Menu
11/05/2016
Top Five Things To Do This Spring
Spring is our favourite time of the year. It's warmer, brighter, and serves as a friendly reminder that Summer is just around the corner. Besides, it's a nice change of pace from the rainy, dull weather that we're all too familiar with in Northern Ireland. Below is a list of fun things to do as the Spring season starts to kick into full gear.
Ever wish you could stand next to a dinosaur? W5 at the Odyssey is now turning Jurassic Park into reality.
An Encounter with Dinosaurs – The Augmented Reality Experience uses modern technology to bring dinosaurs back from extinction and into our world.
Stand and view 3D computer-generated creatures roam about the environment as the prehistoric era comes roaring back into life.
W5 Belfast said: "Watch yourself on the big screen as you get up close and personal with a T-Rex, get approached by a pack of curious raptors or try not to get trampled by a passing Diplodocus!"
The exhibition is free with admission to W5.
www.w5online.co.uk
If you fancy an afternoon tea with a difference, the High Tea at Sea voyage is definitely the experience for you.
Explore the sights of Strangford Lough before stopping off for tea and scones at either the Angus Rock Island Lighthouse or Salt Island.
Other highlights include Audley's Castle and Sea Gen, the first electricity generating tidal turbine in Europe.
Wildlife lovers can also view Seal Colonies at Cloghy Rocks Nature Reserve, along with a multitude of other animals on the Lough.
Overall, this unique experience is ideal for sea lovers and tea enthusiasts alike.
Prices: £35 per adult, £29 per child under 16.
To book, call 028 437 23933 or visit www.strangford-seasafari.com.
Game of Thrones is arguably one of television's greatest modern phenomenons. Now you can launch yourself into the world of Westeros with the Winterfell Movie Set Archery Experience.
Based at the Winterfell Castle courtyard where the show was filmed, let yourself become immersed in fantasy and fire live arrows at White Walkers on the recreated archery range movie set.
Dressing up in authentic costume, you'll be greeted by Winterfell's Master-at-Arms while 'Jon Snow' gives you instructions during your archery session.
In addition, tour guides will share gossip and what went on 'behind-the-scenes' during film days with the shows' cast.
Two packages are available; the Bran package at £29 per person lasting 50 minutes, or the private Ned package at £95 per person for up to three people.
If you're a big Game of Thrones fan, this is definitely an award-winning experience you should check out.
www.gameofthrones-winterfelltours.com
Bangor's popular maritime event returns this year with a host of features and events to keep visitors entertained.
Located in a tented village at Quay Street car park, highlights will include the Big Bangor BBQ competition hosted by SERC, demonstrations by celebrity chefs, sausage making challenges, a gourmet food tent and lots more food-related fun.
Children should visit the "Tiddlers" tent where Cahoots NI will be performing a special illusion show, while the Dockside Emporium will feature demonstrations and crafts from local artists.
Sailing into Bangor during the festival is "The Mercedes", an impressive tall ship that will moor alongside Eisenhower Pier. While you can board and explore the vessels grand features, tickets are available to purchase for morning/evening sailings during the two-day event.
In addition to an aerial display from the Twister Aerobatic Team, Jet Lev demonstrations and so much more, this year's Sea Bangor is not to be missed.
Times:
Saturday, 04 June, 10am – 6pm
Sunday, 05 June, 12pm – 6pm
www.visitardsandnorthdown.com
Last year, around 1,700 people visited the Granshaw Country Fair. This year's event promises to be bigger and better than before.
Taking place in the Church Grounds close to the La Mon Country Hotel, organisers have provided a packed programme promising fun for all the family.
Over the course of the day there will be loads of exciting things to see, including a Birds of Prey exhibition, Highland Dancing events and an Indoor Arts and Craft village. If you're into your motors, stick around to see military vehicle displays, Harley Davidson Motorcycles, trucks and more.
There's plenty of activities for children too, including the Climbing Wall, Go Karts, a range of Fabulous Inflatables, traditional sideshows and the Community Circus.
A football tournament will also be hosted by the Glentoran Football Academy, providing lots of energy-sapping fun for your kids.
Tired from all that running around? The Granshaw Catering Team will provide a selection of food stuffs to get those taste buds tingling, varying from burgers to sit down teas.
Music lovers are also in for a treat, with musicians and local talent performing on the outdoor stage throughout the afternoon.
You can even get your hands on some sports memorabilia at the Speciality Auction, including a signed NI Shirt from the team who've qualified for this year's Euro 2016 in France, a Rory McIlroy cap, and loads more.
With a multitude of things to do, see, explore and experience, it's safe to say organisers are pulling out all the stops to match last year's success.
Price: Adults – £1, Children – Free
Time: 11am – 4pm
Date: Saturday, 21 May
www.granshaw.org
An Encounter With Dinosaurs – The Augmented Reality Experience
Ever wish you could stand next to a dinosaur? W5 at the Odyssey is now turning Jurassic Park into reality.
An Encounter with Dinosaurs – The Augmented Reality Experience uses modern technology to bring dinosaurs back from extinction and into our world.
Stand and view 3D computer-generated creatures roam about the environment as the prehistoric era comes roaring back into life.
W5 Belfast said: "Watch yourself on the big screen as you get up close and personal with a T-Rex, get approached by a pack of curious raptors or try not to get trampled by a passing Diplodocus!"
The exhibition is free with admission to W5.
www.w5online.co.uk
High Tea at Sea – Strangford Sea Safari
If you fancy an afternoon tea with a difference, the High Tea at Sea voyage is definitely the experience for you.
Explore the sights of Strangford Lough before stopping off for tea and scones at either the Angus Rock Island Lighthouse or Salt Island.
Other highlights include Audley's Castle and Sea Gen, the first electricity generating tidal turbine in Europe.
Wildlife lovers can also view Seal Colonies at Cloghy Rocks Nature Reserve, along with a multitude of other animals on the Lough.
Overall, this unique experience is ideal for sea lovers and tea enthusiasts alike.
Prices: £35 per adult, £29 per child under 16.
To book, call 028 437 23933 or visit www.strangford-seasafari.com.
Game of Thrones Winterfell Archery Movie Set Experience
Game of Thrones is arguably one of television's greatest modern phenomenons. Now you can launch yourself into the world of Westeros with the Winterfell Movie Set Archery Experience.
Based at the Winterfell Castle courtyard where the show was filmed, let yourself become immersed in fantasy and fire live arrows at White Walkers on the recreated archery range movie set.
Dressing up in authentic costume, you'll be greeted by Winterfell's Master-at-Arms while 'Jon Snow' gives you instructions during your archery session.
In addition, tour guides will share gossip and what went on 'behind-the-scenes' during film days with the shows' cast.
Two packages are available; the Bran package at £29 per person lasting 50 minutes, or the private Ned package at £95 per person for up to three people.
If you're a big Game of Thrones fan, this is definitely an award-winning experience you should check out.
www.gameofthrones-winterfelltours.com
Bangor Sea Festival
Bangor's popular maritime event returns this year with a host of features and events to keep visitors entertained.
Located in a tented village at Quay Street car park, highlights will include the Big Bangor BBQ competition hosted by SERC, demonstrations by celebrity chefs, sausage making challenges, a gourmet food tent and lots more food-related fun.
Children should visit the "Tiddlers" tent where Cahoots NI will be performing a special illusion show, while the Dockside Emporium will feature demonstrations and crafts from local artists.
Sailing into Bangor during the festival is "The Mercedes", an impressive tall ship that will moor alongside Eisenhower Pier. While you can board and explore the vessels grand features, tickets are available to purchase for morning/evening sailings during the two-day event.
In addition to an aerial display from the Twister Aerobatic Team, Jet Lev demonstrations and so much more, this year's Sea Bangor is not to be missed.
Times:
Saturday, 04 June, 10am – 6pm
Sunday, 05 June, 12pm – 6pm
www.visitardsandnorthdown.com
Granshaw Country Fair
Last year, around 1,700 people visited the Granshaw Country Fair. This year's event promises to be bigger and better than before.
Taking place in the Church Grounds close to the La Mon Country Hotel, organisers have provided a packed programme promising fun for all the family.
Over the course of the day there will be loads of exciting things to see, including a Birds of Prey exhibition, Highland Dancing events and an Indoor Arts and Craft village. If you're into your motors, stick around to see military vehicle displays, Harley Davidson Motorcycles, trucks and more.
There's plenty of activities for children too, including the Climbing Wall, Go Karts, a range of Fabulous Inflatables, traditional sideshows and the Community Circus.
A football tournament will also be hosted by the Glentoran Football Academy, providing lots of energy-sapping fun for your kids.
Tired from all that running around? The Granshaw Catering Team will provide a selection of food stuffs to get those taste buds tingling, varying from burgers to sit down teas.
Music lovers are also in for a treat, with musicians and local talent performing on the outdoor stage throughout the afternoon.
You can even get your hands on some sports memorabilia at the Speciality Auction, including a signed NI Shirt from the team who've qualified for this year's Euro 2016 in France, a Rory McIlroy cap, and loads more.
With a multitude of things to do, see, explore and experience, it's safe to say organisers are pulling out all the stops to match last year's success.
Price: Adults – £1, Children – Free
Time: 11am – 4pm
Date: Saturday, 21 May
www.granshaw.org
Latest Northern Ireland Features
12 November 2024
Belfast Entrepreneurs To Be Celebrated With New Conference
Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, has called on entrepreneurs from across the city to get together for a unique conference aimed at supporting their business journey. Entrepreneurs Unleashed will take place this month at the Cathy Short Theatre in Jennymount Business Park, lower North Belfast.
Belfast Entrepreneurs To Be Celebrated With New Conference
Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, has called on entrepreneurs from across the city to get together for a unique conference aimed at supporting their business journey. Entrepreneurs Unleashed will take place this month at the Cathy Short Theatre in Jennymount Business Park, lower North Belfast.
19 September 2024
Carlingford's Adventure Lights to Illuminate Winter
Skypark, Carlingford, is set to transform the winter season with the launch of Adventure Lights, a unique 14-week event designed to enchant visitors and boost the local economy. Running from October 26 to February 2, this immersive light experience brings Irish mythology to life, offering an unforgettable journey through the 'Land of Legends'.
Carlingford's Adventure Lights to Illuminate Winter
Skypark, Carlingford, is set to transform the winter season with the launch of Adventure Lights, a unique 14-week event designed to enchant visitors and boost the local economy. Running from October 26 to February 2, this immersive light experience brings Irish mythology to life, offering an unforgettable journey through the 'Land of Legends'.
13 August 2024
The Reporter Named Belfast's 'Friendliest Pub'
The Reporter is the friendliest pub in Belfast, a new study has found. The experts at Belfast Bus Tour analysed TripAdvisor data on 69 pubs or bars across Belfast. Each pub was rated out of 100 based on its TripAdvisor rating and mentions of positive terms like "friendly", "helpful", "lovely", and "kind" per review.
The Reporter Named Belfast's 'Friendliest Pub'
The Reporter is the friendliest pub in Belfast, a new study has found. The experts at Belfast Bus Tour analysed TripAdvisor data on 69 pubs or bars across Belfast. Each pub was rated out of 100 based on its TripAdvisor rating and mentions of positive terms like "friendly", "helpful", "lovely", and "kind" per review.
07 August 2024
Online Gambling Trends & Regulations
A Comparison Of Northern Ireland And New Zealand The gambling sector is booming worldwide, so more and more countries are accepting appropriate legislation to control it. Some completely ban this risky entertainment, but this is not the case with Northern Ireland and New Zealand, where the industry is fully regulated.
Online Gambling Trends & Regulations
A Comparison Of Northern Ireland And New Zealand The gambling sector is booming worldwide, so more and more countries are accepting appropriate legislation to control it. Some completely ban this risky entertainment, but this is not the case with Northern Ireland and New Zealand, where the industry is fully regulated.
31 July 2024
SPARK Brings Free Neurodivergent Family Fun Day
A new organisation set up to support neurodivergent families and individuals has announced their first Creative Fun Day will take place in Belfast this weekend. Saturday, 3 August will see SPARK, in partnership with Arts Care, open the doors of 2 Royal Avenue for an afternoon of fun, socialising with like-minded families and other activities.
SPARK Brings Free Neurodivergent Family Fun Day
A new organisation set up to support neurodivergent families and individuals has announced their first Creative Fun Day will take place in Belfast this weekend. Saturday, 3 August will see SPARK, in partnership with Arts Care, open the doors of 2 Royal Avenue for an afternoon of fun, socialising with like-minded families and other activities.
09 July 2024
Have You Thought About A UK Staycation?
A staycation, a blend of 'stay' and 'vacation', is a holiday spent in your home country rather than traveling abroad. In recent years, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on international travel, staycations have surged in popularity across the UK.
Have You Thought About A UK Staycation?
A staycation, a blend of 'stay' and 'vacation', is a holiday spent in your home country rather than traveling abroad. In recent years, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on international travel, staycations have surged in popularity across the UK.
05 July 2024
Orangefest Celebrations Set For July 12 At Belfast City Hall
A whole host of family fun activities is planned to take place at Belfast's City Hall in conjunction with the annual parades to commemorate The Twelfth. Created to complement the July 12 parades, Orangefest 2024 will take place from 10am-4pm at both Belfast City Hall and surrounding areas in Royal Avenue.
Orangefest Celebrations Set For July 12 At Belfast City Hall
A whole host of family fun activities is planned to take place at Belfast's City Hall in conjunction with the annual parades to commemorate The Twelfth. Created to complement the July 12 parades, Orangefest 2024 will take place from 10am-4pm at both Belfast City Hall and surrounding areas in Royal Avenue.
28 June 2024
NI Candidates Standing In UK General Election
With the UK General Election set to take place on Thursday, 04 July, we look at the parties vying to represent Northern Ireland at Westminster. The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) have held their position as the party with the most MP's, 8 between 2019-2024, with their main rival, Sinn Féin, a close second with 7.
NI Candidates Standing In UK General Election
With the UK General Election set to take place on Thursday, 04 July, we look at the parties vying to represent Northern Ireland at Westminster. The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) have held their position as the party with the most MP's, 8 between 2019-2024, with their main rival, Sinn Féin, a close second with 7.
17 June 2024
How To Move Stress-Free In Northern Ireland
Moving to Northern Ireland, the land of myth and mystery, should be an adventure, not a trial.
How To Move Stress-Free In Northern Ireland
Moving to Northern Ireland, the land of myth and mystery, should be an adventure, not a trial.
11 June 2024
Northern Ireland's Biggest Stars in Sports
If there is one thing that Northern Ireland is famed for, it's their cultural values, and in this region, awesome athletes have been brought forth in the world. These sports-related celebrities have impacted their fields as well as the world at large, hence becoming important athletic symbols for the coming generations.
Northern Ireland's Biggest Stars in Sports
If there is one thing that Northern Ireland is famed for, it's their cultural values, and in this region, awesome athletes have been brought forth in the world. These sports-related celebrities have impacted their fields as well as the world at large, hence becoming important athletic symbols for the coming generations.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
