Author: whatsonni

Egg-cellent ways to make giant memories this Easter

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Discover NI’s ultimate guide to Easter getaways in Northern Ireland

With the Easter holidays firmly on the horizon, families looking for unique ways to spend quality time together are hatching plans for the perfect break.

Easter Sunday falls on 31st March this year and, with schools out for more than a week, it’s the ideal time to hop to it and make giants memories to last a lifetime.

In Northern Ireland, you’re always just a small step from a giant adventure. So, to help you plan your perfect Easter holiday, Discover NI has put together a few egg-citing ideas.

Be amazed in County Armagh

  • Experience the wonders of the Universe and touch one of the largest meteroites at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium. Walk in the footsteps of ancient warriors and join Drippy the Dragon on the great dragon egg hunt at Navan Centre & Fort or, seek out fairies, spells and music in Slieve Gullion Forest Park. After a busy day egg-sploring, relax and enjoy the style, comfort and panoramic views found at Armagh City Hotel.

Dive in to County Down

  • Make a splash this Easter and prepare to get wet at Lets Go Hydro Resort & Spa at Knockbracken Reservoir. Explore Castle Ward, its secret shore nature trail and the Georgian farmyard that doubled as Winterfell in the TV phenomenon Game of Thrones® or, put your survival skills to the test at Finnebrogue Woods. Rest and recharge in an enchanting underground cottage at Fairy River Glamping.

Find fun in County Fermanagh

Trek the trails of County Tyrone

  • Have a cracking time as you climb the Hill of the O’Neill and Ranfurly House and immerse yourself in pivotal events that shaped the history of this island. Trek to Harry Avery’s 632 year-old castle and get your heart racing as you tackle the exhilarating and technical mountain bike trails at Blessingbourne Estate. Slow down and step back in time at the charming, self-catering thatched cottage Rosehill House.

Live it up in County Londonderry

  • Every bunny will enjoy a hop along the Maiden city’s 400 year old Walls and a visit to the Tower Museum. Set sail on Northern Ireland’s longest riverboat – the M. V. Kingfisher – and explore the Best of the Bann or step into the inspirational Seamus Heany HomePlace. Rest your weary head at one of the city’s coolest boutique spots – The Shipquay Hotel.

Enjoy an adventure in County Antrim

For more fantastic experiences in Northern Ireland that are perfect for your Easter getaway, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 18-24 March

  1. Easter Table Centrepiece Workshop, Portadown, County Armagh, 20 March. Visit the Bramley Barn nestled in the heart of Long Meadow Farm’s orchard and create the focal point of your Easter celebrations. The fabulous Kay Casey will guide you through the art of crafting a beautiful arrangement using seasonal blooms and vibrant colours to capture the essence of spring. Unleash your creativity and immerse yourself in the joys of Easter and leave with a masterpiece you’ll be proud to display on your table.

 

  1. Easter Land of Fairies at Marble Arch Caves, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 23 March – 5 April. Don’t miss this enchanting Easter themed outdoor fairy trail that begins at Greenwood gate. Enter the unique fairy sanctuary in the ancient wood of the Cladagh Glen and discover the mythical creatures and fairy families that live within this wonderfully diverse woodland. Each child will receive a Land of Fairies activity booklet containing a fairy trail map and an Easter activity sheet to complete.

 

  1. Beer & Cheese Night, Ballynahinch, County Down, 21 March. This experience combines the finest craft beers with exquisite local cheeses, all set in the charming ambiance of Kinedale Donkeys’ Barn. Indulge your taste buds with a curated selection of craft beers from Modest Beer, paired perfectly with delectable cheeses from local producers, sourced from the Indie Fude deli. Throughout the evening, beer experts will guide you through a tasting journey of five exceptional beers, unraveling the brewing process and the unique characteristics that make each one special.

 

  1. Easter Egg Hunt at Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down, 23 March -7 April. Treat the whole family to a world of adventure on an Easter trail at Rowallane Garden! Make your way along the trail and enjoy nature-inspired activities, solve puzzles, create art and explore the beautiful blooms and blossoms in one of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful gardens. Your little ones will receive an Easter trail sheet, bunny ears and a dairy or vegan and Free From chocolate egg. A great day out for the whole family.

 

  1. The Siege Museum, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, throughout March. Visit the Siege Museum and Exhibition and learn the history of the Siege of Londonderry and of the associated clubs of the Apprentice Boys of Derry~Londonderry. Explore artefacts on display along with videos and interactive media. Visitors will also have the added attraction of being able to view one of the meeting rooms used by the ‘Loyal Orders’.

 

  1. Eggsciting Easter Egg Trail, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 23 March- 6 April. Do you think you can find all the eggs at Enniskillen Castle? Come down and take part in this Eggciting Easter Hunt Trail, where the resident hen has been busy laying special eggs all around the museum displays! Find all the eggs in the museum and claim your prize.
  1. Glenpark Estate & Open Farm, Gortin, County Tyrone, throughout March. Take a walk through history as you explore the beautiful grounds of Glenpark Estate. Visit the replica historic buildings and meet the rare breeds in the open farm. Finish off your day with a trip to the farm shop or children’s play area, before visiting the bar and restaurant on site for a bite to eat.

 

  1. Spring Forage in the Forest, Belfast, County Antrim, 23 March. Visit Lagan Valley Regional Park Visitor Centre and explore the edible delights of the woodland. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this 4,200 acre park is rich in natural features, biodiversity and a range of historically important sites. After exploring your surroundings, indulge in some well deserved refreshments on the nearby barge.

 

  1. The Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt, Royal Hillsborough, County Down, 23 March- 7 April. Don’t miss the enchanting Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt this Easter season, as the Lindt Gold Bunny hops over to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens for the very first time! As you explore the 100 acres, be on the lookout for elusive Lindt Gold Bunny statues peeking out from half a million colourful blooms as part of the Spring Spectacular. Hidden amongst the charming Lindt Gold Bunny are letters that hold the key to a secret question. Think you’ve cracked the clue? Your quest will be rewarded with a delicious Lindt chocolate treat!

 

  1. Sperrins Walking – Fermanagh & Omagh, Gortin, County Tyrone, 23-24 March. Get your walking boots ready for the Sperrins Walking Festival, taking place across the Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural beauty (AONB). This programme, developed and delivered by The Sperrins Partnership and outdoor experts Far and Wild, is designed to help walkers of all abilities enjoy this beautiful landscape. There are a range of guided walks available, from leisurely strolls to more demanding longer walks, the choice is yours!

 

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

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Benone Getaways – Glamping Village, Limavady, County Londonderry

  • Escape from the stresses of everyday life and book a two-night stay in a range of glamping pods. Nestled on the picturesque Causeway Coast, in the townland of Benone, this accommodation is within walking distance of the spectacular Benone Beach. Book a luxury pod and relax in a private hot tub before lighting your personal fire pit. You can also avail of the ‘Chill & Grill’ BBQ Hut located on site and enjoy an outdoor supper this spring. Take advantage of the endless activities nearby or spend the evening soaking up the views and peaceful atmosphere with a glass of bubbly. From £85.50 per person per night. Visit https://benonegetaways.co.uk/ for more information.

Marine Hotel Ballycastle, Ballycastle, County Antrim

  • Located in the heart of the North Antrim Causeway Coast, this ‘Taste of Ballycastle’ package includes two nights B&B and a two-course dinner in the recently refurbished Marconi’s Bar & Bistro. To ensure you sample all of Ballycastle’s delights, this offer also includes a £20 voucher to Morton’s Fish & Chip Shop and a £10 voucher to Ursa Minor Bakehouse. This hotel is just a short drive away from world-renowned tourist attractions including the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Bushmills Distillery, Dunluce Castle and many more! A two-night stay from £170 per person sharing. Visit https://marinehotelballycastle.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

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Here are ten exciting things to do 11-17 March

 

  1. Fairy Lore & The Glens – Causeway Coast and Glens Walking Festival, Cushendun, County Antrim, 15 March. Take in the fresh Spring air with this moderate looped walk on the steep tracks of Ronan’s Way. Part of a series of walks for the annual festival, the trails showcase the environmental and human heritage of the Glens of Antrim. This 6K walk is suitable for anyone with a good general fitness (£10).
  2. St. Patrick’s Day Céilí, Belfast, County Antrim, 17 March. This green themed céilí on St. Patrick’s Day is for everyone, whether you’re a total newcomer to Irish dancing, or an experienced feisanna champion! Hosted by SBIDA at the Europa Hotel, this event promises huge levels of fun for all attendees. Listen to live tradtional Irish music, watch talented Irish dancers and join in on group dances. There will also be a special performance by the SBIDA dancers and a roving professional photographer to capture everyone in all their glory.
  1. Patrick’s Day Parade, Downpatrick, County Down, 17 March. Led by St. Patrick himself, this parade offers a feast for eyes and ears as swirling dancers, community floats and costumed characters entertain the crowds. Enjoy festive live music and dance, a Ceili and Artisan Market and lots of children’s activities. Don’t miss the face painters, kite making workshops, arts and crafts by Makes and Bakes, Clayrazy clay modelling, a chance to have a go at the climbing wall and much more. A fun day for all the family to enjoy!
  2. Stargazing Evening, Armagh, County Armagh, 15 March. Join Armagh Observatory and Planetarium for the last evening in their series of stargazing evenings that are out of this world! This session will feature a talented team of experts to help you navigate the night sky using your telescopes (weather dependent). You will also get a chance to see a dome show in the digital theatre and listen to guest speaker Paul Evans (President of the Irish Astronomical Association).
  1. Coracle Building Workshop with Valkyrie Craft, Castlerock, County Londonderry, 16 March. Enjoy a full day introduction to the universal and ancient art of skin-on-frame boat building. John from Valkyrie Craft will guide you through the process of building the most simple of traditional watercraft, starting with the materials and tools, and finishing with a functional small boat. Learn about the nature and characteristics of wood for bending, appropriate timbers to use, the various materials used in different places and times, how to care for your finished product and most importantly, how to paddle it!
  2. Clogherny Wedge Tomb, Plumbridge, County Tyrone. This well preserved and unusual monument is in an extensive area of blanket peat near the Butterlope Glen, just four miles north of Plumbridge. The wedge tomb is surrounded by an elegant stone circle of eleven tall schist stones. Wedge tombs are generally considered to span the late Neolithic and early Bronze Ages and this site may have been built around 2000BC. Travel back in time and visit this scheduled historic monument.
  3. St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 16-17 March. Visit Northern Ireland’s only island town for a unique St. Patrick’s weekend celebration. There are a variety of events on St. Patrick’s Day eve, including a viking walking tour, storytelling, a colouring in competition and a community park run. On Sunday, celebrate with face painting, balloon modelling and bouncy castles, mingle with walkabouts or get snapped with some of the some of the hairiest folklore heroes on four legs. This weekend is packed with fun for everyone!
  1. Spring Carnival 2024, Derry~ Londonderry, County Londonderry, 17 March. Celebrate the arrival of Spring in all its colourful splendour with a magical programme of music, dance, food and folklore this St. Patrick’s Day. Immerse yourself in the vibrant sounds of Derry~ Londonderry’s renowned music scene, featuring a lineup of exceptionally talented local musicians. From soulful ballads to foot-stomping jigs, experience the diverse musical tapestry that defines Derry~ Londonderry. Discover the magic of Irish-inspired culinary delights from some of the finest Legenderry traders including Lo&Slo, Doherty’s Meats, La Tia Juanas, and Offing Coffee. This is not one to miss!

 

  1. Davagh Night Walks, Davagh Forest, County Tyrone, 16 March. Join this special night time walk and talk, under the darkest of skies with Davagh Nightwalks. Your adventure will begin at Ceoldán the Davagh Giant, where you will stroll through the forest breathing in all the sounds and sights nature has to offer. This gentle walk consists of forest terrain and a boardwalk leading to the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles. After you finish your exploring, enjoy a seasonal supper made by a local chef and baker from County Tyrone at the OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory. This experience includes hand warmers, torches and supper.

 

  1. St. Patrick’s Day at the Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills, County Antrim,17 March. Enjoy a fun-filled day at the Giant’s Causeway celebrating St. Patrick in the land of legends. Don’t miss the chance to take part in the Leprechaun Trail and find the clues hidden at the secret doors on route to the world-famous stones, in the hope of finding a pot of gold. After your adventure, enjoy cookie decorating and get your face painted beside the sea for the ultimate St. Patrick’s Day celebration!

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

There is Something for all musical tastes this weekend at The Market Place, Armagh!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Experiences perfect for making giant memories this Mother’s Day

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

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

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

Get crafty at Midtown Makers Studio, County Antrim

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

Take to the water with Island Discovery Tour, County Fermanagh

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

Make fleecy friends at Mourne Alpacas, County Down

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

Unleash the foodie with Far and Wild, County Londonderry

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

Indulge in a luxury at Blackwell House, County Armagh

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

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

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

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

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 4 – 10 March

  1. Belfast Children’s Festival, Belfast, County Antrim, 8 – 10 March. As part of this year’s circus themed festival, more than 100 events and performances are taking place in venues including The Lyric, The MAC and the Crescent Arts Centre. This is not just for the young but the young at heart. There will be local, national and international performances and events to entertain, surprise and delight all who attend.
  1. Kinbane Castle, Ballycastle, County Antrim. While there’s not much left of this historic monument, it offers spectacular views of Rathlin Island and Dunagregor Iron Age fort. Resting on headland between Ballycastle and Ballintoy, the path up to the castle is narrow and stepped. The name translates as white head and refers to the white limestone on which the ruins stand. A very atmospheric spot.
  1. Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea, Ballynahinch, County Down, 9 March. Treat your mum to a delicious afternoon tea in the elegant Montalto House. Feel like a Georgian guest in the exquisite drawing room, as you enjoy a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, miniature pastries and sweet treats, all accompanied by loose leaf tea or freshly brewed coffee. There will also be some live music as a special backdrop to what promises to be a delightful experience.
  1. Spring Spectacular, Hillsborough Castle, County Down, 9 – 10 March. See the gardens of Northern Ireland’s royal residence turn to gold and be dazzled by over half a million daffodils in bloom. This really is a beautiful sight to behold and trumpets the arrival of spring. Wander with friends and enjoy some delicious homemade refreshments in the café afterwards.
  2. World Book Day Storytelling Sessions – Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down, 9 March. Celebrate World Book Day with interactive storytelling sessions and a story inspired trail around the lake. Embark on an unforgettable journey where parents and children alike become part of the story and are surrounded by the magic of sound, fun, and laughter. Author Tessa Ann invites you to dive into the heart of her whimsical world, meeting the incredible instrument characters that come to life in her brand-new book, Magical Sounds. This event is perfect for families with children aged 5-11, but younger children are welcome too.
  1. Home of St Patrick Festival, Armagh, County Armagh. 10 March. Armagh’s Home of St Patrick Festival returns with an exciting programme of music, art, theatre, film and dance. Reflect on the legacy of St Patrick and have fun celebrating his influence on history and culture. As the ‘Home of St Patrick’, Armagh is the place where St Patrick began his mission. Don’t miss the vigil walk which takes place between the city’s two St Patrick’s Cathedrals! The perfect day out for friends and family.
  2. Todds Leap Activity Centre, Ballygawley, County Tyrone. Let the adventure begin! With over 20 action packed activities available including off road driving, a 500m zip line, a giant swing, a free fall drop zone, paintballing, splat master, woodland trails, archery and a climbing wall, there is no shortage of fun to be had. The perfect destination for any adventure seeker!
  1. Phil Coulter and Guests, St Columb’s Cathedral, County Londonderry, 9 March. St Columb’s School of Music welcomes the return of its very own musical talent, Phil Coulter. Returning  to the town he loves so well, this is a follow up to his ‘Phil Coulter at Eighty’ national tour of 2023. One of the city’s most famous sons, he will join some special guests to play and share his stories, and memories, from his 55 years at the top of the music game.
  2. Castle Caldwell Forest Park, County Fermanagh. Explore this lovely old broadleaved forest full of ash, beech, holy and oak on the northern shores of Lower Lough Erne. Castle Caldwell is an outstanding site, for not only its peninsular position on the rugged shoreline but also for the unrivalled views of the remnants of the castle estate itself. There’s plenty of car parking with three walking trails to choose from. The Beech Wood Walk takes you along the peninsula shore, with views towards Boa Island before the path drifts into forest.
  3. Lavery On Location, Belfast, County Antrim. Don’t miss the chance to see more than 70 pieces of art by Belfast born Sir John Lavery on display at the Ulster Museum. This homecoming follows a successful run at the National Gallery of Ireland in Dublin. Born in North Queen Street, Lavery had a deep regard for his native city, gifting 34 of his paintings to what is now the Ulster Museum in 1929. Here, you can see highlights of the people and places he encountered during a life filled with travel. View landscapes from as far afield as Morocco and Palm Springs to Lough Derg in County Donegal.

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

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Stormont Hotel, Belfast, County Antrim

  • Nestled on the east side of the city, just opposite the imposing parliament buildings with beautiful parkland. This is a perfect location for a quiet and relaxing overnight, and just bus ride or drive from all the best attractions Belfast has to offer. Along with the perfect night’s sleep, you’ll receive a bottle of Prosecco in your room, and awaken the following morning to a full breakfast. From £165 per room per night. Visit https://www.stormonthotelblefast.com for more information.

Corrigans Shore House, Bellanaleck, County Fermanagh

  • This four-star traditional country style B&B rests on the shores of Upper Lough Erne and has beautiful views. This is a comfortable quiet, spot which will leave you feeling rejuvenated. Enjoy tea and coffee along with home baked goods on your arrival. You are also conveniently located near National Trust Properties and the wonderful Marble Arch Caves. Stay three nights and get 15% off your stay. Visit https://www.corrigansshore.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/

New Exhibitions Open at Ards Arts Centre this March

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

Make giant memories for free in Northern Ireland this spring with10 family activities that won’t break the bank!

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

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

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

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

  1. Kilcreggan Urban Farm, County Antrim

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

  1. Headhunters Barber Shop and Railway Museum, County Fermanagh

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

  1. Castlewellan Peace Maze, County Down

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

  1. The Guildhall, County Londonderry

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

  1. Ardress House, County Armagh

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

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

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

  1. Blackslee Waterfall Walk, County Fermanagh

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

  1. Drum Manor Forest Park, County Tyrone.

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

  1. Kearney Village, County Down,

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

  1. Stormont Estate, County Antrim

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

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

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