound in this latest piece by skilled writer Adrian Preater.

Full of humour and invention, this is storytelling at its finest, as we meet 5 sisters who deal with marriage, morality and misconceptions in unique Hotbuckle style.

This is Jane Austen as you’ve never experienced her before, so, Hutbuckle up for the carriage ride of your life!

‘Pride and Prejudice’ will take place at The Market Place Theatre, Armagh on Thursday 6th June. Tickets can be booked online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre or through the Box Office on 03300 561 025.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 20-26 May

 

  1. Rathlin Sound Maritime Festival, Ballycastle and Rathlin Island, County Antrim, 24 May – 2 June. Immerse yourself in the the heritage of the Causeway Coast. Enjoy a diverse programme of live music performances, ‘have a go’ activities, crafts, talks and cookery demonstrations. Browse the artisan produce at the Naturally North Coast and Glens Market and sample cuisine from local producers. Located around Rathlin Sound – the body of water connecting Rathlin to Ballycastle, this festival brings together people from all over the world who have come to experience the warm welcome that is synonymous with the Causeway Coast and Glens.

 

  1. Dino Dig – Fossil Fun with Marble Arch Caves, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 25 May. Have a roaring good time at this dinosaur-themed messy play event. Children can explore the prehistoric world through a variety of messy activities and sensory experiences, all centred around everyone’s favourite ancient creatures. From excavating fossils to creating volcanic eruptions, this event promises to ignite imaginations and spark curiosity. Get ready to stomp, squish and explore your way through the Jurassic period with this engaging and interactive experience.

 

  1. Blacksmithing Course at Patterson’s Spade Mill, Templepatrick, County Antrim, 25 May. Try your hand at this one day blacksmithing course. Develop a new hobby and learn traditional forging and blacksmithing techniques as you create a bespoke piece under the expert guidance of professional blacksmiths. Minimum age 14.

 

  1. Sudor Wellness Retreats at Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down, 24 – 26 May. Join this leading wellness centre for three relaxing days at National Trust’s Mount Stewart. Engage in wellness activities that will rejuvenate your mind and body all while immersing yourselves in the estate’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Take part in a weekend of relaxation including a guided ice bath with elemental breathwork, a traditional sauna experience and yoga session to help you feel strong, empowered and relaxed.

 

  1. Armagh Craft Fair 2024, Armagh, County Armagh, 25 May. Enjoy a wonderful day out for all the family at the Market Place Theatre and Arts Centre. Experience high quality craft stalls, traditional and contemporary craft demonstrations and hands on craft experiences for adults and children. Learn a new skill at one of the creative craft workshops and enjoy the many free drop in craft and art experiences on offer. Complete your day with delicious coffee, refreshments and musical entertainment.

 

  1. Portaferry Plein Air Festival 2024, Portaferry, County Down, 24-26 May. Embrace your inner artist and enjoy three days of painting outdoors in the beautiful town of Portaferry. Over the three days you will enjoy a demonstration from the day’s invited artist, then you are free to go and enjoy your day painting or book to join the day’s artist in small groups of eight for further tuition. Additionally, there is an evening sunset cruise on Strangford Lough with a picnic, live music and a glass of wine available on Friday 24th or Saturday 25th May, along with tuition from Donald Nelson, who sketched on board a boat rowing around Ireland.

 

  1. Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 25 May. Performed by soprano Wendy Ferguson and pianist Ruth McGinley, Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered features songs from the golden age of musical theatre. You’ll hear classic songs by Cole Porter, George Gershwin, Rodgers & Hammerstein, Stephen Sondheim and other well-loved classics with some hidden gems, too. Come and experience an hour of witty, heart-rending and spectacular songs performed by two local musicians.

 

  1. Hill of The O’Neill & Ranfurly House Experience, Dungannon, County Tyrone, throughout May. Explore a special place at the very heart of Ulster history. Learn more about the O’Neill clan, one of Ireland’s most powerful dynasties. At its top, you can take in breath-taking panoramic views from the glass observation tower. See the drumlins of Tyrone, Lough Neagh, the Sperrin mountains and the Mournes. Then, explore next door in Ranfurly House where the whole story of this remarkable place is waiting to be told in their multi-media exhibition.

 

  1. Michael Longley: Where The Poems Come From, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, 22 May. This intimate profile of Belfast poet, Michael Longley, offers insight into his work, friendships, working process and the places that have inspired him. Like all great poets, Longley — who was awarded the prestigious Feltrinelli International Poetry Prize in 2022 — captures the universal. Following a screening of the film at Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Michael and Edna Longley will join the film’s director and producer Adam Low and Michael Rosenbaum to chat about the intention of the film and the process of making it.

 

  1. Eco Boat Tours of Strangford Lough, Killinchy, County Down, 25 May. Learn about Strangford Lough’s world renowned ecosystem and become a sustainable user of the coasts whilst taking in the stunning and peaceful scenery. Partnering with Sam, a marine biologist from Coastal Catchups, this new experience focuses on the wildlife of Strangford Lough. Check website for future dates.

 

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

Emerald Park Officially Opens Tír Na nÓg!

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Emerald Park Officially Opens Tír Na nÓg!

Europe’s longest intertwining family and thrill coasters.  €22 million euro investment in Co. Meath.  Over 65 rollercoaster enthusiasts from around the world travel to Ashbourne, Co. Meath

Rollercoasters include 5 thrilling upside down experiences.

Today, Tuesday 21st of May, Emerald Park officially opens its first fully themed and immersive land, Tír Na nÓg. Home to Europe’s longest intertwining family and thrill coasters, ‘Na Fianna Force’ and ‘The Quest’, Tír Na nÓg promises to be a world-class entertainment destination located in Ashbourne, Co. Meath.

The opening of Tír Na nÓg marks a substantial investment of €22 million at the theme park and zoo. A first of its kind in Ireland, the 6.5 acre site will include three new attractions called Na Fianna Force, The Quest and The Celtic Dreamer. The new land will also include new food outlets, retail spaces, and an entrance that will create real excitement and wonder with Irish mythology and fantasy theming across the site.

Over 65 rollercoaster enthusiasts have travelled from around the globe to Ashbourne, Co. Meath to be the first to experience these thrilling coasters which will offer an unparalleled rush for thrill-seekers seeking the ultimate adrenaline fix!

As part of the development, Emerald Park commissioned a number of local suppliers for the theming of Tír Na nÓg. The fully themed and immersive land includes over 30 swords, 70 shields, 120 arrows, 70 spears and 15 bows hand crafted by local Blacksmith of the Boyne Valley, An Gobha, from Bohermeen, Navan, Co. Meath. Over 500 mature native Irish tress will be planted across the site with a further 50,000 plants used to create a wild natural landscape, while over 400 tonnes of shotcrete and 2,400 tonnes of concrete were used to create various mythical themed towers and buildings across the land.

This seven-year project stands as a testament to the vision of Emerald Park’s late founder, Raymond Coyle. This ambitious development embodies Coyle’s unwavering commitment to innovation and creating a theme park and zoo that would compete with its international counterparts.

Managing Director, Charles Coyle of Emerald Park, said, “We are thrilled to unveil Tír Na nÓg after seven years of dedicated work and innovation. This new addition to Emerald Park is not only our commitment to creating unparalleled experiences but also a landmark in amusement park attractions with Europe’s longest intertwining coasters right here in Ashbourne, Co. Meath”.

“The opening is a testament to the enduring legacy of my late father and founder of Emerald Park, Raymond Coyle who I know would be so proud of our team today and would have enjoyed all the madness and fun of our opening day. We look forward to welcoming guests to explore and immerse themselves in the magic of our first immersive land – Tír Na nÓg“.

Book your tickets now from www.EmeraldPark.ie

Instagram – @emeraldparkireland

Facebook – @emeraldparkirl

Tiktok – @emeraldparkireland

Pictured is Managing Director of Emerald Park, Charles Coyle at Tír Na nÒg

Today, Tuesday 21st of May, Emerald Park officially opens its first fully themed and immersive land, Tír Na nÓg. Home to Europe’s longest intertwining family and thrill coasters, ‘Na Fianna Force’ and ‘The Quest’, Tír Na nÓg promises to be a world-class entertainment destination located in Ashbourne, Co. Meath.

The opening of Tír Na nÓg marks a substantial investment of €22 million at the theme park and zoo. A first of its kind in Ireland, the 6.5 acre site will include three new attractions called Na Fianna Force, The Quest and The Celtic Dreamer. The new land will also include new food outlets, retail spaces, and an entrance that will create real excitement and wonder with Irish mythology and fantasy theming across the site.

Over 65 rollercoaster enthusiasts have travelled from around the globe to Ashbourne, Co. Meath to be the first to experience these thrilling coasters which will offer an unparalleled rush for thrill-seekers seeking the ultimate adrenaline fix!

As part of the development, Emerald Park commissioned a number of local suppliers for the theming of Tír Na nÓg. The fully themed and immersive land includes over 30 swords, 70 shields, 120 arrows, 70 spears and 15 bows hand crafted by local Blacksmith of the Boyne Valley, An Gobha, from Bohermeen, Navan, Co. Meath. Over 500 mature native Irish tress will be planted across the site with a further 50,000 plants used to create a wild natural landscape, while over 400 tonnes of shotcrete and 2,400 tonnes of concrete were used to create various mythical themed towers and buildings across the land.

This seven-year project stands as a testament to the vision of Emerald Park’s late founder, Raymond Coyle. This ambitious development embodies Coyle’s unwavering commitment to innovation and creating a theme park and zoo that would compete with its international counterparts.

Managing Director, Charles Coyle of Emerald Park, said, “We are thrilled to unveil Tír Na nÓg after seven years of dedicated work and innovation. This new addition to Emerald Park is not only our commitment to creating unparalleled experiences but also a landmark in amusement park attractions with Europe’s longest intertwining coasters right here in Ashbourne, Co. Meath”.

“The opening is a testament to the enduring legacy of my late father and founder of Emerald Park, Raymond Coyle who I know would be so proud of our team today and would have enjoyed all the madness and fun of our opening day. We look forward to welcoming guests to explore and immerse themselves in the magic of our first immersive land – Tír Na nÓg“.

Book your tickets now from www.EmeraldPark.ie

Instagram – @emeraldparkireland

Facebook – @emeraldparkirl

Tiktok – @emeraldparkireland

Causeway Coast prepares for take-off with return of the NI International Air Show

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The largest air show on the island of Ireland will make an action-packed return to Causeway Coast and Glens this September with a spectacular aerobatic performance from Airbourne Pyrotechnics.

The NI International Air Show 2024, organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, will welcome spectators to the seaside town of Portrush on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th September for two days of aviation attractions and family fun.

To mark the return of the hugely popular event, it is moving to a new location along the coast starting from Ballyreagh Golf Course to West Bay in Portrush, offering visitors panoramic views and a chance to get prime viewing of the attractions in the sky.

The support of title sponsors, Spirit AeroSystems and Thales, leading names in the global aerospace engineering sector, marks an exciting development for the flagship event as thousands of visitors are expected to enjoy the ground and air displays.

The fast and furious Typhoon will appear on both days, demonstrating its rip-roaring power with a collection of jaw-dropping manoeuvres, along with the Battle of Britain Memorial trio of Spitfire, Lancaster and Hurricane performing their mesmerising flypasts.

Along the breathtaking coastal route, a wide range of captivating and family friendly activities will expand the entertainment offering to include an array of vintage aircraft, live music, trade stands, fun zone, artisan food markets, and arts and crafts stalls.

The exciting STEM Village sponsored by Matrix will make a welcomed return and bring together world-class local employers and education providers. These exhibits, located at Ballyreagh Golf Course, are aimed at inspiring young people to consider a STEM orientated career with interactive, fun and engaging displays and tasks.

Launching the NI International Air Show 2024, the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Steven Callaghan, said: “I am thrilled to see the return of our beloved Air Show once again, following a five-year absence.

“It is one of the biggest highlights of our tourism calendar, offering fantastic aerial displays and a host of family-friendly entertainment on the ground.

“I am particularly excited about the new location this year, which will provide visitors with the best possible viewing experience as they enjoy the spectacular aerial acrobatics.”

For more information visit www.airshowni.com or NI International Airshow on  Facebook or Twitter.

Rathlin Sound Festival – Packed programme unveiled for newly rebranded event

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Council is delighted to announce the return of the newly rebranded Rathlin Sound Festival.

Due to take place between May 24th and June 2nd, the 10-day festival celebrates the people, culture and heritage across Ballycastle and Rathlin Island.

Council is collaborating with Ballycastle Community Development Group and the Rathlin Development and Community Association to bring you this hugely popular celebration.

Inspired by the Rathlin Sound – the body of water connecting Rathlin Island to the Ballycastle mainland, the programme is packed full of activities on the dry-land and in the sea.

Visitors can look forward to a diverse programme of live music performances, ‘have a go’ activities, crafts, talks, wild cookery demonstrations and a number of artisans from the Naturally North Coast and Glens Market.

The festival offers something for everyone, whether you want to find out more about traditional boat making, enjoy some family fun on the beach or have a go at paddle boarding.

To add to the expanding festival, a new addition this year is the music stage in Ballycastle on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th May, which will host a variety of local music performers.

Some examples of what the festival offers include blessing of the boats, traditional coracle boat making, colourful kite display and a sand sculpture demonstration on Ballycastle Beach.

In anticipation of the festival, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Steven Callaghan, said: “I am delighted to see this illustrious festival return. It has long been one of the highlights of our calendar and I am looking forward to seeing many of the talented craftsmen, musicians and artisans that we have in our Borough.”

The full programme is available on the website by visiting www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com/whats-on/rathlin-sound-festival for the latest updates, or contact Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre on 028 2076 2024.

Please note, details are subject to change due to tides and weather conditions, so visitors are advised to follow the Festival’s Facebook (@RathlinSoundFestival) and Twitter (@RathlinSoundMF) channels for the most up-to-date announcements.

Enjoy a great day out in Glasgow with Stena Line

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From incredible gothic architecture, contemporary art spaces, fascinating museums, bustling high streets and fantastic shopping centres, Glasgow has it all.

And, thanks to Stena Line, a day trip to Scotland’s biggest city has never been easier.

George Street with St George’s Tron Church of Scotland in downtown Glasgow, Scotland.

The Swedish-owned ferry company is inviting customers to leave their cars, and cares, at home and enjoy a hassle-free, coach trip to Scotland.

Crossing the Irish Sea in just two hours and 15 minutes, passengers can relax, unwind and enjoy the unrivalled style and comfort of Stena Superfast.

Your holiday starts the second you set foot onboard and those seeking instant relaxation are invited to take a dip in the Jacuzzi or enjoy some time out in the sauna at the Pure Nordic Spa, where day-trippers are also entitled to 20% off all treatments.

On arrival in Cairnryan, guests will travel via coach, to the heart of their destination and, when it’s time to leave, brought back to the ferry.

It really couldn’t be simpler, all that is left for you to do is to plan how to spend your day.  To help, Stena Line has compiled a list of family-friendly adventures you can enjoy in Glasgow.

Glasgow Cathedral

  • One of the most famous sites in Glasgow, this stunning 12th century gothic cathedral is not to be missed. Deep inside the Cathedral’s crypt you’ll find the tomb of Saint Mungo, the patron saint of the city and the man credited with founding the city in the sixth century.

George Square and the City’s Chambers

  • Named after King George III, the square was a muddy hollow until the 18th century when it began its transformation into what it is now – an insta worthy example of a stunning public space that’s not to be missed!

Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery

  • Soak up some culture at Scotland’s oldest public museum – the Hunterian museum – with collections spanning arts, sciences and humanities. The entire collection of the Hunterian is recognised as an outstanding example of a collection of national significance and of fundamental benefit to the life and culture of Scotland.

Shop ‘til you drop in Glasgow City Centre

  • Discover Glasgow City Centre’s vibrant shopping – from the pedestrianised Buchanan Street featuring all the big names you’d expect, the stunning selection of jewellers and diamond merchants in Argyll Arcade and the Instagram-worthy canopy of Royal Exchange Square you’ll find all you want in Glasgow!

Stroll in the Botanic Gardens

  • Running alongside the River Kelvin, Glasgow’s botanic gardens are an ideal place to finish your day trip, take a walk or just sit on a bench and admire the beauty of over 9,000 different plants across 20 hectares of landscaped garden and tropical glasshouses.

Start your day with a great value meal from the Taste Restaurant and bag yourself a bargain in the Onboard Shop where you’ll also receive a £5 off shopping voucher if you spend at least £30.

Or simply relax and unwind in The Living Room or upgrade your trip and enjoy the luxury of the Stena Plus Lounge or the Hygge Recline Lounge.

Prices start from just £29 per adult and £25 per child for a return trip to Glasgow and take place on selected Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year.

For more information visit www.stenaline.co.uk/special-offers.

Spring Inspiration for Family Entertainment in Lisburn and Castlereagh.

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Looking for some inspiration on how to entertain your family this Spring? 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

The area of Lisburn & Castlereagh has an array of activities guaranteed to be enjoyed by all and create memories that will last a lifetime!

 

Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes:

Take the family on an unforgettable adventure and experience like no other at Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes. Best known for their popular Alpaca Trekking, where you and your family will have the opportunity to get up-close and personal and enjoy scenic peaceful countryside treks alongside these incredible animals!

High Rise Indoor Adventure Park:

Get your hearts racing and bodies moving at High Rise Indoor Adventure Park! With 24 exhilarating indoor climbing challenges as well as a range of soft play and sensory rooms providing entertainment and enjoyment for families of all ages!

Find out more by visiting: www.visitlisburncastlereagh.com

 

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