Art Exhibition That Challenges Misconceptions About Dementia Opens In Newtownards

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The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Jennifer Gilmour, officially opened Dementia NI’s unique art exhibition at Ards Art Centre last week.

The Real Lives: The Art Of Living With Dementia exhibition is free to visit and runs until 24 February. It explores what it is like living with dementia in Northern Ireland while challenging widespread stigma about the condition.

Mayor Jennifer Gilmour with exhibitor and Dementia NI member, Allison Batchelor.Image: Graham Baalham-Curry

The exhibition features pieces created by members of the Dementia NI charity, all of whom live with a diagnosis of dementia, and showcases captivating photography and striking patchwork quilts.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Jennifer Gilmour, said:

“There are over 20,000 people living with dementia across Northern Ireland, many of whom live in our Borough, and Age UK’s statistics suggest this could rise to 60,000 by 2050. Years of stigma and misunderstanding have led to common misconceptions about what it means to live with dementia but this exhibition sets out to challenge these misconceptions, transforming how people view the condition and starting conversations through the medium of art.”

The exhibition features patchwork quilts created during an online project organised by Dementia NI and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, to help local people with dementia stay active during lockdown. Working with Arts Council art tutors, Dementia NI members were encouraged to make their own heirloom quilts which tell the story of their lives.

Dementia NI member, Allison Batchelor, is exhibiting her patchwork quilt which she created to represent what is important in her life. She said:

“When you receive a diagnosis of dementia you believe your life is over and that it’s impossible to learn new skills. However, this isn’t the case. During lockdown, Dementia NI developed this amazing art project which was run via Zoom. Through this we learnt many new skills and produced first class artwork. We are challenging the public’s perception of what dementia looks like and are constantly endeavouring to break down stigma and barriers. This art project was so enjoyable, and I am very glad to have been involved.”

Claire-Rose Canavan, Dementia NI Empowerment Facilitator, said:

“This exhibition is really special to our members, and we are so thrilled they permitted us share it with the public. It shares a message of hope that many people with dementia are still able to enjoy life in the same way as before their diagnosis and live well with dementia. We warmly invite everyone to come along and view it for themselves.”

The free-to-attend exhibition is open Tuesdays to Fridays (10am – 4pm) and Saturdays (10am – 1pm) until 24 February. For more information, visit andculture.org.uk.

Jacqueline from whatsonni.com shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI!

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Antrim

ABBA starring Bjorn Identity at the Ballygally Castle Hotel. Back due to popular demand!  Join us for the most popular night out with all your favourite sing-a-long ABBA songs. Doors open from 7.30pm

Show begins at 9pm.

Find out more HERE

Armagh

Opera and Orchards at the Market Place Theatre. Ulster Touring Opera’s exceptional soloists will take you on a musical journey from ancient Carthage to the factories of Seville via a rather bohemian Parisian apartment.

Find out more HERE

Belfast

Meet at the Staircase for a special Valentine’s Afternoon Tea at Titanic Belfast!  Step back in time to a period of luxury, elegance and 5-star service with Titanic Belfast’s Afternoon Tea. Set in the opulent surroundings of the Titanic Suite featuring the stunning Grand Staircase and live jazz music, it is an experience not to be missed!

Find out more HERE

Down

Treat that someone special to a romantic dinner or a day out with the girls at La Mon Hotel!

Find out what’s on offer HERE

Fermanagh

Cocktails & Coaching with Lisa McFarland, Charlie’s Bar. Whether you’re looking to re-ignite a spark, just out of a relationship or living your best single life, Lisa will be sharing her tips and tools to develop strong, healthy relationships. What better place to start than our relationship with ourselves!

Find out more HERE

Derry/Londonderry

Join The Evergladus for an amzing party night with a “love potion or Prosecco” drinks reception, 3 course dinner and live music.

This party is not just for couples but also for a great “Galentine’s” girls night out or with friends.

Find out more and book HERE

Tyrone

Come explore the wonderful world of Pancake Art at An Creagan!  Get creative with pancake batter in a raindow of colours.  Create your favourite characters and choose your favourite toppings.
Find out more and book HERE

Extended Reality Festival Returns To Belfast To Create Unique Tech Driven Art Experiences

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An innovative arts festival is set to once again merge technology and art to create a unique virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experience for attendees.

Belfast XR, now in its third year, specialises in curating worldclass immersive technology content that takes the art of storytelling to a new level.

Extended Reality or ‘XR’ is the collective name for virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). VR is a computer-generated artificial environment with scenes that appear to be real, while AR is a digital overlay onto the real world, which is viewed through your phone or an iPad. 

Deepa Mann-Kler, director and curator for Belfast XR Festival which is an annual gathering for the XR arts – storytelling, visual arts, music, drama, dance, literature and theatre, said bringing virtual and augmented reality content to new audiences locally is something the team at Belfast XR are passionate about.

She said: “I have been working with virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) since 2016  with my company Neon. During that time I have been fortunate to visit XR Festivals across the USA and Europe. 

“I realised that  there are so many incredible stories being told in this medium that audiences in Northern Ireland never get the opportunity to experience. This was my key motivation. 

“Luckily I secured funding from Future Screens NI and Film Hub NI and we were able to  deliver the first Festival in 2022. For the last two years BXRF sat within the Belfast Film Festival and their support has been pivotal in selling out our shows to local audiences.  

“Our ambition is to create an unmissable annual gathering for XR that inspires storytelling and our passion is to bring the best global virtual and augmented reality content to new local audiences. You don’t need to have used a virtual reality headset before, as our team will guide you through the whole process.”  

Running on Wednesday February 28 and Thursday 29 this year’s festival theme is Legacy which will offer attendees the chance to experience world history in captivating ways allowing audiences to step into the past, interact with historical figures, and explore significant events firsthand. 

Belfast XR Festival is both for XR enthusiasts and those who haven’t experienced any form of XR in the past.

Deepa explained: “The Festival is aimed at 16+ years of age and is open to everyone. You don’t need to have experienced AR, VR or any of these types of experiences before. We  have an amazing team who will guide you through the whole process from the  minute you step into The Black Box.  

“I want people to have memorable experiences. I want them to be altered, in a good way. I want them to talk about how it made them feel. I want to increase their appetite to experience more. 

The Belfast XR Festival is supported by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. It is also supported by Digital Catapult NI, Future Screens NI, Ulster Screen Academy and NI Screen.

For more information follow Belfast XR Festival on social media or go to belfastxrfestival.com 

 

James Huish & his band, an evening of Michael Buble Valentine’s Show!

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Join James Huish and his band for a romantic evening of swing and jazz this Valentine’s Day!

Songs from Sinatra, Michael Bublé, Dean Martin and Elvis Presley etc, in the new iconic Avenue Arts Centre on the Lisburn Road in Belfast. A beautiful building full of character, formerly an old church now transformed in to a stunning theatre space.

Immerse yourself in the timeless melodies and toe-tapping rhythms that defined an era. With his smooth and velvety voice, James and his 10 piece band will transport you back to the golden age of jazz, serenading you with soulful renditions of love songs that will make your heart flutter.

Whether you’re looking to impress your date or simply want to indulge in an enchanting musical experience, this concert is the perfect way to celebrate the most romantic day of the year. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable evening filled with passion, charm, and the irresistible magic of swing jazz. Book your tickets now and let James Huish and his band sweep you off your feet this Valentine’s Day!

Book your tickets now  at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/theavenueartscentre/t-jzmrnqo

Date:12th February 2024

Venue: The Avenue Arts Centre. Belfast.

Time: 8.00pm

Running time approx 2 hours

Mother Of Inspirational Teen To Tell Heartfelt Story At 4 Corners Festival

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The mother of inspirational Irish teenager Donal Walsh is set to join this year’s 4 Corners Festival to remember her brave son.

Elma Walsh’s son Donal from Co Kerry was diagnosed with terminal cancer in his teens and during his life spread an anti-suicide message of living life to the full. 

Sadly, after raising awareness through his writing and TV appearances like Brendan O’Connor’s The Saturday Night Show, Donal passed away in 2013.

To honour her son, Elma set up the Donal Walsh #Livelife Foundation to promote her son’s passionate anti-suicide #Livelife message.

Taking place on Tuesday, February 6 at 7.30pm at Forthspring, Springfield Road, at the event Donal Walsh: A Story of Hope, Elma will join 4 Corners host Gerard Sowney to talk about her story and how she is continuing to honour her son’s legacy. 

Speaking of the event Elma said: “When I was asked to take part and heard what the festival was about, I was delighted to have been asked.

“I think it’s a great initiative to get people from different cultures and backgrounds together. 

“I’ll be talking about Donal who was diagnosed terminal but didn’t let that dictate what was left of his time here, he didn’t give up. 

“I hope that people will take the message away from this event that they should not give up on hope, we must all make an extra effort to get more involved & more supportive not only of our own community but to involve other communities also.”

Now in its 12th year, the 4 Corners Festival was conceived as a way to inspire people from across the city to transform it for the peace and wellbeing of all.

The festival features a range of music, discussion, sport and faith-inspired events and will run from February 1 to 11 in venues in all four corners of the city. 

At Donal Walsh: A Story of Hope the Fitzroy Collective will be performing songs from their Gospel According To Sinead O’Connor. 

Shannon Campbell, 4 Corners committee member, said: “We are very much looking forward to hearing from Elma Walsh at this year’s festival. 

“Elma’s reputation precedes her as being an uplifting, inspiring presence wherever she goes – just as her son, Donal, whose story she’ll be telling – was. Donal has touched the lives of countless young people during both his life on earth, and indeed since his passing, and 4 Corners are honoured to be a part of sharing Donal’s important hope filled message over 10 years on. 

“It’s sure to be a very special evening.”

This year’s theme OUR STORIES…Towards A Culture Of Hope is about showcasing our city and our people’s stories reflecting the essence of belonging and unity within the city’s diverse community.

The upcoming festival’s suite of events is designed to entice people out of their own ‘corners’ of the city and into new places where they will encounter new perspectives, new ideas and hopefully meet new friends.

The 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.

All festival events are free of charge, with most open to the public, although advance booking of tickets is mandatory. Select events will be streamed online on the official 4 Corners Festival YouTube and Facebook accounts.

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

Unveiled Event To Tell Story Of Lesser Known Women In Scripture At 4 Corners Festival

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This year’s 4 Corners Festival is set to tell the story of the lesser known women in scripture as Rev Clare Hayns reflects from her latest book.

Unveiled: Women of the Old Testament and the choices they made is a powerful book packed with stories of women from the bible that have extraordinary resonance and application to our lives today.

Taking place at Fitzroy Presbyterian Church on Sunday February 4, Unveiled – Stories In Scripture will see Clare joined by her son Micah who illustrated the book, and music duo Beki & Randy Hemingway.

Clare, College Chaplain at Christ Church, Oxford, will tell some of the stories featured in her book from rebellious midwives to the brave daughters of Zelophehad, and she will explore what they have to tell us about transforming communities in our own day and age.

She explained: “The Old Testament is packed full of wonderful stories that can teach, inspire, and challenge us, but I was frustrated that so often the women’s stories seemed to be marginal and hardly ever focussed on.  

“The book began as a challenge that I set myself for a blog in Lent 2020 where I decided to write on a woman of the Old Testament each day for forty days. This unveiled real women, with relationship struggles, sibling rivalries, and financial challenges, and women with remarkable gifts, skills, faith and courage. We have so much to learn from them. 

“My son Micah is an artist and so we collaborated to turn the blog into a book with each woman beautifully illustrated by him. 

“It was published by Bible Reading Fellowship and we’re delighted it’s been so well received, and we created a bible study series with videos on eight of the stories.”

Now in its 12th year, the 4 Corners Festival was conceived as a way to inspire people from across the city to transform it for the peace and wellbeing of all.

The festival features a range of music, discussion, sport and faith-inspired events and will run from February 1 to 11 in venues in all four corners of the city. 

This year’s theme OUR STORIES…Towards A Culture Of Hope is about showcasing our city and our people’s stories reflecting the essence of belonging and unity within the city’s diverse community.

The upcoming festival’s suite of events is designed to entice people out of their own ‘corners’ of the city and into new places where they will encounter new perspectives, new ideas and hopefully meet new friends.

Festival co-founder Father Martin Magill said: “We are delighted to welcome Revd Clare Hayns, Micah Hayns and Beki and Randy Hemingway to the festival.

“This event is set to be a thought provoking evening with some really interesting stories and music throughout the evening.

“There will be an opportunity to do your very own charcoal drawing of Tamar’s eyes with a simple step-by-step tutorial from artist Micah Hayns.”

Unveiled – Stories In Scripture will end the evening with a post-event prayer scheduled after refreshments led by Jim Deeds and Kiran Young Wimberley.

Speaking of her involvement with the festival Clare said: “I’ve known Steve Stockman since I worked in Dublin with a Presbyterian Church over thirty years ago and he became a friend and a kind of mentor.

“I remember his kindness to me, and have always been inspired by his passion for bringing faith and the arts together. So when Steve asked me to take part in a festival he was part of, the answer would have to be a ‘yes’.

“I find the aims of the festival to be inspirational and it’s a privilege to be asked to be part of it.

“I strongly believe that ordinary people can transform lives and communities by gathering together to share stories, listening to different perspectives, and building friendships across boundaries. It seems such a simple thing, but it is also profoundly transformative.”

The 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.

All festival events are free of charge, with most open to the public, although advance booking of tickets is mandatory. Select events will be streamed online on the official 4 Corners Festival YouTube and Facebook accounts.

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

Culture of Hope Exhibition Captures Diverse Stories Through Photography At 4 Corners Festival

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A thought provoking exhibition is to be showcased in Belfast city centre as part of this year’s 4 Corners Festival.

Opening on Thursday, February 1, A Culture Of Hope, will run until February 10 at ArtCetera Studio in Rosemary Street.

The exhibition, by the Westcourt Centre in collaboration with Westcourt Camera Club and a number of local community groups, will explore the stories of people who have come to make Belfast their home and it will reflect their hopes, their joys and their challenges through the medium of photography.

Launching on Thursday, February 1 from 7.30pm to coincide with Late Night Art, the launch will welcome Iranian musicians Shiva (a professional guitarist, singer, music teacher and co-founder of Guitar Club for people seeking sanctuary) and Omid (a professional guitarist and Persian Setar player) as well as allowing attendees to hear from members of the 4 Corners committee and the Westcourt Centre.

Speaking of the exhibition Director of Westcourt Centre, Cormac McArt said: “A Culture of Hope is a photographic exhibition capturing stories and experiences of individuals from across the many diverse communities within Belfast.

“The exhibition was produced by the Westcourt Centre and Westcourt Camera Club in collaboration with a number of local groups and services supporting minority groups and people who have arrived in Belfast from other countries.

“People can expect to see images and stories reflecting the journeys of many cultures and communities now resident in our city.

“The exhibition will share narratives of trauma, suffering, resiliency, connection, solidarity and ultimately hope for the future.

“We hope that people will develop an understanding of some of the reasons for displacement in order to help challenge negative stereotypes and promote tolerance in our society. We want people to see the humanity in diversity and the commonality across communities.”

Now in its 12th year, the 4 Corners Festival was conceived as a way to inspire people from across the city to transform it for the peace and wellbeing of all.

The festival features a range of music, discussion, sport and faith-inspired events and will run from February 1 to 11 in venues in all four corners of the city. 

4 Corners Festival committee member Ed Petersen said the exhibition will be a moving experience for attendees.

He added: “The imagery in this exhibition is not only thought provoking but moving, it allows us to experience the stories of people who have made Belfast their home through the lens of a camera.”

This year’s theme OUR STORIES…Towards A Culture Of Hope is about showcasing our city and our people’s stories reflecting the essence of belonging and unity within the city’s diverse community.

The upcoming festival’s suite of events is designed to entice people out of their own ‘corners’ of the city and into new places where they will encounter new perspectives, new ideas and hopefully meet new friends.

“There is a correlation between the stories we tell and the culture we live in. Stories can highlight common ground, increase understanding and create connections. They hold the power to have a positive impact on our community and promote hope for the future” said Megan Boyd, 4 Corners Festival Administrator.

The 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.

All festival events are free of charge, with most open to the public, although advance booking of tickets is mandatory. Select events will be streamed online on the official 4 Corners Festival YouTube and Facebook accounts.

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

John Steinbeck takes centre stage at Roe Valley Arts Centre this February

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Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre is delighted to partner again with the Steinbeck Festival in 2024 to host a captivating program of events that celebrate the legacy of John Steinbeck through art, music, storytelling, and spoken word.

The festival promises a wonderful blend of cultural experiences for attendees of all ages, inviting them to immerse themselves in the literary world of Steinbeck.

The Steinbeck Festival 2024 kicks off with two engaging exhibitions: a display of book covers created by local primary school students and The Dustbowl Photography exhibition, which this year explores the theme ‘People’.

The timeless appeal of John Steinbeck’s works and his profound impact on the world of arts and culture will also be celebrated with a diverse range of live events, bringing together literature, film, music, and community engagement.

Mark Carruthers will engage in a thought-provoking conversation on Nobel Peace Prize laureate John Hume, with former BBC Journalist, and author of John Hume – The Persuader, Stephen Walker (2 Feb). Then, the Swingtime Starlets will transport the audience to the golden era of the 40s and 50s with an exceptional night of music on 24th February.  Tickets for both these events can be booked at roevalleyarts.com

There will also be a number of free events, including a live link up with the National Steinbeck Center, Salinas, California where attendees will have the opportunity to view some of the centre’s East of Eden related articles. Following this Dr Linda McKeown (QUB) will discuss East of Eden in its social context and consider Steinbeck’s thinking behind writing the novel.

On 8th February, come along for a captivating evening of verbal art by local poets and storytellers. Then, award-winning Northern Ireland film producer and screenwriter, Greer Ellison will give an illustration talk on 22nd February, offering insights into his illustrious career, sharing clips from his latest film, providing a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of film and media.  Meanwhile, the Steinbeck Cafe in Drumceatt Square will host a lively Book Club discussion focused on Cannery Row on 27th February.

Secondary school GCSE groups are invited to a special programme of exploration and learning, delving into the literary masterpiece Of Mice and Men. Following the discussion, participants will have the opportunity to enjoy a screening of the 1992 film adaptation and an introduction to the live music of the era by Allan Nicholl (21 and 22 Feb).

All bookings for events can be made online at roevalleyarts.com or by calling the box office on 028 7776 0650. Book is essential for free events.

The Arts Centre galleries are open throughout the festival as follows:

  • Monday: CLOSED
  • Tuesday: 9:30am – 5pm
  • Wednesday: 9:30am – 5pm and 7pm – 9pm
  • Thursday: 9:30am – 5pm and 7pm – 9pm
  • Friday: 9:30am – 5pm
  • Saturday: 10am – 1pm

For further information visit www.roevalleyarts.com

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Dobbins Inn, County Antrim

This cosy Inn is one of the town’s oldest buildings. You can simply relax by the open log fire or explore the town’s Norman Castle that has dominated this part of Belfast Lough since the 12th century. There’s lots to do in the area, from exploring the Causeway Coast, visiting the waterfall at Glenoe, or taking a walk to the Blackhead Lighthouse near Whitehead. Great food and a warm welcome await in the quaint Landings Restaurant. Avail of an overnight stay and a one course meal, with a hearty breakfast the next morning from £50 pp. Visit https://dobbinsinn.co.uk for more information.

Walsh’s Hotel, County Derry~Londonderry

Nestled at the foot of the Sperrins in the town of Maghera, this hotel is a great base to explore the lovely scenery of Mid-Ulster and County Derry~Londonderry. The hotel is offering a Children’s Adventure Package where you can spend the day at the nearby Jungle NI watching your little treasures have the time of their lives at the Treetop Adventure before heading back to the cosy comfort of the hotel’s Helena’s Bistro, where the kids can eat free. Then enjoy a great family breakfast the next morning.  From £256 based on two adults and two children. Visit https://www.walshshotel.com for more information.

Lough Erne Resort, County Fermanagh

Escape to this five-star resort, located minutes from the island town of Enniskillen. Nestled on a 600-acre peninsula between Castle Hume Lough and Lower Lough Erne, it has spectacular views of the Fermanagh Lakelands and The Faldo Course. This hotel has welcomed many a celebrity and world leader. Why not feel special and pamper yourself at The Thermal Suite and Infinity pool at the Thai Spa, complimentary for all hotel guests. Then tuck into a delicious meal at the Loughside Grill. There is a wonderful Irish breakfast to enjoy the next morning, paired with memorable views. You can stay in a lodge or suite as part of this Stay and Dine deal for £269 per room based on two people sharing (Sun- Thurs). Visit https://www.lougherneresort.com for more information.

 

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 29 January- 4 February

  1. Birdwatch Morning, Comber, County Down, 31 January. Join the experts at the Castle Espie Wetlands Centre on the banks of Strangford Lough. You will have the chance to take a closer look at the wonderful variety of birds across the reserve, which is home to the largest collection of ducks, geese and swans on the island of Ireland. Everyone is welcome to join, no prior birdwatching knowledge required!
  1. Armagh Rhymers on Brigid’s Day, Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin, County Derry~Londonderry, 1 February. This performance serves up an exciting mixture of music, song, poetry, storytelling and drama. Founded in the 1970’s, the rhymers hark back to ancient traditions where the kitchen floor was the stage. Their fabulous costumes and woven headdresses evoke the folklore of old Ireland. A fun day for the whole family.
  2. Winter Discovery Morning, Belfast, County Antrim, 2 February. Come and enjoy a seasonal walk amidst the splendour of the Lagan Valley Regional Park. These walks give you the opportunity for an informal but informative walk with the park’s rangers to learn about the wildlife and history of the area.
  1. Loughmacrory Lough, County Tyrone. Follow the shoreline of this serene lake. Wonderful flora and fauna abound, and gravel paths make this a very pleasant 2k stroll.  Keep your eyes peeled for a flash of electric blue, it could well be a kingfisher or just admire the swans and wild geese that visit.
  2. Imbolc, Celtic Mindfulness, Navan Centre, County Armagh, 3 February. This day retreat with Judith Greene and Karen Smyth celebrates the ancient Celtic festival which marks the beginning of Spring, falling at the halfway point between the Winter solstice and the Spring equinox. Historically, this festival was in honour of the pagan goddess, Brigid, who was adopted as a Christian saint. Connect with nature as it awakens from its winter slumber and get ready to welcome spring, refreshed and renewed.
  3. Belfast Bike Tours , Belfast, County Antrim, throughout February. Learn about the history, culture and architecture of Belfast in a fun way! Tour the city on comfortable, easy to pedal bikes taking in everything from the café culture vibe of the Cathedral Quarter to the street art, and peace walls. Visit the Titanic slipways and see why everyone is kissing the Big Fish. Two tours available daily, seven days a week. Includes helmet hire.
  4. Earth Yoga – In the Heart of The Marble Arch Cave, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 4 February. This multi-sensory experience will take your yoga practice to a place it has never been, surrounded by the sights and sounds of mother earth, deep in the heart of the show cave, 50 metres underground! A unique way to unwind and relax body and mind in an hour experience that is suitable for all levels. The yoga space will be lit with lanterns creating a warm and inviting feeling. There are 154 steps to enter the cave, so dress in flat shoes and warm clothing and bring along your own yoga mat.
  5. Moneypenny’s Forge and Lockhouse, Craigavon, County Armagh, throughout February. Want to make the sparks fly? Well look no further than this wonderful historic forge to learn the traditional skills of blacksmithing! Located on the Newry Canal just outside Portadown, this beautiful location has classes to suit all abilities from the novice to the more advanced metalworker. Or you can visit our canal-themed museum next door in the Lockhouse, named after the Moneypenny family who looked after the lock from the early 1800s until its closure in the mid-20th century. Class sizes are small so check the website for booking.
  6. The Sperrin Sculpture Trail, County Tyrone. Behold the three giant sculptures by artist Thomas Dambo on the Sperrins Sculpture Trail, which showcase the geology, archaeology and heritage of the Sperrins. The giants represent the past, present and future. You will evoke the mystical, ancient history and beauty of the region. You will find Ceoldán, the Stargazer, at Davagh Forest kneeling on a newly constructed timber boardwalk. He is trying to capture the brilliance of the night sky, ‘The Seven Sisters’, in his spiral. You can also find Nowanois, translated as the storytellers at Glenelly Valley near Cranagh and Darach, the Guardian at Mullaghcarn Mountain. A fun day out for all!
  7. Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum, Lisburn, County Antrim. Fancy trying your hand at spinning or want to watch one of the experts do it? Come along to this centre which celebrates Northern Ireland’s historic role as the world leader in the manufacturer of linen. You can see the cloth being woven in daily demonstrations with one of the onsite weavers. There are also fabulous exhibits on display such as a  fragment of linen from Tutankhamun’s tomb, and a pair of stockings embroidered for Queen Victoria. Entry is free and there’s accessible parking beside the building, there’s also a range of lovely linen to buy in the shop.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

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