10 things to do in Northern Ireland

 

Here are ten exciting things to do 3 – 9 July

  1. Stendhal Festival, Limavady, County Londonderry, 6-8 July. Roll up to the amazing Stendhal Festival, Northern Ireland’s biggest independent music and arts festival since 2011. Enjoy music, comedy, poetry, a dedicated family programme and a host of visual arts. This year’s line-up consists of legendary reggae band The Wailers, Irish rockers Bell X1, Ivor Novello, award winning jazz musician, Yazz Ahmed, the Roe Valley’s own Cara Dillon, and many more.
  2. The Derry Girls Experience, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 4 July. Visit the home of Derry Girls and discover where it all began. The Tower Museum is showcasing original memorabilia from the hit show, like Erin’s diary, Aunt Sarah’s famous pyjamas and Ma Mary’s Woolworths sweater, not to mention the infamous Spice Girls costumes. Step into the set of the Quinn’s household and feel like one of the family. Sister Michael fan? Don’t miss your chance to sit on her chair and roll your eyes at anyone who crosses your path.
  3. Open-Air Theatre: The Secret Garden, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 4 July. Chapterhouse Theatre Company is proud to present The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. Picnic with friends and family and enjoy this enchanting story, loved by children and adults alike. Relive this tale of secrecy and curiosity in what will be one of the highlights of the summer. The Secret Garden will be performed in the grounds of Enniskillen Castle, a stunning open-air venue for a wonderful evening of theatre under the stars.
  4. Benone Artisan Market, Limavady, County Londonderry, 9 July. This free artisan market by Naturally North Coast and Glens is an excellent showcase of local food, culture, heritage, and traditions, and it is an ideal destination for anyone looking for an authentic experience. Benone offers visitors an enticing mix of a coastal location with the beautiful backdrop of Binevenagh Mountain. This market aims to keep things authentic, providing an opportunity to meet some of Northern Ireland’s excellent producers and creative small businesses.
  5. Family Fun at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, Armagh, County Armagh, 4-9 July. Visit the Armagh Planetarium this summer and have fun with science and nature. Jurassic Ark Encounters will be bringing their reptile friends to meet you. Get up close and personal with some of nature’s most fascinating and amazing animals, like snakes, lizards, tortoises and many more. This is an educational learning session about nature’s most fascinating family, the reptiles.
  6. Comber Farmers’ Market, Comber, Down, 6 July. Come on down to the award-winning Comber Farmers’ Market. There are over 24 regular traders selling artisan food and plants. This market provides a wide range of local produce including breads, cheeses, vegetables, fruit, cakes, traybakes, jams, flowers, chocolates and many more. In addition, the ladies of the church catering committee will be providing morning tea, coffee and homemade scones, buns and biscuits in the church hall.
  7. Secret Garden, Belfast, County Antrim, 7 July. Enjoy an evening stroll through Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, famous for the International Rose Garden. This walk will focus on some of the less well-known aspects of the grounds and the local history of the park. The beautiful Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park is comprised of rolling meadows, woodland, riverside fields and formal gardens. The City of Belfast International Rose Garden has made the park world famous, containing over 20,000 blooms in the summer. Don’t miss out on seeing the wonderful blooms!
  8. Hannah Starkey, Principled & Revolutionary: Northern Ireland’s Peace Women, Belfast, County Antrim, 3-9 July. The National Museums NI has partnered with Belfast Photo Festival to present their newly commissioned body of work by renowned photographer, Hannah Starkey at the Ulster Museum. This co-curated exhibition celebrates and honours the women who helped bring peace to Northern Ireland and pays tribute to their efforts in social and political work. The 21 portraits in this exhibition highlight some of the many women who have been pivotal to peace building and community activism in this country through their work in the political, cultural and social sphere.
  9. Conleth McGeary The Homecoming Tour, Dungannon, County Tyrone, 7 July. Conleth McGeary will be performing at Ranfurly House Arts & Visitor Centre to share some original music. The ‘Liverpool Irish phenomenon’ (Liverpool Echo) has been quietly penning new music and crafting his new sound in the UAE away from everybody. The Tyrone born singer has taken himself out of the local scene in Liverpool where he resides, to work on his original music which he holds close to his heart and is planning his return with a bang. His Irish ‘Homecoming Tour’ will give you a glimpse as to why he has been reluctant to share his new songs until now.
  10. DRAGONS at W5, Belfast, County Antrim. Are you ready to come face-to-face with DRAGONS at W5? For centuries one mythical creature has fascinated and enthralled young and old more than any other. This summer, an epic adventure awaits at W5 as you enter a world of Dragons. This thrilling new experience will bring to life these awe-inspiring creatures using large scale animatronics, puppetry, projections, immersive soundscape technology and fully themed environments. Encounter a range of moving, roaring, smoke breathing beasts.

Booking is essential for most activities. 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/

 

Here are ten exciting things to do 26th – 2 July

Here are 10 things to do Across Northern Ireland

  1. Ballycastle Seafront Artisan Market, Ballycastle, County Antrim, 2 July. Come on down to the free 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. This Ballycastle market is a perfect stopping point on a day out along the Causeway Coast, with its proximity to Ballycastle Beach, and many more iconic attractions in the area.
  2. Meet the Warriors Tour, Armagh, County Armagh, 1-2 July. Immerse yourself in life as a Celt, as you meet our Iron Age warriors. This family-oriented tour provides the opportunity to become a central part of the clan! Transform into a Celtic Warrior, as you have your face painted and wear one of our authentic costumes. Enjoy storytelling around the fire, as the bard tells the tales of the great heroes associated with the Navan Fort, and discover the skills required to succeed in battle. You will also have the chance to learn the art of ancient Celtic writing as you spell out your clan name using Ogham!
  3. Enniskillen Community Market , Enniskillen, Fermanagh, 1 July. Treat yourself to something delicious from one of the food stalls, and discover local handmade crafts, you might just find that perfect gift you’ve been looking for. Check out the work of our 2 Special Interest tables. Have a rummage through the second-hand stalls, one man’s trash is indeed another person’s treasure. From clothing to vinyl. Try your luck at the Tombola, with everything from a boat trip, gift vouchers, hampers and more.
  4. Tyrone Farmer’s Market, Food and Craft markets, Dungannon, County Tyrone, 1 July. Come down and explore the talent of Tyrone at the Tyrone Food and Craft Farmer’s Market this Saturday. Get a taste of local produce and bespoke crafts. There are many sweet treats and trinkets to see, with 30 stalls selling artisan food and hand-crafted gifts and homewares, from local producers!
  5. Dungannon Comedy Festival, Dungannon, County Tyrone, 1 July. There is going to be a lot to laugh at in Dungannon this July, at the town’s first Comedy Festival at Hill of the O’Neill on Saturday 1st July. The seated event at Hill of The O’Neill marquee space will include the cream of Northern Ireland’s burgeoning comedy circuit headlined by Paddy McDonnell and Micky Bartlett alongside other up-and-coming stand-ups. The revered Sean Hegarty will be on MC duties on the night.
  6. The Spirit of the Bann, Coleraine, County Londonderry, 1 July. The Causeway Coast Foodie Tours’ ‘Spirit of the Bann’ river whiskey tasting experience is an ideal and unique opportunity to slowly savour distinctive colours and flavours, enjoy a warm glow and celebrate the beautiful blend of natural & man-made wonders our stunning Causeway Coast has to offer!

Dive into history as you retrace the voyages of our ancestors who settled here some 9,000 years ago. Their onboard Bushmills whiskey guide will introduce you to a selection of whiskies produced by Old Bushmills Distillery and companied by a hand-picked selection of award-winning local produce.

  1. Kids’ Bushcraft at Montalto, Ballynahinch, County Down, 1 July. Uncover the secrets of Montalto Estate at The Montalto Estate Forestry School. Kids will navigate their way through the woods, pick the perfect site to build their shelter and forage for plants and trees to make medicine and food. After exploring, cosy up around the campfire to toast some delicious marshmallows!
  2. A Century of Style, Belfast, County Antrim , 26 June. Visit the Ulster Museum and explore the world of fashion at the free exhibit from the National Portrait Gallery Collection. This exhibition brings together some of the most famous fashion photographers and models (sitters) to showcase the art of fashion photography. Through themes including Designers, Model, Maker and Muse, and Art and Fashion, the exhibition examines the role fashion photography has played in defining style, imagery and contemporary culture. The exhibition also focuses on the work of probably the most celebrated fashion photographer of the 20th Century, Cecil Beaton.
  3. Mind Of Sound – In The Heart Of The Cave, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 2 July. Get in tune with your mind within the Marble Arch Caves. The Sound Bath in the Cave is a powerful and transformative experience allowing you to explore the hidden depths of therapeutic sound. The event features a 28 inch Chao gong and a 36 inch Feng gong, Shaman- style drumming and harmonic singing. Andy Tyler is a gifted musician, singer and soundscape artist who brings a contemporary approach to gongs and rhythmic entrainment. He cultivates dynamic and harmonically beautiful meditative sessions that are deeply relaxing and memorable.
  4. Mourne Alpacas Cria Watch, Dromara, County Down , 26 June. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the latest arrivals to the alpaca herd! As the largest breeding farm for Alpacas on the island of Ireland, Mourne Alpacas offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience the CRIA WATCH (meeting the new Alpaca babies). Experience the magic, the pronking and general Cria capers in the nursery paddocks – from a cria protective spectator distance. As part of your CRIA Watch experience, you will learn about alpaca families, and all their unique behaviour before heading out to the nursery paddocks to watch the new curious and energetic arrivals, protected by their very proud mums.

Booking is essential for most activities. 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/blog/read/2023/04/bank-holiday-ideas-for-families-b262

 

10 Things to do Across NI

 Here are ten exciting things to do 19th – 25th June

  1. Belsonic, Belfast, County Antrim, 19-30 June. Join the party for the return of the popular music festival, Belsonic. This year’s festival will bring a host of international headline acts to the idyllic Ormeau Park in the city throughout the month. The line-up includes iconic artists such as Lionel Richie, George Ezra, David Guetta, Paolo Nutini and Sam Fender.
  2. Summer Solstice Sunset Armagh, County Armagh, 20-21 June. Celebrate the Summer Solstice with a new evening event of music, meditation, movement and drumming at the Navan Centre & Fort. Join this dynamic, uplifting celebration, connecting with the sunset of the summer solstice. Renew and discover links with your Celtic soul and unite with others to create magic on this special summer’s evening.
  3. Making Marks: Rock Art Workshop, Belfast, County Antrim, 21 June. Visit the Ulster Museum for free and learn about the mystery of prehistoric rock art. Thousands of years ago people made their mark on the landscape of Ireland, the motifs they carved have left many unanswered questions. After exploring the history of Irish carvings, you can have a go at creating your very own rock art motif.
  4. A Taste of Mussenden, Castlerock, County Londonderry, 21 June. Join a luxury dining experience inside Mussenden Temple, celebrating everything this iconic landmark has to offer and the best local food. Enjoy a fully guided experience and an exclusive and unique opportunity that is only available to a small number of individuals per year. This event features a five-course taster menu and a range of locally sourced products.
  5. Comber Earlies Food Festival, Comber, County Down, 24 June. The annual Comber Earlies Food Festival is a wonderful day out filled with family fun, cookery demos in the Festival Kitchen and activities that celebrate the Comber Earlies potato which holds PGI Status. Enjoy a wealth of artisan food and drink stalls, celebrity chef demos by Paula McIntyre, children’s entertainment and lots more foodie favourites at this free family event!
  6. Painting Breaks with Dermot Cavanagh, Moy, County Tyrone, see website for opening times. Join Dermot Cavanagh on one of his painting breaks and unleash your creativity. Dermot’s painting courses cater for all levels of artistic ability including absolute beginners. Dermot will build your confidence, remove the mystery around painting and have you creating work to be proud of in no time. All professional quality painting materials are provided for use throughout your course.
  7. Open-Air Theatre: The Importance of Being Earnest, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 24 June. Picnic with friends and family and enjoy the exquisite new production of Wilde’s hilarious tale of doubles lives and mistaken identities presented in full period costume. The Importance of Being Earnest will be performed in the grounds of Enniskillen Castle, a stunning open-air venue for a wonderful evening of theatre under the stars.
  8. Gortin Family Fun Day, Gortin, County Tyrone, 24 June. The Gortin Community Centre is hosting a Family Fun Day, free for all to attend. There’ll be something to do for the whole family including face painting, live music and a mobile fun farm. You will also have the chance to meet some friendly alpacas, enjoy storytelling time and indulge in some delicious pizza.
  9. Buskfest, Banbridge, Banbridge, County Down, 24 June. The annual Buskfest outdoor busking competition is back! Join the buzz in Banbridge as multitude of musicians, singers, bands, solo artists and street performers take to the streets to compete for a portion of the total £3,000 prize pot. Participants will compete in a number of categories including Best Individual, Best Band, Best Junior, Best Performance, Spirit of Buskfest and overall Winner.
  10. Traditional Skills Festival 2023, Newtown Crommelin, County Antrim, 24-25 June. Don’t miss the opportunity to reclaim your ancestral skills with the guided support of some hugely talented local crafters, makers & artists. Explore traditional skills through basket weaving, wool spinning, dry stone wall building and quilting workshops. Watch live demonstrations and learn from a variety of traditional crafters, makers and artists.

 

Booking is essential for most activities. 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/blog/read/2023/04/bank-holiday-ideas-for-families-b262

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

 

Here are ten exciting things to do 12th – 18th June

  1. Ballycastle Seafront Artisan Market, Ballycastle, County Antrim, 18 June. Visit 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. Try a variety of exquisite handcrafted, artistic, tasty items, and enjoy the opportunity to interact with the artisans who created them. This is an ideal destination for anyone looking for an authentic experience!
  2. Mourne Alpacas Sunset Supper, Dromara, County Down, see website for opening times. Experience the sun going down with Cria (baby Alpaca) pronking by and alpacas grazing as you relax with a glass of prosecco. After meeting some alpacas for a short walk, a cuddle, and a selfie, you can settle down together at a picnic table to enjoy a scrumptious supper box for two and a bottle of prosecco. This is the perfect immersive experience in the magical and relaxing world that the alpacas create at Mourne Alpacas.
  3. Unearthing Macha, Armagh, County Armagh, 17 June. Follow in the footsteps of a legendary figure from Northern Ireland’s past. A sovereignty goddess, Macha is a central figure in the story of Ulster, with Armagh being named in her honour. Over three spellbinding hours, your guide Donna will lead you through a unique blend of history and legend built around Macha, a mythological hero that appears throughout Irish mythology.
  4. Almac Belfast City Women’s 10K , Belfast, County Antrim, 18 June. Belfast City Marathon, along with their new title sponsor, Almac, are excited to introduce this new event to their running calendar. All females over the age of 15 are invited to run, jog or walk the 10k route in the Titanic Quarter on Sunday 18th June 2023. All participants will receive a commemorative medal and t-shirt on completion of the event. Let’s get moving ladies!
  5. Best of the Bann, Coleraine, County Londonderry, see website for opening times. Let your worries float away as you sit back and relax on the picturesque, calm waters of the Lower Bann. Experience Northern Ireland’s longest river onboard the stylish M. V. Kingfisher – a classic vessel built by Harland and Wolff in the historic Belfast shipyard, which provides the perfect platform to relax, admire the scenery and learn about local heritage. Take time to be close to nature and uncover the fascinating heritage of an area so often overlooked!
  6. Paddle and Pizza on Strangford Lough, Killinchy, County Down, 18 June. Master the basics of staying afloat on a stand-up paddleboard and tour around the beautiful islands on Strangford Lough. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy homemade pizza prepared by Tracey and Joe in their alfresco pizza oven, along with fresh salads using produce grown in their garden.
  7. Downpatrick Racecourse Fixtures, Downpatrick, County Down, 17-18 June. Enjoy a fun day out with family and friends at Downpatrick Racecourse with their upcoming fixtures this season. Situated one mile away from the centre of the historic town of Downpatrick, this racecourse has been operating for more than 150 years. Indulge in the thrill of live racing following by live music.
  8. Cocktail Making & Cruise-Erne Water Taxi, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, see website for opening times. See Lough Erne your way with Erne Water Taxi’s chauffeur driven boats. Switch off and take in the panoramic views before heading to the M Lounge in Enniskillen to join one of the mixologist team who will guide you through a Cocktail-making session coupled with food boards.
  9. Guided Tours of the Archbishop’s Palace, Armagh, County Armagh, 18 June. Take this special opportunity to see behind the doors of The Primate’s Palace, built by Archbishop Robinson and used as the home of the Church of Ireland Archbishops from 1770 until the 1970s. Tour this magnificent building full of rich history and art. Finish your tour with the “Artist in Residence” exhibition by local man J B Vallely, who has had a career in art and music spanning over 6 decades.
  10. Woodlab Distillery, Moy, County Tyrone, see website for opening times. Experience the unique science of harnessing nature at the Woodlab Distillery gin school.  Here you will extract flavour profiles using some of the botanicals Woodlab Distillery uses in their products. Create a totally bespoke, one-off bottle: a gin, learn about the gin-making process and enjoy countless tales and stories along the way.

 

Booking is essential for most activities. 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/blog/read/2023/04/bank-holiday-ideas-for-families-b262

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

Here are ten exciting things to do 22nd – 28th May.

  1. Bluegrass Omagh, Omagh, County Tyrone, 26 – 28 May. Time to dust off your Stetson and get your dancin’ shoes on. The Bluegrass festival returns to Ulster American Folk Park. Enjoy a stellar weekend with world-class musicians from around the globe. This will be a toe-tappin’, knee-slappin’ weekend to remember!
  2. Portrush Tasty, Portrush, County Antrim, 26 May. This evening foodie tour is the perfect opener for your weekend. Enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes visit to Portrush’s only craft brewery for a private tasting, a delicious main course on Main Street, and finish off with a delicious cocktail. Guided by local food & drink ambassador Wendy, you will be introduced to the unique people, flavours and character this coastal gem has to offer.
  3. Orchard/Cider Experience, Portadown, County Armagh, 27 May. Enjoy a fully immersive orchard/cider experience in the company of the McKeever Family. Walk through their various orchard plantations and witness first-hand the beautiful apple blossom. Learn about the craft cider and apple juice production from start to finish, enjoy tastings of their award-winning products and relax in their new glass fronted Bramley Barn with a hot cuppa while you tuck into granny’s traditional griddle breads.
  4. Poems and Paintings Creative Writing and Art Retreat, Stewartstown, County Tyrone, 27 -28 May. Join a weekend of creative writing, painting, music, good food and fun with bestselling novelist Emma Heatherington and renowned Irish artist Jim McKee in the spectacular surroundings of Rosehill House. In this two-day visit to the heart of Mid Ulster, you will be immersed in creativity as you learn from experts all you want to know about painting masterpieces and conjuring up magnificent stories and poems, as well as tips on how to get published.
  5. Tracing Your Mourne Roots Exhibition, Kilkeel, County Down, see website for opening times. Overlooking Kilkeel’s busy and picturesque fishing port, the Nautilus Centre is the ideal place to become a time traveller and explore your heritage. The exhibition aims to showcase the history and heritage of Kilkeel and the wider Mourne area from 1800 to present day. The project is also currently gathering information on local graveyards within Kilkeel to create an online database which will allow you the chance to access the information to find out if your relatives are buried in the area.
  6. May Bank Holiday Weekend at HMS Caroline, Belfast, County Antrim, 27 – 29 May. There is no better way to spend the May Bank Holiday weekend than exploring the HMS Caroline. Bring the children to HMS Caroline to enjoy specially themed activities all included with HMS Caroline tour tickets. Drop-in, family-led activities including crafts, dress ups, puzzles, games, and colouring-in activities are also available in the Learning Room onboard the ship.
  7. Mundy in Concert, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, 27 May. Seamus Heaney Home Place in Bellaghy is delighted to welcome Mundy to the Helicon for what promises to be an unmissable performance. Mundy’s music has allowed him to travel the world supporting some of the greats; Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Emmylou Harris, R.E.M, Oasis and The Pogues to name but a few. Mundy was invited to perform for perhaps his most prestigious audience to date, in the White House for President Barack Obama as part of their St. Patricks Day celebrations. Don’t miss out on this special performance!
  8. Creels in the Cave, Tullyholvin Lower, County Fermanagh, 26 May- 18 August. Visit this popular local spot to unwind and enjoy a pint. The Linnet Inn is the perfect setting for those interested in learning a little more about the ancient art of Creel Making and Basket Weaving. Dessie, owner of the Linnet Inn, part-time undertaker and full-time shopkeeper will share stories from his community and the links it has with the extensive cave network that lies beneath the pub.
  9. Spring Mindfulness at Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down, 22-28 May. Through the hustle and bustle of daily life, there are multiple pockets of peace to be found in places all around us. This spring, come and experience the garden by having a go at practicing mindfulness. Mindfulness can be practised anywhere, at any time of day. Created as a form of meditation, it asks you to take notice of each of the five senses in your body, including your own breathing, bringing your complete attention into the current moment.
  10. Armagh Craft Fair, Armagh, County Armagh, 27 May. Come celebrate contemporary and traditional craft at the Armagh Craft Fair. The hugely successful Armagh Craft Fair is back for the 11th year at The Market Place Theatre and Arts Centre with the largest number of fantastic artists and makers to date.

 

Booking is essential for most activities. 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/blog/read/2023/04/bank-holiday-ideas-for-families-b262

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

Here are ten exciting things to do 24 – 30 April

  1. City of Derry Jazz & Big Band Festival, Derry~Londonderry, 27 – 1 May. If you’re looking for the perfect way to start the summer, then look no further than Derry~Londonderry, where the City of Derry Jazz & Big Band Festival returns this May Bank Holiday weekend. This is the 22nd iteration of the Festival which has grown year on year to become the biggest and best Jazz showcase in Ireland, making it the favourite stop off for hundreds of musicians on the jazz circuit.
  2. Portrush Tasty, Portrush, County Antrim, 28 April. These Friday evening foodie tours are the perfect opener for your weekend. This tour is about getting together and sharing food, drink, stories and craic. It starts with an exclusive behind-the-scenes visit to Portrush’s only craft brewery, Lacada Brewery, for a private tasting, moving on for a delicious main course on Main Street, and rounding off with a cool new cocktail in an awarding-winning bar and entertainment venue.
  3. Burgers, Beer & Spirits at The Echlinville Distillery, Kircubbin, County Down, 29 April. Enjoy an afternoon of the finest local food and drinks with gourmet burgers by Ballyboley Dexters, craft beer by Modest Beer and Echlinville’s premium whiskeys and gins.
  4. Frock Around The Clock : Vintage & Handmade Fair, Belfast, 30 April. Frock Around The Clock have been running vintage and handmade fairs since 2008, and with over 200 events in Belfast and beyond, they are a firm favourite on the Northern Ireland event calendar. Expect to find cool collectables, on-trend homewares, beautiful jewellery, fashion and accessories.
  5. Rock Out With The Cave Crew, Florencecourt, Fermanagh, 30 April. The Cave Crew of the Marble Arch Cave are excited to host a new above-ground event exploring the rich heritage of Killykeeghan National Nature Reserve. Visitors will delve into the local human history and heritage of this hidden gem nestled within the landscape of Cuilcagh Mountain. They will uncover the treasures of the fascinating geology, stunning landforms and the unique biodiversity of this special place through an exciting new interactive guided trail.
  6. Rathlin Forage, Ballycastle, County Antrim, 30 April. Ksenia has, for the last seventeen years, collected and cooked with the natural produce that grows along the rocky shoreline of Rathlin Island. This exciting foraging walk will last approximately 1 hour 30 minutes and the guide Ksenia will introduce the ancient art of foraging.
  7. Food and Mindfulness Tour, Plumbridge, County Tyrone, see website for booking tours Starting your day at Butterlope Farm you will be welcomed by Annie a local expert in the flora of the area. Visit the vegetable garden and enjoy tea, scones and foraged jams before heading out on a forage walk. As you take in the views of the amazing Glenga Valley, Annie will lead you along ancient hedgerows and dry stone walls. The forage walk will look at the historical and medicinal uses of plants and consider plants that can be picked as ‘Food for Free’. Also, learn how to recognise the archaeological features of the upland Sperrins landscape.
  8. Gullion Adventures, Meigh, County Armagh. Whether you are planning some family activities over the bank holiday weekends or are planning a group bonding activity, Gullion adventures has it all. From mountain biking, archery and abseiling, you are sure to be entertained in this outstanding area of beauty and adventure. Contact 07591887370 for further information.
  9. Oakfire Adventures, Derry~Londonderry, see website for opening times. Oakfire strive to make their activity destination as best as possible. Located on the outskirts of Derry-Londonderry, Oakfire Adventures are accessible from all parts of Northern Ireland and beyond. Perfect for corporate events, sports teams, stag parties, birthdays or simply a fun day out, Oakfire provides an exhilarating alternative to those looking to have a great time.
  10. Hydrobikes at Enniskillen Castle, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh. This experience is set in the water below the magnificent Enniskillen Castle, and can be enjoyed during the day or at night time, providing a completely unique perspective of the town. Jump onboard the Hydrobikes with lights for a low-impact leisurely ride around Castle Island, with your colourful bike lighting up the water and creating an eye-catching display. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture fantastic shots of your friends and family enjoying the experience.

Booking is essential for most activities. 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

Here are ten exciting things to do 17 – 23 April

  1. Scarva Summer Band Concerts, Scarva, County Down, 16 April – September. Sunday Concerts in Scarva are taking place every Sunday this spring/summer. Visit the award-winning floral Scarva village and enjoy a varied programme of summer band concerts adjacent to the Victorian style band stand. Free admission, no booking required.
  2. Hit the North Street Art Festival, Belfast, 20 – 30 April. To celebrate its 10th birthday, the ‘Hit The North’ (HTN) Street Art Festival will welcome its most impressive roster yet with the internationally renowned R.O.A., Shok-1 and Studio Giftig confirmed as headliners. Over 60 artists from across the UK, Ireland and Europe are due to take part with the full line-up and events programme due to be revealed over the coming weeks.
  3. Dusk Chorus, Belvoir Park, Belfast, 22 April. Sorrel Lyall from the British Trust will lead a relaxed dusk chorus walk through the Lagan Valley Regional Park to enjoy the spring birdsong. Sorrel will be talking through identification of birds by sound in this beginner friendly event. You don’t need to know anything about birds to come along. You will be provided with binoculars but please bring a torch, wear warm clothes and good footwear.
  4. Garden workshop at Hezlett House, Castlerock, County Londonderry, 22 April. Step inside one of Northern Ireland’s oldest buildings and learn about the reality of 17th-century rural life. You will learn about developing your own ‘cottage garden’ including how to compost and manage gardens in our Northern Ireland environment. You will also learn how to make a sweet pea climber and take it home to watch them bloom over the summer. A tour of Hezlett House will also be included in the workshop.
  5. Fermanagh Fun Farm, Lisbellaw, County Fermanagh, see website for opening hours. Fermanagh Fun Farm is home to many rescued and adopted animals. All the animals are pets and will live at the farm for the rest of their life. The animals are very friendly as they are used to visitors. They welcome a little pet and some food from the basket of food you’re given on arrival.
  6. Sacred Site Tours Northern Ireland, Dungannon, County Tyrone, tours upon request. Walk in the steps of the ancestors on private guided tours to the ancient and sacred sites in Northern Ireland. For over six thousand years, the Neolithic people, the Celts, as well as those who followed them were actively involved in healing, divination, other world journeying and ceremony at these extraordinary places. These tours are interactive and filled with mystery so, immerse yourself and feel the energy.
  7. Painting Breaks with Dermot Cavanagh, Moy, County Tyrone, see website for opening hours. Dermot Cavanagh’s painting courses cater for all levels of artistic ability including absolute beginners. Join Dermot and let him teach you how to paint your own masterpieces as he passes on many of his tips and techniques about drawing, painting and colour mixing. This is a unique opportunity to learn new skills from a world-renowned artist and master tutor.
  8. South Lake Watersports Centre, Craigavon, County Armagh, see website for booking information. Say hello to unforgettable water and land-based adventure and ‘total wipeout’ style fun. Suitable for all ages and abilities, set within the stunning grounds of Craigavon City Park, you can enjoy an array of water sports such as banana boating, kayaking, sailing and much more whether you are in need of some team bonding or family fun.
  9. Beer Masterclass, Derry~Londonderry, 21 April. For craft beer aficionados, anyone with a thirst for a fun experience, or essentially anyone who likes good beer, the beer masterclass at the Walled City Brewery is just the ticket! Your experience will start with a quick tour of this famous liquid’s history and then the fun starts as you get hands-on with the ingredients and make your own micro-beer.
  10. Blokart World, Ballymena, County Antrim, see website for booking information. Blokart is fast becoming a sport of its own. A blokart is a mini sand yacht which is hand steered and eliminates any requirement for length adjustment for different sized users. This makes a blokart an ideal choice for families. Blokart World provides training and assessment packages to both the public & private sector on a wide range of topics with many options to suit all requirements.

Booking is essential for most activities. 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

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

Here are ten exciting things to do 10 – 16 April

1.The Great Rabbit Runaround, Hillsborough, County Down, 10 – 11 April. Hop on down to Northern Ireland’s royal residence this Easter to enjoy the Great Rabbit Runaround. Run free in the fresh air of the spacious gardens as you discover fun facts, complete the challenges, and find out about Easter traditions along the way with the help of the resident bunnies. You’ll also see thousands of tulips bloom across the gardens as part of Spring Spectacular. After all that exploring, you’ll be rewarded with a chocolate lolly when you finish the trail, supplied by local quality chocolatiers Fosters Chocolates.

  1. The Who Wants to be a Superhero Show, Belfast, 10 – 16 April. Calling all superheroes! Don’t miss W5’s FREE interactive theatre show this Easter. Join W5 for a brand-new interactive stage show and put your powers to the test. Are you willing to be transformed into a superhero for the greater good? Five volunteers from the audience are needed to form a new superhero team. Using some real science (and a lot of not so real science) become part of W5’s ‘Stormforce 6,’ the first step in the Titan Defence Force’s new superhero team initiative. Now is the time to defend the world against an alien invasion. Booking essential.
  2. Ballycastle Seafront Artisan Market, Ballycastle, County Antrim, 10 April. Visit the flagship artisan market by Naturally North Coast and Glens located 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. These markets aim to keep things authentic, providing an opportunity to meet some of Northern Ireland’s many producers and creative small businesses.
  3. Bronze Age for Kids, Marble Arch Caves, County Fermanagh, 10 April. Join Ian as you discover evidence left on today’s landscape left by the settlers from the Bronze Age by searching for stone circles, ancient field boundaries, rock art, standing stones and ring forts. You will become a detective and discover 2,500-year-old rock art and ancient field boundaries. Looking for signs on the landscape you will learn why the settlers were attracted to the area to live and how it would have looked different to today.
  4. Easter Own a Horse/Pony Day at Crindle Stables, Limavady, County Londonderry, 11 April. You could have the chance to enjoy four full hours of owning a Crindle pony. This includes two riding sessions, each 40 minutes long, along with the chance to lead, groom, untack, catch, clean tack, trek, and let your pony loose. Make use of all the great facilities with your horse/pony, such as the use of Crindle stables’ bridle, saddle, saddle pad, brushes, and tack cleaning equipment on the day.

 

  1. The Spirit of the Bann, Coleraine, County Londonderry, season starts 12 April. Causeway Coast Foodie Tours’ ‘Spirit of the Bann’ river whiskey tasting experience is an ideal and unique opportunity to slowly savour distinctive colours and flavours, enjoy a warm glow and celebrate the beautiful blend of natural and man-made wonders our stunning Causeway Coast has to offer.

 

  1. Vegan Table Tour, Belfast, 15 April. A combined vegan food and walking tour of Belfast City Centre, for vegans, vegetarians and those who want to taste a growing food movement. Meet your guide and allow them to fascinate you with stories of Belfast’s people, industry, inventors and hidden rivers one bite at a time. Explore the colourful streets and vibrant city centre on the tour, taking in sights you might otherwise have missed. Hear about the range of foods Northern Ireland is famous for, while eating and drinking your way through a delicious plant-based menu.

 

  1. 8. Wild Atlantic Distillery Gin School & Distillery Tour, Castlederg, County Tyrone, 14 & 15 April. Meet the people behind Ireland’s Tyrone’s distillery in a fun and friendly environment just 15 miles from the Wild Atlantic Way. Learn the craft of making a spirit under the guidance of award-winning master distillers and discover the origins of the botanicals including kelp and dillisk, that are hand harvested from the Wild Atlantic Ocean.

 

  1. Gosford Karting, Markethill, County Armagh, see website for dates. Experience the thrill of racing on an outdoor tarmac track. Racing outdoors gives you the same experience as racing in a professional grand prix race. Gosford Karting provides practise sessions for children aged eight years upwards on our junior karts as well as intermediate karts and Grand Prix karts for adults with a need for speed.

 

  1. A Taste of Castle Ward, Strangford, County Down, see website for dates. The Castle Ward estate provides a varied selection of edible options from woodland to shore. During your foraging experience, your tour guide, Clare will demonstrate how to identify unique edible coastal plants, fruits, trees and fungi and share exciting ways to use these in your cooking safely and confidently. You’ll learn what to pick and when, as well as how to preserve and prepare it.

 

Booking is essential for most activities. 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

Here are ten exciting things to do 3 – 9 April

  1. Ulster American Folk Park. 2 Mellon Rd. Omagh BT78 5QU. Uk

    Wetland Detectives, Comber, County Down, 6 – 16 April. Can you quack the clues this Easter? Join in on the fun for a family day out full of exploration and discovery that will put all of your senses to the test. To succeed as a Wetland Detective and complete the Easter trail, you’ll need to get closer than ever to nature. Follow tracks to work out who’s been creeping around at night. Once you’ve revealed nature’s hidden secrets on our trail, put your new found detective skills to the test and discover more about the wonderful wetlands with activities such as pond dipping and mini-beast hunting.

  2. Easter at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 9 – 11 April. Discover what a traditional Easter would have been like centuries ago in Ulster and America. There’ll be horse and wagon rides for you to enjoy, tasty traditional food to try and willow weaving demonstrations. Listen to traditional music, watch a magic show on the ship and stop at a photo selfie station. Try your hand at craft demonstrations, meet street characters and swing by the storytelling sessions. There will also be a special Easter trail for the kids to follow.
  3. Belfast Easter Egg Hunt, Belfast, 31 March – 16 April. Get ‘eggcited’ as the Belfast Easter Egg Hunt returns to Belfast City Centre. The team at Belfast One are inviting families to take part for free! 10 Giant Eggs will be hidden around Belfast City Centre stores. Find them all, get all the right answers and you could be in with the chance of winning a fantastic family day out worth £300.
  4. Rathlin Paddle, Rathlin Island, County Antrim, April – September. This is an introduction for those new to paddle boarding, giving you a quality, two-hour session with qualified instructors. The lesson provides you with the foundations of stand-up paddle boarding including some knowledge and technical skills which will help you on your SUP journey. It’s a fun session which will leave you wanting to get out there to practice and perfect your new skills.
  5. Easter Egg Hunt at Castle Coole, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 7 – 14 April. Make your way along the trail and find nature-inspired activities for the whole family. Come along and explore the beautiful grounds of Castle Coole. The price of the trail is £3 per child and includes a trail map, pencil and a chocolate egg at the end.
  6. Eagle Divers NI, Antrim, County Antrim, operates all year round. Whether it be your first time diving or you require a refresh course, this is the perfect opportunity to go diving. Eagle Divers offers high quality PADI Certified scuba classes from entry-level through to professional level training. Whether you grab a paddleboard, opt for a kayak or brave the waters for a snorkeling or scuba diving session, you will get to enjoy one of the best diving and water sports areas in Europe.
  7. Easter Countryside trek, Limavady, County Londonderry, 8 April. Enjoy a relaxing walk / trot trek along country trails roads and fields with glorious views of Binevenagh Mountain in the background. Learn to stop, go, steer and trot on site at Crindle Stables before heading out into the stunning countryside.
  8. Lurgaboy Adventure Centre, Markethill, County Armagh, ongoing. Take the gang out for the Easter holidays to the Lurgaboy Adventure Centre – an outdoor activity centre located in the beautiful Armagh countryside. It boasts a range of activities including Ireland’s longest zip-wire and high ropes course.
  9. Cooking Demo with Granny’s Traditional Griddle Bread, County Armagh, April – October. Enjoy a fully immersive orchard/cider experience in the company of the McKeever Family. Walk through their various orchard plantations and witness firsthand the beautiful apple blossom in May or the laden apple trees at harvest. Learn about the whole craft cider/apple juice production from start to finish, enjoy tastings of their award winning products and sit back and relax in their new glass fronted Bramley Barn with a warm cuppa and granny’s traditional griddle breads, cheese and chutneys.
  10. Rock In The Mournes, Annalong, County Down, 8 April – 12 May. This exciting mountain day combines some easy yet beautiful hiking into the heart of the Mourne Mountains, followed by some new and exciting adventure activities you may not have tried before, guaranteed to leave you buzzing to be in the great outdoors! Activities include hiking, rock climbing, caving and abseiling.​

 

Booking is essential for most activities. 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 Next Week

Here are ten exciting things to do 20 – 26 March 2023

 

  1. Walled City Music Festival, Derry~Londonderry, 23 – 26 March. The Walled City Music Festival returns to Derry~Londonderry in 2023 with an incredible line-up of international guest artists. Solo pianist Barry Douglas, cellist Raphael Wallfisch with pianist Cathal Breslin, and mezzo-soprano Sharon Carty with pianist Fiachra Garvey, are all set to perform in the beautiful Christ Church venue.
  2. Season Opening Car and Superkart Race Meeting, Kircubbin, County Down, 25 March. On Saturday 25th March 2023 the opening race meeting for cars and Superkarts takes place at Kirkistown Racing Circuit on the Ards Peninsula. A full race programme is in place which features Formula Ford 1600s, Saloons and GTs, Modi-5-Cup Mazda MX5s, Roadsports, Kirkistown Fiestas, NI Sevens and Superkarts. Visiting classes include Formula Vee and Legends.
  3. Foraging At Tully Castle, Derrygonnelly, County Fermanagh, 25 March. Join Geopark Guide, Tony to experience what’s out and about in the beautiful setting of Tully Castle. Unleash your inner forager and learn all about the fruits that can be used to create your own jam. This activity is sure to be good fun with a cooking demo and some treats but will also give you the knowledge needed to forage for your own food.
  4. Forage in the Forest, Belfast, 25 March. Spring is a fantastic time to explore the edible delights of the woodland and surrounds on a walk through the beautiful Lagan Valley Regional Park ending with refreshments on the barge.
  5. Omagh Sperrins Walking Festival, Gortin, County Tyrone, 25 – 26 March. Get your walking boots ready for the Omagh Sperrins Walking Festival, taking place across the Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural beauty (AONB). The programme, developed and delivered by The Sperrins Partnership and outdoor experts Far and Wild, is designed to help walkers of all abilities to enjoy our beautiful landscape as well as promoting health, physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Sperrins Walking participants will not only enjoy discovering a destination filled with unique tourism experiences, but a great choice of walks ranging from leisurely strolls to more demanding longer walks, all in small groups, guided by experienced leaders.
  6. Saturday Observing Sessions at OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, Omagh, County Tyrone, 25 March. Drop by OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory every month to check in on what their astronomers are up to as they delve into the dark skies. Weather permitting (if we have clear skies), you’ll be able to view live astronomical imaging with their high end Meade LX600 and camera system and also take part in some eyepiece observing outside with their range of refractor telescopes. Maybe you’d like to bring your own observing setup too – the more the merrier.
  7. “Spring” into Summer with lunch in the Walled Garden, Helen’s Bay, County Down, 26 March. Get ready to set your clocks one hour ahead, and “Spring forward” with a delicious lunch to celebrate the official awakening of summer in the Walled Garden. You will be welcomed with a refreshing summer cocktail, before a relaxing stroll through the garden where you will hear about the exciting garden restoration project and vision for the future. This will be followed by lunch served in Old Mill House, created by talented local chef, Nina Christinacce, from Lightfoot, Bangor who shares a passion and vision for the environment and will use fresh, local, seasonal ingredients, as well as whatever bounty the garden has to offer.
  8. Star Tracking Evening with Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, County Armagh, 23 March. Join them for a special Star gazing evening with the Northern Ireland Amateur Astronomy Society for Irish Astronomy Week 2023. Have a telescope but not sure how to use it? Then this is the session for you. NIAAS members and AOP staff will be on hand to answer any questions you have. There will also have telescopes set up outside for stargazing and planet spotting (weather permitting).
  9. Royal Hillsborough Farmers Market, Hillsborough, County Down, 25 March. The popular Royal Hillsborough Farmers Market returns to the historic village for the first market of 2023. Set against the tree-lined ‘The Dark Walk’ and Hillsborough Fort it makes for a lovely day out, especially when combined with a browse of the independent shops and eateries in the village. The market features over 40 stalls of the finest local and seasonal farm-to-market produce and artisan food from across Northern Ireland for you to discover.
  10. Awakening the Walled Garden – Bangor Castle, Bangor, County Down, 25 – 26 March. As part of a weekend of walled garden experiences across the Borough, Spring into AND, join the fun in Bangor Castle Walled Garden to enjoy this beautiful Victorian garden with a host of free activities for all ages on Saturday and Sunday, 12noon-4pm. There will be live music, children’s entertainment and demonstrations, including wood carving. Tours of the garden and Castle Park will let you hear all about the horticulture history of both and the wildlife that calls the park its home. Why not bring your own picnic to enjoy in the garden or grab a cuppa and treat from Coffee Cure? In addition, there are ticketed dining experiences on the 25 March. Check website for more details.

Booking is essential for most activities. 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/