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.

Culture Night Belfast is set to go ahead with an online celebration of the arts that will include a rich mix of music, film, performance and much more on September 18.

Following an announcement in May that there would be no return this year to having the city streets packed with performers and the public due to concerns around Covid 19, the team behind Culture Night Belfast is determined to show resilience in the sector, despite the trying times.

Susan Picken, Director of Cathedral Quarter Trust, the charity behind Culture Night Belfast, promised that the 2020 programme will see a spectacular online display with the launch of CNB TV.

“Although this year’s programme will not be happening live on Culture Night we will be broadcasting over six hours of core programming free across a number of channels online.

“As every year this year’s core programming will promote arts and culture, diversity, inclusivity and accessibility for all.

“CNB TV will broadcast cultural diversity across a range of art forms including music, film, visual arts and arts for young people.”

Susan said everyone involved is determined to show that they are ready to rise to the challenge.

“The arts sector has been really badly impacted by this pandemic, but I think on the whole it has shown how determined people are to keep going,” she explained. “Resilience is a bit of the theme this year, almost like defiance when we are up against it.

“People have plugged away for years, and they’re not going to let something they’ve built be destroyed. People are creative and will always find a way to make things happen.”

With funding dramatically cut Susan says the backing of Belfast City Council and the Arts Council NI has been vital to make sure that they can take Culture Night on to the internet.

The full programme is set to be announced shortly, but it promises to be a packed series of events. Both the Oh Yeah Centre and the Black Box will be curating their own online events, Stephen Beggs is set to provide some children’s cabaret and the Graduate Show, delivered virtually by The Mac will once again provide a platform for students from Ulster University.

Whilst it will be a massive shift this year, requiring a lot of effort, Susan is determined that the core principles will remain.

“To me Culture Night is about celebrating the city and celebrating creativity in the city,” she said. “I love when you walk round the corner and there’s some weird performance or there’s something projected on a wall. It’s those types of things that I’d love to continue to bring forward to the future, but the online event will retain that at its core.”

With uncertainty remaining over when performances can return to venues and the streets of Belfast Susan hopes that they can deliver something in 2021.

“We’re still hoping to do something next September but it depends on a lot of things.

“Ultimately I’d like it to be an event where the creativity all comes together and shows the city at its best.”

Artists can still apply to get involved to share their ideas.

“Although our core programme is now complete we’ll still be able to give other artists and creators a platform to promote their work in the run up and over the Culture Night weekend.

“We’ll be launching a call for submissions for our online listings and promotional activity in the coming week and we look forward to doing whatever we can to support the wider arts sector during this turbulent time.

“We want to use this as an opportunity for people to fundraise for arts and culture. Maybe people won’t be out buying pints but hopefully they’ll donate what they would have spent to Culture Night and the artists and creators entertaining them.”For more information go to culturenightbelfast.com or follow #CNB20.

Burger Burger is back with a bang as diners return for its unique laidback dining experience, and its renowned delicious food choices and premium retro cocktails.

The £20,000 post lockdown cash injection comes just months after an initial investment of £60,000 which saw the company create seven new jobs in February this year.

With a menu already packed with multiple choices of burgers Burger Burger now offers the option of American whiskey infused meat.

Newly appointed general manager, James McErlean, said that the company was quick to adapt to changing eating trends in the wake of the Covid-19 lockdown, and have put in place government advice on social distancing.

“Our aim is to make our guests feel relaxed, safe and in a great environment where they can really enjoy themselves,” he said. “As a business we are taking this new world seriously and are approaching it with a positive attitude and staff that are there to make every single customer feel at ease.”

The menu on offer promises a feast of delicious options.

“We are delighted to be taking part in the Eat Out To Help Out,” James explained. From Monday to Wednesday get 50% off their food bill up to the value of £10 per person.”

“Our lunchtime deal now operates from 12-5pm with a £7.50 deal with a limited menu, but if you want something from the evening menu, we can make that happen.”

“After 5pm the burger boutique kicks in. The lights go down and the vibe of the restaurant really kicks in with candles and a fully set table.”

All Burger Burger meals are homemade and locally sourced, but James promises that every diner will have the best of choices.

“Customers can choose from one of our new burger meats, original or American whiskey infused,” he said “And let me tell you it really is a mouth-watering experience.”

Like so many others in the hospitality industry Burger Burger have shown great resilience coping with extended lockdown and new safety measures.

But James is confident their investment of £20,000 in the restaurant over the last eight weeks will see them back on top again.

“We have adapted, but so has the rest of Northern Ireland” said James, adding: “We love our customers and we were so eager to get them back in to feed them.”

For the new Burger Burger menu go to https://www.burgerburgerbelfast.com/menu  and to book a table visit https://www.opentable.co.uk/r/burger-burger-belfast

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.

Most people think about clothes in terms of style and design, but few really think about the actual fabrics that they wear and how it feels against the skin.

That, sadly, is not the case for children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and autism, however. 

Meta Auden, founder of Spectra Sensory Clothing explained: “While some children will appreciate the tactile stimulation that some clothing will offer them, others will find that their clothing creates an unpleasant tactile sensation.

“Many children will appreciate a sensory-preoccupying layer of clothing that acts as protection against the outside world, other children with SPD and autism will find clothing stiff, itchy and, at times, almost unbearable.

“It’s not just about the materials used in their clothing, either, children can also be affected by the way in which an item of clothing fits their body.”

According to Meta, who is currently working with her customers to provide a range of sensory clothing for school uniforms, an unpleasant, tactile sensation can also be made even worse by accessories attached to the clothing, such as metal attachments and seams, which can cause a child to itch and scratch. 

She added: “The situation can be made even worse if a child is not very communicative and is unable to articulate their discomfort, so it goes without saying that finding the right type of sensory-friendly clothing can be an absolute lifesaver for a child.”

Sensory clothing

Sensory friendly clothing is clothing that is specifically designed for children with sensory issues. In general, it tends to be tagless, seamless and has accessories or fastenings that are much more pleasant against a child’s skin. A child, for example, who doesn’t like to feel the seam of their socks against their ankles will enjoy the benefits that seamless socks can provide. 

Meta said: “The ‘bottom layer’ of clothing is obviously the most important aspect of sensory clothing since it is the layer that is in direct contact with the skin. The right underwear, for example, can make the difference between a day of fun and a day of discomfort and irritation for a child.

“When it comes to the ‘middle layer’ – items such as shirts and trousers – it’s vitally important for a child to avoid materials that will irritate their skin. If the weather is fine, then loose, baggy shorts are a great idea, while loose-necked T-shirts are preferable to buttoned-up or ‘tight-necked’ items, such as polo neck jumpers or fitted shirts.

“Lightweight compression materials such as cotton are the best option for these items, with stretchy cotton a particularly good choice, since it enables easy, irritation-free movement.

“The’ top layer’ is the one which can feature heavier compression materials since these can be easily put on and taken off as required, and providing easy access for a child.”

How it can improve your child’s quality of life

Meta, whose daughter Kirsty is Autistic said: “Parents of a child with SPD and autism, will be only too aware of the problems that their child may be experiencing with their clothing. From refusing to wear certain items of clothing, to being visibly and audibly distressed while wearing others, the wrong type of clothing can be upsetting for both parent and child.

“Sensory clothing is one vitally important way in which you can help to alleviate your child’s distress and discomfort. Research has shown that sensory-friendly clothing can decrease a child’s stress levels, primarily since it greatly reduces – or removes completely – the irritation that ‘ordinary’ clothing can cause to their skin.”

Meta added that compression clothing can act as a type of weighted blanket for your child since it helps to make them grounded and to reconnect with the world around them.

“Children with SPD and autism have enough to deal with on a daily basis without having to cope with the discomfort and distress caused by their clothing. By opting for sensory clothing, you can help to remove the aggravation caused by your child’s clothing and enable them to feel comfortable both in their clothing – and in their own skin” said Meta.

Find out more about Spectra Sensory’s general clothing and uniform options at spectrasensoryclothing.co.uk

In recent years Twitter has got a bit of a bad reputation for being a ‘dying’ platform.

Not according to Lana Richardson, Digital Marketing Manager for PropertyPal. PropertyPal were early adopters of social media, and today boast over 200,000 followers across their Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter profiles. 

With over 10 million visitors to their website in 2019, the business has seen 6% growth month on month in their social following.

Lana shared her top tips on how to maximise Twitter at a Lunchtime Learning session facilitated by the Cathedral Quarter BID (Business Improvement District).

She said: “Facebook and Instagram are image-heavy platforms. Twitter encourages conversation and discussion, as well as debate and disagreement. It has a different purpose for each person who uses it – some are there for current events, some for sports news, and some to follow celebrities. The character limit forces creativity and Twitter is often where viral moments start.”

You might wonder if your business has any place on Twitter, but according to Lana, the statistics speak for themselves:

• The average Twitter user follows five businesses.
• 77% of Twitter users feel more positive about a brand when their tweet is replied to. 
• 80% of Twitter users have mentioned a brand in a tweet. 
• Companies using Twitter for customer service see a 19% lift in customer satisfaction. 

As the third most popular social media platform in Northern Ireland, Lana says all business owners should consider if Twitter could add value to your business. 

Here are Lana’s top 7 tips:

1. Establish a clear brand and a clear brand voice 

Lana said: “Your brand voice will dictate what you post, how you post it, and when you post. It helps to make your business memorable and creates trust through consistency.”

2. Find some inspiration

Research other company profiles and see what kind of content you enjoy looking at, how can you make this work for your business? 

Lana explained: “Check out other businesses in the same industry as you. Many brands treat Twitter entirely differently so see what others are doing and figure out what works for you.” 

3. What do you post?

Lana advises: “Optimise your bio – it’s the first thing people see on your profile so it should give a brief explanation of who you are and give followers an idea of what to expect. An average tweet has a lifespan of just 18 minutes, so you need to focus on quality over quantity and post engaging content that will grab the attention of your audience.” 

4. Engage in conversation with trending topics

Twitter gives you an indication of what topics are popular within the trending feed. According to Lana you can use this to your advantage if it fits with your business and your target audience. Don’t try to shoehorn your brand into a trend when it doesn’t fit, but you can be creative.

5. When do you post?

There really is no hard and fast rule of when to post to Twitter. 

Lana said: “Don’t post just for the sake of it – your tweets should have purpose or being engaging in trending topics. Only post when you have something to say. If a tweet doesn’t do well within the first hour, I’ll delete it from our feed and repost it at another time.”

6. Make use of tools to help you

Twitter Analytics and Twitter Advanced Search are free and easy-to-use tools that can give you an insight into how your profile is performing and highlight areas where you could make tweaks and improvements. 

TweetDeck is another free tool that is great for scheduling content. 

“Twitter is much more fast-paced than other social media platforms, so you will want to post some content ‘live’” said Lana, adding: “And make sure you always have quick and easy access to TweetDeck to stop any scheduled posts if they are no longer suitable. For example, if news is released about a celebrity death and you have scheduled a meme that features them, that probably isn’t the best time to post that content.”

7. Have posting guidelines for what your brand does and does not do

With Twitter, you really need to cut the red tape. 

Lana explained: “Things that land and perform well on Twitter are usually more off-the-cuff and timelier in nature, so if you have to wait three days for your boss to approve a post, it just won’t land the same. Having guidelines can help with this as you can work out what you do and do not post, for example is profanity OK? The use of slang? Whatever you do just remember that Twitter is there to increase awareness of your brand, not to generate direct sales. No one likes being sold to on Twitter.”

Check out Lana’s full Lunchtime Learning on the Cathedral Quarter website: https://www.cathedralquarterbelfast.com/whats-on/lunchtime-learning-twitter-for-small-businesses/ 

To see more Lunchtime Learning sessions go to: https://www.cathedralquarterbelfast.com/lunchtime-learning