Get a taste of Armagh during European Heritage Open Day this weekend

If you are planning to Visit Armagh this weekend as part of European Heritage Open Day you won’t be disappointed!  Earlier this week I was invited on an exclusive preview of the City and what it has to offer.

My journey from Upperlands to Armagh took just over hour, on a beautiful sunny Monday morning where I was given a very warm welcome by my guide Carol Conlin at my first stop which was the Armagh Robinson Library & No 5.  Step back into the 18th century into this beautiful library is a feast for the eyes and the grey matter with one of their jewels being a first edition of Gullivers Travels by Jonathan Swift. Established in 1771 by Archbishop Robinson, the library is inviting to all ages with a vast collection of the Archbishop’s books numbering around 42,000.

Carol then took me to No 5 Vicar’s Hill, VERY deceiving, as from the outside it appear to be no different from the rest of the houses on Vicar’s Hill, but one inside I was amazed by the octagonal rooms and vaulted ceilings which are home to examples of the Library’s collections, such as Roman and Medieval coins, Neolithic stone tools, Bronze Age weapons, Irish hand bells and eighteenth century fine art.  No 5 will be holding a book sale during this  year’s #EHODNI, Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th September!  The opening hours will be 10.00am – 6.00pm on Saturday, and 2.00pm – 6.00pm on Sunday.

My next stop was the COI St Patrick’s Cathedral where my guide, David Bingham, gave me a whistle stop tour of both the Cathedral and the Crypt, which is well worth a visit. David is a very knowledgeable guide with a clear passion for the history of the Cathedral. Find out more at www.stpatricks-cathedral.org

Just a few minutes walk away is St Patrick’s Catholic Cathedral where I met Joe Ryan who gave me a tour of the Cathedral and as much history as he could impart in the time given including the stories behind the stain glass windows, renovations, architecture, architects and much more. To find out more and how to book a tour of the Cathedral go to www.armagharchdiocese.org/st-patricks-cathedral 

Next stop before lunch was a fun guided walking tour of the City by Sheila Rooney who I met at the Armagh Visitor Information Centre on English Street. Sheila gave me a detailed and animated tour of the city Centre including myths, legends and historical facts.  The tour took in the beautiful Georgian architecture, the Mall, the Cathedrals, and much more. This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to explore more of what the City has to offer.

Lunch was in Uluru – an Australian bar and grill that I have wanted to visit for years having followed them on social media and I was not let down.  I was greeted by Jonathan who is a very cool guy and made sure I was well looked after with the kitchen going out of their way to meet my vegetarian diet. I opted for the Beetroot Salad and the Stuffed Peppers, and dessert was very kindly off menu and a lovely fresh fruit bowl. This is a very comfortable affordable restaurant right in the heart of the city with something to suit everyone’s taste. Find them online at ulurubarandgrill.com 

After being very well fed and watered I got back into my car and drove the short journey to the beautiful village Loughgall where I met the lovely Hilda Winters at Dan Winters Cottage, where the initial idea of forming the Orange Order was hatched.  Orange Memorabilia adorns every wall of every room in the cottage which an historians goldmine.  Hilda very kindly gave me a tour of the cottage and a brief history of her husband’s family before treating me to THE best apple pie I have ever had!  (made with her own Armagh Apples of course!).  The cottage is still in original condition. You can find out more and book online at www.danwinterscottage.com 

Next on the itinerary was the relatively new Sloane’s House Museum. The Museum of Orange Heritage tells the story of the formation of the Orange Order, which was formed after the Battle of the Diamond in 1795.  Experience the early days of the Institution with an exhibition telling its story along with a replica parlour scene giving you a glimpse into that time. Thanks to Mervyn Walker for taking the time to show me around the museum and memorial gardens. Find out  more at www.orangeheritage.co.uk/museum-sloans-house-loughgall

My final stop of the day was the Armagh Cider Company situation between Armagh and Portadown where Danny Silverson gave me a very interesting insight into the business which produces cider and juices from it’s own apples in the orchards where we took a stroll.   He guided me through the harvesting, pressing, bottling and packing processes.  As the ‘Orchard of Ireland’, Armagh is famously known for its ‘Bramley Apple’ – a protected PGI product and as the first commercial craft cider company in Northern Ireland – a visit to Armagh Cider Company is truly a taste of our heritage! Acclaimed artisan producers – Helen and Philip Troughton will take you on an aromatic journey of discovery!  Learn about the history of the orchards surrounding Ballinteggart House and watch the complete cider making process from ‘blossom to bottle’.  Find out more and book your tour at www.armaghcider.com

The Armagh City Hotel provided the perfect place to rest for the night. The Hotel is located on the edge of the City with more than ample parking.  It is a  three-star hotel with every modern convenience. The ultimate in luxury, contemporary decor and spacious layout.  Dinner was a three course meal in the Callan Bar with an excellent vegetarian menu and something to suit everyone.  The hotel boasts 93 en-suite bedrooms, modern Irish cuisine in the Friary Restaurant (not open on Monday evenings) as well as the state of the art health and leisure club. I found the staff to be very friendly and professional, especially in the bar.  My hotel room was very well appointed with it’s own balcony and view of the nearby Franciscan ruins of Armagh Friary. The hotel is only 50 minutes from Belfast and one hour 30 minutes from Dublin. Weekly live entertainment every Friday & Saturday evening. Find out more and book your room online at www.armaghcityhotel.com

After a great night’s rest and a lovely breakfast at the Hotel it was time to meet Kieran McMahon for my guided tour of Navan Centre & Fort, only 2 miles away.  As one of Ireland’s most famous and important archaeological sites, the legendary Emain Macha home of the famous Red Branch Knights and Ulster Cycle of tales is a place were myth and reality meet. The Centre offers visitors a unique appreciation of the history of the area.

Learn about the mystical characters of Navan, such as Cu Chulainn, King Conchobar MacNessa, Queen Mebh and Deirdre of the Sorrows.  The exhibition will help you understand the history of this very important site,  Experience the remaining mounds, ditches and banks of Emain Macha – otherwise known as Navan Fort and learn about the massive circular ritual temple on the guided tour. Annual programme of events is listed on the  website www.navan.com 

If you are lucky enough to visit on a sunny day like me, you will be able to see Slemish and Cavehill Mountain in the distance!

My final stop on my visit to Armagh was The Cardinal Tomás Ó Fiaich Memorial Library and Archive which was established in 1999 and holds nationally and internationally important collections on Irish and Church history, the Irish language and Irish sport as well as the irish overseas atchive relating to migration to continential Europe since the sixteenth century. www.ofiaich.ie.  Roddy Hegarty was my host for this visit which is busy with visits and enquiries from academics and geneologists from all over the world. Walk ins are welcome. Details can be found at www.ofiaich.ie

It is clear that 24 hours is clearly not enough to explore everything Armagh has to offer. In my opinion three days and two nights would be more appropriate to cover everything on my itinerary giving each stop the time it deserves and needs to take everything in.

From historical houses to treasure troves of intriguing artefacts and fascinating connections to people and history, Tourism NI is encouraging people to explore local cultural heritage with the European Heritage Open Days taking place on 8^th and 9^th September.

 

Find out more at discovernorthernireland.com/events/European-Heritage-Open-Days

 

The producers of The Bjorn Identity Abba Tribute show bring you – The Iconettes & The Hitzvilles on Saturday 22 September.

This exciting musical homage pays tribute to the ‘girl groups’ and ‘solo artistes’ of this bygone era. Featuring hits songs from The Ronettes, The Supremes, Martha and The Vandellas, Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross and much more.

After their successful launch in 2015 as a dedicated Motown & Soul Girl Group – The Iconettes, since then, have created a lot of excitement as the only female Motown trio based out of Northern Ireland. Hitting the entertainment scene at a time when Motown is enjoying a welcomed revival bringing their show backed by their superb live band – The Hitzvilles to a theatre near you.

The Iconette’s glamorous styling and musical influences make this show a huge hit for lovers of Motown & Soul of all ages. With stunning, tight vocal harmonies, The Iconettes and their band perform a fun, tightly choreographed show leaving you no choice but to get off your seats and go… ‘Dancing in the Street’.

Expect to be dazzled by their beauty, talent and stunning vocals and let them take you on a magical Motown journey that takes you back to the sound track of your life!

Tickets from Box Office T: 028 9034 0202 or online theatreatthemill.com. Group Discount Available.

@.

Ballycastle Food Tour

Date: 7 Sept

Time: 10am – 2pm

Venue: Departing from Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre

Contact: 077182 76612 info@irishfeast.com

This tour showcases an amazing array of local, artisan, award winning food and drink.  Visiting six unique venues from cafes to delis, from bake houses to pubs over approximately two miles.

 

Shamrock Rose & Thistle Eddie Butcher Traditional Music Festival

Date: 7 & 8 Sept

Time:

Venue: Various venues in Limavady

Contact: 07792 846 699 brianmor47@gmail.com

This year’s festival takes place in venues including the Keady Clachan, the Roe Valley Hospital, the Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre and St. Aidan’s Hall Magilligan. For full details pick up festival programme from any Causeway Coast and Glens Visitor Information Centre.

 

The Causeway Speciality Market

Date: 8 September

Time: 9am – 4pm

Venue: The Diamond, Coleraine

Contact: 028 7034 7034 / e: csm@causewaycoastandglens.gov.k / www.causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Causeway Speciality is supportive of local producers and operate on the second Saturday of each month outside Coleraine Town Hall. All products are either organic or speciality goods. Quality art, crafts and gifts for sale too.

 

Castlerock Walkfest

Date: 8 September

Time:9am – 5pm

Venue: Peter Thompson Hall, Castlerock

Contact: 028 7084 9303 / castlerwalkfest@gmail.com /www.castlerockwalkfest.wordpress.com

Guided walks including hill walks, moderate walks, specific interest walks. Family event around Castlerock and Binevenagh.

 

Defence Heritage in Castlerock

Date: 8 September

Time: 1-4.30pm

Venue: Peter Thompson Hall

Contact: 028 2075 2100 enquiries@ccght.org

Join military historian James O’Neill on a walk from Downhhill to the Barmouth Wildlife Reserve and learn of the impact of war and the marks that remain in this landscape. Booking essential.

 

Giant’s Causeway Sportive

Date: 8 September

Time:

Venue: Seafront, North Street, Ballycastle

Contact: 028 9030 3930 info@cycleni.com www.giantscausewaysportive.com

Unique road cycling event based on the iconic North Coast that offers an unforgettable cycling experience including the magical Glens of Antrim. Event attracting over 1,000 participants.

 

 Causeway Coast Foodie Tours

Date: 8 September

Time: 9.30am

Venue: Coleraine Town Hall

Contact: 07912408256 causewayfoodie@gmail.com

Join a guided culinary tour of the beautiful Causeway Coast to sample some of the areas’ locally produced food and drink. This is a 6 hour bused tour of the region. Cost £60pp. Booking essential.

 

Gathering History, From Bann to Ballykelly

Date: 8 September

Time: 12-4pm

Venue: Peter Thompson Hall, Castlerock

Contact: 028 7775 0238 lps@ccght.org

Bring your memories of the area, we’d love to record them for our shared history. Bring photos or documents and we’ll make copies for the archives.

 

Dragon Boat Challenge

Date: 8 September

Time: 10.30am-2.30pm

Venue: Drumaheglis Marina, 36 Glenstall Road, Ballymoney

Contact: 075 0087 8998 ballymoneyrotary@gmail.com www.ballymoneyrotary.org

Enjoy the spectacle of Dragon Boat racing on the River Bann. A great family day out, with onsite catering BBQ and Bouncy Castle. Support the teams or take part in a team. Entry fee £20 per person (minimum age 15) includes training insurance. Organised by the Rotary Club of Ballymoney.

 

DGS Presents A Never Ending Bond

Date: 13-15 September

Time: 8pm

Venue: Riverside Theatre, Coleraine

Contact: Box Office 028 70 123 123 www.ulster.ac.uk/riverside/whats-on/

This year’s show is a special one for the founder and Artistic Director of DGS Dominic Graham. Now in its 40th year DGS and Dominic will begin a new chapter. A Never Ending Bond will be the end and the beginning of that new chapter. Tickets: £12

 

The Great Landrover North Run

Date: 9 September

Time:

Venue: Commencing at Carrickfergus

Contact: www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Cavalcade commences at Carrickfergus taking the coastal route, going off road at some parts with permission of the Forestry Commission to tour their land before ending in Portrush.

 

Launch of It’s for Rail Pop-Up Clothing Sale

Date: 12 September

Time: 7-9pm

Venue: Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre, Limavady

Contact: Pamela 07740580342 / itsforrail@gmail.com / www.facebook/itsforrail

Come along to the launch of It’s for Rail Pop-Up Clothing Sale on Wednesday 12 September in the Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre. Find clothing items which have never / seldom been worn at great prices.

 

Ultimate Folly, A Talk by Henry MaCrory

Date: 13 September

Time: 7-9pm

Venue: Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre, Limavady

Contact: cms@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk

Author Henry Macrory lifts the lid on some of Britain’s strangest subterranean structures including the ‘gnome caves’ at the home of Beatle George Harrison, and a glass underwater smoming room built at the bottom of a lake by multi-millionaire swindler Whitaker Wright, the subject of Macrory’s new book, Ultimate Folly. The talk will include a look at Wright’s extraordinary life and sensational death.

 

Irish History Starts Here

Date: 28 July – 15 September

Time:  Monday – Saturday 9am – 5pm

Venue: Coleraine Museum, Coleraine Town Hall

Contact: 028 7034 4723

From the earliest known settlement at Mountsandel almost 10,000 years ago, a fascinating Bronze Age village, and a Medieval Abbey kitchen, to the official Plantation, this exhibition reveals the history of the Coleraine area.

 

Adrian Margey Summer Studio Open Weekends

Date: Every Friday – Sunday from 3rd August – 2nd September

Time: 11am – 5.30 (Fri – Sat), Sunday 12noon – 5.30pm

Venue: Adrian Margey Gallery, 99 Mark Street, Portrush

Contact: 07841 593 762 adrianmargey@googlemail.com

Pop-up artist studio and gallery space featuring the work of Adrian Margey and Evana Bjourson open to the public during weekends in Summer.

 

Quiet Places, Nicola Nemec

Date: 8-29 September

Time:

Venue: Flowerfield Arts Centre, Portstewart

Contact: 028 7083 1400

This is Nicola’s first solo exhibition since returning from a Heinrich Boll Association Residency on Achill Island. Conceived over a two year period, ‘Quiet Places’ is her response to an intense time working in this unique place, combined with her continual observation of the shifting climate, light and atmosphere of the North Antrim landscape in which she lives.

 

War Torn Children

Date: 5 Sept – 29 Nov

Time: Monday – Friday 9.30-5pm

Venue: Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre

Contact: 028 777 60650

Exhibition of textiles reflecting the theme of war torn children.  The exhibition features arpilleras, photographs and illustrations highlights the devastating impact of war on children, their families and communities.

 

 

 

Are you aged between 14 to 16 and looking for a new and exciting experience this autumn?

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council in partner

ship with PEACE IV is offering free artistic workshops across the Borough in silver jewellery making, a Fab Lab 3D Art class and an opportunity to learn circus skills.

The workshops will take place in Flowerfield Arts Centre, Portstewart, Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, Limavady, Ballymoney Town Hall and Ballycastle.

The Circus School will be taught by experienced tutors from the renowned Streetwise Community Circus. The silver jewellery workshop will be facilitated by silversmith Diane Lyness and each participant will make their own piece of silver jewellery to take home while the Fab Lab taught by Charlie Smyth will allow students to experiment with 3D design art.

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Councillor Brenda Chivers said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to learn new and creative skills in their free time or during their autumn half-term. Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is grateful to all funders for their vital support.”

Free lunch will be provided and workshops will run with sufficient numbers.

The Council is delivering the programme through its action plan as part of a €4.3m funding award from the European Union’s PEACE IV Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body

The workshops are part of an ongoing programme which will continue until September 2019 alongside Peace IV designated schools throughout the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area including Limavady, Coleraine, Ballycastle and Ballymoney.

Priority will be given to those who have not previously completed a Peace IV Arts programme.

The programme is open to pupils who attend Peace IV designated schools.

Match-funding has been provided by the Executive Office in Northern Ireland and the Department of Rural and Community Development in Ireland.

For a full list of Peace IV participating schools or to register your interest for the autumn or for future programmes, parents/guardians are asked to email bernice.mccloskey@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk  or telephone 028 2076 2225 Monday to Wednesday during office hours.

The Market Place Theatre in Armagh is set to welcome two new visual art exhibitions over the coming weeks.

The first, which will be on show in the venue’s Main Gallery space is entitled ‘Abandoned; Not Forgotten?’, a multidisciplinary installation by visual artist Lise McGreevy, artist and composer Marie Theres Davis, poet Jim Johnston and film-maker Paul Whittaker. Striping away the political agenda, the remit for all four artists for this installation was to promote and embrace both factions of our society, culturally and equally, to create an original body of work, which they best felt answered the question: The culture, heritage and language of our joint Irish and Ulster Scots history – is it abandoned; forgotten? The reply by all four was a resounding no. The exhibition will run from Friday 7 September until Saturday 27 October.

In the venue’s main foyer, artist Frances O’Reilly will exhibit ‘On The Edge Of Green’. Abstract in approach, O’Reilly’s work is informed by place and its potential to arrest the senses. Places linked to her work include Glasgow and Cornwall with her current work connected to the rural landscape where its boundaries, enclosures and filmic vistas have the continuous ability to visually excite and resonate in an elemental way. Working in acrylic, the paintings are produced by an interplay between colour and shape. Often aerial in perspective, they range from small-scale pieces to miniscule landscape fragments. This exhibition will run from Friday 7 September until Saturday 10 November.

Admission to both exhibitions is free. For further information, visit the website at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre You can also follow developments on Facebook (www.facebook.com/marketplacearmagh) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mptarmagh) for the latest information and video previews.

 

Lagan Dragons hold a commemorative ceremony for two new dragon boats.

Lagan Dragons, Northern Ireland’s only dragon boat team for people affected by breast cancer, has celebrated the arrival of two new boats, thanks to a grant from breast cancer charity, Walk the Walk.

At a special ‘Awakening the Dragon’ ceremony, today (Saturday 1 September), Nina Barough CBE, Walk the Walk’s Founder and Chief Executive, joined members of the Lagan Dragons team at Belfast Boat Club. Those involved in the event carried out an ancient Chinese ritual to bring the boats to life and wish good fortune to the team.

The two new 40ft dragon boats, which can each hold 22 people, feature Walk the Walk’s iconic pink bra logo in recognition of the contribution from the charity.

Walk the Walk raises funds through its famous MoonWalk events, where walkers take on marathon challenges in London, Edinburgh and Iceland at Midnight wearing brightly decorated bras. It was after taking part in The MoonWalk London that Lagan Dragons Captain Joanne Rock decided to apply for a grant for her team.

Lagan Dragons was founded by Joanne Rock, a survivor of breast cancer.  Starting in 2015, the team now has more than 60 members. The club aims to help those affected by breast cancer by providing support, improving fitness, and raising awareness.

Dragon Boat paddling for people affected by breast cancer began more than 20 years ago thanks to a discovery from Dr. Don McKenzie at the University of British Columbia. He challenged medical thinking that women treated for breast cancer should avoid rigorous upper body exercise for fear of developing lymphedema. Dr. McKenzie developed a program, introducing and training people affected by breast cancer to dragon boat paddle for three months. At the end of the season on the water, none of the volunteers had lymphedema and their emotional wellbeing had improved as well.

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of Walk the Walk said: “Walk the Walk’s purpose is to make a difference for breast cancer survivors, whether through research or supporting people. It is important to us that the money we raise at our main events goes far and wide, and we are thrilled to be able to grant this contribution to Northern Ireland.

“What is lovely about today is that you can really see the impact that it is making, and that’s wonderful. The link between these ladies is breast cancer but they have turned it into something really positive.”

Joanne Rock, captain of Lagan Dragons said: “It is so good to exercise beyond a breast cancer diagnosis. We know that exercise is good and exercising with a group is even better. It is a privilege to be able to exercise in nature and exercising in water is nothing short of magical. It calms our fears, settles our minds and helps prepare us to face whatever lies ahead.”

Walk the Walk has raised more than £127 million since 1996, with the money granted funding both research into breast cancer and to help improve the lives of those living with cancer now.

From historical houses to treasure troves of intriguing artefacts and fascinating connections to people and history, Tourism NI is encouraging people to explore local cultural heritage with the European Heritage Open Days taking place on 8^th and 9^th September.

With 2018 designated as a European Year of Cultural Heritage, there is no better time to uncover Northern Ireland’s unique heritage and discover quirky facts about local history, as Tourism NI’s Director of Product Development, Rosemarie McHugh explains.

“Northern Ireland has a wealth of history and culture attached to it and this year we want to encourage people to get out and explore their local community by visiting some of the many sites that are open for free as part of European Heritage Open Days 2018. This is the opportunity to see behind the scenes of some of Northern Ireland’s most historic buildings, not often open to the public.

“In the year of Cultural Heritage, we’re making the most of the opportunity to grow visitor numbers with culturally motivated tourists. Our visitors come to Northern Ireland with an appetite to really explore and connect with our landscape, culture and heritage and we’re helping them with this journey of cultural discovery,” Rosemary added.

To test your knowledge of Northern Ireland’s hidden heritage and quirky culture, Tourism NI has created a quirky cultural quiz, with the chance to win some fabulous prizes. To take the challenge visit discovernorthernireland.com/loveheritage

To inspire those interested in exploring their cultural heritage journey this coming weekend, here is a list of just some of the quirky culture and hidden heritage that exists right here on Northern Ireland’s doorstep:

Did you know…

Antrim: The historic village of Gracehill was a settlement founded by the Moravians in 1765 and Northern Ireland’s First Conservation area. For Moravians, the burial ground was known as “Gods Acre” and had a strict layout. Men were buried to the left and women to the right of a central path. All the headstones were of the same shape and design – the Moravians believe that everyone is equal in death – and were laid almost flat on the ground.

Belfast: Next door to the Belfast Harbour Commissioner’s Office you will find Sinclair Seamen’s Church, a unique maritime-inspired church. Built in 1853 as a tribute to the city’s seafaring traditions, its interior features a pulpit shaped like a ship’s prow, the bell from 19th Century-built battleship HMS Hood and lifeboat-shaped collection boxes.

Down: Grey Abbey is the oldest example of Gothic architecture in Ireland founded in 1193 by John De Courcy.  In the 17th century the abbey ruins were acquired by the Montgomery family, who still live in the grounds to this day.

Fermanagh: Enniskillen is Ireland’s only island town and Castle Coole is regarded as the finest country house in Ireland. The house itself has no back door which is said to be a deliberate omission in order to discourage salesmen from calling.

To find out more about the list of those properties open in your area for European Heritage Open Days 2018 and to get involved visit discovernorthernireland.com/events/European-Heritage-Open-Days/.

Cork fire fighter Alex O’ Shea is currently attempting to run 32 marathons in 32 counties in just 16 days.

 

Alex is joined by Garda Ollie O Sullivan. Ollie, who is a vital part of the crew for this challenge and will also attempt his own personal challenge of 50km a day.

On Thursday 6th September Alex and Ollie will complete their County Derry Marathon from the Erins Own GAC & Termoneeny Centre starting at 3.00pm. The course is 3 loops with the finish around the club pitch.

We are encouraging as many people as possible to come along and show their support for these two amazing men who are running to support the work of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind and the life changing services that they provide.  Maybe you could cover a couple of miles with them to keep them company on their epic challenge!

Find out more about Alex’s challenge at http://www.alexoshea.ie/

Keep up to date with Alex and Ollie’s journey on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/challengeAlex/

Donate online at https://give.everydayhero.com/ie/32-marathons-32-counties-16-days