The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough, Councillor Billy Ashe is delighted that The Gobbins coastal cliff path walk is proving it has real tourism pulling power – welcoming its 5,000th visitor this month – in time for a change to having tours every half hour rather than every hour.

“I very much welcome this decision as it will allow even more people to visit The Gobbins Path than before.

“Demand has been phenomenal, so this change in tour timetabling is a very welcome development,” he said.

Alister Bell, Operations Manager at The Gobbins said: “We chose to move to tours every half hour to ensure we can fulfil demand and to allow those who book on the later tours to experience the breath-taking views at The Gobbins before the sun sets.

“While tours are now running every half hour from 10am to 1pm, to accommodate the darker nights, visitors still need to book in advance to secure a place and avoid disappointment on arrival,” he added.

Alister said that’s because the path – which cost £7.5 million and was funded by the European Union’s INTERREG IVA programme along with the Council and Ulster Garden Villages – is indeed continuing to experience high demand from across the globe with this new landmark 5,000 figure just recorded as proof of that.

“The lucky 5,000^th visitor was Steven Dickson from Lisburn, who was out for a family adventure with his young son, Jack and his wife Kit, an Islandmagee native,” he explained.

The visit served as a trip down memory lane for the couple who had previously visited the site together many years ago when it was a lot less accessible and not officially open to the public.

On his return to The Gobbins, Stephen Dickson commented: “In the late 1980’s my now wife and I visited the Gobbins as thrill seeking outdoor activity instructors. We scrambled around the derelict Victorian cliff paths and tiptoed across the old tubular bridge before it later collapsed into the sea. We explored the caves and bivouacked in them on a few occasions.

“It’s been brilliant to see the path brought back to life, with 2015 engineering so that others can enjoy this adventure. It’s not for the faint hearted, instead it is perfect for an adventurous day out.

“It was great to be able to now take my son to where we had some great adventures. Jack loved the tubular bridge, where you can look down at the sea below and the spooky caves with the booming cannon like waves.

“Well done to the council for having the vision to take on such a daunting refurbishment task. It will be a different experience in every changing season and another Northern Irish wonder!”

Of those who have already trodden the cliff edge path to date, the general consensus is that it is a fabulous addition to tourist facilities across Northern Ireland. ‘World class’, ‘a never to be forgotten experience’ ‘spectacular’ and a ‘five star attraction’ are just some of the testimonials from those who have already undertaken the new tour of the reimagined Gobbins cliff path.

Whitehead Gallery Owner and organiser of Tours of The Edwardian House, Cynthia Waddell admitted that she anticipated a relaxing walk on her visit, but confesses she got so much more than what she bargained for: “I had expected a leisurely walk along the coastal path but nothing prepared me for this experience,” said Cynthia.

“The Gobbins is a world class attraction from the visitors centre onwards. There is spectacular scenery and sea views wherever you look. Ailsa Craig and the coast of Scotland can be seen in the distance. Passing the sea birds in their nesting places on the cliffs you could almost reach out to touch them,” she added.

While the walk has been dubbed as a ‘white-knuckle trail’ Cynthia was quick to add that a safety briefing fully prepares you for the adventure that is The Gobbins – one that she concludes, is ‘a never to be forgotten experience’.

Caroline Steele who runs Gobbins Cliff Sea Tours added to the praise. She said: “It is certainly spectacular and I can only describe it as a five-star attraction. The guides, Martin and George were great, full of energy and enthusiasm and yet easy going – good recruitment.”

Dave Hope from Whitehead who was on the very first public tour added: “I was really looking forward to seeing the new path opened and delighted that it has been restored. I am from the local area, so I have known about The Gobbins for a very long time and its connection to the railways.

“Until you undertake the walk, you can’t appreciate the phenomenal feat of engineering it has been and was back in 1902. I highly recommend it to anyone. It was an amazing experience, one I have waited 50 years to do and it certainly didn’t disappoint. I will be back.”

Tickets are priced at £8.50 per person and £23 for a family ticket. Call 028 9337 2318 to book and for more information on The Gobbins visit the website: www.thegobbinscliffpath.com

Ballyclare will light up for Christmas on Saturday 28 November with an array of family fun activities and the annual Christmas tree switch on.

Come and see Willy Wonka and the Oompa-Loompas in their Chocolate Factory from 1.30pm in Ballyclare Town Hall with plenty of chocolate themed activities for the whole family.  Tickets are required for the chocolate factory, which also includes a visit to Santa’s Grotto.  Tickets are available from Sixmile Leisure Centre and cost £4 per child with one parent being admitted free with every child.  Children can also visit Santa’s Grotto only at a cost of £2.50 per child which includes a gift from Santa.  Proceeds from the grotto will go to work supported by the Mayor’s Charities.

At 2.30pm the free family fun entertainment will kick off with local radio presenters ensuring the crowd get into the festive spirit.  At 5pm there will be Christmas readings, Carols and music before the much- awaited arrival of the Mayor along with his special guests Willy Wonka and Santa.  Together they will switch on the Christmas tree lights to light up Ballyclare for a magical Christmas!

Further details of the full Christmas programme can be found on our website www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/christmas

Glengormley will light up for Christmas this year on Saturday 21 November with an array of family fun activities.

Come and see Willy Wonka and the Oompa-Loompas in their Chocolate Factory from 1.30pm in Lilian Bland Pavilion with plenty of chocolate themed activities for the whole family.  Tickets are required for the chocolate factory, which also includes a visit to Santa’s Grotto.  Tickets are available from Mossley Mill and cost £4 per child with one parent being admitted free with every child.  Children can also visit Santa’s Grotto only at a cost of £2.50 per child which includes a gift from Santa.  Proceeds from the grotto will go to charities supported by the Newtownabbey Rotary Club.

At 2.30pm the free family fun entertainment will kick off with local radio presenters ensuring the crowd get into the festive spirit.  At 5pm there be will Christmas readings, Carols and music before the much- awaited arrival of the Mayor along with his special guests Willy Wonka and Santa.  Together they will lead the fancy dress parade to the Christmas tree at the Ulster Bank, where they will switch on the Christmas tree lights to light Glengormley up for a magical Christmas!

Further details of the full Christmas programme can be found on our website www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/christmas

Northern Ireland has a unique collection of irresistible places to stay including quirky B&Bs, luxurious spa hotels and hidden gem properties for the perfect short break and Discover NI has selected the best offers of the week for you to choose from.

• In Need of a Little Pampering?  Whistledown Hotel, Warrenpoint, Newry. From £80pps. Escape to the shores of Carlingford Lough and enjoy bed and breakfast plus a three course evening meal in the bistro restaurant. Also included is a visit to Castaway Seaweed Spa, just a short walk from the hotel. Choose from a range of treatments per person. Available Tuesday to Thursday. Based on two persons sharing.  Available until November 30. To book call (028) 4175 4174.

• Two Night Value Break, Ballygally Castle Hotel, Ballygally, Larne. From £100pps. Two nights’ bed and full Irish breakfast with dinner on the first evening in the Garden Restaurant. Ideally located on the scenic Antrim coast, only 26 miles from Belfast and close to Larne, the Ballygally Castle faces the soft, sandy beaches of Ballygally Bay. Please quote Promo Code “Autumn Leaves” when booking.  Available until December 13. To book call (028) 2858 1066.

• Christmas bed & breakfast breaks with Prosecco, Maryville House Tearooms & Boutique B&B, Belfast. From £110 per room. Why not get into the festive spirit and treat yourself to a relaxing stay at Maryville House?  You will enjoy a complimentary bottle of Prosecco on arrival which is the perfect way to relax after a long day of Christmas shopping. With prices from only £110 per room per night, treat your loved one or enjoy a girl’s only break without the kids. Simply quote “XMAS100″ when booking to receive this exclusive deal. Available November 14 to December 31. To book call (028) 9068 1510.

For further information log on to www.discovernorthernireland.com/offers.

*All offers are subject to availability.

Tourism NI has put together a list of 10 exciting things to do in Northern Ireland next week (November 23 – 29).

• Ards Christmas Lights Switch On, Conway Square, Newtownards, Co. Down, November 27. Come to Conway Square and enjoy the spectacle of Ards Art Centre being lit up like a giant, illuminated Advent Calendar! The event will also feature a special festive performance by The Bangor Ladies Choir and Donaghadee Male Voice Choir, street themed theatre and a Christmas Market. Christmas market from 11am, main event from 7pm.

• Armagh Georgian Day, Armagh City Centre, Co. Armagh, November 28. See Armagh in all its festive glory as the city marks the start of the Christmas season by going back to its Georgian roots. Highlights include live music, family treasure hunt, magical animated lightshow and festive market, as well as a special Christmas market for children.

• The Wonderful Winter Vintage and Handmade Fair, Malone House, Barnett Desmesne, Belfast, November 29. Frock Around The Clock will be returning to beautiful Malone House Belfast for the ‘Wonderful Winter’ Vintage & Handmade Fair on Sunday 29th November. Featuring 45 stalls of vintage, handcrafted & upcycled fashion, furniture, homewares, jewellery, sweet treats, toys and much more, it’s the perfect place to find all your unique Christmas gifts under one roof! From 12-5pm.

• The RTE ConTempo String Quartet, Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, November 25. Described as “one of the most exciting and vibrant chamber ensembles performing today,” the RTE ConTempo String Quartet have performed over 1400 concerts including Carnegie Hall and Berlin Philharmonic Hall. As well as works by Schumann and Mozart, the quarter will play Janacek’s ‘Intimite Letters’ which inspired Brian Friel’s play ‘Performances.’

• A Most Peculiar Wintry Thing, Roe Valley Arts Centre, Limavady, Co. Londonderry, November 25. A new exciting festive children’s show by composer and Belfast Music Laureate Brian Irvine. Explore the magic and mystery of winter with a dynamic blend of original music, improvisation and audience interaction.

• Thanksgiving Day, Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, Co. Tyrone, November 26. Join the Partridge family in Slippery Rock, Butler County as they prepare for their Thanksgiving dinner of 1863 and explore how the cherished American holiday started. Taste seasonal dishes of succotash and pumpkin and shoofly pie.

• Northern Ireland Farm Toy and Model Show, Magherabuoy House Hotel, Portrush, Co. Antrim, November 27. Enter an exciting world of miniature toy and model tractors, uncover the handiwork of local producers offering handcrafted replicas and search for old, rare or discontinued models as the Farm Toy and Model Show celebrates its tenth anniversary.

• The Winter’s Tale, Movie House, Dublin Road, Belfast, November 26. Shakespeare’s timeless tragicomedy of obsession and redemption performed by Kenneth Branagh’s Theatre Company comes live from the Garrick Theatre in London and stars Branagh himself with Dame Judi Dench. Begins at 7.15pm.

• Treasure Hunt Adventure, Seascope NI Lobster Hatchery and Marine Research Centre, Kilkeel, Co. Down, November 28. See the smiles on children’s faces as they enjoy a fun treasure hunt at Northern Ireland’s first lobster hatchery visitor experience and marine research centre.

• Ballycastle Town Christmas Market, Marine Hotel, Ballycastle, Co. Antrim, November 29. Come along, enjoy the Christmas atmosphere and pick up a gift or two at the Ballycastle Christmas Market, known for its great selection of artisan produce and variety of knowledgeable, friendly traders.

Please note some of the events require pre-booking. For more details on these and other events click on www.discovernorthernireland.com/events, visit your local tourist information centre or log onto www.facebook.com/discovernorthernireland.

Ards and North Down is getting ready to light up for Christmas with switch on events taking place in the borough’s five towns – Bangor, Holywood, Newtownards, Comber and Donaghadee – over the next few weeks.

Just five in a line-up of over 34 festive AND fun events, organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council, taking place across the borough throughout the Christmas season, the switch ons are sure to get you in the celebratory mood.

For the first time in 10 years, Bangor’s seafront will be lit up with a spectacular fireworks display when the switch on event moves venue to the McKee Clock Arena at Queen’s Parade. The event, which is taking place on Saturday 21 November, will include a magical Christmas market from 11am – 7pm, featuring all of Bangor’s best-loved stores.  The official switch on by the Mayor of Ards and North Down, Alderman Alan Graham, will follow the fireworks finale at 5.30pm. Spectators are invited to enjoy the fireworks from viewing points along the promenade.

On Friday 27 November the Christmas lights will be switched on in Conway Square, Newtownards. Local traders will be showcasing the range of fabulous festive gifts available in local shops from 12 noon at a special outdoor Christmas market.  At 7pm Ards Arts Centre will be transformed into an illuminated Advent Calendar, with a display in each window.  Festive street theatre and a special joint performance by Bangor Ladies Choir and Donaghadee Male Voice Choir will precede the lights being switched on by the Deputy Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Carl McClean.

Then on Saturday 28 November, there will be more family festive fun in Holywood with their annual Christmas lights switch on event.  Featuring a Christmas Market, Open House choir, an ice-rink, a visit from Santa, a giant snowman, activities in the library and street theatre, the event promises to be a great day out for the whole family.  The market will trade from 11am – 6pm and the lights will be switched on by the Mayor at 4.30pm.

The Mayor will also be switching on the lights in Comber Square on Thursday 26 November at 4pm where a special Christmas Fair will feature a range of tasty gifts and treats from local traders.  Families are invited to bring the kid’s to Santa’s grotto and get into the festive spirit.

On Sunday 6 December, the Deputy Mayor will be switching on the lights in Donaghadee following a community carol service at First Presbyterian Church at 7pm. This will conclude a weekend of festive activities in the town that will include fireworks, a Santa parade, an outdoor ice rink and a 5K Santa fun run.

The Christmas fun doesn’t end there!  Project 24 is also hosting a fantastic Christmas event on Friday 4 December. A land of Christmas fairy tale with twinkling lights, festive foods and a special appearance from Santa and his reindeer will accompany the grand switch on at 7pm.

Looking forward to the festive AND fun switch on events, Mayor of Ards and North Down, Alderman Alan Graham, said:

“The switching on of the Christmas tree lights in towns across the borough are perfect events to make everyone in the family feel the festive season has arrived. Wrap up warmly and come along and enjoy what each of these special events has to offer.”

These are primarily outdoor events; please dress appropriately. All events are subject to change. Admission and activities are all free.  Find out more about all our events at visitardsandnorthdown.com.  For festive pictures, updates and promotions ‘like us’ on Facebook. 

Antrim Town is the place to be on Friday 20 November from 5.45 pm as the Christmas lights switch on ceremony, organised in conjunction with Castle Mall, promises to start the yuletide season with festive fun and entertainment!

The action kicks off in Market Square with musical entertainment hosted by Pete Snodden from Cool FM who will entertain with hits both old and new. Ballyduff Silver Band will also add some musical accompaniment for the main event. Of course the evening wouldn’t be complete without a visit from Santa who will make his grand entrance with his Minion companions and stilt walking friends at 7pm.

One of the highlights is sure to be the special Children’s Prize Draw with great prizes to be won, including a Mini iPad. If you haven’t already got your prize draw slip, they are available from the Old Courthouse and can also be picked up at the event on the evening.  Make sure you don’t miss your chance to grab yourself an early Christmas present! A spectacular fireworks display at 7.30pm will round off what will undoubtedly be a perfect festive evening.

Further details of the full Christmas programme can be found on our website www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/christmas

“From Russia with Spuds” to “The King of the Culchies”, from “Shades of Fifty”  to “Hay-shed romancing”, the 21^st Bard of Armagh Competition presents a  special feast of fresh, humorous and uproarious verse to celebrate its special birthday.

With 1000 patrons expected at the Armagh City Hotel on Friday 20 November for another night of hilarity and waves of laughter, this unique event has activated the ancient art of humorous versification like no other in modern times.
Since the first event held in Keady in 1995 before a small audience, the festival gained such immediate popularity that it was forced to go from venue to venue seeing ever larger premises until it became established in the City Hotel with its huge capacity.

Since its inception, over three hundred bards from every county in Ireland without exception, and ever growing participants from across these islands male and female of all ages and religions have graced the lectern at the finals, setting ever fresh standards of creative humorous writing and  recitation and outstanding presentation.
The annual Bard night is an occasion when people switch off the relentless in-your-face TV world of Soaps and Talent Shows and go for a refreshing, uplifting experience of genuine home-made entertainment in keeping with the great traditions of the past.

The themes usually relate to ongoing controversies and topical issues of the day. For example, at the coming event Peter Casey from Co Clare will  deliver his GAA related  poem ‘Hey Mr Chairman!’ depicting the annual scene where committee members and players who complain all year still go with flow at the AGM and vote the same chairman in again.  “Mr Chairman” will promise, but of course won’t deliver!

“And the players will train six nights a week and they’ll all give up the drink,

And we’ll bring in a sports psychologist to teach them how to think-

But you and me we both agree that the players won’t leave the pub

And the outside man with his 5 year plan will break our little club”

It also highlights tales of how well laid plans can go pear- shaped as Kerry Bard Sonia Elston tells of her meticulous preparation for a job interview then loses the car keys which triggers a monumental series of blunders. Keady’s seasoned campaigner Donal McKenna has dug into the lore of his local town and conjured up a much overdue poem about the celebrated art-form of lying.

“He had lied all over Ireland wherever liars could be found

Now I know he’s happy for he’s lying underground”

Then there is the art of the spell binding tongue twister, and Brookeborough’s Damien McGirr will be doing his utmost to keep the Bard title in County Fermanagh after the exploits of Seamus Carolan last year with his poem ‘Second Hand Handles’

Love poems have been one of the major themes of the Bard Festival of the festival and Sligo bard John McDonagh tells how “it’s never too late to look for love’

“It’s useful to mention, if you’ve got the pension, before your hormones started freaking,

You’ve gone past your prime and you haven’t much time until the radiator starts leaking,

Don’t be dejected, you can still get connected, someone may soon come along,

Perhaps a toy- boy all the way from Hanoi, or a thing in a thong from Hong Kong”

Another newcomer, Jennifer Herron from Larne puts forward a very convincing argument as to how and why dogs are more reliable than boyfriends and Dominic Bennett has to be among the favourites with ‘Now I’m in the doghouse’  This is a take on ‘Fifty Shades’  and the exasperated husband finds himself intoxicated and reminiscing about exploits of days gone by.

“Now the whiskey bottle is empty, I’m telling tales of yore,

Of how I marked Joe Kernan and he didn’t get a score”

In keeping with the non-conventional off the wall views of the world, Joan Rooney argues that a lot of what is dressed up and presented as ‘breaking news’ is nothing more than mere trivia and of no significance-

“Come on Tyrone! says Fr McKeown

Up Armagh! says Paul McGrath

Is it ten pin bowlin’? says Steven Nolan?

I think it’s rugger, says Alan Sugar

Kick her low, says Tommy Bowe

He’s not fit, says Joe Schmidt

Your man is trippin’, says Angela Rippon

Must be a free! says Opra Winfrey

Give him a yella! says Nelson Mandella

Send him off! says Bob Geldoff

Put him in the sin-bin! says Jeremy Corbyn

The ref’s a looper! says Henry Cooper”

And four times Bard winner Jimmy Rafferty from Loughgall has pulled the rabbit out of the hat once more with a gripping tale of espionage in the true James Bond style.  ‘From Russia with Spuds’ is one of his greatest creations.

Great favourite Rob Barratt from Cornwall always gets a tremendous ovation and this year’s ode is another utterly clever spellbinder.  ‘The troofa bout the Garra Rufa’ is a rare gem and Rob’s presentation is always impeccable.

“Garra Rufa, Garra Rufa

You’ve no need to use a loofah

They’ll nibble on your new veruca

And gorge on ageing hardened corns

And other growths your body spawns

A cooly callous callus feeder

A bold bloodthirsty little bleeder

A manky festering puss-filled bunion

Is to him like cheese and onion“

With folk band ‘Puzzle Find Pat’ performing uplifting reels, jigs and song, Master of ceremonies Pearse McBride with his exuberance, elegance and charm, there is no better place to be on Friday 20 November than in The Armagh City Hotel for the ultimate night’s crack of the year when sixteen accomplished poets will compete for the mantle ‘Bard of Armagh 2015’ and a share of the £3000 in prize money.

The finalists in this year’s Bard of Armagh are as follows:

The finalists in this year’s competition are as follows:

Paul Gallagher, Omagh, Co Tyrone.  ‘The futility of gambling’

Rob Barratt, Launceston, Cornwall. ‘The troofa bout the Garra Rufa’

Jennifer Herron, Larne, Co Antrim. ‘Dogs are better than boyfriends’

John McDonagh, Ballymote, Co Sligo.’ Every dog has its day’

Donal McKenna, Keady, Co Armagh. ‘The special presentation’

Joan Rooney, Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan. ‘Any news’

Dominic Bennett, Glengormley, Co Antrim. ‘Now I’m in the doghouse’

Padraig McGinn, Carrick on Shannon. Co Leitrim ‘King of the Culchies’

Damien McGirr, Brookeborough Co Fermanagh. ‘Second hand handles’

Phyllis Murphy, Castleblayney, Co Monaghan. ‘Marry in haste’

Jimmy Rafferty, Loughall, Co Armagh.  ‘From Russia with spuds’

Patrick Gormley, Draperstown, Co Derry.  ‘Nick Evans’

Peter Casey Fanore, Co Clare. ‘Hey Mr Chairman’

Sonia Elston, Ardfert, Co Kerry.  ‘Lost and found’

Patsy McDermott, Virginia, Co Cavan. ‘Learning to recite’

Tickets for the event are currently on sale in the following venues:

Armagh City Hotel

Mona McEntee Crossmaglen

House of Gold Monaghan

Gene Stewarts Dungannon

Tommy Makem Arts and Community Centre Keady

Or through the website www.bardofarmagh.com

For many, the festive season doesn’t begin until the Coca-Cola ‘Holidays Are Coming’ advert airs across TV screens; and this year, the Coca-Cola Christmas Truck will pay a special visit to Northern Ireland with a stop planned for the Belfast SSE Arena on Wednesday 16 December 2015.

The famously festive Coca-Cola Christmas Truck will stop off in Belfast from 12 – 8pm and in addition to seeing it up close, crowds will be entertained throughout the experience with a variety of games including giant ‘ice-block jenga’ and festive ‘pass the parcel’. Families will also have the opportunity to capture a photo souvenir with the truck as it lights up in a winter wonderland setting while enjoying a choice of Coca-Cola or Diet Coke.

Georgina Kendrick, Christmas Brand Manager, Coca-Cola Ireland said: “We’re delighted to celebrate the Christmas season this year with a visit of the Coca-Cola Christmas Truck to Belfast.  With games, music, photography and more, we hope to offer a really special Christmas experience that you won’t want to miss.”

Ever since the Coca-Cola Christmas truck first appeared on screens in November 1995, it has become a regular feature of festive TV schedules in more than 100 different countries. It is universally recognised as a personal countdown to Christmas. In addition to the much-loved advert featuring the Christmas Truck, Coca-Cola will also air its ‘Give a Little Happiness’ TV advert, encouraging people to spread festive cheer throughout the holiday season.

Coca-Cola is also offering limited edition Christmas ‘bow bottles’ on 1.75l bottles, with a clever label that can transform into a beautiful Christmas bow – available in all major supermarkets.

THE city of Derry is simply bursting with fun things to see and do and following recent openings there are now even more experiences to enjoy on a day trip or short break.

The bustling city is known for its historic walls which dominate the centre of town and for the striking Peace Bridge which spans the River Foyle.  The varied night life, wide selection of shops and restaurants and the warm welcome of the locals are also a huge draw for visitors. But now this vibrant city has even more to offer with the much anticipated opening of the new Siege Museum and the Walled City Brewery.

Ruth Burns, Tourism Northern Ireland’s PR Marketing & Destination Manager explains why a trip to Derry~Londonderry should be on everyone’s agenda:

“County Londonderry has a wide range of things to see and do and following appearances in Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel Guide’ as well as being the recipient of the prestigious ‘UK City of Culture’ in 2013, the City of Derry continues to surprise and entertain all who visit.  This year there are even more reasons to visit as the brand new Siege Museum opens as well as the Walled City Brewery which offers a really different day out for everyone”, concluded Ruth.

The new Siege Museum and Exhibition officially opens on December 4 and chronicles the colourful history of Derry~Londonderry with the use of interesting artefacts, mesmerising videos and interactive media. Visitors can explore rooms designated for each of the orders including the Apprentice Boys of Derry, the Orange Order, the Women’s Orange and the Royal Black Institution.

The Walled City Brewery, which is Derry~Londonderry’s first craft brewery for a century, is the brainchild of James Huey who spent 12 years brewing with the largest beer company in Ireland.  The Walled City Brewery has local, authentic, premium quality and flavoursome craft beers inspired by ancient recipes and new-world brewing techniques.  As well as enjoying drinks, visitors can also sample some tasty cuisine served in the restaurant which specialises in local, slow-cooked food.

Whilst in Derry~Londonderry other must-visit places are:

The Craft Village is located between Shipquay St and Magazine St and combines quirky craft shops, balconied apartments, a restaurant and coffee shop, perfect for a day shopping with friends or family.

Those with a love of history will appreciate the two permanent exhibitions at The Tower Museum. ‘The Story of Derry’ tells the colourful and dramatic history of the city whilst ‘An Armada Shipwreck – La Trinidad Valencera’ tells the story of one of the largest ships in the Spanish Armada which sank off the Donegal Coast in 1588.

Visitors looking for somewhere to take the kids for the day should try the Riverwatch Aquarium and Visitor Centre and as the admission is free, this excursion won’t break the bank. Families can learn about local wildlife whilst watching fish swim as well as lobster, crabs, starfish, coalfish and blenneys.

The Museum of Free Derry focuses on the civil rights campaign which emerged in the 1960’s and 1970’s. It tells the people’s story and has an archive of over 25,000 individual items relating to this period, most of which were donated by local residents.

For an afternoon of history and culture, visit Saint Columb’s Cathedral which is the city’s most historic building. The Cathedral was originally built in 1633 by William Parrot and the current tower and main building are that of the original cathedral with the spire added on in 1821.

The Peace Bridge was launched in 2011 and since then has become an iconic structure for the city connecting two sides of the River Foyle. With over three million crossings to date, the Peace Bridge has become a focal point in city activities and events including the New Year celebrations and launch of City of Culture as well as providing a backdrop to Radio 1’s Big Weekend.

Day and night life highlights include:

The city is a shopper’s paradise with something to suit everyone. Shopping options include Foyleside Shopping Centre, the Richmond Shopping Centre, Quayside Centre and of course the unique Craft Village and Austin’s Department Store.

Fashionistas can enjoy browsing the many designer boutiques dotted throughout the city centre and visitors can have their pick from a range of traditional Irish gifts, stone crafts and handmade jewellery.

A short break to Derry~Londonderry should include a visit to the Millennium Forum which is the first purpose built theatre in the city and has the largest theatre stage in Ireland. The Forum offers a challenging and vibrant programme of events from drama to dance, comedy to musicals and light entertainment to children’s shows.

The Gweedore pub has long enjoyed a reputation as a mecca for pop and rock music and is the ideal place to spend an afternoon with friends whilst Peadar O’Donnell’s is famous for its live traditional music, friendly atmosphere and fun pub décor.

The Ritz gives visitors a unique hospitality experience where the authentic character of a traditional pub blends with the relaxed atmosphere of a modern bistro.

Visitors will find a cosy atmosphere and fabulous local food at the The Grand Central Bar and at night becomes a fantastic place to listen to local live music.

Located within the city walls, Masons Bar is a great spot for tourists and offers food and live weekend entertainment. Visitors are also given the chance to pull their own pint of Guinness.

Enjoy a short break by staying at one of the many hotels available in the city:

The Everglades Hotel is offering overnight accommodation with full Irish breakfast including two course evening meal with a bottle of house wine from only £55 per person sharing. Available until December 13.

The Maldron Hotel is offering two night’s bed and breakfast midweek from only £89 per person sharing until December 13.

Visitors should try the City Hotel where they can enjoy two night’s bed and breakfast on a weekend from £99 per person sharing. Available until December 13.

When it’s time to relax after a fun day of sightseeing then try The Drummond Hotel in Limavady where a two night dinner inclusive package can be enjoyed from £50 per person sharing until November 30.

For more details on these and other events click on www.discovernorthernireland.com, visit your local tourist information centre or log onto www.facebook.com/discovernorthernireland.