Author: whatsonni

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

By

Here are ten exciting things to do 8-14 January

  1. Mourne Trails and Ales Tour, Newcastle, County Down, throughout January. Have you got a thirst for adventure? Then why not experience the trails, their tales and ultimately the ales of Mourne by Electric Bike. Over three hours you will explore the hidden highs and lows of the Annesley Estate, now Castlewellan Forest Park. You will be guided throughout and have the chance to try artisan ales from the Whitewater Brewery alongside some locally inspired trail cake. Check website for availability.
  2. Castle Archdale Marina Boat Hire & Water Sports, Irvinestown, County Fermanagh, throughout January. There are a range of water activities to enjoy within the grounds of Castle Archdale Country Park from kayak hire, water trampolining, cycle hire and many other activities. There are two styles of boat available for hire – that can take up to 8 people! If you don’t fancy the water, you can stick to dry land and hire bikes and take in the beautiful woodland landscape or discover the shores of Lough Erne. Suitable for individuals, families, and groups of all ages.
  3. Ulster Museum, Belfast, County Antrim. Come explore these rich collections of art, artefacts, and natural science all within the grounds of the city’s Botanic Gardens. Prepare to be dazzled by the sunken treasure from the Spanish Armada and intrigued by the ancient Egyptian mummies. There’s also an incredible video archive on the history of the troubles. It’s free entry, and there’s also a great onsite café with a hands-on interactive playroom space for little visitors. A great day out for any age.
  4. Peace Maze, Castlewellan, County Down. This is one of the world’s largest permanent hedge mazes comprising of 6,000 yew trees, planted by people from all over Northern Ireland. With a hedge length of over two miles, it’s a great fun and free family adventure. Visitors can attempt to solve their way to the peace bell in the centre of the maze. Give yourself an estimated forty minutes!
  5. Ghosts of Winterly Manor, Belfast, County Antrim, 8-31 January. W5 brings a brand-new experience for the winter months in this low-light walk-through experience that will see W5’s AMAZE space transformed into the haunted Winterly Manor. Encounters with a range of ghosts, ghouls, phantoms, and restless spirits await. Enter if you dare!
  6. Dolly Parton and Shania Twain Tribute Show, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 13 January. A great night of entertainment for lovers of country music everywhere or just those who love fun spectacles. This tribute show will have you foot tapping your way into the dark days of January and beyond!
  7. Drum Manor Forest Park, Cookstown, County Tyrone. There’s something to delight in any season, with scenic walks around the forest and wildfowl lake. Enjoy the Japanese garden, arboretum, ponds, and mixed woodlands. There’s a variety of trails which follow a circular route, pick the one that suits you best! There’s a lovely play park, good car parking and public toilets. This area is also wheelchair accessible.
  8. George Best House Tour, Belfast, County Antrim, 12 January. Step inside the family home of footballing legend George Best, as it would’ve been in the summer of 1961 when a fifteen-year-old George left to follow his dreams in Manchester. An experienced local guide will tell you all about Best’s early life in east Belfast’s Cregagh Estate and you will have a rare opportunity to flick through his old school reports and read letters he sent home to his parents. Check website for availability.
  9. Armagh’s Ecclesiastical Trail, Armagh, County Armagh. Check out this new self-guided tour of city’s many important church sites in this city of saints and scholars. Go at your own pace and explore ten churches across the city offering a glimpse into the history, heritage, and architecture of this beautiful city. The map is available online and as a hardcopy in various venues across Armagh including Navan Fort and The County Museum.
  10. Foyle Adventures, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry. This rib boat experience will give you a new perspective on The Walled City. Expert guides will take you on an unforgettable journey delving into the city and river’s rich history. This experience isn’t just for nature enthusiasts out there but is a fun and novel way to discover more about stake in the city. Check website for availability.

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

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

By

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

Here are ten exciting things to do 1 – 7 January

  1. The Shortcross Gin Discovery and Tasting Experience, Crossgar, County Down, 5 January. This amazing experience takes place on Rademon Estate, which dates back to AD 565. As you arrive and make your way across the stone bridge over the Ballynahinch river, up the winding forest path and onto the distillery grounds, you’ll be welcomed by your Shortcross host. Then it’s time to settle in to your visit by enjoying one of their many show-stopping cocktails at the distillery bar. Your visit includes neat tastings and a lesson on how to pour the perfect G&T, as well as creating a bespoke label and wax dipping your own personalised bottle of gin to take home.
  1. Game of Thrones Music Experience, Banbridge, County Down, 6 January. Experience the magic of the Seven Kingdoms as the Ulster String Quartet take you on a journey through all eight seasons of Game of Thrones with sounds inspired by composer Ramin Djawadi. The performance will be included in the price of admission and visitors will get the chance to hear symphonic tones fill the lobby where you can enjoy the performance with a refreshment at the beginning or end of their tour.
  1. Brian Hurst exhibition, Belfast, County Antrim, 19 October – 11 January. As Northern Ireland’s film industry continues to go from strength to strength, celebrate the life and work of the man often regarded as one of Northern Ireland’s best film directors, Brian Hurst at the Ulster Museum. Born into a working-class family in East Belfast in 1895, Hurst went on to make over thirty films and is perhaps best known for his 1951 ‘A Christmas Carol’ adaption Scrooge. This exhibition, sponsored by Quartertoten Productions Ltd in conjunction with the Brian Desmond Hurst Estate showcases posters, invitations, lobby cards and original press clippings from Hurst’s own scrapbooks.
  1. Share Village on Ice, Lisnaskea, County Fermanagh, 1-4 January. Enjoy a fantastic indoor synthetic rink, which is almost identical to a frozen surface but much more eco-friendly for all the family to enjoy. Whether you’re a budding skater or a confident glider, this wheelchair-friendly ice rink is open to all ages and abilities! Enjoy some festive fun before the holiday season is over.
  1. Gosford Karting, Markethill, County Armagh 1-7 January. Experience the thrill racing outdoors gives you at the Gosford Katring track. A member of the National Karting Association, this high-quality racing service is the perfect way to kickstart your week with some competitive fun with loved ones! Practise sessions for children aged eight years upwards are available on junior karts. For adults with a need for speed, Grand Prix karts are also available on site.
  1. Kelpra: Artists and Printmakers, Belfast, County Antrim, 1 January – April 28. Kelpra was set up by Chris and Rose (nee Kelly) Prater at their kitchen table in 1957 and went on to become one of the most pioneering print studios in history. Combining the commercial techniques of screen-printing with fine art practice. Kelpra was renowned for working in close collaboration with artists to produce daring and eye-catching original prints. The artists in this exhibition worked collaboratively with Kelpra and other print studios and these prints are the result of innovative technical and artistic expertise and the sensitive collaboration between individual artists and printmakers.
  1. New Year’s Day Guided Walk, Donaghadee, County Down, 1 January. Start the new year off on the right foot in the stunning seaside town of Donaghadee, the nearest port to Scotland and the backdrop to BBC’s crime drama, Hope Street. Guided by Dr Robert Neill, immerse yourself in stores from 1600 to the present day. Explore the history of the nearby moat, streets and churches in the town and learn about the heroic actions of the crew of The Sir Samuel Kelly lifeboat which rescued survivors from the MV Princess Victoria in 1953.
  1. Bad Bridget exhibition, Omagh, County Tyrone, throughout January. Learn some of the stories of the thousands of women who left Ireland for North America between 1838 and 1918. The exhibition, based on research from Dr Elaine Farrell and Dr Leanne McCormick, charts these women’s experience of migration through an eclectic mix of sights, sounds, smells and objects. Unlike migrants from other countries, hundreds of thousands of Irish girls travelled alone, and once in America, often faced a life of poverty and hardship.
  1. The Derry Girls Experience, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, throughout January. Visit the home of Derry Girls and discover where it all began, see original memorabilia from the hit show, including Erin’s diary, Aunt Sarah’s pyjamas and Ma Mary’s Woolworths sweater, not to mention the infamous Spice Girls costumes. If you’re a Sister Michael fan don’t miss the chance to sit on her chair and roll your eyes at anyone who crosses your path.
  1. Visit Kearney Village, Portaferry, County Down. Carefully restored by the National Trust to give the authenticity of a traditional fishing village, make sure to visit Kearney village this New Year. The Trust owns a number of cottages in the area and has restored their vernacular style to give authenticity to this place of character. In the nineteenth century, Kearney was a flourishing community that is now an idyllic place of recreation. Just three miles to the east of Portaferry this is the kind of place you could find by accident yet find yourself returning to again and again.

 

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

By

Everglades Hotel, County Londonderry

Welcome in 2024 in style as you enjoy a sumptuous three course evening meal in The Grill with some of the best starters, filling mains and decadent desserts before a heavenly night’s sleep. Wake up refreshed the next morning before one final treat with a full Irish breakfast before you depart. £165 per room per night based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.evergladeshotelderry.com/  for more information.

Aurora, County Antrim

Located just a mile away from the world-famous Giant’s Causeway, Aurora occupies a truly magical vantage point on the tip of the North Antrim coast. With this special weekend offer you can embrace a relaxing start to the new year, staying Friday and Saturday from £295 per night. If the rejuvenating venue and breathtaking views tempt you into staying longer, you can add Sunday to your weekend break for only an extra £100. Visit https://www.auroranorthcoast.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/

Ards and North Down Launches Exciting Arts and Heritage Spring Programme!

By

Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Arts and Heritage Spring Programme has just been released! The exciting schedule of events, exhibitions, classes, workshops and talks, covers the January to April 2024 period and is now available online to view and for bookings.

With the New Year, comes plenty of opportunity to learn a new skill or try your hand at something new. The Creative Classes and One-Day Workshop series at Ards Arts Centre includes Drawings Skill, Ceramics, Observational Oil Painting and lots more!

Music lovers will be spoiled with events to suit all tastes. The Ards International Guitar Festival is taking place from 17 – 21 April in various venues around Newtownards. Highlights of this year’s festival include Classical Virtuoso Manus Noble and previous Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Sarah McQuaid. Kyle Riley is also returning to entertain little ones with his unique family-fun concert, Little Folk on the Road. The popular Friday Night Live events also return to Ards Arts Centre with Roving Out, The High Lonesome and a night celebrating Irish Rock with Paul McMordie and friends.

For literary fans, Aspects Festival is holding two special Festival Club events at Bangor’s Imperial Bar, inviting writers to come along and read some of their work in a welcoming environment. For young readers, Young Aspects offers a weekend of book-inspired children’s activities, taking place 1 – 3 March.

North Down Museum is delighted to launch a new series of Hidden History Talks on a range of fascinating topics, themed around its exhibition series. The museum will also open its doors for the popular family friendly Arts Night at the Museum on Friday 22 March. The historical museum building will be filled with local artists providing arts and crafts activities for you to participate in, experience or observe. This free event is fun for the whole family. Little Historians will enjoy the history-themed Easter scheme at the museum including dress-up, games and craft themed activity.

Looking for a last-minute Christmas gift? Online ticket pre-sales for all music events and enrolment for all classes and workshops are available from Thursday 14 December.

Speaking about the programme, Emily Crawford, Arts and Heritage Manager for Ards and North Down Borough Council said: “We have plenty on offer on our Spring programme, from creative classes to live music and family events. I would encourage everyone to check out the programme online or pick up a copy of our brochure from Ards Arts Centre or North Down Museum and book your tickets early!”

To view the full programme, book tickets or enrol in a class or workshop, visit: www.andculture.org.uk

ARMAGH OBSERVATORY AND PLANETARIUM ANNOUNCES SERIES OF FAMILY FRIENDLY CHRISTMAS EVENTS

By

 – Festive Events to Take Place on Site at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium this December –

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium has announced a number of family friendly Christmas themed events that will take place on site during December 2023.

These include:

Visitors Enjoying a Dome Show at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium

Astronaut George, a 15 minute toddler Dome Show that will run at various times from 27th   December to 30th December 2023. During this 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? Join us and find out in this interplanetary adventure!

The show is suitable for pre-school children who must be accompanied by an adult. The ticket includes exhibition entry.

Perfect Little Planet, a 30-minute family Dome Show that will run at various times from 27th   December to 30th December 2023. The show allows you to discover our Solar System from the perspective of a family from another star system, who are seeking the perfect vacation spot. Fly over the surface of Pluto, our best-known Dwarf Planet. Dive down the ice cliffs of Miranda. Sail through the rings of Saturn. Feel the lightning storms at Jupiter and walk on the surface of Mars. Which destination would you choose?

Children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult. The ticket includes exhibition entry.

Our Solar System, a live, 35-minute family Dome Show suitable for all age groups, will run at various times from 16th December to 30th December 2023.

In this interactive show, produced by the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, you can sit back, relax and enjoy an out of this world tour of the Solar System. See the planets up close, safely gaze at the Sun, and let your presenter guide you to where you want to go!

Children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult. The ticket includes exhibition entry.

Look Up! A Winter Night Sky Tour. Suitable for adults and those aged over eight, this seasonal tour around the night sky as seen from Ireland, will run at various times from 27th   December to 30th December 2023.

Let Armagh Observatory and Planetarium’s presenters guide you through the beautiful objects and constellations seen at this time of year. This show is ideal for anyone starting out in astronomy or interested in learning about what can be seen in the night sky.

We are Guardians, a 25-minute Dome Show suitable for adults and those aged over six, this will run at various times from 27th December to 30th December 2023. The show looks at how ecosystems are intrinsically connected and, with the increasing use of Satellite Monitoring, examines the links between human activities and climate change.

Children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult. The ticket includes exhibition entry.

Moonbase: The Next Step, a 30-minute Dome Show suitable for adults and children aged over eight, this will run at various times from 27th December to 28th December 2023.

It has been over 50 years since humankind last set foot on the Moon and now we are going back to stay. The show tells the story of this human endeavour, visualising the scientific and technological advances needed to safely travel 250,000 miles and survive hostile and alien conditions. How do we establish a foothold on the Moon? Can we explore the vast landscape and extract the resources needed to live there on a permanent basis?

Children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult. The ticket includes exhibition entry.

Stargazing evening, which will run from 7-9pm on 29th December. Suitable for adults and children aged over eight, this two-hour session at Armagh Planetarium will see a team of experts help you navigate the night sky using telescopes (weather depending) along with a dome show in the digital theatre and an astronomer talk.

This session will be a Telescope clinic with the Irish Astronomical Association.

Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon (50th Anniversary Special), a 45-minute music Dome Show suitable for those aged over 16, which will run at various times during 29th December and 30th December.

The new show, which celebrates the 50th anniversary of Pink Floyd’s iconic album ‘The Dark Side of the Moon,’ sets the album to stunning 360° visuals of our Solar System and beyond.

Children Under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, as the show contains infrequent use of strong language. The show also has some flashing images and visuals, which may cause a sensation of movement.

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

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

By

Here are ten exciting things to do 11- 17 December

 

  1. Magic & Mistletoe at Magheramorne Estate, Larne, County Antrim, 11-17 December. Encounter all the fantastic live characters, explore Magheramorne Farmyard, discover The Polar Village, solve the clues, and meet the most magical of all, Father Christmas. Included in your ticket price is a selection of delicious festive treats from toasted marshmallows and hot chocolate to mince pies and mulled wine. Each child will also go home with a special festive gift. Allow two hours to complete the trail which can be tricky in places to navigate with a pram.
  1. Christmas Movies at the Museum, Belfast, County Antrim, 11-17 December. Come along to the Ulster Museum and enjoy some family favourite festive films. Everything from Elf, Arthur Christmas to Frozen 2 will be on show in the lecture theatre. You can even bring your own popcorn!
  2. Winter Circus by Tumble Circus, Belfast, County Antrim, 15 December- 2 January. This thrilling circus showcases some hardcore acrobats, eye-popping jugglers, and hilarious comedy acts. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the festive season with a unique take on festive fun for all the family! So, head along to the heated Big Top in the city’s Cathedral Quarter and prepare to be amazed by feats of jaw-dropping dexterity. The event includes a relaxed performance, specifically designed to welcome people of all ages with Down’s Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Condition, or sensory and communication disorders.
  3. Headhunters Barber Shop & Railway Museum, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, throughout December. Fancy a trim and want to learn all about trains at the same time? Well, here’s your chance! The Johnston family’s decision to combine their traditional skills with their interest in local railway history has led to one of the most unique and fascinating attractions in Northern Ireland. So gets your locks looking lovely and take in the locomotives! This unique spot seamlessly blends a traditional barbershop with a railway museum boasting one of the largest collections of Irish Railway memorabilia.
  4. Visit Father Christmas and his Elves at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 11-23 December. Stroll through the snowy streets of Ulster and America in Omagh! Elves will guide you to the magical home of Father Christmas and Mrs Claus, where you will get a gift and fill up on yummy shortbread and spiced apple juice. The chief elf will even read The Night Before Christmas as a special treat. The ticket price also covers admission to the Folk Park.
  1. Shortcross Gin Discovery & Tour Experience, Crossgar, County Down, 15 December. Enjoy a tour in this scenic corner of Northern Ireland while soaking in the sights and aromas of a working distillery. Get a chance to try Northern Ireland’s award-winning craft gin and enjoy neat tastings, a lesson on how to pour the perfect G&T, as well as creating a bespoke label and wax dipping your own personalised bottle of gin to take home. This distillery provides a thoroughly modern experience in ancient settings which is perfect for any gin lover.
  1. Christmas in the Poorhouse, Belfast, County Antrim, 15-16 December. This an interesting window into the stories of Belfast’s disadvantaged. This tour uses research from Clifton House archives to tell the story of the Christmases of the 18th and 19th century. The guided tour will be interwoven with augmented reality, allowing you to step back in time, and see how the building would have looked then. You will uncover what kind of food was available to the poor children of the city and what efforts were made to try an introduce some festive cheer. The modern-day visitor will be guaranteed refreshments on arrival!
  2. Christmas Craft Fair, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 6 December. Celebrating its 29th anniversary this year, the event showcases an exquisite range of bespoke craft items created by design-makers and artisan food producers from across the island. So, if you need that perfect bespoke gift this is the perfect place to find it!
  1. Crafty Christmas fun at Armagh Museum, Armagh, County Armagh, 16 December. Discover Christmas traditions from the past, have a go at making seasonal crafts and enjoy an afternoon of festive stories from renowned storyteller Janice Witherspoon. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
  2. Santa in the Bramley Barn, Armagh, County Armagh, 11-17 December. Get into the festive spirit at Long Meadow Farm! Drive through the magical orchard to the enchanting Bramley Barn. You will be welcomed into Santa’s grotto where you can hear a Christmas story, sip on hot chocolate, and make some reindeer food. There’s the chance to write your all-important letter and take part in some arts and crafts including designing a plate or glass for Santa. You will also receive a Christmas book and have the chance to chat to the man himself and have a photo opportunity to cherish for years to come.

 

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

By

Maldron Hotel, County Londonderry

Enjoy a two-night Shop and Stay get away in the heart of the Walled City with a beautiful breakfast each morning and a two-course meal on an evening of your choice. You can kick off your mid-week stay with a complimentary cocktail before indulging in a little retail therapy. This deal includes a £10 gift card for the Foyle Shopping Centre. From £129 for B&B and dinner based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.maldronhotelderry.com for more information.

Arch House, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh

Fancy a wee break before the flurry of Christmas festivities begin? This award-winning B&B is offering three nights for the price of two, allowing you to rest and relax. Just a short distance from the Island town of Enniskillen, close to the famous Stairway to Heaven, Marble Arch Caves Geo Park and within an easy stroll of Florence Court it’s a perfect spot to explore or just enjoy a winter walk. Dinner is also available on request. From £240 for two people sharing (excluding Saturday). This offer is bookable directly with the property by phone. Visit https://www.archhouse.com for more information.

Clandeboye Lodge Hotel, County Down

Indulge yourself in a little pre-Christmas luxury. Begin your stay with a gift box of deluxe treats that will make everything a little more special. Take time to relax by the fire before getting ready for the Coq & Bull dining experience – the finest local produce, beautifully cooked and presented. Retire to your stylish room for a blissful night’s sleep where you can finish off with breakfast in bed the next day. Includes one night B&B, three course dinner, glass of prosecco & a gift box of deluxe treats from £230 for two guests. Visit www.clandeboyelodge.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/

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

By

Bishop’s Gate Hotel, County Londonderry

Enjoy a festive shopping break at this beautiful luxury boutique hotel. You can take the edge of your Christmas spend with 10 % off all gift purchases at Walled City Crafters. Then take some me time beginning with a festive cocktail, and a wonderful three course meal. A lovely sanctuary in the city. Dinner, B&B based on two people sharing from £195. Visit https://www.bishopsgatehotelderry.com/  for more information.

Clayton Hotel, County Antrim

What better way to ease into the week than with a lovely city centre hotel, right in the heart of the action. It’s a short walk to Belfast Christmas Market, and all the buzzing bars and restaurants. The Ulster Museum and Botanic Gardens are an easy stroll away or there’s fabulous shopping to be had in Victoria Square. Enjoy a late check out of 1pm with this sleepy Sunday offer. B&B and includes a main course for adults and of course there’s free access to the leisure club. From £125.60 per room based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.claytonhotelbelfast.com/ for more information.

Ballygally Castle Hotel, County Antrim

Fancy a coastal mini break with some breath-taking views and timeless elegance? This unique Castle, dating back to 1625, is the only 17th Century building still used as a residence in Northern Ireland. This characterful and welcoming hotel is the perfect pre-Christmas stress buster! Visit the lovely Garden Restaurant to kick back and enjoy a hearty meal and festive drink.  B&B from £215 per room based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.ballygallycastlehotel.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 things to do in Northern Ireland

By

Here are ten exciting things to do 4-10 December

  1. Glenarm Castle Christmas Experience, Glenarm, County Antrim, 4-20 December. Come see the wonderful grounds of Glenarm Castle transformed into a twinkling, thrilling and tasty wonderland for all the family. There will be storytelling with Mrs Claus and the Polar Express train adventure. Father Christmas and his elves will be waiting with a special gift and the chance to take a special Santa picture. Ride the carousel and enjoy complimentary tea/coffee, biscuits, and refreshments for both adults and children in your ticket price. Check website for booking.
  1. Festive Afternoon Tea at Titanic Belfast, Belfast County Antrim, 10 December. Fancy some five-star service and fabulous festive luxury then prepare to be spoilt in the opulent surroundings of the Titanic Suite. With the backdrop of the Grand Staircase and the sounds of live jazz music, this afternoon tea with sweet and savoury delights will really get you in the Christmas mood. You also get the chance to be to enjoy this all from replica White Star China. There’s even the option of a special children’s menu with a festive activity gift. Adults will also receive a complimentary festive cocktail on arrival!
  2. Santa Cruise, Killinchy, County Down, 4-31 December. Join a merry old elf who’s swapped his sleigh for a speed boat for a hair-raising ride around the islands of Strangford Lough. There’ll be carol singing and Christmas tunes as you ride the waves back to Santa’s Grotto. There’ll be the chance to get cosy by the fireside in the cabin with mince/apple pies, mulled wine or hot chocolate with a present for children. Wrap up warm and prepare for a fun day out that you will remember long after the mince pies are all eaten!
  3. Le Foyer des Artistes: Midwinter Gala Concert, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 6 December. Enjoy a Midwinter Gala Concert in St Columb’s Hall with Vivaldi’s epic Four Seasons framing the programme. International musicians will play on period baroque instruments to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the Venetian masterpiece. Make sure not to miss this special experience.
  4. Santa Sunday, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 10 December. Why not take the pressure off in the run up to Christmas and celebrate with the whole family. Head to the Manor House Country Hotel and enjoy a lavish carvery lunch served with plenty of festive cheer perfect for a pre-Christmas relaxing get together. Tuck into an extra special seasonal dessert table including freshly made crepes whilst listening to festive live music. After your meal, stop by to say hello to Santa and get a professional photo at the Winter Wonderland Grotto. Booking essential.
  1. Mourne Alpacas Christmas Meet ‘n Greet, Dromara, County Down, 9-10 December. Visit this free Christmas pop-up shop on the alpaca farm in aid of Northern Ireland Childrens Hospice. When purchasing a Christmas gift an added 10% gifted on every gift voucher sold across the two-day event! Enjoy a hot chocolate and mince pies, as you get your Alpaca selfie, Alpaca hugs, and get to shop for some fabulous alpaca products in the Christmas shop. Book your car space to ensure your place
  1. Portaferry Christmas Twilight Market, Portaferry, County Down, 10 December. This festive indoor market takes place over two days at St Patrick’s Community Centre. Get into the Christmas spirit with an array of locally produced products, live music, kids crafts and activities, delicious street foods and an outdoor funfair. Admission is free.
  2. Mayor’s Tea Dance, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 6 December. Fancy a bit of nostalgia? The city’s Guildhall will ring to the sound of nostalgic old-time tunes with the chance to take a turn around the dance floor. There’ll be festive eats and it’s all free for local pensioners.
  1. Christmas Stocking Workshop, Portadown, County Armagh, 9 December. The chance for parents and children to get creative together in an unforgettable Christmas experience. This class offers the chance to create a unique Christmas stocking, a personalised craft to treasure for years to come! This class is suitable for children 7 and above. All materials will be provided, Check website for availability.
  2. Santa’s Enchanted Magical tour, Benburb, County Tyrone, 4-17 December. Step back in time as you and your family embrace on an enchanted, magical tour of Benburb Priory House. The tour will include letter writing on old slates in the magnificent grand library, peeking into the Fairy Godmother’s, Santa’s and Mrs Claus’s bedroom. Story telling with the Fairy Godmother and creating some magic, making reindeer dust with Mrs Claus. Finishing the tour with family time with Santa and picking up your gift from the elves in the workshop. When outside, visit donkeys, take a stroll around the grounds, warm yourself by the fire and admire the beauty of Benburb Priory which will be all lit up for Christmas.

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

Gift a giant experience this Christmas

By

Do something different and swap the bath bombs for baking this festive season

 

Are you tired of gifting the standard issue scent, socks and skincare gift sets? Do you want to find that truly memorable present that won’t be forgotten before the turkey leftovers are finished?  Well, this is the year to embrace change so why not step into Christmas and a giant experience in Northern Ireland.

In this fast-paced modern world, it can feel as if the festive season is gone within the blink of an eye. But science says exposing yourself to new experiences, sights and sounds rewards and stimulates your brain in a way repeated experiences don’t.

So, to make this festive season more fun and help make this wonderful time of the year feel like it is lasting longer, gift an adventure they’ll remember.

From making to baking you can create great memories in Northern Ireland while maybe even learning a new skill and supporting local talent in the process.

So, to ensure you squeeze every last drop of joy out of the holidays, Discover Northern Ireland has put together a selection of unique gift ideas.

County Fermanagh

  • Located on the banks of Lough Erne just outside Enniskillen lies a distillery focused on producing pure spirits with a sustainable and organic approach. With picturesque views of the lough on tap, The Boatyard Distillery is the first legal distillery in County Fermanagh in over 130 years and a tour of the premises could be the perfect gift for the gin lover in your life. Before the tour is finished, you’ll also get the chance to label and sign your own bottle of Boatyard Double Gin. This immersive experience offers the perfect chance to see, taste and embrace the spirit of Fermanagh.

County Antrim

  • Enjoy an intimate Jewellery Making Workshop at Gobbins Crafts in Islandmagee. Led by experienced goldsmith and designer, Heather McFadden, you’ll discover the enjoyment and satisfaction of making your own piece of jewellery. With each session limited to four people, Helen’s guiding hand and the relaxed and peaceful surroundings at Gobbins Craft means everyone will get the most from their experience. Each guest will leave having created their own set of stacking rings, knot rings or pendant.

County Tyrone

  • For the little chefs in your life, why not learn some new skills and take a cookery class together? At Wee Buns Cookery School near the Moy, the adult and child baking class provides the perfect shared experience as you and your little one learn how to make the most delicious sponge cakes, buttermilk scones and rocky roads. Over the course of this three-hour class that is suitable for children aged seven and up, each adult and child will make a Victoria Sponge Cake, Vanilla Buttercream to fill and decorate the cake and some buttermilk scones.

County Londonderry

  • For the adventurer in your life why not introduce them to Dragon SUPs with Far and Wild in Derry~Londonderry. Half Stand Up Paddle Board and half Dragon Boat, this 22ft long and 34-inch-wide board is built for speed. The four-man crew required to pilot the board can be made up of family friends or random companions for the day. Depending on other bookings you will either be racing along the River Foyle against at least one other group of four or against the clock on a pre-made iconic route. Don’t worry if you’ve never been on a paddle board before as Far and Wild’s experienced guide will put you through your paces before the racing begins.

County Armagh

  • For the budding photographer in your life, why not help them see Northern Ireland with a creative eye via Panoramic Ireland. These photography experiences and workshops are tailored to the participant’s skills and interests so whether you’re a beginner who wants to accelerate the learning process or a photographer who wants to find the best locations for that perfect shot, this is the tour for you. So, whether it’s learning to create a panorama at the coast, practicing long exposure photography with waterfalls or taking architectural images of some of Northern Ireland’s finest buildings, this tour could be the perfect gift.

County Down

  • The craft maker in your family is sure to love a trip to Mount Ida Pottery on the outskirts of Dromore. On this truly rewarding and relaxing experience you will receive a warm welcome from owner Trevor Woods who will encourage you to get in touch with your creative self as he shares his passion for pottery. No matter your level of experience, with Trevor’s patience and expert guidance you’ll be amazed at what can be achieved in just a few hours and you’ll be encouraged to inscribe your piece with your own signature before its glazed and posted to you.

For more amazing Northern Ireland experiences you can gift this festive season visit http://www.discovernorthernireland.com.

Ends

For further media information, please contact:

© Copyright What's On NI 2017. All Rights Reserved.