The awesome guys at the tourist board know there are stacks of fun things to do across NI, from family days out to gigs and cultural events every week. So here are their top 10 exciting things taking place this week (11-17 September).
- BBQ & Blues Supper Club, Newtownards, Co. Down, 16 September. At the unique setting of Cloud 9 at Ards Airport this event will feature the best of local barbecued food, drink, and blues music. Scenic helicopter flights will be available as part of the day over the Strangford Peninsula. To book e-mail hello@indiefude.com or call 07510728109/07518384510.
- Afternoon Tea with Benefits, Malmasion Hotel, Belfast, 16 September. A naughty afternoon tea with a glass of champagne, followed by a makeup masterclass and demonstration with Benefit Cosmetics. A £10 voucher is included with this package to go towards any Benefit product of your choice.
- Mourne Mountain Marathon, Newcastle, Co. Down, 16-17 September. A competitive event for teams of two, this is Ireland’s only two-day endurance and navigation marathon held each year in the beautiful mountains of Mourne in Northern Ireland. Teams will be given a map with markers located in various areas, they must visit these control markers, but design their own route between, along with a self-sufficient overnight camp.
- Community Tea Dancing, The Old Courthouse, Antrim, 13 September. A great opportunity to dust off those dancing shoes and step out in style. Join Double Trouble for some great tunes from all eras, enjoy a cup of tea and whether you dance or not, these relaxed, friendly and entertaining afternoons are sure to delight. Dance starts at 2pm.
- Siege Museum, Derry~Londonderry, 11-16 September. The new Siege Museum and Exhibition is a permanent display of the history of the Siege of Londonderry and of the Associated Clubs of the Apprentice Boys of Derry, including artefacts, video and interactive media. Open Monday-Saturday from 10am.
- Return to Source Walk, Belfast, 16 September. Discover the source of the River Lagan on Slieve Croob amidst the rolling Dromara Hills. As the River Lagan flows majestically into the Belfast Lough it is one of Northern Ireland’s greatest rivers, however, at the source this mighty watercourse is small enough to step over. The meeting point is Drumbridge car park, at 10am, duration of the walk is approximately five hours.
- Sperrin and Killeter Walking Festival, Co Tyrone, 16-17 September. Walkers of all ages and abilities have the chance to get outside and explore the beauty, history and heritage of the Sperrins and Killeter regions. Walks are available at a variety of levels including easy strolls (perfect for families and budding nature photographers), moderate treks and challenging hill walks.
- Aspects Literature Festival, Bangor, Co. Down, 14-24 September. Ards and North Down Borough Council present this year’s Aspects Literature Festival, celebrating the very best of Irish writing. After the success of last year’s 25th anniversary celebrations, this year’s festival is filled with poetry, music, theatre, history, memoir, exhibitions, interviews and readings.
- Introduction to Digital Photography, Clotworthy House, Antrim, 12 September. On this six-week course you will learn how to frame photographs and improve your photography skills to create great photos and also cover saving, editing and making photo gifts. Course costs £54-60, to book visit www.theoldcourthousetheatre.com.
- Armagh Planetarium, Armagh, 11-16 September. Armagh Planetarium offers visitors a unique experience, which is quite simply “out of this world”. In the Planetarium’s amazing Digital Theatre you can relax and experience our planet and beyond, take a tour of the night sky, or even discover some of the myths behind the star constellations. With interactive displays and exhibition areas, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Open Monday- Saturday from 10am.
For more information on these events or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit www.DiscoverNorthernIreland.com.
