Author: whatsonni

Aspects 2023 – Celebrates New Writing

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Aspects Festival is delighted to host a series of events which will celebrate and support new writers and new publications. This year’s festival takes place in Bangor from 27 September – 7 October.

Join authors Fionola Meredith and Olivia Fitzsimons in North Down Museum on Thursday 5 October, as they discuss their new books with Nuala McKeever. The Stamp of Beauty is Fionola Meredith’s debut novel. Fionola is a writer, broadcaster and commentator, based in Belfast. She is a long- established contributor to the Irish Times and to BBC Northern Ireland and writes a weekly opinion column in the Belfast Telegraph. Set in modern-day Ireland, The Stamp of Beauty is an unsettling novel that charts the course of an unlikely and deeply dysfunctional ‘age-gap’ relationship to its inevitable conclusion.

The Quiet Whispers Never Stop is Olivia Fitzsimons‘ first novel and was shortlisted for the 2022 Butler Literary Award. The book is set in Northern Ireland in the 1980s and 1990s, and is a story of love, obsession and escape, an uncompromising, lyrical tour-de- force that marks the arrival of an extraordinary new voice in Irish fiction. Olivia’s writing has appeared in numerous publications including The Irish Times, The Stinging Fly, Banshee, and broadcast on BBC Radio 4.

Glenn Patterson’s latest book Two Summers is a pair of novellas, set over two pivotal summers in the lives of two young men from Belfast as they recall the constraints of the place where they were born and the times in which they are living. Capturing the innocence of adolescent boys, their passion, confusion and yearning, Two Summers is for anyone who has ever been young.

Professor Glenn Patterson is an award- winning writer, screen-writer and broadcaster. He has been the Director of the Seamus Heaney Centre at Queen’s University, Belfast since 2017. Join Glenn at his event in Bangor Castle on Friday 6 October.

On Saturday, 30 September, author Maggie Doyle will lead a creative walk along Bangor’s beautiful Coastal Path. Maggie will read from her new book Mountain Notes, A Nature Diary for inspiration as the group walks, take notes, pause for readings, sketching and stories.

Speaking about the events, Festival Director Patricia Hamilton said: ‘We are delighted that Glenn Patterson will be reading from his newly launched book at Aspects this year. New writing has always been important to the festival and we are pleased to be hosting fiction events with Fionola Meredith and Olivia Fitzsimons. Maggie Doyle will also join us and read for a unique festival event where we will walk along the coastal path and use nature to inspire our writing.’

Aspects Festival runs until from 27 September to 7 October at various locations around Bangor. For further information on the programme and to book tickets see: aspectsfestival.com

Arts centres partner with Cinemagic for free family film screenings in aid of Foodbanks

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Roe Valley Arts Centre and Flowerfield Arts Centre have teamed up with Cinemagic for two special film screenings, which will support the vital work of local Foodbanks.

This Saturday, 9th September, Roe Valley Arts Centre will screen The Big Bad Fox and Other Tales. This heartwarming animated film turns farm life upside down as it introduces you to a quirky cast of characters. Meet a fox with unexpected motherly instincts, a rabbit who takes on stork duties, and a duck with a Christmas dream. In this uproarious tale, the tranquil countryside isn’t quite what it seems.

On Saturday, 23rd September, Flowerfield Arts Centre will screen Ernest and Celestine.  In this enchanting, animated tale two unlikely companions, a young mouse named Celestine and a gentle bear named Ernest, embark on an extraordinary adventure. As they evade the watchful eyes of the law, their heartwarming friendship blossoms, challenging the norms of their world.

Audience members are asked to bring along non-perishable food and other essential items which will be distributed to local families instead of paying an entry fee.

The initiative is part of Cinemagic’s Young Audiences Support Foodbanks scheme, which Flowerfield Arts Centre first took part in in the summer of 2021. Throughout 2022, the scheme collectively generated over 1.5 tonnes of donations for Foodbanks across Northern Ireland.

If you want to join us for these special events, pre-book your ticket by going to www.wegottickets.com/cinemagic or www.roevalleyarts.com/www.flowerfield.org and bring along your foodbank items on the day.

Please note tickets must be pre-booked in advance to avoid disappointment.

Foodbanks would be particularly grateful to receive – tinned sweetcorn, UHT milk, jam, fruit juice, coffee, super noodles, men’s razors & shaving gel, ladies’ deodorant.

Please check that items are in date and have an expiry of 1-3 months.

Food donated at the Flowerfield screening will support Causeway Foodbank, while the Roe Valley screening will support Limavady Community Development Initiative (LCDI) Foodbank.

 

All aboard for a weekend of fun at Belfast Maritime Festival

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Visitors can discover a treasure trove of free activities at this weekend’s Belfast Maritime Festival on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 September.

Taking place along the city’s Maritime Mile, with entertainment stretching across Queen’s Quay to HMS Caroline in the Titanic Quarter, the festival celebrates Belfast’s rich maritime heritage and spirit of innovation.

Come along from 11am each day to enjoy live music, street entertainers and activities for all ages. The main festival stage, compered by BBC presenter Gemma Bradley, is at Titanic Slipways, along with the ‘Science Street’ interactive area, a colourful Belfast Bazaar, featuring the very best local produce and crafts, and a picnic area.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, said: “There’s so much to see and do at this weekend’s Belfast Maritime Festival, with a fantastic line-up of events to really bring our maritime and industrial heritage to life.

“Come on down to hear amazing live music, shop local at the Belfast Bazaar market, entertain the kids with free activities or even get involved yourself at ‘Science Street’.

“Walk, cycle or take the Glider or train to experience everything the festival has to offer, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the stunning ships which will make Belfast their home for the weekend.”

The Belfast Maritime Festival has been organised by Belfast City Council and is supported by Tourism NI, delivered in partnership with Maritime Belfast Trust, Belfast Harbour, Odyssey Trust, the Department for Communities and Titanic Quarter Ltd.

Aine Kearney, Director of Events at Tourism NI, said: “Tourism NI is delighted to support the return of the Belfast Maritime Festival, a much-needed post-pandemic boost to the wider tourism and hospitality industry with a projected economic benefit of circa £1.5 million.

“The event is a great opportunity to showcase this key Titanic and Maritime Belfast heritage destination and its wealth of visitor experiences. This immersive event will further awaken the giant spirit in our visitors, igniting their sense of discovery and demonstrating the warm welcome Northern Ireland offers to all.”

Activities at Belfast Maritime Festival include:

  • Visiting ships and vessels docked at Queen’s Quay and Belfast Harbour Marina – hop on board Granuaile (Irish Lights), Gunilla, Leader, Brian Boru and La Malouine to chat to the crew and experience life on the high seas!
  • Titanic Slipways hosts the festival’s first ‘Science Street’ – a chance for young and old to explore areas like marine biology, engineering and navigation through fun interactive activities, demonstrations and live shows.
  • Duke Special, Joshua Burnside, Manukahunney, ROE and NI Opera will lead a stellar line-up of over 100 leading musicians from across NI. Hear Americana, trad, jazz, opera, bluegrass, classical and more on the main stage at Titanic Slipways, as well as outdoor venues across the Maritime Mile.
  • The Kids’ Zone at Queen’s Quay will be packed full of activities for little explorers, including a sensory area, dance workshops, crafts, face painting, a pop-up aquarium and even a beach to build some sandcastles!
  • The free Maritime Mile Through My Lens exhibition at Hamilton Dock, delivered by Belfast Maritime Trust and Belfast Exposed, showcases photographs taken by local communities to demonstrate what they love about living along the waterfront.
  • Belfast Lough Sailability will have free participatory taster sessions for visitors, including those with a disability, to experience the fun of getting out on the water.
  • Further along at Sailortown, bookable activities include an evening of music, poetry and film, maritime-themed bingo and a chance to explore the beautiful St Joseph’s Church as part of European Heritage Open Days.
  • There are also free walking tours, demonstrations of traditional seafaring skills like rope making and boat building, as well as special Hydrobike sessions.

For more event information, visit belfastcity.gov.uk/maritime

UK WIDE ASTRONOMY CONFERENCE RETURNS TO ARMAGH BIRTHPLACE AFTER 15 YEARS

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British Association of Planetaria Event Kicks off Series of Four Conferences at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium

Pictured l to r at the BAP23 conference are Steven Gray President of The British Association of Planetaria Sinead Mackle Education and Outreach Manager at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium Terence Murtagh former Director of Armagh Planetarium Heather Alexander Senior Education Officer at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium and Professor Michael Burton Director at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium

Leading astronomical research centre, Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, recently hosted the British Association of Planetaria (BAP) Conference for the third time since its inception at the venue in 1978. The September 1st event was the first in a series of four conferences to be hosted by the organisation during September 2023.

Held on 1st and 2nd September, the annual BAP conference saw a group of planetarium professionals gather to knowledge share and learn about the latest developments in astronomy and science.

The event is followed by the AM CVn 5 conference, which is being held from 5th to 8th Sept, the sdOB11 conference, which will be held from 11th to 15th September and the ESOP 42 conference, which will run from 15th to 19th September.

The fifth in a series of conferences on AM Canum Venaricorum stars, AM CVn 5 will see professional astronomers from across the globe gather to discuss one of the most exotic classes of star in the sky.

The third event, sdOB11, will be the eleventh in a series of conferences on Hot Subdwarfs and Related Objects. Hosted by Armagh Observatory and Planetarium’s Resident Astronomer, Simon Jeffrey, it will allow professional astronomers to discuss the latest research in the field.

Developed by non-profit organisation, the European Symposium on Occultation Projects (ESOP), the final conference, ESOP 42, will aim to foster interaction and collaboration between amateur astronomers and professionals.

It will be the 42nd ESOP conference and the first to be held on the island of Ireland.

Steven Gray, Secretary of the British Association of Planetaria, says, “It is a pleasure to bring the British Association of Planetaria conference back to Armagh for the third time since it kicked off here in 1978.

“Armagh Observatory and Planetarium delivers internationally recognised research in astronomy and related sciences and as the members association for planetaria across the UK and Ireland, we can’t think of a more fitting venue for this conference.”

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is sited in a heritage environment with a rich scientific history. The organisation delivers internationally recognised research in astronomy and related sciences, along with vibrant educational and outreach programmes for all ages.

Professor Michael Burton, Director at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, adds, “We are delighted to welcome the British Association of Planetaria Conference back to Armagh as it celebrates its 45th anniversary.

“We’re also proud to welcome the AM CVn 5 and sdOB11 conferences and to host the ESOP 42 conference here for the very first time.

“Established in 1790, Armagh Observatory is the oldest scientific institution in Northern Ireland and the longest continuously operating astronomical research institute in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

“We are a world leader in science communication and planetarium innovation and are passionate about sharing knowledge to inspire future generations. As such, it is a pleasure to host these important events.”

To find out more about Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, visit: https://www.armagh.space

Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder skates into Belfast this Winter

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Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder skates into Belfast this Winter

Take a trip down memory lane, as Disney On Ice returns with a magical show for the whole family to enjoy

The SSE Arena, Belfast: Friday 17 November to Sunday 19 November

Extra tickets go on sale THIS Friday via www.ticketmaster.ie 

Grab your mouse ears and get ready as Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder skates into Belfast’s SSE Arena, with the magic of Disney’s 100th Anniversary closer than ever when Disney On Ice brings the celebration to you! Encanto joins the show for the very first time in the UK, inspiring families to make magical memories they will treasure forever.

The production will skate into The SSE Arena, Belfast from Friday 17 November to Sunday 19 November.

Tickets go on general sale Friday 15 September at www.disneyonice.co.uk & www.ticketmaster.ie

Relive magical Disney stories with all of your favourite characters in a family experience featuring classic Disney songs, world-class skating and incredible stunts. Mickey Mouse is joined by his friends on a journey to discover his favorite memory of all time. Families will be a part of the action and help the gang venture through Disney stories, sharing memorable moments from treasured tales. Journey to a vibrant town in the mountains of Colombia to meet Mirabel and her extraordinary family who live in a magical casita in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. Sail away with Moana as she displays courage to save her island on a high-seas adventure with the demigod, Maui.  Travel to the wintry world of Arendelle as royal sisters Anna and Elsa discover true love is the most powerful magic of all and experience the mysterious magic of Fantasia as a Sorcerer’s Apprentice makes brooms come to life. “Live Your Story” alongside Disney Princesses as they use perseverance, determination and hard work to inspire Mickey and children to share their favorite Disney memories.  Just keep swimming with Dory, Nemo, Marlin and new pal Hank from Disney• Pixar’s Finding Dory and celebrate true friendship with Buzz Lightyear, Woody and The Toy Story gang.

 

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 11-17 September

  1. Cordial Making Workshop, Holywood, County Down, 16 September. Join visitor guide, Claire, to learn how to make your own cordial. As part of a three-hour workshop, you will forage for ingredients from the museum’s hedgerows and lanes before heading to the Parochial House to make the syrup. Take home the knowledge needed to make your own as well as a bottle of Folk Museum cordial to enjoy through the autumn.
  2. Mash Direct Belfast City Half Marathon, Belfast, County Antrim, 17 September. Watch the largest half marathon event in Northern Ireland on its fourth sell out year. This spectacular event runs through all areas of the city, starting and finishing in Ormeau Park. It will include a new section in East Belfast with the race using more of the greenway before heading into Victoria Park rather than travelling along the Sydenham bypass. Watch the largest half marathon event in Northern Ireland this is its fourth sell out year.
  3. Limitless Adventure Centre, Limavady, County Londonderry, throughout September. This is a must for all thrill seekers! There is an array of experiences on offer, you can pilot a hovercraft, try a Powerturn Buggy or have a go at archery, laser tag or football golf.
  4. Giant Bug Hotel Building Workshop, Bushmills, County Antrim, 16 September. Learn the important role creepy crawlies, such as ladybirds and woodlice, have in controlling pests, pollinating flowers, and keeping our gardens healthy. Help nature officer Henry Cliff make them a Giant Bug Hotel and find out how you can do the same in your own garden. A fun day out for all the little people in your life!
  5. Sunrise SUP & Island Yoga Experience, Killinchy, County Down, 17 September. Stand Up Paddleboarding is a slow form of adventure, a perfect way to switch off from the stresses of everyday life. It’s a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the physical & mental benefits of yoga in the outdoors. The basics of SUP will be covered in each class. The aim of each session is to paddle to an island and perform a yoga flow to maximize your connection with the outdoors.
  6. Born to be Wild, Omagh, County Tyrone, 16 September. Join Henrietta on a journey through the jungle in a new show sure to keep your little cheeky chimps entertained. She will be joined by a clever young Hippo who is always asking “Why?” as well as Eddie Elephant, Gilbert Giraffe and Deborah Zebra along the way. An action-packed stage show with audience participation.
  7. Awe & Alchemy, Armagh, County Armagh, 17 September. The Association for Contemporary Jewellery and Silversmiths Northern Ireland is celebrating the work of more than twenty makers from across Ireland, England and Scotland. The exhibition, held at the Market Place Gallery, will look at the diverse approaches towards values, material possibility, sustainability, and social connections, through the art of jewellery and adornment.
  8. Blessingbourne Mountain Bike Trails and Pump Track, Fivemiletown, County Tyrone, 10 September. Lying in the heart of the Clogher Valley the estate offers trails for all ages and abilities. Why not give the Pump Track a go? This short criss-crossing circular trail of rollers and berms where you use your weight distribution on the bike to flow over the features without having to use your pedals! Created by the world class the course designer for the Beijing Olympics these trails offer a fun day out. Bike hire is available via the website.
  9. Cocktail Hour Cruise, Killadeas, County Fermanagh, 13 September. Welcome aboard the luxury cruiser The Lady of The Lake for an evening of relaxation. Just as the light begins to soften, you’ll be treated to a delicious prosecco cocktail and a selection of locally sourced canapes as you take in the breathtaking beauty of Lough Erne on a 90-minute cruise. An experienced captain will tell you more about some of the historic landmarks that can be admired from the lake, with plenty of opportunities for photographs along the way!
  10. World Sheepdog Trials, Dromore, County Down, 13-16 September. More than two hundred competitors from over thirty countries will be gathered to see who’s top dog at the Gill Hall Estate. As well as seeing dogs showing their skill there’ be live demonstrations, the chance to enjoy live music and a funfair.

 

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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City Hotel, Derry~ Londonderry, County Londonderry

Discover the culture and character of the Walled city with a two-night stay in a four-star hotel, including a two-course dinner on an evening of your choice. Take in the panoramic views of the river Foyle, and relax in the hotel’s leisure facilities which include a pool and steam room. You can explore the shops, bars and city attractions with the two-day Derry Visitor Pass which is included in the DB&B offer from £173 per person. Visit https://www.cityhotelderry.com for more information.

The Treehouse, Portglenone, County Antrim

The beautiful Treehouse B&B has everything you need for a relaxing stay, river Bann runs close by, and the forest is a few minutes from the front door. You can check out the nearby filming locations used in Game of Thrones® or explore Bellaghy and the Seamus Heaney Homeplace. A two-night stay is £180 per couple with a £20 voucher for dinner at the nearby Wild Duck Inn on an evening of your choice.  Visit https://thetreehousebandb.com for more information.

Shelleven Guest House, Bangor, County Down

1 night golf break! From £225 per room based on 2 people sharing a twin room. Enjoy an overnight stay with breakfast at this award-winning accommodation and play one round of 18-hole golf at Bangor Golf Club. Ideally located by the sea and town centre, walking distance to pubs & restaurant opportunities. Visit https://shellevenhouse.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/

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

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Antrim

SPINNING YARNS is a one-day Festival celebrating the wonderful world of all things associated with wool & linen where we will showcase the colour, creativity and craft associated with these homespun yarns in all their forms.

Find out more HERE

Armagh

Forest bathing retreat, Killeavy Castle Estate. Rest, reconnect and re-energise during this unique Nurturing Nature retreat, nestled within 350 acres of woodland and a working farm, at the foot of the volcanic mountain Slieve Gullion.

Find out more HERE

Belfast

The Stormont Hotel Wedding Show takes place on Sunday 3rd September between 1pm and 4pm at the Stormont Hotel and admission is free!

Find out more HERE

Down

The Eats and Beats festival in Newcastle is a celebration of food and music that brings together the best of both worlds. From delicious local cuisine to live performances by some of the hottest acts around, this festival is a must-see event for anyone who loves great food and great music.

Find out more HERE

Fermanagh

Lough Erne Pilgrim Way Exhibition.  The Lough Erne Pilgrim Way exhibition is part of a wider programme of events, itineraries, online resources, community engagement, access improvements and conservation initiatives.

Find out more HERE

Derry/Londonderry

Dreamscapes, Landscapes, Escapes, The Seamus Heaney Homeplace, Bellaghy.  Featuring Catherine Graham, Kate Newmann, Kathleen McCracken and John T Davies.

Find out more HERE

Tyrone

Dungannon Comedy Festival returns this September for another night of side-splitting laughter with Micky Bartlett, Ciarán Bartlett, William Thompson, Conor Keys and Talal Jomar.

Find out more HERE

 

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 4-10 September

  1. Armagh Food and Cider Weekend, Armagh, County Armagh, 7-10 September. The Armagh Bramley enjoys protected status, a sign of its uniqueness. This festival celebrates the orchard county and city, coming alive with open air markets, cookery masterclasses, tasting dinners and, of course, orchard and cider tours. One of the highlights is the Bramley Apple Banquet.
  2. Mourne Seafood Cookery School, Kilkeel, County Down, throughout September. Immerse yourself in the ultimate ‘catch to cook’ experience. Based at the Nautilus Centre at Kilkeel Harbour, experience the joy of using the finest locally caught seafood and artisan produce. The ethos is fun, relaxed teaching aimed at inspiring the home cook to extend their skills while highlighting the benefits of eating seafood.
  3. Tree Tours of Lurgan Park, Lurgan, County Armagh, 9 September. Join Paul May on this unique tour to discover the wonderful heritage of this historic park and the native and non-native tree species that inhabit it. Learn how our ancestors used the wood from the various trees and hear the legends and folklore that surround them. Suitable for all ages and abilities. The event is free, but booking is required.
  4. World Illustration Awards Exhibition, Limavady, County Londonderry, 4-10 September. This unique exhibition showcases the industry’s very best, from emerging new talent to well-established illustrators. More than five thousand entries from 77 countries were whittled down to get to what you can see here.
  5. Tour of Ebrington, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry 9 September. Join Manus Deery, on a walking tour examining the fortifications of the 19th century Ebrington Square and Star Fort. Learn about past and present plans for the area. The two-hour tour will examine the fortifications of the 19th century fort and the city walls.
  6. Crom Estate, Newtownbutler, County Fermanagh, 9 September. Roam the acres of parkland and native broadleaved woodland on the shores of Upper Lough Erne. Explore the ruins of the old castle and see Crom’s famous ancient yew trees for yourself. The area is an important conservation site and makes a great day out.
  7. Art and Soul, Holywood, County Down, 4-10 September. The lush grounds of the Culloden Estate and Spa on the shores of Belfast Lough will be transformed inside and out by 250 artworks by some of the biggest names in international and Irish art. Among those featured are Patrick O’Reilly, Ian Pollock, Giacinto Bosco and Salvador Dali. The exhibition is free and guided tours are available three times daily.
  8. Belfast Maritime Festival, Belfast, County Antrim, 9-10 September. Watch the Titanic Quarter come alive with free entertainment for all to enjoy with live music, interactive demonstrations, street performers and a specially created beach play area. This event, a legacy from the Tall Ships, will host its first Science Street, celebrating all things marine. There’ll be workshops with sustainability as a central theme and underwater robots. For ‘water’ of a different kind there’ll be discounted tickets to the Titanic Distillery, food vendors and a Belfast Bazaar showcasing local makers.
  9. Walk & Talk – Omagh’s Built Heritage, Omagh, County Tyrone, 10 September. Join Vincent Brogan on a guided walk around Omagh town, where you will get to see, hear and learn about key aspects of town’s-built heritage. Part of the European Open Doors Day Festival.
  10. Poyntzpass Guided History Walk, Poyntzpass, County Armagh, 9-10 September. This is part of European Heritage Open Days and gives locals and visitors alike the chance to learn more about some of the area’s hidden gems and most interesting historical sites such as the canal and Poyntzpass Railway station.

 

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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Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, County Down

Bask in nature at The Old Inn, with Treetop Spa access included in your stay, to ensure you have a tranquil Autumn retreat in cosy Crawfordsburn. Indulge in gourmet dining in The Restaurant and enjoy a relaxed cosy vibe in the 1614 Bar. DB&B from £260 per room. Visit https://www.theoldinn.com for more information.

Valley View Country House, Bushmills, County Antrim

This four-star B and B is close to the Giant’s Causeway, The Dark, hedges and Bushmills Distillery and is a great base for exploring the causeway coast. Enjoy a two-night stay in a self-catering lodge from £160. Visit https://www.valleyviewbushmillsaccommodation.com/ for more information.

Finn Lough, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

Enjoy an Elements Spa Escape and choose between a bespoke suite or villa and flow through the Elements Spa Trail, combining therapeutic techniques and the healing power of nature. Escape into Nature and let forest bathing imbue you with calm. From £205 per room per night or £305 with the spa experience. Visit https://www.finnlough.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/

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