ARMAGH OBSERVATORY AND PLANETARIUM CELEBRATES NI SCIENCE FESTIVAL 2024 WITH SERIES OF EVENTS

-Fun For All the Family this February at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium –

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium has announced a number of events to take place from Thursday 15th until Sunday 25th of February as part of NI Science Festival 2024.

These will include:

Experience the Calver Telescope tour, which will run at various times on Thursday 15th February. The event will see Armagh Observatory and Planetarium open its largest telescope dome to the public. The organisation has been conducting astronomical research for over 200 years, and these amazing telescopes are something to behold. Discover the difference between historic and modern telescopes during this unique event.

The Data Visualisation Laboratory (DVL) tour, for which public drop-in sessions will occur throughout Thursday 15th and Friday 16th of February. The Data Visualisation Lab brings the immersive experience of the planetarium dome to you, providing tools for the visualisation of three-dimensional data sets.

Check out the event’s public demonstrations, where you can talk with an astronomer while embarking on tours of the Cosmos using Armagh Observatory and Planetarium’s panoramic display and the Digistar computer that it uses to generate the planetarium’s shows.

The Ultimate Bubble Show event, which runs at various times throughout Friday 16th and Saturday 17th February. Experience the best in soap bubble entertainment! Join Ray, International Bubbleologist and Guinness World Record Holder, and help him in his quest to complete the bubble game and create the ultimate square bubble.

This is a fast-paced, energetic show that’s full of surprises, with Ray using various different gases to create incredible bubble sculptures, effects and magical displays. Watch in amazement as he creates a volcano bubble, a soap bubble carousel, a bubble ghost and even a tornado inside a bubble!

This month in Astronomy: Director’s Cut dome show, which runs at 2pm on Friday 16th February. Join the Director of Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, Professor Michael Burton, for a live planetarium show where he discusses the latest in astronomy.

Go on a guided tour of the Cosmos, taking in the planets, stars, and galaxies. Take a look at interesting objects in the night sky and examine the latest news in astronomy. The show will also feature a Question and Answer session, so feel free to ask Michael any burning questions.

Little Astronomers event, which runs at 10am on Friday 23rd February and is suitable for children under 5 years old. Transport your Little Astronomers into the exciting world of science!

Start with the toddler dome show, Astronaut George, followed by hands on activities and explore Armagh Observatory and Planetarium’s state of the art sensory room. During the full dome show, George investigates the best planet to live on and the dangers lurking on the surface of other planets in our Solar System. But will he find any alien friends to play with? Find out in this inter-planetary adventure!

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon Music Dome Show, which runs on Saturday 24th February at 4pm. The album was 50 last year and has sold 50 million copies since its launch in 1973.

Celebrate the anniversary by experiencing the album set to stunning 360 degree visuals of our Solar System and beyond in this brand-new full dome show.

Our World from Space Saturday Club, which runs on Saturday 24th February at 10am and is perfect for Key Stage 2 children. Embark on a captivating journey through the wonders of our home planet, as seen from space, at this family friendly event.

Explore the vital roles of satellites in monitoring the Earth’s ever-changing surface and learn together with your child at this fun and interesting club!

CapCom Go! Dome Show, which runs on Sunday 25th February at 4pm. Translated into British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language, CapCom Go is an immersive, historical documentary that showcases the achievements of the Apollo programme and what it took to put the first human on the Moon.

It introduces a new generation to the immense challenges that were overcome and aims to inspire the STEM leaders of the future!

Sinead Mackle, Education and Outreach Manager at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, says, “At Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, we deliver internationally-recognised research in astronomy and related sciences and vibrant educational and outreach programmes for all ages.

We have been engaging with the NI Science Festival since it began and it is a pleasure to take part again in 2024.

“This year’s programme of events will showcase some of our most popular dome shows and experiences, along with new events, such as our Calver Telescope tour and the This Month in Astronomy: Director’s Cut with Professor Michael Burton.

“We hope that these events will help to inspire the STEM leaders of tomorrow and look forward to welcoming visitors to this exciting, family friendly calendar of events.”

To book tickets for these events, visit: https://armaghobservatoryplanetarium.ticketsolve.com

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

Here are ten exciting things to do 22-28 January

  1. If Buildings Could Talk, Belfast, County Antrim, 27-28 January. This walking tour of Belfast City Centre will leave you laughing out loud, amazed and moved in equal measure! Barney Gribben’s fascinating and hugely entertaining jaunt is a tour de force of interesting facts and fabulous true stories delivered in a warm and engaging way. Guaranteed to make you look at the city anew!  A fun and informative two hours that will stay long in the memory.
  1. Storyweavers, Cultra, County Down, 27 January. Come along to the Ulster Folk Museum and take part in this special Irish-speaking children’s workshop for 5-10 year olds and listen to storytellers as they weave new life into old stories! Join Maire Zeph, the author of the Rita books, in this ancient Celtic celebration of the start of Spring, Imbolc.
  2. An Ode to Robert Burns, Omagh, County Tyrone, 27-28 January. Come along to the Ulster American Folk Park and celebrate Scotland’s famous bard, the man who gave the world Auld Lang Syne and popularised, at least once a year, the eating of haggis! Enjoy this “Great Chieftain o’ the pudding -race’ as part of a haggis pie and hear readings of some of his world-famous poetry. There’ll be theatrical performances of a ‘Not So Serious Burns’ by Bready Ulster-Scots, including a traditional bagpiper and highland dancers.
  1. New Year’s Ramble at the Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills, County Antrim, 27 January. Fancy meeting at first light for an early morning stroll along the Causeway cliffs? Appreciate this beautiful coastline in a new light! Venture off with Nature Engagement Officer, Dr Cliff Henry, and catch a glimpse of some of the wonderful Winter birdlife – flocks of skylarks, oystercatchers, meadow pipits, peregrines and maybe even a snow bunting or two; all singing their hearts out to serenade you on your adventure. After working up an appetite enjoy a delicious breakfast at the Causeway Hotel. Check website for availability.
  2. Eco Cleaning Workshop, Mount Stewart, County Down, 27 January. Why not start the new year a little cleaner and greener? Mrs R’ganics returns to Mount Stewart – join and discover how to tap into a cleaner and greener home environment. This workshop will teach you tricks on how to avoid waste and excessive plastic use by learning how to make your own economical and eco-friendly cleaning products. Check website for availability.
  3. John Hume, The Persuader: Stephen Walker in Conversation, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, 27 January. Join journalist Stephen Walker in the Seamus Heaney Homeplace for a discussion on his new biography of peacemaker, politician and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, John Hume. Hume was a contemporary of fellow Nobel laureate at St Columb’s College in Derry. Based on 100 new interviews, including unpublished interviews with Hume, Stephen Walker’s timely and authoritative biography examines the career of a man once dubbed “Ireland’s Greatest”. A great opportunity to learn more on the fasinacting work of John Hume.
  4. Warrior Willow Workshop, Navan Centre, County Armagh, 27 January. Unleash your creative spirit and make your own organic sculpture from willow grown onsite at this ancient place. Learn age old skills with Heather McDermott using this multi-purpose sustainable material. Your finished piece will be approximately one metre tall! All materials included as well as tea, coffee and scones. Check website for availability.
  5. Joe Gregory exhibition, Omagh, County Tyrone, 22-27 January. Come along to the Strule Arts Centre for the final week of local artist Joe Gregory’s sole exhibition. In this showing ‘History Again’ he looks at the link with his work in Liverpool in the 80’s and 90’s where he studied the ever-changing cityscape and how ignored spaces are gradually regenerated. He revisits this theme of the abandoned and overlooked, where the lives of history are stamped on the structures that were once inhabited and loved. There are no figures or landscapes in his pieces, using oil on canvas or wooden board he seeks to give the pieces a look of being aged. He will talk about his work in a free event at the venue on the 26.
  6. Imbolc International Music Festival, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 28 January- 4 Febuaray . Based in Derry’s Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin, this eight-day celebration of music, arts, and culture features over 25 artists from as far afield as Canada, India, and South-Korea, amongst the island’s own outstanding musical stock. The festival combines the grassroots with the international, family-friendly festivities with their ever popular late night “Club Trad”, and most importantly, provides a platform for artists to experiment.
  7. Florence Court, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh. Located around eight miles from Enniskillen, Florence Court is one of the most beautiful Georgian houses in Ulster, nestled against the wild mountain backdrop of Benaughlin and the Cuilcagh Mountains. You can enjoy glorious walks around the grounds which include a pretty walled garden, holiday cottage, sawmill and ice-house. In the gardens you will find the famous Florence Court Yew – reputedly the ‘parent’ of all Irish yew trees.

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

Ards Arts Centre To Open New Exhibitions for February

Ards Arts Centre in Newtownards will welcome two new art exhibitions for the month of February: Internal Space, a joint exhibition by Ned Jackson Smyth and Helen Bradbury and Real Lives: The Art of Living with Dementia, a Community Exhibition by Dementia NI.

Visual artists Ned Jackson Smyth (sculptor) and Helen Bradbury (painter) come together in the exhibition ‘Internal Space’ to share the work they have created over the past year which links their personal thinking and perspective in response to the external physical world.

The exhibition, which will show in Ards Arts Centre’s Georgian Gallery, will feature painting, sculpture and film that give the viewer an insight into the thinking of both artists and the inspiration drawn from the world around them.

Curated by Dementia NI, Northern Ireland’s leading charity for people in the early to middle stages of dementia, ‘Real Lives: The Art of Living with Dementia’ will include thought-provoking photography and patchwork quilts created by Dementia NI members, all of who live with a diagnosis of dementia.

Challenging some misconceptions about dementia, the exhibition will share a message of hope that many people with dementia are still able to enjoy life in the same way as before their diagnosis and live well with dementia. This exhibition will be on display in the Sunburst Gallery.

Both exhibitions open on Thursday 1 February and run until Saturday 24 February.  Admission is free during gallery opening hours.

All are welcome to attend a preview event in Ards Arts Centre on Thursday 1 February at 7pm.

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

A Jungle Adventure for Cheeky Monkeys at The Market Place

Attention adventure seekers! On Sunday 28 Jan, Henrietta Hippo, Eddie Elephant, Gilbert Giraffe and Deborah Zebra will be taking the stage at The Market Place for a rollicking jungle journey!

Follow Henrietta, a clever young Hippo who is always asking “why?” on her adventure through the jungle.

This action-packed stage show is filled to the brim with audience participation, games, riddles and sing-along songs with amazing characters.

Perfect for your cheeky little monkeys ages 3 – 9 years. Don’t miss out, book now for a wild time!

‘Born to be Wild’ will be on stage at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre on Sunday 28 January at 2pm and 4pm. Tickets are priced at £10.

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

Grand Opera House search for Sunset Boulevard stars

Summer Youth Production set to return with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s award-winning masterpiece Sunset Boulevard – register now for open auditions

Do you know a young person who loves to sing, dance and perform? The Grand Opera House is searching for talented young performers, aged 16-21 years, to take part in this year’s Summer Youth Production of Sunset Boulevard.

The audition deadline is fast approaching, and all budding 16-21-year-old performers interested in the experience of a lifetime are urged to register for open auditions by Monday 19 February 2024.

Sunset Boulevard marks the twelfth season of the Grand Opera House’s hugely popular Summer Youth Production. Over 70 talented young performers will spend two weeks in intensive rehearsals before taking to the iconic Grand Opera House stage for four performances only, supported by a professional theatre director, choreographer, technical team, musical director and 17-piece orchestra.

Registration for open auditions will close on Monday 19 February with first stage auditions taking place on Sunday 25 February and call back auditions on Sunday 3 March 2024. The full Summer Youth Production project will run from Saturday 6 to Saturday 20 July.

Based on the Billy Wilder film of the same title and famously rated as one of the greatest films ever made, the musical version, with its heart-stopping music and dance, will give the Summer Youth Production’s young stars the perfect platform to shine and captivate audiences with their talent.

Grand Opera House Chief Executive Ian Wilson said: “This is one of the most ambitious titles undertaken as a Summer Youth Production providing a once in a lifetime opportunity for young performers to appear on the famous Grand Opera House stage in an unforgettable experience this summer.

“The Summer Youth Production has established itself as one of the biggest, best and most enjoyable of its kind anywhere in the UK and Ireland. Credited with helping produce top notch acting and production talent over many years, it is also an important platform to enhance young people’s confidence and communication skills, as well as their mental wellbeing.

“Anyone between 16 and 21 can register to audition via our website by 19 February, so if you fancy treading the boards or learning from the professional production team backstage then make sure to apply before the sun sets that day!”

Sunset Boulevard will be the third Summer Youth Production to be staged since the Grand Opera House’s completed the stunning restoration project in 2021 and presents an incredible opportunity to rehearse and perform in the magnificent landmark theatre. No previous acting or singing experience is necessary to take part and there will also be an opportunity for a number of 16–21-year-olds to be part of the backstage technical team.

Ready for your close-up? Register for open auditions or find out more about the Grand Opera House’s Sumer Youth Production Sunset Boulevard here.

JOHN GODBER’S BRILLIANT CLASSROOM COMEDY TEECHERS EMBARKS ON NI THEATRE TOUR

Bruiser Theatre Company Production’s NI Wide Run Set to Kick off at The MAC, Belfast on Jan 25th

Northern Ireland’s foremost physical theatre organisation, Bruiser Theatre Company, has announced that its production of John Godber’s brilliant take on life at a modern comprehensive, Teechers, is set to embark on an NI wide theatre tour, beginning with a run at the MAC from 25th January to 10th February 2024.

The production will also visit An Táin Arts Centre, Dundalk, The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre, Armagh, Theatre at the Mill, Newtownabbey, The Strule Arts Centre, Omagh, Island Arts Centre, Lisburn, Down Arts Centre, Downpatrick and The Playhouse, Derry-Londonderry.

Fast-moving, inventive, and highly entertaining, Teechers sees three Year 11s exuberantly sketch the new drama teacher’s progress through two terms of recalcitrant classes, cynical colleagues, and obstructive caretakers through their hilarious end-of-term play.

Disillusioned, he departs for the safe waters of a private school, leaving behind his students, whose youthful irreverence gives way to despair. Brought to the stage by award-winning Bruiser Theatre Company with high energy, break-neck comedy, and breathtaking ensemble performances, Teechers is a modern classic and a vital commentary on education for the ‘haves’ and ‘have nots’.

John Godber, Playwright, says “At the heart of Teechers is the very real assertion that the arts, and especially drama, should form an essential part of the school curriculum. It also attempts to demonstrate the effect that exposure to the arts has on young people.”

Written by Godber in the mid-1980s, Teechers lays bare the contrasting educational options available in two very different schools by telling the story of a new drama teacher. In the production, three verbose school leavers – Salty, Hobby and Gail –perform a play within a play.

In the piece, new drama teacher, Jeff Nixon, ignites the students’ passion for drama, winning them over during two terms of otherwise unrelenting battles against a failing system, disillusioned teachers and disaffected children.

Teechers is supported by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and by Belfast City Council.

Dr Damian Smyth, Joint Head of Literature, Drama and Dance, Arts Council of Northern Ireland comments, “The Arts Council of Northern Ireland is delighted to support Bruiser Theatre Company with this live tour of Teechers. Thanks to National Lottery Players, Bruiser will tour this wonderful play to audiences across the region, helping to bring great art to all. Don’t miss this!”

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy said: “We’re proud to support Bruiser Theatre Company through our Cultural Multi-Annual Grant scheme and look forward to seeing them present this live theatre tour of John Godber’s Teechers.

“It will provide a fantastic resource for teachers and pupils alike and will hopefully spark discussions around inclusion and the importance of access to the arts. It certainly resonates with what I’m seeking to achieve during my year in office, having set out to celebrate young people and help to elevate their voices.”

Bruiser Theatre Company is renowned for its fast-paced, energetic, and engaging performances. Under the meticulous direction of Lisa May, Teechers has been reimagined for a wider audience following its successful tour of NI post primary schools in 2022.

Artistic Director of Bruiser Theatre Company, Lisa May adds, “We are excited to bring Teechers on a tour of NI’s theatres and would like to thank Arts Council of Northern Ireland, the National Lottery Fund and Belfast City Council for their support.

“The play flies at breakneck speed, is witty, and communicates a poignant message about educational inequality and class division. In a climate of cuts to arts and education sectors, this classroom comedy is sadly all too relevant for today’s audience.”

An audio described performance of Teechers will take place at The Mac on 1st February 2024 at 8pm. A British Sign Language performance of the show will take place on 8th February at 8pm.

To book tickets for a performance of Teechers at The MAC, visit: www.themaclive.com

Students’ artistic talents showcased at Flowerfield Arts Centre’s ‘Hidden Creativity’ exhibition

Flowerfield Arts Centre is proud to announce the launch of its first exhibition of 2024, titled ‘Hidden Creativity’, a captivating showcase that brings together an array of works by past and present students from the North-West Regional College.

Featuring an eclectic mix of artistic practices including painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, illustration, and mixed media, ‘Hidden Creativity’ explores a myriad of themes such as the natural world, poetry, music, province, locality, memory, and personal experience. The exhibition invites visitors to delve into the depths of the artists’ creative minds and witness the diverse ways in which they interpret and express their unique perspectives.

The journey of self-discovery takes centre stage as each piece on display reflects the evolution and growth of these talented artists throughout their creative endeavours.

The exhibition is now open and will run until Saturday 24 February, providing ample opportunity for art enthusiasts and the local community to visit.

Flowerfield Arts Centre welcomes visitors during regular gallery hours, Monday to Friday from 09:30am to 5pm, with extended hours on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7pm to 9pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 1pm.

The ‘Hidden Creativity’ exhibition is part of Flowerfield Arts Centre’s January – March 2024 programme, featuring a wide range of events, workshops and exhibitions.

For more information about the “Hidden Creativity” exhibition and Flowerfield Arts Centre January – March programme, please visit flowerfield.org or call 028 7083 1400.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

Here are ten exciting things to do 15-21 January

  1. Seedheads Arts Streets Walking Tour, Belfast, Country Antrim, 21 January. Explore the changing face of the city through its ever-evolving street art. On this gently paced, two-hour guided walking tour, you’ll see the incredible work from artists across the globe who are leaving their mark, particularly in the Cathedral Quarter. Hear their stories and get a better understanding of Belfast’s relationship with street art and how a city, long associated with murals, is changing the narrative.
  1. Copeland Distillery Tour, Donaghadee, County Down, 20 January. Situated in the old picture house a stone’s throw from the Harbour and lighthouse. This was once the busiest port in Northern Ireland with global seafarers landing with spirits and spices. Immerse yourself in the magic of the this coastal distillery where whiskey, gin and rum are made. Experience the tales of this beautiful part of the world and the great stories of smugglers and long ago battles and voyages.
  1. W5, Belfast, County Antrim, 15-28 January. A special offer this month helps make the New Year more fun for less, for all the family!  Get hands-on with over 250 interactive exhibits across eight action-packed zones, marvel at daily science shows and experience the Ghosts of Winterly Manor, all for only £7per person. This offer applies to adult, child and concession tickets only. Check website for availability.
  1. Crawfordsburn Country Park, Helen’s Bay, County Down. Located on the southern shores of Belfast Lough, this park provides a relaxing natural retreat with two excellent beaches, spectacular scenery and a tranquil walk through wooded glens and a long coastal path. There’s also a café if you need to stop to refuel. A great day out for the family.
  1. Ritual Landscapes walking tour, County Tyrone, 20-21 January. This is a unique tour which starts at An Creggan where storytelling, ecology, archaeology and folklore are combined. During this four hour walk, Martin from Foyle trails will provide many fascinating insights into the ancient ritual sites and habitats that have survived in this undiscovered part of Northern Ireland. You will explore pagan sites and standing stones and hear the stories behind them. A memorable day out.
  2. St Aidan’s Church and Holy Well, Magilligan, County Londonderry. While the ruins of the church are thought to be 13th century, the remains of St Cadan (a follower of St Patrick) are buried here, as are those of Denis Hempson a renowned blind harper known as the last of the bards. He died in 1807 at old age of 112! Explore this ancient site and learn the tales that have made it famous. Visit the water from the nearby holy well, which is said to cure ills when applied to the afflicted area!
  1. Sundar Yoga at Carrick-a-Rede, Ballintoy, County Antrim, 19 January. Wanting to kickstart 2024 with some winter wellness? Why not join yoga instructors Hatha and Chrissie for a one-hour morning session of complete relaxation at Carrick-a-Rede. After your morning flex, take a dander along the stunning 1km coastal path, taking in the breath-taking views of the North Coast, and then cross the 20-metre chasm to the island of Carrick-a-Rede!
  2. Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, Armagh, County Armagh,16-19 January. Come along midweek and enjoy the afternoon  “Birth of Planet Earth” show for a specially discounted price of £5 per person, or explore the exhibition area for just £3 per person. The show tells the twisted tale of our planet’s origins. The film explores some of the greatest questions in science today: how did Earth become a living planet in the wake of our solar system’s birth? Come along and find out!
  3. Winter Blues Floral Workshop, Ballynahinch, County Down, 21 January. Come along to the stunning surroundings of Montalto Estate and learn how to arrange your very own winter floral arrangement. Using seasonal foliage and blooms, you will be shown how to prepare and condition your stems. The workshop will be in The Coach House and is perfect for all levels. This is the perfect activity to relax and let your creativity flow. Enjoy refreshments and wonderful homemade traybakes after you create your masterpiece.
  4. Enniskillen Castle Tour, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, throughout January. Experience Fermanagh’s unique heritage in the beautiful setting of Enniskillen Castle on the banks of the River Erne. The self-guided visit takes in the historic Castle buildings, Watergate and Courtyard.  The castle is home to the Fermanagh County Museum where you can learn about the area’s prehistory, natural history, traditional rural life, local crafts and Belleek, and history of the castle.

 

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

Discover NI’s Offers of the Week

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

The Maldron, County Londonderry

Enjoy a two-night getaway in the heart of the Walled City in this great four-star hotel. Enjoy the various shops, museums, and street art, including the Derry Girls Mural and the newest addition celebrating the punk band The Undertones. Enjoy B & B with a two-course meal on an evening of your choice, a welcoming cocktail and a £10 gift card each to spend in the nearby Foyleside Shopping Centre. From £129 pp based on two people sharing. Visit https://maldronhotelderry.com for more information.

Watersedge Apartments, County Fermanagh

A short walk into the town centre, these modern and stylish apartments sleep up to six and are well placed to take advantage of all this beautiful part of the world has to offer. They have a luxurious home from home feel with free parking and Wi-Fi. There are all the features you would expect including a dishwasher, washing machine and dryer. There is also a 43-inch plasma TV with Freeview and large sofas in the lounge if you just want to kick back and relax. There’s plenty to do on the doorstep, from the shops and restaurants to the fabulous scenery and wonderful sights like the Castle and nearby Marble Arch Caves. If you are feeling more active, check out the range of activities on offer at Castle Archdale. From £150 per night for a two- bed apartment. Visit https://enniskillenwatersedgeapartments.com for more information.

Curran Court, County Antrim

Enjoy a two-night weekend break at the Curran Court ideally located a mere 2-minute drive from the Causeway Coastal Route. Explore the nearby wonders including the Glenoe Waterfall, The Gobbins and Carrickfergus Castle. This 33-bed hotel includes disability access and family rooms with complimentary tea and coffee. After exploring, tuck into a three-course evening meal on an evening of your choice with a bottle of house wine. From £235 per room on selected weekends throughout January and February. Visit https://currancourthotel.co.uk 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/

 

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

Ebrington Hotel, County Londonderry

Fancy a mini break with a three-course meal and use of amazing spa facilities? Take the stress out of the return to the daily grind with a relaxing overnight stay and a glass of prosecco or cocktail on arrival. A luxury bathrobe and slippers are provided so you can lounge and enjoy the hydrotherapy pool, sauna, and steam room. Then there’s a fabulous gourmet experience in the Oak Room Restaurant, and a hearty Irish breakfast to look forward to the next morning. From £199 per room based on two people sharing. (Excludes a Saturday and public holidays). Visit https://theebringtonhotel.com/  for more information.

The Old Inn, County Down

Enjoy a winter warmer special! Settle into a luxurious room before slipping into your cosy robe and head to the Treetop Spa to de-stress, relax and enjoy hot outdoor bathing. Treat your taste buds to an indulgent three-course dining experience in The Restaurant before soaking up the atmosphere in the 1614 Bar.  The next morning tuck into a delicious full Irish breakfast. Includes overnight stay, access to the Treetop Spa, three course dinner, full Irish breakfast. Valid Mon – Thurs. From £285 per room person based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.theoldinn.com/ for more information.

Europa Hotel, Belfast, County Antrim

Experience a giant welcome in the heart of Belfast! Superbly located to take advantage of all the city has to offer, this world famous four star is renowned for its cosmopolitan buzz, prime location, and excellent facilities. This special Sip and Sparkle offer includes a bottle of prosecco in your room and a hearty breakfast. B&B from £140 per room based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.europahotelbelfast.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/