Music for Domes set to take place at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium this weekend

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A new planetarium dome show experience Music for Domes, featuring a breathtaking original soundtrack by award-winning Irish folk musician RÓIS, will launch this month at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium with two special screenings on Sat 21 and Sun 22 June at 4pm.

Music for Domes is a documentary planetarium-experience in the English and Irish languages, as well as Khmer and French, which explores the traditions and folklore connections of Cambodia and Ireland. This sweeping journey from Navan Fort to Angkor Wat blends new and archive footage to create a sensory odyssey of cosmic proportions. Mythological tricksters, ancient history and echoes of living memory come together in a unique 360° experience, taking you from the Lagan to the Mekong via the Milky Way.

“Music for Domes uncovers parallels in how two distant cultures interpret spirit worlds, survive trauma and build strength through art,” said director Dawn Richardson.

Created by the Belfast-based Hosta Projects, Music for Domes is the third and final installation in their All Flesh is Grass trilogy which set out to explore generational trauma and cultural recovery in Belfast, Beirut and Phnom Penh.

“All our films have followed a fascination with how stories relate to specific places,” explained the film’s writer Paul Doran. “A planetarium dome is a perfect way to explore this by being able to show the viewer a location then overlay images and text that tease out the hidden stories.”

Tickets are available now via the Planetarium (£10) [link copied below] for screenings on Sat 21 June and Sat 22 June at 4pm. Ticket price includes general access to Planetarium.

Please note: This experience explores some adult themes through intense visuals and soundscapes. We think it’s best suited for children 11+. Please consider if its right for you if you have vertigo or sensory issues. If you have any access concerns or would like more information, please contact boxoffice@docsireland.ie

Bangor Blues & Jazz Week announced as part of August Open House Festival

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Open House Festival has added to its summer programme in Bangor with a week-long Blues & Jazz event, the first to be held in the city.

Supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council and Beamish, The Bangor Blues & Jazz Week will host more than forty free events across Bangor during the August Bank Holiday weekend. And from Monday 18th August until Monday 25th, there will be an additional fifteen ticketed events in the Court House and Walled Garden under the Blues and Jazz banner.

“With the development work about to begin on Bangor seafront, it wasn’t possible to schedule our annual Seaside Revival Vintage Festival this year,” said Open House Festival director, Kieran Gilmore. “So we came up with the idea of a small Blues & Jazz event instead, a sort of festival within the main August festival. The idea snowballed however, and now it’s not so small. We’ve collaborated with ten city-centre bars to produce a Blues & Jazz Trail that will run from Central Avenue, down to King Street, up High Street, and along the seafront. And thanks to support from Ards and North Down Brough Council, and Beamish, it’s all free.”

Acts performing at the Bank Holiday Weekend Trail include the Lee Hedley Blues Band, the Linley Hamilton Trio, Double Standards, Frank Carberry, Belfast Groove Collective, and In Full Swing. And participating bars and venues include The Imperial, The King’s Quay, Rabbit Rooms, Wolseys, and The Nines.

Ticketed events featured in the Blues & Jazz Week include award-winning singer-songwriter Katharine Timoney who is making waves as one of Ireland’s leading jazz-soul crossover artists and has been tipped as ‘One To Watch’ by BBC Introducing. Katherine will perform at the Court House on Sunday 24th August. Also appearing at the Court House are the electrifying blues-rock trio The Zac Schulze Gang from England, and local keyboard maestro Scott Flanigan will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of piano virtuoso Keith Jarett’s Köln Concert live album recording, the best-selling solo jazz album of all time, with his own tribute on a baby grand piano. Renowned Irish blues artist Grainne Duffy will also be appearing at the venue during the Blues & Jazz week.

Mary Coughlan, Dana Masters, and Ronnie Greer, whose gigs have already been announced, will be representing the week-long Blues and Jazz theme at Bangor Castle Walled Garden.

Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum said: “Bangor buzzes in August every year thanks to the Open House Festival but with the addition of a Blues & Jazz week to the programme this summer we can look forward to getting an extra soulful dimension as well!  This is music to my ears, as I am sure it will be for many. With around 50 events held in ten or more different venues across the city, many of which are free, there will be plenty of opportunities to enjoy this exciting new event.”

“Beamish is proud to be one of the sponsors of the Bangor Blues & Jazz Week,” said Andrew Hollywood, Marketing Manager for Beamish. “We’ve been working in collaboration with the Open House Festival team for many years now and see the Court House as the home of Beamish in North Down, so the Bangor Blues & Jazz event is a perfect fit for us. It promises to be a fantastic showcase for blues and jazz music, and will no doubt generate a wonderful atmosphere in the city, especially over the weekend trail.”

The addition of the Bangor Blues & Jazz week brings the total number of events in this year’s Open House Festival programme to 136, with the potential for more to come. Full details of the free Blues & Jazz Trail and tickets for the ticketed events are available via the Open House Festival Website: www.openhousefestival.com

Open House Festival is an arts charity supported by Ards & North Down Borough Council and Arts Council of Northern Ireland

 

NI’s First Night Market Docks at Sailortown Festival

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Sailortown Festival Belfast is set to return this weekend with Northern Ireland’s first-ever Night Market.

Taking place from June 20th–22nd, the three-day festival event will feature music, markets, and maritime mischief, as well as food and entertainment, at various venues including Barrow Square in Clarendon Dock and St. Joseph’s Sailortown.

Kicking things off on Friday night is Sailortown’s first ever Night Market, an open-air evening experience inspired by the world’s great market cities, the Night Market will run from 5pm–10pm on Friday 20th June, transforming Barrow Square in Clarendon Dock into a buzzing festival of sound, flavour, and street culture.

Visitors can expect an unmissable mix of live DJ sets from Bang Bike, carnival beats from Beat Carnival, street performers, and dockside drinks by local bar Seatons of Sailortown.

The trader line-up is packed with standouts: Oui Poutine, Knead Pizza, and Carolyn Stewart’s Totally Hot NI, founded by Sailortown’s own radio legend, brings the heat. Alongside them, a curated selection of handmade art, food, fashion, and gifts will keep browsers busy all night long.

Festival organiser Maeve O’Connor, Sailortown Regeneration said “It’s a real privilege to organise the Sailortown Festival, which has grown over the past four years. It’s wonderful to see the area come to life with culture, creativity, and community spirit. We’re very grateful for the ongoing support of Belfast Harbour, Belfast Maritime Trust, and Belfast City Council, their backing has been instrumental in helping the festival evolve and thrive. We are especially excited to bring our first ever night market which brings something entirely new to the local scene. From Bangkok to Berlin, night markets are vibrant social spaces where people gather to eat, drink, shop and soak up local culture. Now, Sailortown joins that global map.”

It’s full steam ahead on Saturday 21st June, with the Sailortown Speciality Market (11am–4pm). A relaxed daytime event where visitors can meet local makers, discover one-of-a-kind handmade goods, and enjoy live sets from some of Belfast’s most beloved acts, including the genre blending brilliance of Belfast’s The String Ninjas.

Just around the corner, St. Joseph’s Church on Princes Dock Street becomes a cultural hub for the day. Hosting a series of musical workshops and the annual Sail Back to Sailortown event, a lively mix of jazz, poetry, and spoken word performances that honour the area’s rich heritage and talent.

Sunday 22nd June brings the festival to a joyful close with the Family Market (12pm–4pm), a playful afternoon packed with walkabout characters, a pooch parade, inflatables, street theatre, live music, and plenty of nautical fun for kids and families.

The Sailortown Festival reconnects people with Belfast’s first dockside village and the city’s maritime heritage. Bringing life to Belfast’s historic docklands through celebration, creativity, and community spirit. It’s community lead regeneration with soul, anchored in local pride and powered by cultural energy. The festival receives annual support from Belfast Harbour, Belfast Maritime Trust and Belfast City Council.

Speaking ahead of the Festival Jenni Barkley, Belfast Harbour said “We’re delighted to support the Sailortown Festival and to see public space in Clarendon and City Quays brought to life in such a vibrant and inclusive way. Events like this link to our aim of animating the Maritime Mile and create opportunities for people to reconnect with the waterfront in new and exciting ways.”

Commenting on the Festival Maeve Moreland, Maritime Belfast Trust said “We’re really pleased to continue our support for the Sailortown Festival. It’s such a brilliant example of local people coming together to celebrate their own stories and bring this historic part of the city to life. Supporting events like this is a key part of how we animate the waterfront – creating shared experiences, championing local talent, and making sure the Maritime Mile is a place that feels alive for the people who live, work and visit here.”

Getting there: From North Belfast, Festival entrances are located on Pilot Street and Princes Dock Street, and if coming from the city centre, it’s just a 7-minute walk from the Big Fish through Clarendon Dock. Visitors are encouraged to travel by public transport or on foot, and are also invited to explore the brand-new City Quays Gardens beside the AC Marriott Hotel on their way.

Free entry all weekend
Visit stjoessailortown.org and follow @stjoesbelfast and @nightmarketni for updates.

Discover NI’s Offers of the Week

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Armagh City Hotel, County Armagh

 

Treat the family to Armagh City Hotel’s two-night family package for £420 per family. This package includes a stay in their comfy family room, full Irish breakfast, £50 hotel dining credit and a family pass to either Armagh Observatory & Planetarium or Armagh Navan Centre & Fort.  Offer valid on selected dates until 31 August 2025. Visit www.armaghcityhotel.com for more information.

 

Newforge House, Craigavon, County Armagh

 

Celebrate summer with a relaxing overnight escape at Newforge House. Starting from £170pps (Wednesday and Thursday) and £195pps (Friday and Saturday), the Summer Tipple offer includes an overnight stay in a bespoke ensuite bedroom, an afternoon gin or whiskey tasting, four-course dinner, and breakfast the next morning. Offer is available until the end of September 2025. Visit www.newforgehouse.com for more information.

 

For more inspiration or to plan your next adventure in Northern Ireland, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com.  

 

 

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 16 – 22 June

 

  1. Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market at Ballycastle Sea Front, Ballycastle, County Antrim, 22 June. Enjoy the flagship artisan market by Naturally North Coast & Glens on the beautiful Ballycastle Seafront. This is an excellent showcase of local food, culture, heritage, and traditions, and it is an ideal destination for anyone looking for an authentic experience.
  2. Summer Solstice Walk, Bushmills. County Antrim, 22 June. The longest day has come, meaning that summer has only just begun. June opens the door to long days of summer fun, and what better way to welcome the new season than with an early morning ramble along the Causeway cliffs.
  3. Forest Bathing in Castlewellan Forest Park, Castlewellan, County Down, 19 June. Come join a rejuvenating experience in nature at Castlewellan Forest Park. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in the calming atmosphere of the forest. This in-person event will help you connect with the natural world and recharge your mind, body, and spirit.
  4. Armagh City Summer Walking Tours, County Armagh, 19 June – 31 August. Armagh is an ancient compact city soaked in myths, legends, history and heritage. One of the best ways to discover more about the story of the Ecclesiastical Capital and its citizens is to book a guided walking tour which will take you through the city centre at a leisurely pace, stopping off at various locations on a route of approximately one kilometre.
  5. Summer Solstice Sunset at Navan Centre & Fort, Armagh, County Armagh, 20 and 21 June. Gather at Navan Centre & Fort for a soulful celebration of the Summer Solstice—an evening of meditation and mindfulness woven into the landscape’s ancient rhythms. As the sun sets on the longest day, you’ll honour the turning of the seasons and deepen our connection to this sacred place and to one another.
  6. Carnival of Colours 2025, Derry~Londonderry, 21 and 22 June. Welcome to Carnival of Colours 2025, brought to you by In Your Space Circus. Back once again with the best circus, music and street arts festival, they are taking over the city streets on 21st and 22nd of June – just as the kids are finishing up at school and summer is kicking off.
  7. Dragonfly Festival at WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre, Comber, County Down, 21 June – 21 September. A summer of dragonfly themed events and activities. Explore the magical world of dragonflies and dive into a summer full of wondrous new wetland experiences.
  8. Back to Nature Bash at Crom Castle, Newtownbutler, County Fermanagh, 22 June. This event is being held to mark the first anniversary of the new trails at Crom. To celebrate, they have an exciting day of activities planned, offering opportunities to learn about, participate in and celebrate Crom’s most well-known features – water and nature.
  9. Ulster Orchestra: On Your Doorstep – Summer, Shimmer, Perfect Days at Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, 21 June. The Ulster Orchestra is delighted to visit the Seamus Heaney HomePlace on the Summer Solstice, bringing music suffused with the hazy light of midsummer. Chamber ensembles from the orchestra will perform a selection of uplifting gems for small groups.
  10. Kids Felting – Summer Landscapes at Burnavon Theatre, Cookstown, County Tyrone, 21 June. Welcome to the wonder of wool. Come and create a felted landscape with artist Louisa Kelly. Using wet felting techniques, participants will make beautiful artwork to take home. All materials provided.

 

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.

Taste Donaghadee Food and Drink Tour

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Ards and North Down Borough Council are delighted to announce a brand-new tour set in the bustling seaside town of Donaghadee, which many have come to recognise over the years as Hope Street’s Port Devine.

Celebrate all that is divine about this beacon of great taste which also has a gloriously rich history to explore.

Join them on any of the following dates:

21 June

16 August

20 September

Tasting stops on this tour take in the 400-year-old Grace Neills, Irelands Oldest Pub Est. 1611; an introductory peek around the award-winning The Copeland Distillery; the scenic harbour views from Harbour and Company, and the delicious café culture vibes of Bridewell Coffee

Tours run 2pm until 5pm (approx)

Tickets cost £62.50pp, and they are on sale now!

For more information, including the menu, visit >> https://bit.ly/4mMyODG

An online booking fee applies. To avoid the online fee, you can book in person or by phone via our Visitor Information Centres:

https://bit.ly/3WZw0Xk

This tour is organised and hosted by Ards and North Down Borough Council

www.whatsonni.com | Visit Belfast | Discover Northern Ireland | Food NI

#TasteAND #TasteANDEnjoy #BeDrinkAware #Donaghadee #HopeStreet #PortDevine #VisitAND #BelfastPlus

From Newsroom To Nightmare – New Zombie Novel Races Into Print

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Journalist turned author, Jonathan Traynor, has launched his third book, Race The Undead, with much of the post-apocalyptic tale centred in his home town of Ballymena.

In the book, an epidemic has swept the world, leaving most of the population dead or as zombies, as a group of survivors seek sanctuary against the odds.

Jonathan explained it is a horror tale that focuses on a cast of characters that each have very different character traits.

 “Inspiration for the story came some time ago when walking my dog past the motte and bailey in Ballymena, and wondering about the Norman earl standing atop it in the 12th century,” he said. “I wondered what a modern-day leader would think standing atop this impressive feature, and what would be the worst circumstances they could face?”

The book features areas throughout mid and east Antrim, as the rag-tag bunch of survivors racing to sanctuary and a military desperate to stop them.

“The people in the book react in different ways to the dire situation they face,” the writer explained. “Some emerge as leaders, some resort to darkness, and some take their role to the extreme.”

Featuring a climactic dash to reach Ballycastle and the offer of refuge in Iceland, a military leader has orders to prevent them reaching the seaside harbour.

Published by Excalibur Press, Race The Undead is Jonathan’s third book, following his debut collection of short stories in 2017, Watching the Watched.

Publisher Tina Calder said: “Having worked with Jonathan for many years, I’ve always admired his ability to truly understand his audience. 

“Whether through journalism, storytelling, or now this gripping post-apocalyptic adventure. Race The Undead is a bold and fast-paced read that showcases not only his talent as a writer, but also his deep understanding of character and place. 

“At Excalibur Press we’re delighted to publish his third book and know it will resonate with readers who appreciate smart, immersive storytelling with heart.”

After a career in journalism and public relations that spans more than three decades Jonathan has plans to publish two more books in 2025.

“They say there is a book in everyone. I’m never going to be Stephen King, but I hope my tales will entertain many readers.”

Race The Undead is available now at excaliburpress.co.uk and available on Amazon.

10 Things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 9 – 15 June

 

  1. Buskfest, Banbridge, County Down, 14 June. Buskfest is an annual outdoor busking competition held in Banbridge Town Centre. On Saturday 14 June Banbridge will be buzzing when a multitude of musicians, singers, bands, solo artists and street performers take to the streets to compete for a portion of the total prize pot. Buskfest is an excellent opportunity for musicians from near and far to showcase their talents and is a great day out for all the family to enjoy.
  2. Open Ground Guided Experience at Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, 11 June (more dates available). Open Ground is a unique visitor experience centered on locations that shaped Seamus Heaney’s life and literature, including places from The Strand at Lough Beg to the Moyola River, which allows visitors the opportunity to discover the smells, sights and sounds that make his poetry so uniquely of this place.
  3. Wildflower Crown Making Workshop, Bushmills, County Antrim, 14 June. Celebrate the beauty of nature and get hands-on with something new. Join Nature Engagement Officer, Dr Cliff Henry on Saturday 14 June for a Wildflower Crown Making Workshop at the Giant’s Causeway – a relaxing, creative afternoon surrounded by the colours and scents of summer.
  4. Sir Hans Sloane Centre Curator Tours, Killyleagh, County Down, 11 June. Discover an enchanted world at the Sir Hans Sloane Centre in the shadow of 12th century Killyleagh Castle and a stone’s throw from Strangford Lough. This hidden gem interprets the history of Killyleagh and Shrigley, its monuments, flora and fauna and houses a collection of fascinating items relating to 18th century life. Visitors can see a recreation of Sir Hans Sloane’s study, herbal medicine chest and cabinet of curiosities, learning about everyday objects, antique furniture and decorative arts that would be found in many Georgian homes. A gallery of rare botanical prints highlights the work of female botanists with a connection to Sir Hans Sloane or Co. Down.
  5. Garden Show Ireland at Antrim Castle Gardens, County Antrim, 13 – 15 June. Garden Show Ireland is set to bloom again as it returns this year to Antrim Castle Gardens for a three-day extravaganza, promising a vibrant celebration of flowers, food, and fun for the whole family. Join Garden Show Ireland ambassador, David Domoney and special guests, including Marie Staunton, Paul Smyth and Niall McCauley on Friday 13 to Sunday 15 June for NI’s largest gardening festival, set to be bigger and better than ever before.
  6. Crafternoon Delight at Mrs C’s Home Kitchen, Dundrum, County Down, 14 June. Join us for an intimate and interactive afternoon in the welcoming surroundings of Mrs C’s cosy home kitchen, set in a beautiful location overlooking the Mourne Mountains and rolling farmland. This special summer collaboration with the talented Alison from Seaglass Murlough promises a relaxed, hands-on experience in a truly stunning setting. As part of this experience, you’ll enjoy a delicious seasonal summer lunch, freshly prepared by Mrs C and served before the artwork begins. It’s the perfect chance to relax, connect, and savour the flavours of the season in good company.
  7. Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend, various locations across Northern Ireland, 14 – 15 June. This year’s Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend is making a welcome return back on farms on Friday 13 June (for schools) and Saturday 14 & Sunday 15 June for the public, planning a packed schedule of activities to showcase Northern Ireland food and farming at its best. Visitors can explore the rich tapestry of Northern Ireland’s farming heritage, gaining a better understanding of the food production process and meet the farmer that works 365 days a year to deliver delicious food from farm to fork.
  8. Presence and Place Tour at Ardress House, Portadown, County Armagh, 14 June. Set in the heart of the beautiful Armagh countryside, this immersive tour invites you to slow down and connect with the rich history and tranquil beauty of this stunning historic estate, that dates back to 1660. Led by an expert National Trust guide and an experienced mindfulness teacher, you’ll embark on a journey of deep presence—engaging your senses as you explore both the exquisite interiors and peaceful gardens.
  9. Father’s Day At Corick House Hotel, Clogher, County Tyrone, 15 June. This Father’s Day, honour the amazing dads, grandfathers, and father figures in your life with a memorable celebration at Corick House Hotel & Spa. They invite you to gather with loved ones and enjoy a delicious Father’s Day meal, thoughtfully prepared by their award-winning culinary team. Featuring a carefully curated menu of seasonal dishes, there’s something to delight every palate—whether he prefers hearty classics or something a little more refined.
  10. Enniskillen 10K at Enniskillen Castle, County Fermanagh, 14 June. Enniskillen Running Club is busy getting ready to welcome you to their second Modern Tyres 10K. Just like the 2024 event, the 10k will start from the historic Enniskillen Castle in the Island Town, running through the scenic grounds of the Castle Coole – the National Trust then to the finish line at Derrychara Playing Fields.

 

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.

Businesswoman Tackling Hotel Accessibility With Help From Explore Enterprise

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Shelley Cowan knows all too well the challenges that come with trying to find accessible accommodation in Northern Ireland. After spending more than a decade as a wheelchair user due to severe ME and complex health needs, she experienced first-hand the difficulties of navigating the hospitality sector when mobility is restricted.

With support from the now-completed Northern Ireland Explore Enterprise Support Service , Shelley turned her experiences and academic research into a business. She launched Access Avenue, a consultancy aimed at improving accessibility across the hospitality industry. The company supports hotels and accommodation providers to make practical changes that allow people with disabilities to travel, stay, and participate more fully in everyday life.

Shelley, who lives in Enniskillen, took part in the Explore Enterprise Support Service in 2024 through the Fermanagh Enterprise. The programme was delivered by Enterprise Northern Ireland in partnership with The King’s Trust NI, and received 1.8m funding through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. It offered tailored support for people who were economically inactive, helping them to explore employment or self-employment through mentoring, skills development, and business guidance.

Speaking about her background, Shelley explained that her decision to start Access Avenue was rooted in both lived experience and academic research. “It’s a combination of nearly 30 years lived experience as a disabled person who required a wheelchair and dire statistics following a Masters degree. I felt major changes are needed in society to help those with mobility issues, particularly within the hospitality industry.”

The issue, according to Shelley, is more widespread than many realise. Her own research revealed that there are only 17 fully accessible hotels in the UK, and none in Northern Ireland. “There are more pet-friendly hotels than fully accessible ones,” she said. “The majority of rooms were not spacious enough to manoeuvre and use the equipment safely.”

She added, “Guests with disabilities want fair, equal service and prices comparable to other guests. We want to enjoy hotels as much as anyone else.”

Shelley came across the Explore Enterprise service  on social media and was drawn in by the promise of mentorship and guidance. At the time, she was searching for someone to help point her in the right direction for her business idea, which she acknowledged was operating in a unique area.

“I was needing someone to point me in the right direction as the area of work I’m involved in is quite unique,” she explained.

As part of the service , Shelley engaged in one-to-one meetings with business mentors to shape and refine her plans. She said, “I had one to one meetings with mentors for business advice and direction. We discussed my business plan at length and I was guided to funding opportunities.”

She also attended a number of in-person and online workshops, something she hadn’t expected to be such a central part of the experience. “The service is beneficial to all businesses as all topics are discussed,” she said. “I did not realise how many workshops were available.”

The skills Shelley developed through the service  covered a wide range of business areas, including social media and digital content. “Business development skills, social media tips and search engine optimisation and creating high-quality, relevant content,” she said, listing what she had gained.

Shelley had never been in formal employment due to her disability. Her entrepreneurial journey aligned directly with the aims of the Explore Enterprise Service , which was designed to support people into economic activity through enterprise.

Since launching Access Avenue in 2024, she has developed an industry-focused initiative called #AccommodationForAll, backed by a hotel accessibility grading classification system. This system provides a framework for hospitality venues to understand and improve their accessibility features. It takes into account the needs of guests who use mobility aids or require specialist equipment.

She said, “I started my business Access Avenue last June and I’m developing a web app.”

The idea is simple. By working directly with hospitality venues to assess their properties, Shelley can recommend practical, often low-cost changes that would make a significant difference for guests with disabilities. In turn, venues can tap into what is known as the “purple pound,” referring to the spending power of disabled people and their households. This is currently estimated at £274 billion annually in the UK, with £12 billion of that attributed to accessible tourism.

“There is a misconception that disabled people don’t go on holidays and this is not true,” she said. “People with mobility issues tend to be loyal customers if the product is right. They also bring carers with them, so you get extra guests. They are also able to stay midweek and off season. One hotel that went fully accessible last year made an extra £217,000 revenue in their first quarter of trading after the changes were made.”

Access Avenue’s customer base includes hotels and hospitality venues across the UK and Ireland. Shelley’s ambition is to grow the business and roll out a recognised industry standard for accessible accommodation.

“This is a vast market both north and south of the border and relates to accommodation and hospitality venues no matter the size,” she said.

As well as supporting hotels, Shelley is committed to wider societal change. She is the founder of JustUs, a not-for-profit organisation that provides activities and events for adults with disabilities in rural areas, aiming to prevent social isolation.

Shelley sees her business and campaigning work as part of a larger mission. “Access Avenue inspires others with disabilities to be included in society,” she said. “I want to empower others to have equal opportunities and experiences in life.”

With a clear growth plan, strong personal motivation, and a timely business proposition, Shelley credits the Explore Enterprise Support Service with providing the tools and guidance she needed to turn her vision into a functioning enterprise.

“The amount of advice and services that were offered was incredible and if there was ever a question they didn’t know the answer to, they found someone who did,” she said.

Her advice to others thinking about starting their own business is clear. “If you’ve got that feeling in your gut, don’t ignore it because you don’t need all the answers to start, you just need to take the first step. The help from the Explore Enterprise Support Service is fantastic and there’s someone there who wants to see you succeed.”

To find out more about Enterprise Northern Ireland and its programmes, visit www.enterpriseni.com.

Craft NI and Design & Crafts Council Ireland issue call out for makers to take part in month long celebration of craft

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Craft makers across Ireland are being urged to register their interest in taking part in the annual month-long celebration of Irish craft that takes place in August.

This year’s August Craft Month will bring together an array of talented makers as it celebrates a rich craft heritage with artisans keeping traditions alive and new talented makers bringing real vibrancy to the scene.

With events taking place across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, August Craft Month represents a unique opportunity for people to get involved as well as supporting makers by buying products and learning more about their work.

Suzy O’Keefe, Head of Digital and Communications, Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI), said, “We at Design & Crafts Council Ireland are thrilled to once again work with Craft NI on the all-island August Craft Month.

“This is the fourth year we’ve partnered to generate and promote August Craft Month events, and we’ve seen increasing engagement from craft makers across the island, introducing new audiences to ways to take part in craft.      .

“It is a fantastic opportunity for people to take the plunge into the craft world, to see the amazing craft happening in their local communities and across the country.”

Katherine McDonald, Director of Craft NI, said, “August Craft Month is a fantastic platform to honour and acknowledge the skilled makers we have right on these shores.

“With over 400 events last year, we want to encourage as many makers as possible to take part and we are delighted to see the applications already from councils, arts venues, guilds, galleries and individual makers.

“From hands-on experiences to inspiring talks, we welcome a variety of craft events. Your event could take the form of a hands-on workshop, meet-the maker session, a talk or even a craft trail.

“This is a fantastic way to share your work with the world.”

The deadline for entry is Sunday, 8th June to register your interest in taking part please visit augustcraftmonth.org/applications.

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