Author: whatsonni

Discarding broken glass on beaches is a disgraceful act which poses a major hazard, especially for children and pets.

• 

This is the message from Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council after a number of incidents over the weekend.

At Benone Strand, a large amount of cans and broken bottles were left close to the beach boardwalk, while glass was also found on the sand at Castlerock along with discarded belongings and other items including plastic bottles and bags.

There are concerns that groups are congregating to use beaches and dunes as ‘drinking dens’.

Council wants to remind everyone that there is a zero tolerance approach to littering, with offenders facing an £80 Fixed Penalty Notice. Those found drinking illegally can also face further enforcement action.

Condemning the recent spate of incidents, the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Alderman Mark Fielding said: “I want to appeal directly to anyone who visited our coastal locations at the weekend. What did you do with your rubbish? Did you think it was acceptable to leave it behind? Did you expect someone else to clean it up for you? Litter is proving to be a huge challenge at this time, and we need everyone to take more responsibility.

“Our beaches are one of our greatest assets and they are there for everyone’s enjoyment. Leaving broken glass where it can injure visitors, children and pets is a disgraceful act. I would ask those who did this how they would feel if a member of their family was badly injured because of their completely unacceptable behaviour?

“Parent and carers should share this message with their children so they realise that littering of any kind is wholly unacceptable. We need everyone to play their part to help keep our Borough clean. Dispose of your rubbish or take it home with you, and show the Causeway Coast and Glens the respect it deserves.”

To report an incident of littering please contact Environmental Health by ringing 028 2766 0200 or email environmentalhealth@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk. You can also contact us on Facebook and Twitter. Please provide as much detail as possible.

If you see anything suspicious at any of our local beaches or coastal locations, or you have concerns about illegal drinking, please contact Police by ringing 101.

Dog-friendly accommodation, pubs, restaurants & walks in Northern Ireland

August 25: They have been our best friend during lockdown, helping to boost morale and even appearing on the occasional office Zoom call. So taking your dog on a family holiday is the perfect way to say thank-you.

Many of us have experienced the guilt of leaving our four-legged friends in kennels as we set off on a foreign holiday, but with a greater number of hotels and restaurants across Northern Ireland now happy to give our dogs a giant welcome, the year of the staycation really is for the whole family.

A growing number of dog-friendly places are just a drive away, making it easier to transport your pet. You really don’t need an epic trek to have epic fun in Northern Ireland.

International and National Dog Day on 26^th August 2020 (#NationalDogDay) is a celebration of dog ownership of all breeds, and the perfect excuse for planning a trip with your four-legged friend. 

Discover Northern Ireland has put together a list of dog-friendly accommodation, pubs and restaurants and even some of the best places to walk your pooch:

Dog-friendly pubs and restaurants

Fullerton Arms, Ballycastle, County Antrim

• Located along the breath-taking Causeway Coastal Route, which has an abundance of beautiful places to walk your dog, The Fullerton Arms Hotel is the ideal starting point for all your adventures. The perfect getaway with your four-legged friend offering both a
  dog-friendly dining area and a room available for them to rest their tired head for the night. Visit www.fullerton-arms.com

The Dirty Onion, Belfast 

• The Dirty Onion is home to one of Belfast’s biggest beer gardens and renowned for being one of the main dog-friendly establishments in the Cathedral Quarter. After a day of walking around Belfast and beyond with your pup, ‘Paws’ for a pint and your dog can enjoy some complimentary water and home-made treats at the Doggie Dock. Visit www.thedirtyonion.com/whats-on/

Pier 36, Donaghadee, County Down

• Visit the award-winning bar and restaurant with a reputation for exceptional food and service. Well situated on the pier in Donaghadee harbour with a cosy and vibrant atmosphere, Pier 36 is a real treat for all your senses. Dogs on a lead are welcome in the bar area and outside where a water tap and bowls are available. The restaurant to the rear of the property has a great atmosphere and a well-deserved reputation as one of the finest places to eat in Northern Ireland. Visit www.pier36.co.uk/

Picnic Delicatessen, Killyleagh, County Down

• Visit the charming Picnic Delicatessen, located on the high street and right next to the stunning Killyleagh Castle. With tables outside and a covered back space area with a dog bed and water, it is a lovely spot to enjoy a quick bite to eat with your four-legged friend. After you enjoy a tasty treat, take in the stunning scenery with a beautiful walk along the shores of Strangford Lough.

Dog-friendly accommodation

Beech Hill Country House (4*), Derry~Londonderry

• Beech Hill Country House Hotel, gloriously set in 32 acres of woodland, lakes and tranquil gardens, is a wonderful place for your four-legged friend to be spoiled. Start your dog’s break the right way with a ‘Pawsecco’ or Doggy Beer on arrival. Pet guests will also receive their own cosy blanket, as well as treats and a water bowl in a special welcome pack. Beech Hill Country House can even arrange dog grooming and a pet walking service for an additional fee. Visit www.beech-hill.com/petpolicy. There is a cost of £30 per stay for your pet. Subject to availability.

The Inn on the Coast (3*), Portrush, County Antrim

• Situated on the Causeway Coastal Route between the harbour towns of Portrush and Portstewart is The Inn on the Coast. The hotel offers spacious accommodation with excellent walking routes nearby. There are dedicated pet-friendly rooms on the ground floor for up to two dogs. Your pet is welcome at the seating area of the foyer and in the reception, where you can relax and enjoy a drink or meal. The Inn also provides a pooch-pack filled with goodies for your pet on arrival. Visit www.innonthecoastportrush.com/all-rooms/pet-friendly-rooms/. There is charge per stay of £20.00 for one dog, £25.00 for two dogs or £30.00 for three. Subject to availability.

Blessingbourne Estate (3*4*5*), Fivemiletown, County Tyrone

• The Blessingbourne Country Estate, nestled on 550 acres of countryside with woodland and private lakes, has five luxury self-catering apartments which are all pet-friendly. You can even bring your horse or pony, as they too can have a holiday at the on-site stables in the heart of Blessingbourne’s working farm. The estate offers an idyllic setting for outdoor activity and dog friendly walks, and is the perfect place to discover the thrill of exploring Northern Ireland’s beautiful countryside. Visit www.blessingbourne.com/self-catering-accommodation/. There is charge per stay of £15 for one dog. Subject to availability.

Blackwell House (5*), Scarva, County Armagh

• At Blackwell Country House, they love their pets and are happy for you to bring your own. They have three beautiful doggie-friendly rooms in The Blackwell House Cottage, including The Loft Suite, The Charleston Room and The Orchard Room. The package for dogs includes a luxury dog bed, home-made dog biscuits by Joyce, two dog bowls, a doggie towel and a lovely personalised doggie welcome letter. On arrival, you also get to say hello to their Meet and Greet Director, Murphy, a nine-year-old Miniature Schnauzer and an integral staff member of Blackwell House. Visit www.blackwellhouse.co.uk/. Your pet can enjoy their stay for £30.00 per dog per night. Subject to availability.

Dog-friendly Walks

Slievenaslat Walk Trail, Castlewellan, County Down 

• The steep climb through the forest to the summit of Slievenaslat (272 metres) is most definitely worth it for the iconic views of the Mournes and to take in the panoramic views of Northern Ireland’s highest mountain range and surrounding drumlin landscape. If that hasn’t tired you out, then there are lots of other walks to choose from with a trail network totalling 7.5 miles throughout the forest park.  Visit www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/walking-forests for Forest Service guidelines for dog walkers.

Florence Court, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

• Surrounded by lush parkland and thick woodland with Benaughlin mountain rising in the background, Florence Court enjoys a majestic countryside setting in West Fermanagh. There is something for everyone to enjoy at this extensive and welcoming place. Choose from a number of walks perfect for dogs or a stroll around the walled garden, all providing beautiful scenes against the dramatic backdrop of mountains and forests. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/florence-court. You will need to book your visit in advance.

Murlough National Nature Reserve, Dundrum, County Down

• A fragile 6000-year-old sand dune system owned by the National Trust and managed as Ireland’s first Nature Reserve since 1967, Murlough National Nature Reserve is a fantastic 2.5 mile walk with stunning views of the Mourne Mountains and Dundrum Castle. Dogs are welcome to most parts of the reserve however there are restrictions in some areas, such as in spring and summer when ground-nesting birds are breeding, or where cattle are grazing. Please abide by the signage for restrictions and where dogs must be on the lead. Access to Murlough Beach is also available via the reserve if your four-legged friend is still in search of more sniffing opportunities. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/murlough-national-nature-reserve

Let’s help to keep Northern Ireland beautiful and safe during your visit, so always remember to clean up your space before you depart, and please behave responsibly. Please also keep dogs on leads where official signs mention this, and please clear up after your dogs to avoid problems for other visitors.

For more inspiration on where to enjoy dog-friendly spots across Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com.

When choosing where to staycation with friends and family this year, Ards and North Down is the perfect place for a relaxing short break. Just minutes from Belfast, we are easy to get to with great public transport links and road network. Our water’s edge driving routes, walking and cycle paths allow you to enjoy wide open spaces with breathtaking scenery around Belfast and Strangford Loughs.

Start exploring by immersing yourself in rich traditions from the last 100 years at the Ulster Folk Museum and Ulster Transport Museum  in Cultra www.nmni.com . Then follow the stunning 26 km North Down Coastal Path on foot or bike along shore Belfast Lough shore from Holywood via Crawfordsburn Country Park with its pristine beaches, to the seaside town of Bangor. Enjoy a seaside revival experience, stroll with an ice cream on the pier while admiring yachts at the world-class marina. At www.pickiefunpark.com , have a go on the iconic swans to make cherished memories.  It’s a short hop  to Donaghadee, where the lighthouse stands tall in the harbour and on a fine day the view to Scotland is clear and uninterrupted. 

Slow down as you drive along the Ards Peninsulaand take in the tranquillity of Strangford Lough, discovering charming villages and towns on the way to capture your instagram story at Ireland’s most easterly location, Burr Point. In Portaferry  www.explorisni.com, Northern Ireland’s only aquarium and seal sanctuary is a must see attraction.  Hugging the east shore of Strangford Lough, this beautiful drive brings you to National Trust’s Mount Stewart. This fine Irish Demesne is steeped in history with a recently restored 19th-century stately home, world class gardens and walking trails.www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mount-stewart. 

In Newtownards, stretch your legs with a gentle climb to historic Scrabo Tower for panoramic lough views . In nearby Comber, discover great local tastes in artisan food shops and farmers’ market www.combermarket.co.uk.  Just outside the town, explore the wide open space bursting with nature at Castle Espie Wetland Centre,www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/castle-espie

Great accommodation ranges from cosy self-catering options and guest houses, caravanning/camping to 3, 4 and 5-star hotel and spa facilities. During your stay, try one of our many award-winning restaurants, or why not book a unique experience like paddleboard or kayak tours, guided coastal walks or artisan bread making? Special offers running from August to October, so book now at visitardsandnorthdown.com/offers

Note –Many attractions are operating online pre-booking systems or reduced times/capacity at this time, please check specific provider websites for up to date information and safety hygiene measures before your visit to enjoy safely.

Discover Northern Ireland helping to save your holiday break

August 17: Northern Ireland’s hotels and restaurants are excited to be giving a warm welcome to visitors after reopening, meaning local people won’t need to take an epic trek to enjoy epic fun this summer and into autumn.

Now you can embrace Northern Ireland’s giant spirit with a staycation at one of the many B&B’s, luxurious spa hotels and great value self-catering properties on offer.

Discover Northern Ireland has selected the best offers of the week because, this year, it’s not about how far, it’s about how fun.

Belfast

One-night B&B, The Merchant Hotel (5*) from £219 per room per night based on 2 people

The Merchant Hotel provides 5-star luxury accommodation in the heart of Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, along with a stunning restaurant and cocktail bar, jazz bar, spa and rooftop gym. The grandeur of the original Grade A listed building is complemented by an elegant Art Deco inspired wing with a multitude of exciting amenities. Due to its prime location, the Merchant Hotel is a short distance from a host of restaurants and attractions including Victoria Square Shopping Centre, the Ulster Museum, City Hall and the Titanic Quarter. To book call +44 (0) 28 9023 4888. Offer available until 16 October. Subject to availability.

County Antrim

One-night B&B, Bushmills Inn Hotel (4*) from £160 per room per night based on 2 people

Situated in an enviable location, The Bushmills Inn is a stone’s throw from The Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Royal Portrush and many of the Game of Thrones® filming locations. It is a perfect gateway for exploring the world-famous Causeway Coast. Originally a Coaching Inn in the 1600s for saddle sore travellers, the Hotel is steeped in history with a myriad of places to explore. From inglenook turf fires to hayloft snugs, there’s something to find behind every door. B&B per room per night based on 2 persons. To book call +44 (0) 28 2073 3000. Offer available until 16 October. Subject to availability.

County Armagh

One-night B&B, Seagoe Hotel (4*) from £99 per room per night based on 2 people, Friday – Sunday

Seagoe Hotel is a stylish and contemporary 4-star hotel right in the heart of County Armagh. You’ll find great activities for the whole family right on their doorstep – from a Blossom to Bottle tour with the Armagh Cider Company, water sports at Craigavon Lakes or enjoying the natural beauty of Oxford Island and Lough Neagh. Also, don’t miss the Armagh Food and Cider weekend taking place from Thursday 24th to Sunday 27th September 2020. Seagoe Hotel in Portadown also offers casual dining in beautiful, comfortable surroundings. You’ll find a range of locally sourced and freshly prepared dishes to suit your needs, whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat at lunch, afternoon tea with friends or a delicious four course dinner. To book call +44 (0) 28 3833 3076. Offer available until December. Subject to availability.

Are you back in business? Then let us know! Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is encouraging businesses to get involved in a ‘Back in Business’ campaign, aimed at helping local retailers and town centres bounce back from Covid-19.

Funded by the Department for Communities (DfC) and Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAREA) through their Town Centre Recovery Revitalisation Programme, a considerable proportion of an initial £255k allocation will be used to help retail and town centres recover from Covid-19. 

Businesses registering as part of the scheme will be able to participate in various initiatives to promote the Borough and encourage people to shop local. To take part, local businesses need to register online. All registered businesses will receive a supply of merchandise as well as the opportunity to get involved in case studies and editorials to give them an extra publicity boost. There will also be a range of Back in Business ‘Roadshows’ across the Borough later in the year which registered businesses can get involved in.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Jim Montgomery said, “The ‘Back in Business’ campaign focuses on promoting our local businesses by driving footfall to our town centres. The Council will be carrying out a range of marketing activity in the coming months to promote town centres via social media, outdoor media as well as radio campaigns. All activity will focus on directing the public to our website, so it is important for businesses to register to ensure they are listed. Whether you are a butchers, florists, hair dressers or corner shop, I would encourage all local businesses to get involved and help the local economy get back on track.”  

For more information or to register your business visit www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/backinbusiness  

The ancient Cathedral City of Armagh is undoubtedly one of the most visually stunning and historically intriguing locations on the island of Ireland.

From pre-historic landscapes to an unmatched Georgian architecture, modern day Armagh is built against a rich backdrop of antiquity, clearly visible through its iconic buildings and beautiful open spaces.

One of the best ways to discover the delights of the city, and become immersed in its culture, past and present, is through an official guided walking tour.

Under the guidance of experienced tour guide, Donna Fox you will walk through Armagh’s vibrant and varied history as you hear stories and anecdotes about the area, learn about the city’s renowned Georgian architecture and take a leisurely stroll along the distinct cobbled streets as you uncover some of the city’s hidden gems along the way

Guided walking tours operate Thursday – Sunday at 2pm until 13 September. The meeting point is the Celtic Cross on Market Street adjacent to the Marketplace Theatre. Each tour will last approx. 75 minutes, with the tour all outdoors.

Sensible footwear and clothing is recommended and please note some uneven or narrow streets will be part of the tour. 

Armagh Guided Walking Tours cost £5.00 per person, with under 10’s free. Tickets must be booked online. For more information or to book your tour, visit: https://visitarmagh.com/reopening-summer-20/tours-of-armagh-city-2/

WITH the third series of ‘Derry Girls’ hitting our TV screens later than originally planned, fans can still get a piece of the action with special experiences from the Everglades Hotel.

There’s the chance to dine like a Derry Girl with an Afternoon Tea complete with themed goodies including the famous cream horn and enjoy a Derry Girls summer staycation with a guided tour giving you the chance to walk in the footsteps of a true Derry Girl around the city’s walls and Bogside and visit some of the filming locations. Guests will also have the chance to get a photo taken with the Everglades famous resident, Michelle the Derry Girls duck!

Neil Devlin, General Manager of the Everglades Hotel said: “Michelle, Erin, Clare and Orla have won the hearts of people around the world and we are delighted to celebrate the success of Derry Girls with our hugely popular themed Afternoon Tea and staycation experience – it’s a must for all fans!”

DERRY GIRLS AFTERNOON TEA – £30pp. Inspired by the show, the menu features the cream horn shared by Grand Joe and his floosy, a cone of chips in homage to the Chippy fiasco, the famous Derry sausage roll baps, a classic Tayto Cheese & Onion sarnie and a host of local tray bakes that would make Ma Mary proud.

BE A DERRY GIRL from only £80pps. With luxurious overnight accommodation and breakfast the following morning, themed Derry Girls Afternoon Tea with cocktail and your very own Michelle, the Derry Girls duck to take home with you. 

DERRY GIRLS TOUR PACKAGE from only £95pps. Enjoy luxurious overnight accommodation and breakfast the following morning, guided Derry Girls Walking Tour, themed Derry Girls Afternoon Tea with cocktail and your very own Michelle, the Derry Girls duck to take home with you. This package is available on Fridays and Saturdays only and the tour takes place at 3pm every Saturday with Martin McCrossan City Tours.

“The walls are nothing short of spectacular” says Erin in Season 1 – well go and see for yourself with the Derry Girls Tour. Get your photo taken at Free Derry Corner and Dennis’ wee shop whilst hearing about life in the Bogside during the troubles from an expert local guide. See the Guildhall, where President Clinton was welcomed to in the early 90s as portrayed in season two and walls. You’ll also have the chance to take a selfie at the famous Derry Girls Mural.

For further information go to www.hastingshotels.com/evergladeshotelor call 028 7132 1066.

Northern Ireland’s biggest celebration of cultural diversity, the Belfast Mela goes virtual for 2020 with a week-long series of more than 50 free events planned from Monday 24^th August to Sunday 30^th August at www.belfastmela.org.uk

Highlights of this year’s Mela at Home, sponsored by Sensata Technologies, include a wonderful line up of music, dance, food, art, theatre, discussion and wellbeing from around the world presented by local artists and performers living in Northern Ireland. An engaging and interactive Mela at Home festival map transports visitors to a virtual Botanic Gardens with a range of new exciting events on offer each day including spectacular performances on the World Stage, a variety of cookery demonstrations in the Palm House, relaxation workshops in the World of Wellbeing, plus interactive theatre, animation, storytelling and much more for children.

The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Alderman Frank McCoubrey announced this year’s Mela at Home Festival saying: “The award winning Belfast Mela, launched by the one of the city’s leading cultural groups – ArtsEkta, is now the biggest celebration of cultural diversity in Northern Ireland. I am delighted that ArtsEkta have shown resilience and adapted with a very exciting virtual edition of the festival – Mela at Home.

“It has never been more important that we find strength in our diversity and be proud of all communities who make up the unique fabric of Belfast. Belfast City Council is delighted to have recently supported Mela as one of the city’s four signature events through its ‘Imagine’ funding scheme. With significant investment over the next four years, festivals and events are a cornerstone of our new 10 year cultural strategy – A City Imagining. This funding will be used to help support the growth and development of the Mela in the long term and we look forward to seeing how ArtsEkta continues to create innovative opportunities for cultural engagement in our city.”

Nisha Tandon, OBE, Founder of Belfast Mela and Director of ArtsEkta said: “We really hope our virtual festival brings people some joy, positivity and hope in these very strange times. Recent events have also created momentum in communities in every corner of the globe with equality and rights firmly under the spotlight. Our vision is a society that respects different cultures and communities in Northern Ireland. We will continue to play our part in challenging racism and prejudice by using arts and creativity to help us all embrace our differences and celebrate our similarities.

“We encourage you to log onto our new website www.belfastmela.org.uk to pick your favourite events, many of which are interactive and created with every member of the family in mind. And of course, we’d love you to support the festival by purchasing a limited edition Mela Culture Box to create your very own pop up Mini Mela at home.”

Martin McDonald , Chair of Community Relations Council (CRC) says: “The Belfast Mela is one of the brightest and best festivals the city enjoys and offers a glimpse of the forward-looking intercultural and diverse place Belfast is becoming. CRC is proud to have funded this event over the years through our CR/CD Small Grants Scheme and supported it to develop into one of the largest celebrations of cultural diversity on the island of Ireland.”

Roisin McDonough, CEO, Arts Council NI says: “As one of ArtsEkta’s long-term principal funders, through our National Lottery and Exchequer funds, the Arts Council welcomes the creative approach that the festival team has taken to this year’s Mela. We hope this year’s virtual Belfast Mela leaves you feeling uplifted, enriched, inspired and entertained in those very special ways only the arts can do.”

Adriana Morvaiova of Sensata Technologies, principal sponsor of Mela at Home says: “We are delighted to be part of this amazing cultural celebration and strengthen our partnership with ArtsEkta. At the virtual Mela, we will have a great range of STEM activities to encourage children to explore and foster passion about Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.”

Mela at Home starts on Monday 24^th August at www.belfastmela.org.uk and runs until Sunday 30^th August with a variety of events lined up each day. All events are free of charge. Follow all the fun on ArtsEkta’s social media: Facebook – facebook.com/artsekta1 and  Instagram and Twitter @artsekta

The full Belfast Mela at Home programme is available to view online via this link: https://issuu.com/artsekta/docs/mela_festival_programme_2020_vf?fr=sYmE0NjE3NTIwNjI

Mela at Home is supported by the following organisations: Funders: The Executive Office; Belfast City Council; Arts Council for NI; Community Relations Council. Title Sponsor: Sensata Technologies. Media Partners: UTV and U105. Digital Partner: Flint Studios. Friends: Department of Finance, Department of Justice, NICS HR, Equality Commission Encirc and Phoenix Gas.

Ferry travel to Britain with car and accommodation from £565 per family of four

If you thought holidays this year were cancelled think again as leading Ferry Company Stena Line is offering families across Northern Ireland a memorable car-cation to Britain this Summer.

Holidaymakers are invited to experience the best of Britain’s landscapes, history and heritage when they travel via Cairnryan or Liverpool by car from Belfast. Check out Stena Line’s holiday deals here.

• Alton Towers / Theme Park Break from £565 per family of 4 (+ entry tickets)
  
  Enjoy all the fun of the fair at the largest theme park in the UK, Alton Towers spans 910 acres of
  
  central Staffordshire with a great selection of attractions for all the family.
  
  Price includes return ferry travel with car and 2 nights 4* hotel bed and breakfast at the Hilton St Georges Park, Burton-upon-Trent.  This modern hotel features an indoor pool and spa and is 35 mins drive from Alton Towers, 30 mins from Drayton Manor Theme Park, 45 mins from Bear Grylls Adventure & 1 hour from Cadbury World.
• LEGOLAND® Windsor / Theme Park break from £580 per family of 4 (+ entry tickets)
  
  Take in the 55 rides and attractions where children can fly through the treetops to escape fearsome
  
  dragons or ride the thrilling rapids. LEGOLAND® Windsor is ideal for children between the ages of 3 to 12.
  
  Price includes return ferry travel with car, 2 nights 4* hotel accommodation and breakfast at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Gerrards Cross.  The hotel is 30 mins drive from LEGOLAND® Windsor, 25 mins from Warner Brothers Studio Tour London, 40 mins from Whipsnade Zoo and 30 mins by train to Central London.
   
• Scottish Borders family break in Peebles from £595 per family of 4
  
  This modern hotel is located near Glentress Forest for mountain biking and hiking and Go Ape Treetop Adventure. Walk along the Tweed Valley railway path or just enjoy this beautiful part of Scotland.
  
  Price includes return ferry travel with car, 2 nights 4* hotel accommodation at the MacDonald Cardrona Hotel, Golf & Spa Hotel with breakfast. The hotel is 15 mins drive from Glentress Forest, 5 mins from Go Ape and 1 hour to Edinburgh.
   
• Ayrshire self-catering apartments from £709 per family of 4
  
  Relax in these apartments in the small seaside village of Turnberry, just 45 minutes’ drive from
  
  Cairnryan. Enjoy the sandy beach nearby and historic Culzean Castle a short drive away.
  
  Price includes return ferry travel with car, 2 nights 4* self-catering accommodation in a 2-bedroom apartment at the fully equipped Turnberry Apartments.
• English Seaside break in Blackpool from £735 per family of 4
  
  All the fun of a traditional seaside holiday in Blackpool with great beaches, three fabulous piers,
  
  theme park rides and one of the longest promenades in the UK to walk along.
  
  Price includes return ferry travel with car, 2 nights 4* hotel accommodation at the Big Blue Hotel, including breakfast. The hotel is located on South Shore right beside the Pleasure Beach.
• Scottish Highlands half-board break in Aviemore from £869 per family of 4
   
  Enjoy the great outdoors in Aviemore with the Cairngorm National Park and Cairngorm Mountain or enjoy numerous activities at nearby Rothiemurchus Estate.
  
  Price includes return ferry travel with car, 2 nights 4* hotel accommodation at the MacDonald Aviemore Hotel plus full Scottish breakfast and dinner for 2 adults and 2 children under 10.  Children 11+ pay for dinner as taken.
  
  All breaks are based on 2 adults + 2 children (under 16) including return ferry travel with your car from Belfast to Liverpool or Cairnryan and sharing a family room (or 2 bedroom apartment), subject to availability. You can extend your ferry ticket for free (when confirmed at the time of booking and subject to any difference in fare) and breaks of any duration are possible.
  
  Stena Line is the Irish Sea’s leading ferry company with an unrivalled choice of routes and sailings. Stena Line offer great onboard facilities such as free movies, free wifi, amazing value onboard shopping, luxury Stena Plus lounge, ensuite cabins, children’s play areas, and a choice of places to dine.
  
  If you’re thinking of a break to Britain this summer or over the October half-term break, book now and bag yourself a real bargain at  www.stenaline.co.uk/famholsgb

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Art Centres and Museums will remain closed until January 2021.

The decision was taken at a Council meeting on Tuesday 4^th August 2020.

The affected facilities are Flowerfield Arts Centre in Portstewart, Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre in Limavady (incorporating Limavady Museum), Ballymoney Museum (in Ballymoney Town Hall), Coleraine Museum (temporary exhibition space in Coleraine Town Hall) along with Ballycastle Museum and Green Lane Museum in Roe Valley Country Park which normally open seasonally.

They were initially closed back in March in response to the coronavirus pandemic, and since then staff have focussed their efforts on providing arts and museum services online.

This successful switch, which saw them deliver a broad range of activities and resources including virtual exhibitions, distance based learning, live streamed music events, access to collections and heritage trails, will now continue for the remainder of the year.

You can still connect with the Art’s Centres online programmes including exhibitions, their Northern Lights virtual music, readings and spoken word programme along with limited workshops. The team is also planning a new range of outdoor creative events including plein air painting and drawing sessions for adults as well as parent and child photography workshops at some of our most scenic locations.

Staff are grateful to everyone who has supported their online activities over the past number of months, especially all participants and contributors, and they look forward to warmly welcoming everyone back when they re-open again.

The Arts Centres would also like to thank their many loyal venue hire clients and ask for their continued patience and understanding at this time.

For now, you can keep up to date with the latest news and announcements from the Arts team by going to www.flowerfield.org and www.roevalleyarts.com and following their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages. You can also email info@flowerfield.org or information@rvacc.co.uk

Museum Services will continue with its online archive project, ‘Dear Diary Life in the Age of COVID-19’, and the team is thankful to those people who have already donated their photographs, videos, poems and drawings which will tell the story of this time in years to come.

For more information on the Museums Service’s digital programmes visit www.niarchive.org where you will discover an abundance of virtual trails, resources, exhibitions and significant collection objects and submissions to its ‘Dear Diary’ project so far.

For those who don’t have digital access, Museum Services are continuing to make their History Book Bags available, which are full of fascinating local heritage publications and activities. You can also catch the latest photos from our archives in the Coleraine Chronicle’s ‘Down Memory Lane’ section. 

For more information or to make a contribution to ‘Dear Diary’ please email cms@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk or follow the Museums Facebook pages.