10 Things to do next week in NI!

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Here are ten exciting things to do 3 – 9 February

 

  1. Love LegenDerry Food Month, Derry~Londonderry, throughout February. This February, the maiden city and its surrounding district will once again celebrate its exceptional culinary heritage with a month-long programme of unique events and experiences. With a backdrop of stunning landscapes, a rich heritage and passionate producers, this food destination offers an immersive experience that celebrates authentic local flavours and the artistry of its chefs and artisans.

 

  1. Amanda Croft Lecture Series: The Face, Ulster Museum, Belfast, 28 January – 8 April. In this series of illustrated talks, explore questions that examine portraits from the collections of the Ulster Museum, Queen’s University, and other national and international galleries. From self-portraits and selfies to the dynamics of double and group portraits, ‘The Face: Catching a Likeness’ lecture series will delve into the diverse approaches to portraiture and its evolving role in art and society. There are 10 lectures in the series, taking place on a Tuesday, over 10 separate dates.

 

  1. Belfast Punk Music Walking Tour, Belfast, 8 February (more dates available). Come explore the story of punk music in Belfast on this walking tour, with a specialist music guide who has loved punk music since the 1970s. Since bands like The Outcasts, Rudi, Stiff Little Fingers, Ruefrex and Victim erupted onto the scene in Belfast back in the late 1970s, Belfast punk has held a special place in music history, near and far.

 

  1. Steinbeck Festival, Limavady, County Londonderry, 7 – 28 February. Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre has partnered with the Steinbeck Festival team to host the seventh annual celebration of John Steinbeck’s enduring legacy and his connection to Limavady. Running from 7–28 February, this vibrant festival offers something for everyone to enjoy across a dynamic programme of music, theatre, talks, art, and storytelling.

 

  1. Montalto House Guided Tour, Ballynahinch, County Down, 5 February. Your visit to Montalto House will begin with a warm welcome while you enjoy tea, coffee and homemade shortbread. Following this, your guided tour will allow you to explore the grandeur of this 18th century Georgian mansion along with its wonderful collection of original art and antiques.

 

  1. Mudfest at WWT Castle Espie, Comber, County Down, 8 – 16 February. Stomp, splash and squelch this February half term. It’s the stuff our super-powered wetlands (and great family adventures) are made of. Make it, mix it, mould it and build with it, sling it, paint it and jump in it. Head to WWT Castle Espie for muddy activities kids of all ages will love.

 

  1. Come & Try Electric Mountain Biking – Bike Mourne, Castlewellan, County Down, 3 February (more dates available). Come & Try Electric Mountain Biking and enjoy the absolute buzz of electric bikes on the stunning Castlewellan MTB Trails… go further, see more & feel awesome – how biking should be. From meeting the team at their Trailside Centre, to receiving an overview and introduction to electric biking, you’ll be provided with all the kit you need, including helmets and accessories, all you have to do is book and go.

 

  1. Mind Of Sound – In The Heart Of The Cave, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 8 February. Immerse yourself in a spiritual sound journey deep within the heart of the show cave. Join in a musical meditative event that will quiet your mind and deeply relax the body, while you recline and breathe in the ambience of the cave. The sound bath in the cave is a powerful and transformative experience allowing you to explore the hidden depths of therapeutic sound.

 

  1. Traditional Irish Baking at Wee Buns Cookery School, Dungannon, County Tyrone, 8 February. Immerse yourself in a morning of traditional Irish baking in this fun, hands-on baking class. Sit back and watch as Mary Anne makes all of the recipes from scratch before you don your aprons and get ready to bake your own lovely soda bread and scones. This class is suitable for all levels of experience and there is always someone on hand to guide and help you.

 

  1. The Ulster Orchestra On Your Doorstep at The Market Place Theatre and Arts Centre, Armagh, County Armagh, 6 February. Settle in for a vibrant and dramatic evening of music inspired by the folk music familiar to, and beloved by, the featured composers – you might even spot a local favourite. The Ulster Orchestra welcomes Rolf Verbeek to the podium, and the Orchestra’s Cello Section Leader Thomas Isaac performs as featured soloist.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Subject to availabilities with select dates.

Creative Events to Inspire Children at Young Aspects

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After a successful first year in 2024, Young Aspects is back with a weekend of writing and book events for young people and families.

Presented by Aspects Festival and Ards and North Down Borough Council, the programme offers a range of creative children’s events suitable for all ages.

Taking place from 28 February – 2 March, at various locations around Bangor, the diverse programme of reading, writing and art events promises to inspire young imaginations.

The renowned Book Doctors presented by Children’s Books Ireland, will be holding free ‘Book Clinics’ at Bangor Carnegie Library on Saturday 1 March. Come and see the Doctor with a difference! The Doctors will give each patient a unique ‘consultation’ and a personal prescription, recommending books based on the patient’s particular interests!

Local writer Tessa Ann from the Sound Healing Spa will bring her Sound Bath experience to Bangor Castle, alongside readings from her book, Magical Sounds with Echo Ta Ta and Friends for a delightful family event.

Young Aspects also features the ever-popular Woodland Chew and Yarn, a Digital Art Workshop, Book Binding, Writing Workshops, a Cosy Bedtime Story event and more! All perfect for your little readers, writers and artists.

Speaking about the programme, The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart said: “This year’s Young Aspects programme offers wonderful opportunities for children to explore literature and unleash their creativity. With a fantastic lineup of events, I would encourage everyone to book tickets and join in the fun.”

Aspects Festival Director, Patricia Hamilton said: “‘Aspects Festival is delighted to offer this collection of workshops and events which have stories and writing at their core but presented outside the classroom through different mediums and for all ages.”

Young Aspects will run from 28 February – 2 March at various locations around Bangor. Tickets are on sale now.

To view the full programme and to book tickets, visit: https://aspectsfestival.com/whats-on

VINCENT’S ENCOURAGES SHOPPERS TO SHARE THE LOVE SUSTAINABLY THIS SPRING

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The public is being encouraged to ‘Share the Love’ sustainably at Vincent’s this spring. The initiative is being launched across its 28 shops in Northern Ireland which are a vital community resource, offering affordable new and pre-loved clothing, giftware, household items, toys and accessories while supporting The Society of St Vincent de Paul.

‘Share the Love’ at Vincent’s encourages people to donate clean, wearable and undamaged garments and items, meaning shoppers can be assured that they can continue to purchase quality items that they have come to expect and love from their local Vincent’s.

Mary Waide, SVP Regional President, and Anne McLarnon, SVP Northern Region Retail Committee Chair, launch Vincent’s Share the Love campaign. www.svp.ie

Anne McLarnon, SVP board member and Chair of the Northern Region Retail Committee, said: “We are launching our ‘Share the Love’ campaign during the month of love as we believe that we have a responsibility to those who love donating to our shops and our shoppers who love treating themselves in our Vincent’s shops.”

Vincent’s is committed to fostering a sustainable environment and local shops are incredibly grateful for the generosity of those who ‘Share the Love’ by donating items that they once loved. The support of donors and shoppers ensures that Vincent’s can continue to be relevant and serve local communities while promoting recycling and reducing waste.

Anne added: “Our staff and volunteers love receiving pre-loved items but we would appeal to anyone considering their donations to take a moment before filling their ‘charity shop donation bag’ to respect the time and effort of our dedicated volunteers and staff involved in sorting unwanted items, by donating only those items which they used to love themselves and which are clean, in good, reusable condition, and safe for use. We love receiving quality items that we know will be loved by their new owner.

“Unfortunately, we are unable to accept items that are unwearable or broken. Additionally, for safety reasons, we cannot accept electrical goods or personal safety items such as car seats and helmets. When people dispose of unsuitable items places an unnecessary financial burden on our charity – resources that could otherwise go toward helping those who need our help the most.

“By donating responsibly, the public is helping us to continue our vital work while sending a powerful message of care – for us, our volunteers and staff, the local community and the environment.”

Vincent’s shops are open for donations on various days. As opening times may vary from store to store, donors are requested to check in advance when donations are accepted at their local Vincent’s shop either by phone, visiting the SVP website or by calling in and speaking to Vincent’s staff.

To locate your local Vincent’s shop, visit www.svp.ie.

 

DISCOVER ARMAGH, BANBRIDGE AND CRAIGAVON: THE ULTIMATE BUCKET LIST FOR CULTURE, ADVENTURE AND FAMILY FUN IN 2025

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Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council area is set to captivate visitors in 2025 with a kaleidoscope of events, experiences, and attractions.

Rich in history and creativity – from the rolling orchards of Armagh to the ceremonial centre of Navan Fort and the Game of Thrones Studio Tour – this region offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.

Winter Solstice Mindfulness Morning at Navan Centre and Fort.
An Ancient Celtic Ritual, people welcome the arrival of the new light, recover, and look forward to new beginnings.
People form a circle at the fort.
Photo by Philip Magowan

With budget-friendly options and activities for all ages, this area punches far above its weight. Check out 10 of the most exciting activities to look forward to across Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon this year:

Celebrate at the Home of St. Patrick’s Festival

This March, join the Home of St. Patrick’s Festival (March 9–17). From concerts to masterclasses, tours to traditional music, this celebration honours the legacy of Ireland’s patron saint, who established his first church in the heart of Armagh.

Stargaze at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium

Ireland’s premier gateway to the stars. Explore the wonders of the cosmos through interactive exhibits and captivating planetarium shows. A perfect activity for all ages, it’s an educational and inspiring way to kickstart your year.

“Hilary Heron: A Retrospective” at the F.E. McWilliam Gallery

This exhibition celebrates the pioneering work of modernist sculptor Hilary Heron (1923 – 1977) and travels to the F.E. McWilliam Gallery, Banbridge after a successful run at the Irish Museum of Modern Art. Visitors can explore Heron’s bold themes of gender, relationships, and history through her innovative sculptures, open until February 15th.

Immerse in history at Navan Centre & Fort

Dive into ancient Celtic heritage at the Navan Centre & Fort, one of Ireland’s most significant archaeological sites. Don’t miss the Imbolc Evening Celebration (February 1), an evening of storytelling, mindfulness, and fire ceremonies welcoming spring or celebrate Valentine’s Day with a twist at the Viking-Themed Murder Mystery night.

Lord Mayor, Councillor Sarah Duffy, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, said, “2024 has set the stage for an even more exciting 2025. Our staple festivals, like the Armagh Food and Cider Festival and the Georgian Festival, once again shone a spotlight on the best of what we have to offer. This year, we are building on that momentum with the launch of our brand-new experiences programme in the spring. From Ireland’s only Observatory and Planetarium to the rich history of St. Patrick and our magnificent cathedrals, as well as guided walking tours and so much more, there’s never been a better time to explore and fall in love with our region. We’re proud to share this amazing place with visitors and can’t wait to welcome more to enjoy its unique culture, rich history, and exciting experiences.”

Ireland’s oldest County Museum

Dive into history at the Armagh County Museum, Ireland’s oldest county museum. With engaging exhibits spanning art, wildlife, and social history, there’s something to capture every visitor’s interest.

Marvel at the Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre

Immerse yourself in exhibitions like Joanne Fitzpatrick’s “Vibrant Echoes” (March–May) or explore 25 years of artistic excellence with The Arts Council NI Collection (March-May).

St Patrick’s Cathedrals

Armagh’s iconic twin cathedrals—St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral—remain a key part of the city’s charm. Standing on opposite hills, they honour Ireland’s patron saint and offer stunning views and beautiful interiors for visitors to enjoy. New for 2025, visitors can delve into the rich history of St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral through its newly refurbished Cathedral museum. Guided tours will offer fresh insights into the cathedral’s storied history and stunning architecture. Stay tuned for more updates this year….

Angels and Gargoyles Trail

Explore Armagh City’s charming Angels and Gargoyles trail, a free, family-friendly adventure. Spot 22 tiny bronze sculptures hidden among the city’s historic streets and buildings. These shy gargoyles and invisible angels reveal themselves only to curious eyes—perfect for a fun day out.

Game of Thrones Studio Tour

Just a short trip from Armagh, the Game of Thrones Studio Tour at Linen Mill Studios is a must-visit for fans of the iconic series. Marvel at intricate costumes, jaw-dropping special effects, and feast on themed treats like chocolate-crunch dragon eggs.

Step back in time at Armagh Robinson Library

Discover a hidden treasure on Abbey Street. The Armagh Robinson Library is a bibliophile’s dream, offering a serene space filled with ancient tomes, rare manuscripts, and fascinating maps. Among its priceless treasures is a first edition of Gulliver’s Travels, published by Benjamin Motte on 28 October 1726. This copy features amendments in Jonathan Swift’s own handwriting, making it a rare piece of literary history.

For more details and bookings, visit VisitArmagh.com.

Celebrating Belfast’s Literary Power At 4 Corners Festival

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Author Glenn Patterson leans against the backdrop of a quote from his debut novel, ‘Fat Lad’, which has been used to decorate the window of the former Priceless Shoes premises in Cornmarket, as part of a new Belfast City Council initiative to showcase Belfast’s literary talent in high profile city centre locations.

The power of a city’s words from the streets of home

Belfast’s literary power, legacy and eloquence will be celebrated by the 4 Corners Festival at an event showcasing how all corners of the city fights well above its population’s weight in the arts in general and literature in particular.

On The Literary Streets Of Home will be presented at the Cathy Short Theatre, Jennymount Business Centre on Wednesday 5 February at 7:30pm.

Acclaimed novelist, Glenn Patterson, Director of the Seamus Heaney Centre at Queens University, will read extracts from his books and share with us how home has impacted his writing.

There will also be poets doing the same, opening up different corners of the city and different corners of our hearts.

Co-founder of 4 Corners, Steve Stockman explained that we need not hide the literary strength in the city.

“The power of words can move us, can inspire and can lead to thought and reflection,” he said. “Glenn and the other writers presenting On The Literary Streets Of Home will demonstrate how Belfast is a powerhouse of arts and literature.”

4 Corners Festival has always sought to transform Belfast into a city of deeper connections and shared humanity, with part of the festival acting as a bridge to bring people together, facilitating a celebration of diversity and sparking essential conversations.

Glenn added: “Belfast is not short on festivals these days, but there is nothing to match 4 Corners for getting to the very heart of who we are and what we are at and where this place we all call home might be going next.”

As always, all 4 Corners Festival events are free of charge, though advance booking is required and tickets will be available to book online via the website.

Reflecting on 4 Corners’ outreach and its intention, co-founder Father Magill added: “We want this festival to be a celebration of our home city.

“As ever, it is not an end in itself but seeks to highlight what is already happening in the 4 Corners of our city, and perhaps to initiate further creative conversations on how we might all contribute to making our home an even better place to live.”

4 Corners Festival is supported by The Executive Office’s Central Good Relations Fund, The Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund and Belfast City Council Good Relations Fund, St Anne’s Cathedral Sitout and Linen Quarter BID.

For more information about the festival and to keep up to date with programme updates go to 4cornersfestival.com

Discover NI’s Offers of the Week

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Blackwell House, Scarva, County Down

 

A warm welcome awaits you at this magnificent 5* Country House nestled in the rolling County Down countryside near the historic village of Scarva. This peaceful Country Retreat mixes old school charm with all the luxuries of the modern world. Through all of 2025, enjoy their stay three nights and get the fourth night free offer where you can relax, unwind and to be looked after by their very attentive staff. Super King rooms starting from £245 per night, including breakfast. Offer valid subject to availability. Call them for more information 028 3883 2752.

 

Ten Square Hotel, Belfast

 

Your perfect escape in the heart of Belfast awaits you at Ten Square Hotel. Available for the month of February, enjoy their month of love B&B offer starting from £84.50 per person, including one main course, a glass of bubbly per person, rose petals and chocolates. Use Promocode: LOVE25 when booking and visit www.tensquare.co.uk for more information.

 

Offers are correct at the time of publication and are subject to availability and change without notice. Terms and Conditions apply to each offer and can be viewed on the individual provider’s websites. Tourism NI acts as a promoter of third-party offers and accepts no responsibility for any changes, withdrawals, or inaccuracies made by providers.

 

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 27 January – 2 February

 

  1. Love LegenDerry Food Month, Derry~Londonderry, month of February. This February, the historic city and its surrounding district will once again celebrate its exceptional culinary heritage with a month-long programme of unique events and experiences. With a backdrop of stunning landscapes, a rich heritage, and passionate producers, this food destination offers an immersive experience that celebrates authentic local flavours and the artistry of its chefs and artisans.
  2. Imbolc: An Evening Celebration at Navan Centre and Fort, Armagh, 1 February. This Imbolc, Navan Centre and Fort is holding an evening celebration to mark this time of renewal, light, and hope as we embrace the early stirrings of spring. The evening includes a captivating storytelling session, where the ancient folklore of The Harp of the Dagda comes to life, setting the stage for a night of reflection and connection.
  3. Imbolc – Snowdrop Art Workshop at Navan Centre & Fort, Armagh, 2 February. Celebrate the festival of Imbolc and the first signs of Spring with our Snowdrop Art Workshop. Join them for a creative experience led by Alison Walker Art, as she guides you through the process of painting your own seasonal floral greetings card in watercolour.
  4. Cake Making Class with Wee Buns Cookery School, Dungannon, County Tyrone, 1 February. Take your cake-making and decorating skills to a new level in this practical hands-on cake making class. You will make your own 6″ Coffee and Walnut layer cake and classic buttercream which you will use to fill and ice your cake on top. Whether you are a complete novice at cake making or a regular baker, their team will be on hand to guide and assist you, whatever your level of experience.
  5. Echoes of the Wild – Sound Bath in the Woods at Finnebrogue Woods, Downpatrick, County Down, 29 January. Delivered by sound artist and practitioner Tessa Ann from The Sound Spa, the session combines natural woodland soundscapes with the soothing vibrations of Tibetan singing bowls, crystal singing bowls, gong, drum percussion and voice. This unique experience, set in the Wild Tipi within Finnebrogue Woods, creates an auditory journey that transports you to the heart of the wilderness, providing a peaceful retreat from the stresses of modern life.
  6. Master Craft Chocolate Experience at NearyNógs, Kilkeel, County Down, 29, 31 January and 1 February (more dates available). During your 85-minute tour you will be guided through the chocolate making process from Bean-to-Bar. Bean sorting, gentle Roasting, Breaking and Winnowing, stone-grinding and tempering are all part of making beautiful chocolate. After this you will be taken on a taste journey experience, tasting expertly crafted chocolate from all over the world.
  7. Storytelling Evening with Colin Urwin at The Courthouse Bushmills, Bushmills, County Antrim, 29 January. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the area’s folklore as renowned storyteller Colin Urwin brings legends to life through the lens of Sam Henry. This captivating evening promises stories that will enchant, inspire, and connect you to the heart of their heritage.
  8. W5, Belfast, visit website for open dates and times. Explore eight new zones, packed with over 250 interactive exhibits, that excite and inspire, with exhibits and experiences covering everything from climate change and nature to film and TV production, optical illusions, built engineering, medical science and more.
  9. The Sperrin Sculpture Trail – a Giant Adventure, three locations across the Sperrins – Nowanois: The Storytellers – Glenelly Valley near Cranagh, Darach: The Guardian – Mullaghcarn Mountain, and Ceoldán: The Stargazer – Davagh Forest, County Tyrone, visit website for timing details. Nestled in the heart of Northern Ireland, the Sperrin Mountains offer nature lovers and adventure seekers an unforgettable experience. Deep within this beautiful landscape, lie three gentle and majestic giants. Together, the trio form the Sperrin Sculpture Trail, an art installation created by world acclaimed artist, Thomas Dambo. Visitors will use the stunning walking trails and dramatic driving and cycle routes to travel between the sculptures enabling them to immerse themselves in the cultural heritage of the Sperrins.
  10. Enniskillen Castle, County Fermanagh, visit website for open dates and times. Begin your journey at the gateway to Fermanagh’s heritage, travelling from prehistory to the present day. Your self-guided visit takes in the historic Castle buildings, Watergate and Courtyard. Enjoy Fermanagh County Museum & The Inniskillings Museum, including the oldest rooms in Enniskillen and an inspirational art collection.

 

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Subject to availabilities with select dates.

 

Learn something new every day in Northern Ireland’s immersive classroom

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You’re only one small step from giant educational experiences

 When it comes to hands-on learning with activities that enable young people to think creatively and solve problems without compromising on endless fun, Northern Ireland is one of the best classrooms.

A recent poll of 5,000 families sees parents increasingly seek meaningful educational experiences for their children during holidays, short-trips and days out. Northern Ireland is bursting with giant experiences to ignite the imagination of young minds in fun and entertaining ways.

Interested in history and the natural world? Try stargazing at OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, or view an early edition of one of the world’s greatest fantasy adventure books, Gulliver’s Travel’s at Armagh Robinson Library. 

Experience the place where the Titanic was built and launched or step onboard a real-life warship at HMS Caroline, while a myriad of museums and monuments tell the story of Northern Ireland’s extraordinary history with a unique flair, entrancing visitors young and old.

Ahead of the half-term break, Discover Northern Ireland has put together top activity suggestions to inspire young minds with endless fun and some learning by stealth.

W5, Belfast 

  • W5 is the ultimate family day out with eight exhibition zones and over 250 interactive exhibits covering everything from climate change and nature to optical illusions, built engineering, medical science and much more with limitless fun.  From February 8-16 experience Multiverse Mayhem, a theatre show that features big bangs and crazy chemical concoctions, where you can meet the scientists who are travelling through the multiverse. They have landed at W5 and are here to see if the fundamental scientific theories in this world match those in other dimensions. With only 30 minutes before they are sucked back into the vortex, they must conduct as many out-of-this-world experiments as possible.

National Museums NI

  • National Museums NI looks after four distinct museums in Northern Ireland which serve as custodians to 1.4 million objects in collections spanning art, history and natural sciences. Belfast’s Ulster Museum is home to a range of multidisciplinary natural sciences, art and history collections while the Ulster Folk Museum at Cultra, in County Down, houses heritage buildings and objects allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a bygone way of life. Also at Cultra, The Ulster Transport Museum takes you on a journey with a comprehensive collection of vehicles from trams and railcars to an iconic DeLorean, the model made famous in the Back to the Future movies. In Omagh, County Tyrone, the Ulster American Folk Park tells the story of emigration to America over two centuries, with 30 buildings and exhibits for the kids to explore, and – you can even board a full-size emigrant ship. With 30 buildings and exhibits for you to explore – and loads for the kids to do – the Ulster American Folk Park is a unique experience.

Armagh Planetarium & Observatory, County Armagh

  • There are a number of special astronomical events happening this year and Armagh Observatory and Planetarium (AOP) is ‘The Place for Space’. Watch an amazing Full Dome Theatre show and explore the Universe. Touch Northern Ireland’s largest meteorite, create your own solar system, or black hole, and visit the Astropark children’s trail with augmented reality and sculptures. With daily shows aimed at everyone from pre-schoolers to adults, there’s always something out of this world going on at AOP.

Exploris Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary, Portaferry, County Down

  • Enjoy a diver’s view of marine life from around the world. An underwater glass tunnel lets you experience friendly sharks, a dwarf crocodile, a waddle of penguins at Northern Ireland’s only aquarium and seal rehabilitation centre in Portaferry. The Tropical Ocean zone hosts over 100 species of colourful coral reefs. There is a soft play area, café and afterwards why not take the short car journey or ferry crossing over to Strangford and explore the National Trust’s Castle Ward or Audley’s Castle.

Marble Arch Caves, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

  • Unexplored until little over a century ago, the Marble Arch Caves feature stalactites, cavernous passages, underground pools and streams which have been formed and reformed as the water slowly dissolved the limestone bedrock over countless millennia. First opened to the public 40 years ago, explore the extensive caves on foot, or by boat with one of the popular guided tours and you’ll uncover a mind-boggling number of fascinating facts about geology, geography and archaeology in a cave system dating back over a million years.

Whitehead Railway Museum, Whitehead, County Antrim

  • This fascinating five-gallery museum provides an exciting opportunity to rub shoulders with the giants of steam. You can step onto the footplate of a heritage steam engine and learn how it works, walk through several historic carriages and observe from a viewing gallery as restoration work takes place on locomotives and coaches. The children’s play area enables younger visitors to fire their imaginations by dressing up in Edwardian-style clothes. Keep an eye out on special events for a special ride in one of these fantastic steam engines.

Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Bellaghy, County Londonderry 

  • Treat the writers and poets in your life to a day they will never forget as they explore the Seamus Heaney HomePlace and discover how the Nobel Laureate’s formative years served as a source of inspiration throughout his career. Found between Heaney’s two childhood homes at Mossbawn and The Wood, let Heaney’s distinctive voice guide you through the exhibitions and enjoy the atmospheric video projections and touchscreen displays that sit alongside precious items donated by the Heaney family that transport you to important moments in his life.

Hill of the O’Neill & Ranfurly House, Dungannon, County Tyrone

  • Explore a special place at the very heart of Ulster and home to one of our most important heritage sites. It was from this very hilltop that The O’Neill dynasty ruled for more than 300 years. On a clear day, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the glass observation tower on top of the hill. On your way back down, learn all about the Flight of the Earls and the Plantation of Ulster in the permanent multi-media exhibition at Ranfurly House. This Victorian listed building is also home to an array of art classes including crocheting, felt making and sewing.

To plan your next fun-filled learning experience in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com/familyfun

COUNTING DOWN TO LEGENDERRY FOOD MONTH

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The countdown is on to the third annual Love LegenDerry Food Month, set to launch this February in Derry-Londonderry.

Renowned as Northern Ireland’s culinary capital, the city is ready to showcase its exceptional food and drink scene with a packed calendar of unique events and experiences that celebrate the passion and creativity of local chefs, producers, and artisans.

While the much-anticipated Deadly Dinner at Walled City Brewery has already sold out, there are still plenty of opportunities to indulge your inner foodie. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, artisan cheese, or a one-of-a-kind culinary tour, Love LegenDerry Food Month has something for everyone.

WHAT’S ON THE MENU?

  • Derry By Fork Food Tour (22nd February): Embark on a guided journey through the city’s historic streets, sampling iconic dishes crafted by some of Derry’s finest chefs while uncovering the stories of its rich culinary heritage.
  • Oyster & Stout Festival (7th–8th February): Celebrate the world-famous Lough Foyle Native Oysters paired with a variety of stouts at the Walled City Brewery. Live music and fresh seafood dishes make this a standout event for seafood lovers.
  • Dart Mountain Cheese Experience: Explore the craft of cheesemaking in the scenic Sperrin Mountains. Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour, learn about the art and science behind award-winning cheese, and taste these handmade delicacies paired with local chutneys.
  • Seafood Supper Club (28th February–1st March): Enjoy a five-course seafood extravaganza aboard ‘Big Decky’ overlooking Lough Foyle. Curated by Pyke & Pommes and Moores on the Quay, this menu celebrates the freshest local catch.
  • Wild & Fired Dining at Brook Hall Estate (14th February): Treat your loved one to a romantic wood-fired dining experience in the enchanting setting of a historic walled garden. Featuring a curated menu of locally sourced delicacies, this event is perfect for Valentine’s Day.

Love LegenDerry Food Month is a celebration of the vibrant food culture that makes Derry-Londonderry so special. The city’s chefs, producers, and restaurateurs collaborate to offer a showcase of authentic flavours and innovative dining experiences that reflect the rich heritage and creativity of the region.

Whether you’re a local or visiting from further afield, Love LegenDerry Food Month offers the perfect opportunity to explore the North West’s thriving food scene. From historic tours to gourmet suppers, the event promises to leave you inspired and satisfied.

Visit www.legenderryfood.com/events for the full programme and booking information.

Discover more about where to eat, drink, and stay at www.visitderry.com.

Weaving Connections at the 4 Corners Festival

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The annual 4 Corners Festival is back for another packed lineup of events this year. The festival, which will feature a range of art, music, discussion, sport and faith-inspired events, runs from January 31 to February 9, 2025 in venues across the city. 

Now in its 13th year, the festival was conceived as a way to inspire people from across the city to transform it for the peace and wellbeing of all.

The 2025 4 Corners Festival is once again set to inspire connection, reflection and community through a dynamic lineup of events spanning a wide range of disciplines, such as art, music, discussion, sport and other activities.

Held throughout the city, this year’s programme revolves around the central theme of HOME?, an exploration of the complex and multifaceted idea of a place which holds both connection and disjointedness.

Among the festival’s many highlights are two events that weave together tradition, storytelling, and artistry: Peacemakers and 4 Corners Knitters. These events promise to bring people together from all corners of Belfast, creating opportunities for collaboration and reflection.

Under the dome at 2 Royal Avenue, participants will have the opportunity to contribute to Peacemakers, a week-long, large-scale French knitting project facilitated by Glasgow-based artists Heidi and Peter Gardner.

Visitors can drop in to try their hand at the craft, adding to a growing tapestry of colourful, interconnected threads that reflect the vibrancy and diversity of Belfast’s stories. At the festival’s closing event, the final piece will be stretched out and presented as a symbol of community and shared identity.

This marks the first time the Gardners’ acclaimed Peace Loom has been brought to Northern Ireland. Since its inception in Scotland in 2014, the installation has been hosted in cities across the UK, engaging participants of all ages and backgrounds. Donations of leftover wool are encouraged and can be brought to the installation throughout the week.

Celebrating St Brigid’s Day, the 4 Corners Knitters event at St John’s Newtownbreda invites knitters and crafters of all levels to gather for a morning of creativity and conversation.

Participants will learn the traditional skill of weaving St Brigid’s crosses. As in previous years, knitted items created during the event will be donated to charities supporting asylum seekers and those experiencing homelessness in Belfast.

Speaking about the upcoming festival, Steve Stockman, 4 Corners Festival co-founder, said the focus is rooted in Belfast and its community.

He said: “Home is a powerful metaphor, used by poets, preachers, politicians and others seeking to paint a picture of a sense of belonging to a place. 

“The idea is also used in various encouraging and challenging ways within the Old and New Testament scriptures, but not all homes are happy.

“From the beginning of the 4 Corners Festival we have aimed at encouraging people to get out of the physical corners of this city we call home, and to feel more at home in different parts of their own city; to realise that their home is bigger than they thought.

Fellow festival co-founder Father Martin Magill, hopes the theme of HOME? will bring awareness to the city’s residents, not just shedding light on the encouragement of tourists to the area.

Martin said: “The strapline for Belfast City Council’s current tourism strategy is ‘Make Yourself at Home’, with a laudable emphasis on inclusion. 

“But what about those who already call Belfast their home – be they people whose families have lived here from before it became a city, to those who have settled here from all over the world for all kinds of reasons; those who rarely leave their corner of the city, to those who left it years ago but love to come ‘home’ for special events, including the 4 Corners Festival; those who live in a comfortable home in a vibrant community, to those who are some of the many unseen homeless in our city, not just those who sleep on our streets; those who know every nook and cranny of our city and its complex history, to those who feel uneasy with the direction that the city seems to be heading in the future?”

4 Corners Festival is supported by The Executive Office’s Central Good Relations Fund, The Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund and Belfast City Council Good Relations Fund, St Anne’s Cathedral Sitout and Linen Quarter BID.

For more information about the festival and to keep up to date with programme updates go to 4cornersfestival.com

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