ni great days out for groups

discovernorthernireland.com

Great Days Out for GroupsNew skills, old friends, fascinating visits, homemade buns, cup of tea, linen napkins, spot of shopping, friendly coach driver, informative guide…

Create your perfect day out

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If this guide has inspired you or helped you fulfil your organising role, please let us know, or if you have experienced a great day out at a venue not included in our guide, send us details for future editions.

Every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this guide is correct at time of print, however if you spot any inaccuracies, please let us know.

Northern Ireland Tourist Board 59 North Street Belfast BT1 1NB

discovernorthernireland.com

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Cert no. XXX-XXX-000

New skills, old friends, fascinating visits, homemade buns, cup of tea, linen napkins, spot of shopping, friendly coach driver, informative guide…

Welcome to your perfect day out

An inspirational collection of group day visit ideas from culture, heritage and local history visits to gardens, literature and nature, and lots, lots more. There are old venues with a new twist, special interest tours, hands on creative experiences and unique opportunities to be enjoyed across the six counties.

Working closely with our tourism colleagues throughout Northern Ireland, we have collated their suggestions into this guide, and with so much to see and do, it’s inspiring! We hope it will encourage you and your group to explore more of Northern Ireland.

The suggestions in this guide represent just a fraction of what is on offer, you can explore more ideas on discovernorthernireland.com/groups.

This is a relatively new initiative and we would welcome your feedback. If this guide has inspired you or helped you fulfil your organising role, please let us know, or if you have experienced a great day out at a venue not included in our guide, let us know for future editions.

To contact the editor, email [email protected] or call 028 9044 1506.

Best wishes for your organising duties.

Welcome to Great Days Out for GroupsNorthern Ireland’s guide for the Group Travel Organiser

Using this guideThis guide is packed with great ideas for group day visits in Northern Ireland. Entries are arranged by location - Belfast and the six counties. The entries are designed to be flexible and can be adapted depending on the size of your group, your budget and how much time you have to spend. You should discuss opportunities with the booking contacts highlighted. They will be very happy to advise you and help you make any amendments to the suggested itinerary.

All visits must be booked in advance through the booking contact highlighted as some tours involve special visits that may not be open to the general public. We recommend you book at least 2 – 3 months in advance, but always check availability with the booking contact, just in case.

In many instances admission charges to visitor attractions and tours will apply, however groups may be eligible to receive special discounts. You should discuss costs and discounts available with the booking contacts.

Please note that some visitor attractions may operate reduced visiting hours or even close during the winter months. It is best to check details with the booking contacts.

Some visits include light refreshments or lunch, while others offer suggestions of a nearby café or restaurant where you can purchase refreshments. Please check when making your booking and the symbols in the ‘Your Day Out at a Glance’ section will illustrate if refreshments and/or lunch are included or available to purchase.

Most of the tours and visits in this guide are based on the group travelling together by coach and in many instances a local guide will join the coach group on arrival. Those groups arriving by another form of transport should check at the time of booking to see whether alternative arrangements can be facilitated.

This guide also looks at practical information; such as booking a coach, using a registered guide, and making the most of our pubs and hotels during a group outing.

Extra copies of this guide are available while stocks last, telephone 028 9044 1506 to order a copy.

For additional information and more group day visit ideas, please visit discovernorthernireland.com/groups

For additional information and more group day visit ideas, please visit discovernorthernireland.com/groups64

Historic Country Estates Of AntrimVisit two of the most fascinating historic estates in County Antrim, Leslie Hill Estate and Benvarden Estate and Gardens, including a very special VIP tour of Benvarden House, still occupied by the Montgomery family.

Begin your tour at Leslie Hill Estate 1, outside Ballymoney. The layout of the estate, with its grassland, woodland and lakes, has barely altered in the last 230 years and has been carefully conserved by the Leslie family. Enjoy tea or coffee in the Tea Room before experiencing a bygone age wandering through the Georgian farmyard among farm machines, carriages and carts. You’ll also meet many domestic animals.

Next is the historic Benvarden Estate and Gardens 2 in Dervock. Built in the 1630s and owned by the Montgomery family since 1798, these magnificent privately owned gardens – voted ‘Best Garden in Ireland’ in 2009 - have been maintained to exceptional standards.

Explore the delightful two-acre Walled Garden and its beautiful rose beds, an extensive kitchen garden and the Woodland Pond, which is a setting for a wonderful wild garden. The river, which runs through the estate, is spanned by a Victorian iron bridge built by the Montgomery family. You can also enjoy a display of old farm and garden implements. Your visit concludes with a VIP tour of the Montgomery private home, a very special chance to visit a historic home still occupied by the family.

TO BOOK CONTACTMr Montgomery, Benvarden Garden T: (028) 2074 1331 E: [email protected]

VIsIT ConTACTs1

BENVaRDEN GaRDEN 36 Benvarden Road, Dervock, Co. antrim.

(028) 2074 1331

2

LEsLIE HILL EsTaTE Macfin Road, Ballymoney, Co. antrim, BT53 6QL.

(028) 2766 6803

WHILE YOU’RE IN THE AREAEating out - The Royal Court Hotel; The Nook at the Giant’s Causeway; Bushmills Inn.

Retail therapy - Junction One International Outlet shopping Centre.

Extending your visit - Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge; Bushmills Distillery; The Giant’s Causeway.

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YOUR DAY OUTAT A GLAnCE

6-7HOURS

BEnVARDEn GARDEn

This description sums the visit up in a nutshell!

Addresses and contact details of each venue visited are listed in the Visit Contacts

Features of the visit are indicated by symbols. You will find a key to the symbols at the beginning of each county section.

Additional suggestions and further information, addresses and contact details for places mentioned in the ‘while you’re in the area’ section can be found on www.discovernorthernireland.com . Alternatively ask your booking contact for more information.

The visit themes are highlighted to let you know what type of experiences to expect.

This is your primary contact for booking this visit or finding out more information

4

UsinG this GUiDe 4itineraries Belfast 8 Antrim 36 Armagh 78 Down 110 Fermanagh 170 Londonderry 190 Tyrone 218

hOW tO... 252 ...make your next group outing an ‘eventful visit’? 254 ...book a coach 258 ...book a day out with the National Trust 262 ...book a Tour Guide 263 ...find your perfect pub 268 ...make the most of a hotel 269

tOUrist infOrmatiOn 270

Contents

6

Belfast

Belfast has become one of the most popular city break destinations in Europe and it’s easy to see why. There are so many great day visit ideas to choose from, including sublime mountain walks with spectacular views, a theatrical tour of the city’s cuisine and a unique family insight into the Titanic story. Explore the Christian Heritage of the city, trace the roots of musical legends like Van Morrison, discover the spectacular beauty of Belfast in bloom and so much more.

For more details or information on any of the itineraries listed, please visit discovernorthernireland.com/groups

Your guidE To AT A glAnCE

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nortHern ireland environment aGenCy

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approx lenGtH oF visit in Hours

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Titanic: Built in Belfastthe most luxurious liner of her time and the largest manmade moveable object in the world, rms titanic was built with passion, determination and pride right here in belfast. experience the amazing story of titanic on this fascinating day visit.

A magical day for anyone who loves the romance of theTitanic and the great ships of yesteryear. The day starts with a visit to the belfast barge 1 – Northern Ireland’s first floating heritage attraction. Located at Lanyon Quay, adjacent to the Belfast Waterfront Hall, it houses a stunning interactive visitor exhibition, ‘The Greatest Story Never Told’, on Belfast’s maritime and shipbuilding history, as well as a unique arts space and café.

Then it’s onto the Lagan for the fascinating titanic boat tour 2, a guided harbour cruise showing Titanic’s Belfast story from the water. With expert commentary, the cruise includes a look at the offices where Titanic was designed and the slipway from which she was launched, as well as Titanic’s Dock & Pump-House.

Next take your coach into the heart of Belfast’s Titanic Quarter to titanic’s dock & pump-House 3 where you will enjoy a lunch break (choosing from a wide range of delicious hot and cold food) before taking a guided tour of the dock and pump-house which again will bring Titanic and Belfast’s rich maritime heritage to life. Finally, see the vast dry dock, the last place Titanic rested on dry ground - Titanic’s only physical ‘footprint’ in history.

To BooK ConTACTBelfast Welcome Centre t: (028) 9024 6609 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1

THE BARGE, Mv CoNFIANCELanyon Quay, Belfast.

(028) 9023 2555

2

TITANIC BoAT TouRSLagan Boat Company, 48 St John’s Close, 2 Laganbank Road, Belfast, BT1 3LX.

(028) 9033 0844

3

TITANIC’S DoCk & PuMP-HouSENI Science Park, Queen’s Road, Belfast, BT3 9DT.

(028) 9073 7813

WHilE You’rE in THE ArEAeating out - The Premier Inn Titanic Quarter; McHugh’s Bar & Restaurant; The Cloth Ear at the Merchant Hotel. For a special Titanic dining experience Rayanne House in Holywood offers exclusive private dining with a nine-course ‘Taste of the Titanic’ dinner for a maximum of 35 people.

retail therapy - St George’s Market (Friday, Saturday & Sunday); victoria Square Shopping Centre; IkEA; The Wicker Man.

extending your visit - TITANICa at the ulster Folk and Transport Museum; Belfast City Hall; ulster Museum; W5 at The odyssey; Titanic Belfast.

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titaniC’s pump-House

your day outat a GlanCe

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Titanic – A Family Storya very special tour of the birthplace of rms titanic, conducted by the great granddaughter of one of the crew. as well as an exploration of titanic’s history, this tour provides a personal insight into how the sinking affected one local family.

This unique tour of Belfast’s Titanic connections is taken by local guide Susie Millar, whose great grandfather Thomas Millar worked on the famous liner when she was being built at the Harland and Wolff shipyard in East Belfast, before sailing on her ill-fated maiden journey as an engineer.

The tour starts with a visit to the old Harland and Wolff headquarters building, now home to titanic Quarter ltd 1, which includes the atmospheric drawing offices where Titanic and her sister ships were designed. Tea and coffee can be provided by arrangement.

The tour also takes in the slipway from which Titanic was launched (near to where she was built). Susie Millar will also give a fascinating presentation and talk on her great grandfather, who was sadly lost when the ship sank. This is a great opportunity to discover the Titanic story through someone with a close personal connection to it.

Please wear comfortable walking shoes and warm outdoor clothing

To BooK ConTACTSusie Millar t: 07852 716655 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1TITANIC QuARTER LTD Queens Road, Belfast, BT3 9DT.

(028) 9076 6300

WHilE You’rE in THE ArEAeating out - The Edge Bar and Restaurant; The Premier Inn Titanic Quarter; Cafés and restaurants in the odyssey.

retail therapy - victoria Square Shopping Centre; Belfast City Centre.

extending your visit - Titanic Memorial Garden and Belfast City Hall; St Anne’s Cathedral; Titanic Boat Tour.

12 susie millar's titaniC tour


2-3HOURS 10-40

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Group size

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Belfast in Blooma day exploring some of belfast’s most beautiful gardens. stroll around sir thomas and lady dixon park in the company of an expert gardener and enjoy the charming gardens and a guided tour of the wonderful lagan valley regional park.

Start the day with tea or coffee and registration in the Stables Café at sir thomas and lady dixon park 1. Next experience these stunning gardens on a guided tour with an expert gardener, discovering the unique beauty of the world famous International Rose Garden. Let the sight of thousands of blooming rose bushes and the tranquillity of the Japanese Garden send your spirit soaring.

Next take your coach (or chosen transport) into Belfast via the Malone Road. Lunch can be taken at Café Conor just across the road from the ulster Museum or the Girona Café & Restaurant at the ulster Museum. After lunch explore the delightful botanic Gardens 2, including a visit to the steamy Tropical Ravine, spectacular Palm House and Rose Gardens.

Then head to lagan valley regional park 3 for a guided tour of Northern Ireland’s first and only Regional Park. Trace a fascinating heritage that takes you from the Stone Age and Norman mottes to the linen industry that grew up around the River Lagan. Make sure to visit in summer to fully appreciate Belfast in Bloom.


visit ContaCts1

SIR THoMAS AND LADy DIXoN PARk upper Malone Road, Belfast, c/o Belfast City Council, Parks Division.

(028) 9032 0202

2

BoTANIC GARDENS Stranmillis Road, Belfast, c/o Belfast City Council, Parks Division.

(028) 9032 0202

3

LAGAN vALLEy REGIoNAL PARk 3 Lock keeper’s Lane, Milltown Road, Belfast, BT8 7XT.

(028) 9049 1922

WHilE You’rE in THE ArEAeating out - Café Conor; Girona Café & Restaurant at ulster Museum; Malone House; Spice Club at the Ramada Plaza.

retail therapy - Belfast’s Lisburn Road; Belfast City Centre Shopping; Ballylesson Garden Centre.

extending your visit - ulster Museum; Queen’s university Welcome Centre; Belfast City Hall.

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palm House botaniC Gardens


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Arts of The Citydiscover belfast’s rich artistic connections with absorbing visits to the ulster Hall, Grand opera House, the naughton Gallery at Queen’s university and the ulster museum.

Start the day with a guided tour of the atmospheric ulster Hall 1, now home to the acclaimed ulster orchestra. Discover the many famous acts who have appeared here, from the great Caruso and literary legends like Charles Dickens to famed Irish singer Count John McCormack, Led Zeppelin (who premiered ‘Stairway to Heaven’ here), the Dalai Lama, boxing champ Barry McGuigan and the Rolling Stones. you can also visit the art gallery, interpretative exhibition and café.

Continue your visit with a tour of the Grand opera House 2 one of Belfast's most commanding buildings. It was designed in the 1890s by the great victorian architect Frank Matcham and is a pure delight from the 'stalls to the gods'. Afterwards head south to Belfast's Queen's Quarter and enjoy lunch at Café Conor, originally the studio of the celebrated artist William Conor.

After lunch visit the naughton Gallery 3 at Queen’s university, where you’ll find superb paintings from Queen’s own collection, plus touring exhibitions and exhibitions by local and international artists. Finish the day with a visit to the ulster museum 4. Northern Ireland’s treasure house of the past and present, the museum houses a magnificent collection of art, history and natural sciences.


visit ContaCts1

THE uLSTER HALL1-7 Bedford Street, Belfast, BT2 7FF.

(028) 9033 4400

2

GRAND oPERA HouSEGreat victoria Street, Belfast, BT2 7HR.

(028) 9024 1919

3

THE NAuGHToN GALLERy AT QuEEN’S Lanyon Building, QuB, Belfast, BT7 1WN.

(028) 9097 3580

4

THE uLSTER MuSEuMBotanic Gardens, Stranmillis Road, Belfast, BT9 5AB.

0845 608 0000

WHilE You’rE in THE ArEAeating out - Café Renoir; Café Conor; Deane’s at Queens.

retail therapy - Belfast’s Lisburn Road; Spire's Shopping Mall; ulster Museum Gift Shop.

extending your visit - Belfast City Hall; Botanic Gardens.

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ulster museum


6-7HOURS 15-40

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Victorian Belfastdiscover belfast’s magnificent victorian heritage, visiting some of its most atmospheric buildings like belfast Castle, Queen’s university and the palm House in botanic Gardens.

Start your day with tea or coffee and registration in the impressive sandstone, Baronial-style belfast Castle 1. Inspired by Queen victoria’s beloved Balmoral, it has the most spectacular views across Belfast Lough. Following refreshments stroll the beautiful gardens and absorb the history and wildlife of the area at the visitor centre. you may even find a victorian heirloom in the Castle Antiques shop! Belfast has utilised its victorian heritage well and you can eat lunch in one of several chic restaurants in elegantly converted 19th century buildings, such as Zen Japanese Restaurant, the Grill Room Restaurant at Ten Square Hotel or the Brasserie at Malmaison Hotel.

After lunch head to South Belfast and Queen’s university 2. Founded in 1845 during the reign of Queen victoria, the Charles Lanyon designed university, opened in 1849 and has now grown to more than 300 buildings - many of them listed for their architectural importance. Enjoy a guided tour of the Queen’s Quarter beginning with the university’s magnificent Tudor Gothic Tower and cloistered quadrangle, followed by a stroll around nearby botanic Gardens 3 and the magnificent Palm House.

End with a visit to Friar’s bush Cemetery 4, an ancient walled graveyard where many famous Belfast citizens are buried.


visit ContaCts1 BELFAST CASTLE Antrim Road, Belfast, BT15 5GR.

(028) 9077 6925

2 QuEEN’S uNIvERSITy WELCoME CENTRELanyon Building, QuB, Belfast, BT7 1WN. (028) 9097 5252

3 BoTANIC GARDENS Stranmillis Road, Belfast, BT7 1LP. (028) 9031 4762

4 FRIAR’S BuSH CEMETERyStranmillis Road, Belfast, BT9 5AF.

(028) 9027 0296

WHilE You’rE in THE ArEAeating out - Zen Japanese Restaurant; Brasserie at Malmaison Hotel; The Grill Room at Ten Square Hotel; Girona Café & Restaurant at ulster Museum.

retail therapy - Belfast’s Lisburn Road; Queen’s Arcade; Belfast City Centre Shopping; victoria Square Shopping Centre.

extending your visit - ulster Museum; The Naughton Gallery at Queen’s university.

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Queen's university


6-7HOURS 15-40

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For additional information and more group day visit ideas, please visit discovernorthernireland.com/groups C.s. lewis Centenary statue "tHe searCHer" by ross wilson


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C.S. lewis in ContextC.s. lewis famous author of the Chronicles of narnia spent most of his working life in oxford, but did you know he was born in belfast? spend a day exploring the locations in belfast that were significant to C.s. lewis and his family.

Accompanied by an expert guide, follow a trail of locations on the C.s. lewis tour that root C.S. Lewis and his family in 19th and 20th century Belfast. This guided coach tour departs from outside the linen Hall library 1, and visits the significant Belfast locations associated with the unfolding story of his early life.

The tour includes visits to his birthplace, the school he attended and the places that hold the origins of his inspiration for some of his most famous work. The tour will also stop at the “The Searcher” sculpture, a tribute to C.S. Lewis based on the character of Digory kirke from The Magician’s Nephew who peers into the wardrobe leading to Narnia! you will arrive back in the city centre with an appetite for reading further.

The tour can be adapted to include a coffee and/or lunch stop and can be varied in length to match the needs of specific groups.

To BooK ConTACTSandy Smith, C.S. Lewis Tour t: 07816926186 e: [email protected] w: www.cslewisbelfast.com

visit ContaCt1

LINEN HALL LIBRARy 17 Donegall Square North, Belfast, BT1 5GB.

(028) 9032 1707

WHilE You’rE in THE ArEAeating out - Belmont Tower; Park Avenue Hotel; Aldens Restaurant.

retail therapy - Connswater Shopping Centre; Belmont Road.

extending your visit - Belfast Literary Tours; Belfast Historic Pub Walking Tours.

20

Music And lyrics belfast is a city of music and festivals. on this tour, explore the city’s musical legacy - past and present - and immerse yourself in the world greats that hailed from belfast such as van morrison, ruby murray and Gary moore.

The Belfast Music Tour is a quest that will take you from 'Them' to 'van' by way of 'Snow Patrol'; this is a voyage that will expose you to punk rock and glam rock, country roads and traditional paths and all in the company of awesome guitar players and Hollywood soundtracks. The tour starts with a visit to the refurbished ulster Hall 1, which has played host to famous figures of every age and is now home to the ulster orchestra.

Next, the tour takes a coach journey around the city. Along the route, you will hear tales about the founding members of Thin Lizzy, see the landscape that inspired classic van Morrison songs and witness the venues that have birthed historic visits from Led Zeppelin, The Clash and u2. you’ll also hear about Ruby Murray, Ash, Gary Moore, and Stiff Little Fingers, plus traditional airs and electronic adventures.

The tour finishes at the oh yeah music Centre 2, which tells the story of the glorious achievements and musical talents that Northern Ireland has produced. The exhibition also features a wide range of diverse and unique memorabilia including the Fender guitar on which Gary Lightbody of Snow Patrol wrote “Run” and “Chasing Cars”.


visit ContaCts1

uLSTER HALL1-7 Bedford Street, Belfast, BT2 7FF.

(028) 9033 4400

2

oH yEAH MuSIC CENTRE15-21 Gordon Street, Belfast, BT1 2LG.

(028) 9031 0845

WHilE You’rE in THE ArEAeating out - The Dark Horse; The Cloth Ear at the Merchant Hotel; Nick’s Warehouse; Hill Street Brasserie.

retail therapy - victoria Square Shopping Centre; Belfast City Centre Shopping.

extending your visit - Titanic's Dock and Pump-House; Belfast City Hall; Linen Hall Library.

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oH yeaH musiC Centre


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Prayers And Pulpitsan interdenominational Christian Heritage tour of belfast’s Cathedrals and Churches.

Explore some of the wonderful historical places of worship, dating as far back as over three centuries, in Belfast city centre. From charming hidden gems to great cathedrals, the tour will open up a new side of the city’s history to you.

The tour begins at st George's Church 1 on High Street, where a church has stood since the 13th century, before setting out on an enthralling exploration of the city’s most important churches. See rosemary street First presbyterian Church 2 Belfast’s oldest surviving place of worship where Titanic designer Thomas Andrews worshipped; st mary’s Church 3, Belfast’s first Roman Catholic Church and st patrick’s Church 4 which hosts Sir John Lavery’s famous triptych. The tour ends at the Grand Hiberno-Romanesque, st anne’s Cathedral 5. Each church differs in design but, from the humble beginnings of St George’s to the civic pride of St Anne’s Cathedral, they all have an amazing story to tell!

visitors are always welcome to view the buildings; however they may not be able to get access to the churches if any services are taking place. Although the churches are within easy walking distance, groups should take care to wear warm clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Comfort stops and refreshment breaks can be made during the tour as required.

To BooK ConTACTDee Morgan, Blue Badge Guide t: (028) 9031 0226 m: 07812 739683 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1 ST GEoRGE’S CHuRCH 105 High Street , Belfast, BT1 2AG.

(028) 9023 1275

4 ST PATRICk’S CHuRCH Donegall Street, Belfast, BT1 2HB.

(028) 9032 4597

2 RoSEMARy STREET FIRST PRESByTERIAN CHuRCH 41a Rosemary Street, Belfast, BT1 1QB. (028) 9032 5365

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ST ANNE’S CATHEDRALDonegall Street, Belfast, BT1 2HB.

(028) 9032 8332

3 ST MARy’S CHuRCH Chapel Lane, Belfast, BT1 1HH.

(028) 9032 0482

WHilE You’rE in THE ArEAeating out - The Dark Horse; The Cloth Ear at the Merchant Hotel; The Ramada Encore Hotel; The John Hewitt.

retail therapy - CastleCourt Shopping Centre; victoria Square Shopping Centre.

extending your visit - Belfast Exposed Gallery; Titanic Dock & Pump-House; The Belfast Barge.

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st anne’s CatHedral


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Belfast Bredsample the delights of belfast food and discover the city’s fascinating culinary history on this theatrical walking tour of the city’s cuisine from past to present, written by seth linder and presented by belfast theatre company kabosh.

on this theatrical walking tour, you’ll sample some delicious examples of Belfast cuisine and discover the city’s fascinating culinary history in the company of Barney, a chef from RMS Titanic. Having recently de-thawed following the melting of the iceberg in which he had been frozen, Barney has two-and-a-half hours to find the ingredients he needs to recreate the last dinner on Titanic. So join Barney on this compelling journey around some of the city’s great food locations, as he fills you in on the remarkable history of his city and introduces you to its world-class food and drink.

This absorbing dramatised tour includes mouth-watering free samples at each location, like the famous Belfast Bap (with cured bacon) at Belfast institution, the century-old sawers deli 1; the finest local seafood and fishy tales with Andy Rae, head chef at the award-winning mourne seafood bar 2; superb locally-brewed beers at the John Hewitt 3; the tastiest local cheeses in nick’s warehouse 4 and sizzling hot rock steaks in mcHugh's bar & restaurant 5. The tour finishes at the award-winning st George’s market 6.

This tour is available for group bookings, maximum group size of 20. Suitable outdoor clothing and walking footwear is recommended. Locations are subject to change.

To BooK ConTACTkabosh t: (028) 9024 3343 e: [email protected] w: www.kabosh.net

visit ContaCts1 SAWERS DELI 7 College Street, Belfast, BT1 6ES.

(028) 9032 2021

2 MouRNE SEAFooD BAR 34 – 36 Bank Street, Belfast, BT1 1HL.

(028) 9024 8544

3 THE JoHN HEWITT 51 Donegall Street, Belfast, BT1 2FH.

(028) 9023 3768

4 NICk’S WAREHouSE 35-39 Hill St, Belfast, BT1 2LB.

(028) 9043 9690

5 MCHuGH'S BAR & RESTAuRANT 29-31 Queen's Square, Belfast, BT1 3FG.

(028) 9050 9999

6 ST GEoRGE’S MARkET 12-20 East Bridge Street, Belfast, BT1 3NQ.

(028) 9043 5704

WHilE You’rE in THE ArEAeating out - The Spaniard; Muriel's Cafe Bar; St George’s Market Bar and Grill; Arc Brasserie at Belfast Waterfront Hall; The Grill Room at Ten Square Hotel.retail therapy - victoria Square Shopping Centre; CastleCourt Shopping Centre; Queen’s Arcade; The Wicker Man.

extending your visit - The Belfast Barge; oh yeah Music Centre; Belfast Exposed Gallery; Belfast Print Workshop Gallery.

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kabosH belFast bred tour


2-3HOURS


Hills And Heathertake to the glorious, green hills above belfast and tread the soft heather on the beautiful black mountain. at the end of the tour relax with a drink at one of the world’s most beautiful victorian pubs, the national trust owned Crown liquor saloon in belfast city centre.

Meet your guide Maureen Maginnis, a registered Blue Badge Guide, at an appropriate location and travel to the Black Mountain National Trust car park at divis road 1.

Enjoy a guided walk to Black Mountain with its spectacular panoramic views over Belfast City and Belfast Lough. on a clear day you can see over to Strangford Lough, the Mournes and the Sperrins, and even as far as Donegal and Scotland.

The sublime walk is over a 6 kilometre route of traffic free paths and there will be little climbing involved as there is coach access most of the way up. Please wear suitable footwear and clothing for walking as this is a mountain environment and weather conditions can change rapidly.

After your walk it’s time to enjoy some refreshments and ‘craic’ in the National Trust owned Crown liquor saloon 2 in the centre of Belfast. one of the most famous pubs in the world, it is renowned for its special snugs and beautiful tiling, glasswork and ornamental woodwork.

To BooK ConTACTMaureen Maginnis, Blue Badge Guide t: (028) 9040 2347 m: 07891 505290 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1 BLACk MouNTAIN NATIoNAL TRuST Divis Road, Hannahstown, Belfast, BT17 0NG.

(028) 9082 5434

2 THE CRoWN LIQuoR SALooN 46 Great victoria Street, Belfast, BT2 7BA.

(028) 9027 9901

WHilE You’rE in THE ArEAeating out - The Crown Liquor Saloon; Luciano’s at the Grand opera House; Restaurant victoria.

retail therapy - Belfast City Centre; Spires Shopping Mall.

extending your visit - Belfast City Hall; Belfast Castle; ulster Museum.

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blaCk mountain


3-4HOURS 20max

Group size


For additional information and more group day visit ideas, please visit discovernorthernireland.com/groups traditional musiC


3-4HOURS

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gaeltacht Experienceeispéireas Gaeltacht – experience ireland’s only urban Gaeltacht, west belfast.

Belfast’s Gaeltacht Quarter is a place that delights in sounds: the spoken word, the beat of rhyme, the rhythm of song, the crackle of the opened book. The Falls Road surges its way through the Gaeltacht Quarter; its side streets and green spaces, tributaries infusing this great cultural gateway with much of its character and power.

The Belfast Gaeltacht Experience at an Cultúrlann 1 is an authentic experience that can be tailored to suit the needs of groups both small and large. visitors can expect traditional Irish music, dance and song, and a céilí dance session with expert tuition. Sit back and enjoy the singing and dancing or be an active participant. Before enjoying a three-course meal featuring locally grown produce in Caifé Feirste at An Cultúrlann.

In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour of the Gaeltacht Quarter discovering the connections to other quarters of the city – two of the founding fathers of Belfast’s famous shipyard in the Titanic Quarter, Sir Edward Harland and William James Pirrie lie buried in the City Cemetery. St Mary’s university College in the heart of the Falls Road is a college of the Queen’s university and has many links to the famous Queens Quarter, and St Peter’s Cathedral maintains a living partnership with St Anne’s Cathedral in the Cathedral Quarter.

Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and comfortable walking shoes for the tour. Dancing shoes for the céilí are optional!

To BooK ConTACTFáilte Feirste Thiar t: (028) 9024 1100 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1

CuLTúRLANN MCADAM Ó FIAICH216 Falls Road, Belfast, BT12 6AH.

(028) 9096 4180

[email protected]

WHilE You’rE in THE ArEAeating out - Caifé Feirste at An Cultúrlann; Fáilte Restaurant; The Beehive Bar & Restaurant.

retail therapy - Book & Craft shop in An Cultúrlann; Park Centre.

extending your visit - Tour of the political and historical murals; City and Milltown Cemeteries; Black Mountain; Colin Glen Forest Park.

30


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immerse Yourself in The irish languageimmerse yourself in an irish language and cultural experience at an droichead.

Belfast’s fascinating Irish language heritage is just waiting to be explored. Today, Belfast’s connection to the Irish language is stronger than for many years, as you’ll discover at the state-of the-art cultural complex an droichead 1 in South Belfast, which is at the cutting edge in the provision of the Irish language.

Get your day off to a great start with a more tangible version of Irish culture, the full Irish breakfast! Next, take a guided tour around the complex, which includes a music and dance hall, arts and crafts studios, exhibition space, a community facility and a school and nature garden, before taking a customised class in Irish.

Enjoy lunch at the centre before heading into inner city South and East Belfast on a guided mini bus tour, exploring some of the little known aspects of the Irish language heritage in these areas. you’ll discover the impact of Irish on many parts of Belfast life and maybe you’ll even be able to practise your new found language skills!

To BooK ConTACTAn Droichead t: (028) 9028 8818 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1

AN DRoICHEAD20 Sráid Chúic/Cooke Street, Béal Feirste/Belfast, BT7 2EP.

(028) 9028 8818

WHilE You’rE in THE ArEAeating out - Caifé Feirste at An Cultúrlann in the heart of the Gaeltacht Quarter.

retail therapy - victoria Square Shopping Centre; Forestside Shopping Centre; Belfast City Centre.

extending your visit - This tour can be extended into the evening with dinner in Belfast’s Gaeltacht Quarter and a céilí (an Irish Dance), traditional music session or concert with some of Ireland’s and Scotland’s finest traditional musicians.


6-7HOURS

event at an droiCHead imaGe © stanislav nikolov

32


oot And Aboot discover the unique ulster-scots heritage of belfast and Carrickfergus, including visits to schomberg House, Carrickfergus Castle and the andrew Jackson Cottage.

Start the day with tea or coffee and registration in schomberg House 1 in East Belfast, the head office of the Grand orange Lodge in Ireland. Look around at the exhibits before hearing an expert talk on the history of Schomberg House (named after one of king William’s most important generals) and the orange order in Ireland.

Take a lunch stop at the Park Avenue Hotel in Belfast or the Clarion Hotel in Carrickfergus, en-route to an absorbing afternoon visit in Carrickfergus.

In the afternoon enjoy a guided tour of atmospheric Carrickfergus Castle 2, one of Ireland’s finest examples of a medieval castle and rich in history. Then visit the andrew Jackson Cottage and us rangers Centre 3, which is housed in a traditional thatched ulster-Scots farmhouse built in the 1750s with strong ulster-Scots and u.S. connections. The impressive display there will tell you the remarkable story of the life and career of Andrew Jackson (1767- 1845) whose parents emigrated from here just two years before the future President of the united States of America was born. you can also see a collection of traditional patchwork quilts and farm machinery.


visit ContaCts1

SCHoMBERG HouSE368 Cregagh Road, Belfast, BT6 9yE.

(028) 9070 1122

2

CARRICkFERGuS CASTLEMarine Highway, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, BT38 7BG.

(028) 9335 1273

3

ANDREW JACkSoN CoTTAGE2 Boneybefore, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, BT38 7EQ.

(028) 9335 8049

WHilE You’rE in THE ArEAeating out - Park Avenue Hotel; Horatio Todd’s; Clarion Hotel.

retail therapy - CastleCourt Shopping Centre; The Abbey Centre; The Courtyard, Carrickfergus.

extending your visit - Belfast Castle; Belfast Zoo; Carrickfergus Museum & Civic Centre; Sentry Hill.

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CarriCkFerGus Castle


6-7HOURS 15-40

min-max

Group size

34

Your guide to At A glAnce

northern ireland environment agency

6HOURS

creative / hands-on activity

group size min/max

national trust

Food & drinks available to purchase

approx length oF visit in hours

hardly any walking

location

lots oF walking

lunch included

moderate walking

reFreshments included

outdoors

shopping opportunity

20maxGroup size

Antrim

one of the most spectacular coastlines in europe combines a fascinating heritage to offer an enticing variety of day visit ideas. discover the exquisite beauty of the famous glens of Antrim, roam around remote rathlin island and explore the myths and legends of the causeway coast. See the finest jewellery being made, stroll around fabulous walled gardens or follow giant footsteps to a World Heritage Site. That’s just a taste of what’s on offer.


disabled access

coach parking


Walk A crooked Mile And See A crooked Aisleexperience a guided walking tour of carrick’s churches in a town with over 800 years of church heritage, including the famed ‘crooked aisle’, before finishing with the town wall walk.

Start your morning with tea or coffee and a home baked scone, at the courtyard coffee house 1 then meet your tour guide, Blue Badge Guide John o mcilvenna 2 at st nicholas’ church 3. Established by John de Courcy in 1182, its famed ‘crooked aisle’ was deliberately created to represent the head of Christ on the cross falling to the right. The Church has many beautiful stained glass windows and many other treasures like the beautifully carved Jacobean Memorial to Sir Arthur Chichester.

The tour then takes you to the Presbyterian Church in North Street, where packed gospel meetings were once held. See the site where John Wesley, the Methodist church founder, preached in 1771. Walk up West Street to see the new Methodist Church with its modern church architecture and visit the Irish Quarter West to St Nicholas Roman Catholic Church at Minorca, opened in 2000.

Enjoy a hearty home cooked lunch at the glasshouse bistro 4 and afterwards there’s an opportunity to complete the self-guided Town Wall Walk, taking in the Jacobean Knot Garden of Sir Arthur Chichester and the North Gate. As outdoor walking is involved in this visit suitable outdoor clothing and comfortable footwear should be worn.

to BooK contActCarrickfergus Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 9335 8049 e: [email protected]

visit contacts1

CouRTyARd CoFFEE HouSE 38 Scotch Quarter, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, BT38 7dN.

(028) 9335 1881

2

JoHN o MCIlvENNA Blue Badge Guide.

T: 07816 969 350

3

ST NICHolAS’ CHuRCH Church office, lancasterian Street, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, BT38 7AB.

(028) 9336 0061

4

GlASSHouSE BISTRo 11 Antrim Street, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, BT38 7dG.

(028) 9336 7444

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Harbour Point Restaurant; Indian ocean; Knockagh lodge.

retail therapy - The Courtyard; Carrickfergus Museum Gift Shop; Grow Garden Centre.

extending your visit - Carrickfergus Castle; Flame! The Gasworks Museum of Ireland; The Andrew Jackson Cottage and uS Rangers Centre.

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your day outat a glance

5-6HOURS

carrickFergus castle

25maxGroup size


Monkey Bones And Museumsdiscover the long and distinguished heritage of carrickfergus through guided tours of its diverse and distinctive museums.

Start off your morning by having a cup of tea or coffee and a home baked scone at the glasshouse bistro 1 on Antrim Street before entering the carrickfergus museum 2 for a guided tour. Here you’ll discover the intriguing answers as to why monkey bones have been found in Carrickfergus and why Carrickfergus was once far more important than Belfast.

Now return to the town centre, browsing some of the enticing shops at The Courtyard, before enjoying a traditional lunch in ownies bar and bistro 3. Then it’s on to Flame! the gasworks museum of ireland 4 – the sole surviving victorian gasworks in Ireland and only one of three in the British Isles. listen to your tour guide as you travel back to the victorian era and take a nostalgic look at the extensive display of original gas appliances.

Finish the day by having afternoon tea or coffee at the clarion hotel 5. Some outside walking is involved with this tour so please wear outdoor clothing and comfortable footwear.


visit contacts1


(028) 9336 7444

2

CARRICKFERGuS MuSEuM & CIvIC CENTRE 11 Antrim street, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, BT38 7dG.

(028) 9335 8049

3

oWNIES BAR & BISTRo 16-18 Joymount, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, BT38 7dN.

(028) 9336 2213

4

FlAME! THE GASWoRKS MuSEuM oF IRElANd 44 Irish Quarter, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, BT38 8AT.

(028) 9336 9575

5

ClARIoN HoTEl 75 Belfast Road, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, BT38 8BX.

(028) 9336 4556

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Premier Inn; dobbins Inn Hotel; Pa Pa Browns Grill.

retail therapy - The Courtyard; Carrickfergus Museum Gift Shop; Carrickfergus Town Centre; Sunnybank Garden Centre.

extending your visit - St. Nicholas Church; Carrickfergus Castle; Woodburn Forest.

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5-6HOURS

carrickFergus museum

25maxGroup size


From A Wee Hoose tae The Whitehoosediscover the history of carrickfergus town and visit a 1750’s thatched ulster-scots cottage. the cottage tells the story of andrew Jackson, 7th president of the us, whose parents lived in carrickfergus prior to setting sail for america in 1765.

Start off your morning by having a cup of tea or coffee and a home baked scone at the glasshouse bistro 1 on Antrim Street before enjoying a guided walking tour of Carrickfergus with local Blue Badge Guide, John o mcilvenna 2. uncover the extensive history of the town, learn about King Fergus, whom the town is named after, John de Courcy who built Carrickfergus Castle and Sir Arthur Chichester who built Joymount Palace.

After the tour, make your way back to the town centre and enjoy a traditional lunch in one of the best preserved historic tower houses in the town, known today as dobbin’s inn hotel 3Next, visit the traditionally thatched ulster-Scots dwelling at Boneybefore known as the andrew Jackson cottage 4. your tour guide will talk you through how people of the 1700s lived and how the cottage was constructed. The cottage houses an exhibition dedicated to Andrew Jackson and the American connection continues with a visit to the uS Rangers Centre behind the cottage.

Enjoy afternoon tea at the courtyard coffee house 5 and browse the specialised shops on site. Some outside walking is involved with this tour, please wear outdoor clothing and comfortable footwear.


visit contacts1


(028) 9336 7444

2

JoHN o MCIlvENNA Blue Badge Guide.

T: 07816 969 350

3

doBBINS INN HoTEl 6-8 High Street, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, BT38 7AF.

(028) 9335 1905

4

ANdREW JACKSoN CoTTAGE & uS RANGERS CENTRE 2 Boneybefore, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, BT38 7EQ.

(028) 9335 8049

5

CouRTyARd CoFFEE HouSE 38 Scotch Quarter, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, BT38 7dN.

(028) 9335 1881

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - ownies Bar & Bistro; The Clarion Hotel; Pa Pa Browns Grill.retail therapy - Carrickfergus Museum Gift Shop; Carrickfergus Town Centre; Sunnybank Garden Centre.extending your visit -St. Nicholas Church; Carrickfergus Museum; Carrickfergus Castle.

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5-6HOURS

andrew Jackson cottage

25maxGroup size

For additional information and more group day visit ideas, please visit discovernorthernireland.com/groups44 knockagh war memorial

Veterans, Victory And remembranceFollow in the footsteps of the brave american soldiers who were based in carrickfergus during wwii. From the us rangers centre to the knockagh war memorial, this unique experience will give you an appreciation of the sacrifices made during this time.

Meet at springsteen’s diner 1 in Carrickfergus for breakfast before heading off to the us rangers centre 2 at Boneybefore. This purpose built exhibition centre focuses on the elite American army regiment, which was formed and activated in Carrickfergus during WWII. your tour guide will reveal how the Rangers were formed and the hugely significant and courageous role they played during the war. you can also explore the enthralling collection of uniforms, photographs, documents and other material relating to this famed combat unit (you will also be able to view the Andrew Jackson Cottage, dedicated to the family of the 7th uS president, which is on the same site).

Afterwards, enjoy a traditional lunch at the dobbins inn hotel 3 before travelling to see the knockagh war memorial at Greenisland. This large obelisk stands 110 feet high and sits proudly on Knockagh Hill overlooking Belfast lough. Initially built in 1924 to commemorate those from County Antrim who had fallen in the Great War, it now also commemorates those who lost their lives in World War II. The breathtaking views will allow for a moment of quiet reflection.

To end your day, enjoy afternoon tea or coffee at the knockagh lodge hotel 4.

to BooK contActCarrickfergus Tourist Information Centre t: 028 9335 8049 e: [email protected] visit contacts1

SPRINGSTEEN’S dINER Rodgers Quay, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, BT38 8BE.

(028) 9335 0551

2

ANdREW JACKSoN CoTTAGE & uS RANGERS CENTRE 2 Boneybefore, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, BT38 7EQ.

(028) 9335 8049

3

doBBINS INN HoTEl 6-8 High Street, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, BT38 7AF.

(028) 9335 1905

4

KNoCKAGH lodGE HoTEl 236 upper Road, Greenisland, Co. Antrim, BT38 8RP.

(028) 9086 1444

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Windrose Bistro & Marina Restaurant; Pa Pa Browns Grill Harbour; Point Restaurant.retail therapy - The Courtyard; Carrickfergus Museum Gift Shop; Carrickfergus Town Centre.

extending your visit - St Nicholas Church; Carrickfergus Museum; Carrickfergus Castle; Flame! The Gasworks Museum of Ireland.

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4-5HOURS 25max

Group size


gardens and gazebosan opportunity to visit glenarm castle walled garden and carnfunnock country park in county antrim.

Start the day with a tour of the beautiful walled garden at glenarm castle 1, enjoying morning tea or coffee in the charming tearooms on site (large groups may be required to divide into two for this visit).

Next take your coach (or chosen transport) and drive along the stunning coast road to larne and the inver garden centre 2 for a seasonal gardening talk and a chance to browse the plants on sale. The curran court hotel 3 is nearby if you wish to make a stop for lunch.

In the afternoon travel to carnfunnock country park 4 for a special guided tour of its lovely gardens with the Park Ranger. you’ll be able to explore 191 hectares of mixed woodland, its beautiful walled garden and a selection of waymarked walking trails.

to BooK contActlarne Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 2826 0088 e: [email protected]

visit contacts1

GlENARM CASTlE WAllEd GARdEN 2 Castle lane, Glenarm, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, BT44 0BQ.

(028) 2884 1203

2

INvER GARdEN CENTRE 4 Browndod Road, larne, Co. Antrim, BT40 3JS.

(028) 2827 6351

3

CuRRAN CouRT HoTEl 6 Redlands Road, larne, Co. Antrim, BT40 1AX.

(028) 2827 5505

4

CARNFuNNoCK CouNTRy PARK Coast Road, drains Bay, larne, Co. Antrim.

(028) 2827 0541

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Curran Court Hotel; Ballygally Castle Hotel; Halfway House Hotel.

retail therapy - Steenson’s Jewellery in Glenarm; larne Town Centre; Gift shop at larne Tourist Information Centre.

extending your visit - A vIP guided house tour of Glenarm Castle may be available to smaller groups, please discuss availability with the booking contact.

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6-7HOURS

walled garden at glenarm castle


explore glenarm's Hidden gemsvisit glenarm, the oldest village in the beautiful glens of antrim, walk in tranquil glenarm Forest and enjoy a visit to the steenson’s Jewellery shop and showroom.

Start the day with refreshments at the charming Tea Room at glenarm castle walled gardens 1 and take the opportunity to browse the fabulous Walled Garden, before taking your coach (or chosen transport) back into the village to the entrance to Glenarm Estate forest walk. Here, by the picturesque Barbican Gate, you’ll start a wonderful one-hour long walk along the designated walkway, returning via the river walk with its views of historic Glenarm Castle.

The next stop is steenson’s Jewellery 2 in Glenarm, owned by Ireland’s leading contemporary goldsmiths, Bill and Christina Steenson. Watch the highly skilled crafts people at work, whilst browsing the various designs in the balcony showroom (as this is a small shop, large groups may need to stagger visits). Next take your coach or transport to the nearby seaside village of Carnlough and stop at the historic, award-winning londonderry arms hotel 3 for lunch.

to BooK contActlarne Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 2826 0088 e: [email protected]

visit contacts1

GlENARM CASTlE WAllEd GARdEN 2 Castle lane, Glenarm, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, BT44 0BQ,

(028) 2884 1203

2

STEENSoN’S JEWEllERy 4 Toberwine Street, Glenarm, Co. Antrim, BT44 oAP.

(028) 2884 1445

3

loNdoNdERRy ARMS HoTEl 20 Harbour Road, Carnlough, Co. Antrim, BT44 0Eu.

(028) 2888 5255

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Ballygally Castle Hotel; Halfway House Hotel.

retail therapy - Sally’s Coffee Shop & Crafts; Steenson’s Workshop in Glenarm.

extending your visit - A vIP guided house tour of Glenarm Castle may be available to smaller groups or explore Carnlough village and take a short walk to scenic Cranny Falls. The londonderry Arms Hotel can sometimes offer group workshops in painting, photography and storytelling. Please discuss availability when booking.

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3-4HOURS

glenarm castle


carnlough to cranny Fallstake a guided walk from charming carnlough village to the spectacular cranny Falls waterfall, relaxing after the walk with tea and scones at the historic londonderry arms hotel.

After meeting your local walking guide Cowper lynas in the village of Carnlough you will enjoy a gentle walk through lovely scenery to the spectacular Cranny Falls waterfall, set in a picturesque location about one mile from the village.

on the way you will visit the limestone quarry and discover how limestone was quarried and transported to the harbour at Carnlough for export. you’ll hear all about the history of the area, including the extraction of fertilizer from peat dug in the surrounding Antrim hills. In the summer season, your walk will be beautifully decorated by a profusion of wild flowers.

on returning to Carnlough, complete the experience with well deserved tea or coffee and scones in the award-winning londonderry arms hotel 1. Built as a coaching inn in 1848, it is one of Northern Ireland’s most atmospheric hotels.

All of the walking will be on paths or trails, but please ensure you wear suitable clothing and walking shoes. your guide can tailor the tour to suit your group requirements and also offers walking tours in Glenariff Forest Park.

to BooK contActCowper lynas, Walk Antrim Hills t: (028) 2858 3483 m: 07855 960870 e: [email protected] visit contact1

loNdoNdERRy ARMS HoTEl 20 Harbour Road, Carnlough, Co. Antrim, BT44 0Eu.

(028) 2888 5255

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - londonderry Arms Hotel; laragh lodge Restaurant; Tea Room at Glenarm Castle Walled Garden.

retail therapy - The Steenson’s Workshop in Glenarm; Ballymena Town Centre.

extending your visit - Glenariff Forest Park; Glenarm Castle Walled Garden; Carnfunnock Country Park.

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3HOURS

cranny Falls

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52For additional information and more group day visit ideas, please visit discovernorthernireland.com/groups

coast And glens Hidden gemsJourney through the glens of antrim and the coastal road from glenariff to ballycastle and discover the hidden gems, myths, magic and folklore associated with this beautiful part of the world.

Start your morning with coffee or tea and scones at Glenariff Teahouse in glenariff Forest park 1, and then it’s off for a leisurely stroll taking in the spectacular waterfalls. Spend the latter part of the morning listening to local stories and enjoying the exhibition in the education centre. lunch will be served in the Teahouse.

In the afternoon you’ll be whisked off for a guided tour of all the hidden gems in this Area of outstanding Natural Beauty. you’ll learn about the unique geology and fascinating heritage of the area as well as its many myths and legends. Among the highlights of this enthralling trip will be visits to the conservation village of Cushendall and the National Trust village of Cushendun with its quaint cottages and pretty harbour before you head to the historic and charming town of Ballycastle, stopping at loughareema (‘the vanishing lake’) and Bonamargy Friary en route.

Groups should wear suitable clothing and footwear if they choose to walk in the forest.

to BooK contActKathleen Murray, Glenariff Teahouse t: (028) 2175 8769 e: [email protected]

visit contact1

GlENARIFF FoREST PARKA43 Ballymena/ Waterfoot Road, Co. Antrim.

(028) 2955 6000

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Harry’s Restaurant; upstairs at Joe’s; The Glens Hotel.

retail therapy - Glenariff Teahouse & Gift Shop; Cushendall village; Ballycastle Town Centre.

extending your visit - Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge; Bushmills distillery; The Giant’s Causeway.

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glenariFF Forest park


culture And ‘craic’ on The causeway coastdiscover the ‘craic’ and folklore of the causeway coast before experiencing traditional cultural activities in a local céilí house.

Start the day with freshly baked scones and tea or coffee in the central wine bar 1 in Ballycastle before leaving on a guided myths and legends tour along the spectacular Causeway Coast, learning about the magical folklore of many of the wonderful places you will see. Starting at the haunted Bonamargy Friary, the tour continues up Glenshesk, past Breen (fairy) Wood to Armoy, stopping at Armoy Round Tower, the oldest round tower in North Antrim. Then it’s back to Ballycastle, past the cursing stone and towards the Giant’s Causeway, passing by Kinbane Castle and stopping at Portaneevy viewing point, a stunning location for photographs with spectacular views of Carrick-a-Rede, Rathlin Island, Fairhead and the Scottish islands. A lunch stop will be made in the coastal village of Ballintoy.

The tour concludes with an afternoon of absorbing cultural activities in a local céilí house.

to BooK contActKerrie McGonigle, Moyle district Council t: (028) 2076 2024 e: [email protected]

visit contact1

CENTRAl WINE BAR 12 Ann Street, Ballycastle, Co. Antrim, BT54 6Ad.

(028) 2076 3877

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Fullerton Arms; Carrick-a-Rede Restaurant.

retail therapy - Ballycastle Town Centre; Bushmills Garden Centre.


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6-7HOURS

bonamargy Friary


rathlin Wildlife Boat tourdiscover the wildlife of the causeway coast and rathlin island on this fascinating boat trip.

discover the wonderful wildlife and famous legends of the Causeway Coast and Rathlin Island when you jump on board your tour boat, a rigid inflatable boat with weatherproof covering at ballycastle marina 1. your guide, Alan Wilson will bring the Causeway Coast to life with fascinating descriptions of local landmarks and rare wildlife, including puffins, guillemots, seals and dolphins. you might even be lucky enough to spot a whale, so make sure to bring binoculars and a camera!

The trip will take you over to Rathlin Island where you can view the upside down lighthouse at the RSPB’s Bird Sanctuary. visit Bruce’s Cave, where King Robert the Bruce, Scotland’s most famous monarch, is said to have seen the resilient spider which kept trying to spin its web until it succeeded, thus inspiring him to return to battle against the English and regain his crown.

Before taking your boat back to Ballycastle, enjoy some refreshments on the island or browse the island’s gifts in island treasures gift shop 2.

to BooK contActAlan Wilson, Aquasports t: 079623 09670 e: [email protected] visit contacts1

BAllyCASTlE MARINA 14 Bayview Road, Ballycastle, Co. Antrim, BT54 6BT.

(028) 2076 8525

2

ISlANd TREASuRES GIFT SHoP Church Bay, Rathlin Island, Co. Antrim, BT54 6SA.

0786 8663 283

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The Manor House Restaurant, Rathlin Island; Central Wine Bar, Ballycastle.

retail therapy - Island Treasures Gift Shop; Ballycastle Town Centre.

extending your visit - Glens of Antrim; Bonamargy Friary; Bushmills distillery; The Giant's Causeway.

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ballycastle marina

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roaming round rathlinenjoy a gentle walk roaming around unique rathlin island, a haven for an inspirational king, and discover its fascinating heritage and wildlife.

Join your friendly and experienced guide on a visit to the beautiful Rathlin Island. Start your day by taking the ferry to Rathlin Island from ballycastle marina 1. on arrival enjoy morning tea and a homemade tray bake at Fergus and mary’s tearoom 2.

Next your guide will take you on a gentle walk along the shoreline. Find out about life on Rathlin, both for the 100 people that live here today and those who inhabited the island down the centuries. Hear fascinating local history about ancient kings (it is said that it was here that Robert the Bruce famously encountered the spider that inspired him to regain his throne) and about powerful landlords, shipwrecks and forgotten industries. Rathlin Island is also famous for its bird life; have a go at identifying some of the birds you see or hear as you walk around.

Next visit the boathouse visitor centre 3, which houses the tiny local museum, to view the local artefacts and exhibits. Hopefully you will have time to enjoy some lunch on the island before your return ferry to Ballycastle.

Please wear suitable clothes and footwear. The ferry to Rathlin and the walk are both subject to weather conditions. Smartpass holders travel free on the ferry.

to BooK contActPaul Quinn, Rathlin Walking Tours t: (028) 7032 7960 or 07745 566924 e: [email protected] w: www.rathlinwalkingtours.com

visit contacts1

BAllyCASTlE MARINA 14 Bayview Road, Ballycastle, Co. Antrim, BT54 6BT.

(028) 2076 8525

2

FERGuS ANd MARy’S TEARooM Rathlin Island, Co. Antrim.

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BoATHouSE vISIToR CENTRE Church Bay, Rathlin Island, Co. Antrim, BT54 6RT.

(028) 2076 2024

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The Manor House Restaurant, Rathlin Island; Central Wine Bar, Ballycastle.

retail therapy - Island Treasures; Ballycastle Town Centre.

extending your visit - The RSPB Seabird Centre; Bonamargy Friary; Bushmills distillery.

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rathlin island

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Fact or Fiction?visit northern ireland’s only world heritage site and decide for yourself, was it a giant’s creation or the forces of mother nature?

described as the eighth wonder of the world, your visit will take you to one of Northern Ireland’s most spectacular natural attractions and our only uNESCo World Heritage Site. Wonder at the sheer size and grandeur of the beautiful and mysterious giant’s causeway 1 on the North Antrim Coast. Hear some of the many stories that surround this incredible natural phenomenon on a personalised guided tour, from an account of the earth’s evolution 60 million years ago to the romantic and colourful legend of Finn McCool.

Enjoy exploring the renowned amphitheatres of layered basalt stone columns and searching for the distinct stone formations locally known as The Wishing Chair, The Harp, The Camel, The organ and The Giant’s Boot. A shuttle bus runs down to the stones for those who don’t wish to walk.

Please note, due to the development of the new Giant’s Causeway visitor Experience there will be limited facilities available on site until the opening of the new visitor centre in July 2012. A coach drop off and pick up system will be in operation and coach arrivals must be pre-advised.

to BooK contActdue to the ongoing development of the new Giant's Causeway visitor Experience all group arrivals must be pre-advised:

For group arrivals and guided tours contact Angela diamond t: (028) 2073 1855 e: [email protected]

visit contact1

GIANT’S CAuSEWAy 44A Causeway Road, Bushmills, Co. Antrim, BT57 8Su.

(028) 2073 1855

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The Nook at the Giant’s Causeway; Causeway Hotel; Bushmills Inn.

retail therapy - National Trust Gift Shop; Bushmills Garden Centre; The White House, Portrush.

extending your visit - Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge; dunluce Castle; Portstewart Strand; downhill demesne and Hezlett House.

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3-4HOURS

giant’s causeway


Historic country estates of Antrimvisit two of the most fascinating historic estates in county antrim, leslie hill estate and benvarden estate and gardens, including a very special vip tour of benvarden house, still occupied by the montgomery family.

Begin your tour at leslie hill estate 1, outside Ballymoney. The layout of the estate, with its grassland, woodland and lakes, has barely altered in the last 230 years and has been carefully conserved by the leslie family. Enjoy tea or coffee in the Tea Room before experiencing a bygone age wandering through the Georgian farmyard among farm machines, carriages and carts. you’ll also meet many domestic animals.

Next is the historic benvarden estate and gardens 2 in dervock. Built in the 1630s and owned by the Montgomery family since 1798, these magnificent privately owned gardens – voted ‘Best Garden in Ireland’ in 2009 - have been maintained to exceptional standards.

Explore the delightful two-acre Walled Garden and its beautiful rose beds, an extensive kitchen garden and the Woodland Pond, which is a setting for a wonderful wild garden. The river, which runs through the estate, is spanned by a victorian iron bridge built by the Montgomery family. you can also enjoy a display of old farm and garden implements. your visit concludes with a vIP tour of the Montgomery private home, a very special chance to visit a historic home still occupied by the family.

to BooK contActMr Montgomery, Benvarden Garden t: (028) 2074 1331 e: [email protected]

visit contacts1

BENvARdEN GARdEN 36 Benvarden Road, dervock, Co. Antrim.

(028) 2074 1331

2

lESlIE HIll ESTATE Macfin Road, Ballymoney, Co. Antrim, BT53 6Ql.

(028) 2766 6803

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The Royal Court Hotel; The Nook at the Giant’s Causeway; Bushmills Inn.

retail therapy - Junction one International outlet Shopping Centre.


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6-7HOURS

benvarden garden


retail Therapyballymena has everything for the well-seasoned shopper, with a vast range of stores and places to eat you will be spoilt for choice.

Rich in history and offering a fantastic quality with a complex retail mix and leading brand names, you’ll have no problem enjoying retail therapy and picking up that perfect gift.

you will start your visit with a welcoming hearty breakfast at montgomery’s restaurant 1. The award winning breakfast frys are renowned as the chefs use the best and freshest ingredients, including eggs from their own free range hens.

At Montgomery’s all the food is freshly cooked by a team of chefs. They mostly use beef, pork and lamb which is reared on their home farm; the scones are baked on the premises each morning and the sweets are made by the in-house pastry chef.

After getting fuelled up you will be ready for your shopping extravaganza. Ballymena is home to a range of diverse shops and two large shopping centres - Fairhill shopping centre 2 and the tower centre 3. There is something for all the family.

to BooK contActBallymena Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 2563 5900 e: [email protected]

visit contacts1

MoNTGoMERy’S 38-41 Ballymoney Street, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, BT43 6AN.

(028) 2565 2337

2

FAIRHIll SHoPPING CENTRE Fairhill lane, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, BT43 6uF.

(028) 2565 1199

3

ToWER CENTRE Wellington Street, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, BT43 6AH.

(028) 2564 8921

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out suggestions - The Tullyglass House Hotel; Fern Room at McKillens; Nobel Café; Mug & Bean.

extending your visit - The Braid Museum and Arts Centre; Gracehill Morovian village.

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6-7HOURS

shopping ballymena town centre

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Follow St Patrick’s Footsteps to SlemishFollow st patrick’s footsteps to slemish and delve into the myths and history of the area.

Start your guided walking tour of slemish 1 in the car park, where your guide will reveal the history of the mountain, on whose slopes St Patrick is said to have tended livestock for six years during his years of slavery in the early 5th century, before evading his captors and returning to Roman Britain.

The one-and-half kilometre round trip to Slemish summit and back takes approximately one hour in good weather and is worth it for the spectacular views of the Antrim and Scottish coasts alone. Ballymena, lough Neagh and the Sperrin Mountains are visible to the west whilst the Bann valley and the Antrim Hills can be seen to the North. It’s a steep, rocky climb so wear good waterproofs and strong footwear.

After your climb return by coach to the nearby village of Broughshane. This picturesque, award-winning village, known as ‘The Garden village of ulster’, has an enticing selection of shops and cafés. Next travel a short distance into Ballymena town and visit the state-of-the-art new mid antrim museum at the braid 2 where you will learn of the links between people, places and local history, and explore a fabulous range of interactive exhibitions.

to BooK contActBallymena Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 2563 5900 e: [email protected]

visit contacts1

SlEMISH MouNTAIN from Ballymena take A42 for Broughshane, turn right in the village onto B94. Slemish Mountain is signposted from there onwards.

(028) 2563 5900

2

MId ANTRIM MuSEuM AT THE BRAId 1-29 Bridge Street, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, BT43 5EJ.

(028) 2563 5900

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The Thatch Inn; Scoffwell Café; Tullyglass House Hotel.

retail therapy - Broughshane village; Ballymena Town Centre; Fairhill Shopping Centre;Tower Shopping Centre.

extending your visit - Cullybackey village; Gracehill Moravian village.

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slemish mountain

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discover Antrim’s Hidden treasuresdiscover one of the finest round towers in ireland, meet owls and birds of prey and indulge in some top quality retail therapy at Junction one international outlet centre.

Start your day with tea or coffee at antrim civic centre café 1, before visiting the magnificent antrim round tower 2, one of the finest of its kind in Ireland. 28 metres high, it was built as a bell tower around the 10th century for protection from marauding raiders and along with the Ballaun Stone, is an impressive reminder of Antrim’s ancient monastic settlement.

After a short journey out of Antrim you will arrive at world of owls 3 in the heart of Randalstown Forest, Northern Ireland’s only owl, bird of prey and exotic animal conservation centre. This is your chance to meet a host of owls from around the world as well as falcons, kestrels, buzzards and hawks. There’s also some creepy spiders, snakes and other reptiles to see.

Stop for lunch in truffles restaurant 4 in Randalstown, before heading to Junction one international outlet centre 5 for some excellent retail therapy. Junction one has over 70 individual outlets offering low cost surplus stock, samples and previous season stock with lots of famous brands at low prices.

to BooK contActAntrim Tourist Information Centre t: 028 9442 8331 e: [email protected]

visit contacts1

ANTRIM CIvIC CENTRE 50 Stiles Way, Antrim, BT41 2uB.

(028) 9446 3113

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ANTRIM RouNd ToWER Steeple Road, Antrim.

(028) 9442 8331

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WoRld oF oWlS Randalstown Forest, Co. Antrim, BT41 3lE.

(028) 9447 2307

4

TRuFFlES RESTAuRANT 9 New Street, Randalstown, Co. Antrim, BT41 3AF.

(028) 9447 8152

5

JuNCTIoN oNE International outlet Shopping Centre, Antrim, BT41 4ll.

(028) 9442 9111

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The old Forge; The Black Bull Brasserie; o’Kanes Bar & Restaurant.

retail therapy - Castle Mall; Junction one International outlet Shopping Centre; The landscape Centre at donegore.

extending your visit - Antrim lough Shore Park; Cranfield Church & Holy Well; Clementsmount Fun Farm; Ballance House.

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antrim round tower


discover lough neagh And Visit The oldest courthouse in irelandtake a fascinating ‘behind the scenes’ tour discovering the history of northern ireland’s oldest courthouse followed by a boat trip to explore the folklore and history of lough neagh.

Start the day in the heart of Antrim Town and visit the recently restored historic old courthouse 1. Enjoy a coffee in the bijou café, visit the gift shop and find out about the history of the oldest courthouse in Ireland.

Continue your visit to pogue’s entry historical cottage 2 which is the childhood home of the writer Alexander Irvine, later to become a Minister in New york’s Bowery area. dr Irvine recalls his boyhood years in Pogue’s Entry in his book ‘My lady of the Chimney Corner’ and the cottage is preserved in its original state as a tribute to him. visit the resident ceramicist there and you could take the opportunity to join one of his ceramic workshops.

Enjoy lunch at the lough shore park coffee house 3, situated on the shores of lough Neagh, before spending the afternoon on an unforgettable cruise along the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles. the maid of antrim 4 can be chartered to explore lough Neagh with visits to the Holy Well at Cranfield, Ram‘s Island and Shane’s Castle. Steeped in folklore, lough Neagh’s history is brought to vivid life by the commentary given by the Captain on board.

to BooK contActAntrim Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 9442 8331 e: [email protected]

visit contacts1

ANTRIM old CouRTHouSE Market Square, Antrim, BT41 4AW.

(028) 9442 8331

2

PoGuE’S ENTRy HISToRICAl CoTTAGE Church Street, Antrim, BT41 4lH.

(028) 9448 1338

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louGH SHoRE PARK CoFFEE HouSE lough Road, Antrim, BT41 4dG.

077153 22917

4

MAId oF ANTRIM Mr Con law.

07969 927098

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - lough Shore Coffee House; Allen Park Restaurant.

retail therapy - Castle Mall; Junction one International outlet Shopping Centre; The landscape Centre at donegore.

extending your visit - Antrim Round Tower; Cranfield Church & Holy Well; World of owls; Clementsmount Fun Farm.

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old courthouse


The ulster new Zealand trust At Ballance HouseFind out all about the life of John ballance, premier of new zealand from 1891 to 1893 on this fascinating visit to his atmospheric birthplace in glenavy.

one of the most important politicians in the history of New Zealand, Glenavy's John Ballance helped pioneer votes for women. Born in ballance house 1 in 1838, he emigrated to New Zealand in 1866, settling on the North Island where he established the Wanganui Evening Herald. He entered Parliament in 1875 as a member of the liberal Party and made his reputation as a champion of the Maori people and gifted economist. He became Prime Minister in 1891 and though he was only in office for two years before his early death, his achievements still resonate today. during his short premiership, New Zealand was the first country to give women the vote and he also laid the foundations of a modern welfare state.

Ballance House contains an exhibition devoted to the life and times of John Ballance and you can also discover the part played by people from ulster in the emigration from Ireland to New Zealand. There is also a small display of agricultural methods used in Northern Ireland and New Zealand including original farm implements.

After your tour of the house enjoy light refreshments in the nostalgic Tea Barn with its pretty gingham tablecloths and delightful home baked goods.

to BooK contActThe Administrator, Ballance House t: (028) 9264 8492 e: [email protected] (please leave a message on the answer machine if there’s no answer)

visit contact1

BAllANCE HouSE 118a lisburn Road, Glenavy, Co. Antrim, BT29 4Ny.

(028) 9264 8492

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - lily Johnston’s Restaurant; Clenaghan’s Restaurant; The Tannery Restaurant.

retail therapy - lisburn City Centre; Sprucefield Shopping Centre; dobbies Garden World.

extending your visit - Sandy Bay Marina for Boat trips to Rams Island; Brookhall Historical Farm; Antrim Castle Gardens.

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ballance house

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An ulster garden experiencevisit the lovely ballyrobert cottage garden and nursery for a guided garden tour and seasonal garden demonstration.

Inspired by the world-renowned Irish-born garden designer, William Robinson, the beautifully designed ballyrobert cottage garden 1 is owned by passionate gardeners, Maurice and Joy. Extending to more than six acres of rural County Antrim this uniquely designed ulster garden has a wonderful specialist nursery on site which is stocked with a wealth of traditional ulster cottage garden plants.

Start your visit with tea or coffee and scones in the Garden Room, followed by a seasonal garden demonstration or topical workshop, such as ‘Propagation Made Easy’. you’ll then enjoy a guided tour of the garden and nursery, before having the opportunity to browse and shop in the Plant Centre.

This visit can be arranged in the morning, afternoon or early evening. Groups arriving in the early evening will be served wine and cheese rather than coffee and scones and enjoy a guided tour of the garden after a talk on its progress.

to BooK contActMaurice or Joy Parkinson t: (028) 9332 2952 e: [email protected] w: www.ballyrobertcottagegarden.co.uk

visit contact1

BAllyRoBERT CoTTAGE GARdEN 154 Ballyrobert Road, Ballyclare, Co. Antrim, BT39 9RT.

(028) 9332 2952

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - oregano Restaurant; Barnaby’s Restaurant; Corr’s Corner Hotel.

retail therapy - Junction one International outlet Shopping Centre; The Abbey Centre.

extending your visit - Antrim Castle Gardens; Patterson’s Spade Mill; Sentry Hill; Glenarm Castle Walled Garden.

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ballyrobert cottage garden


discover The rural And industrial Heritage of newtownabbeyFind out about 19th century rural life in newtownabbey and discover the impact of the industrial revolution on the region.

Hear the hammers, smell the grit and feel the heat of traditional spade making at patterson’s spade mill 1, where history comes to life. Built in 1832 this is the last working water-driven spade mill in daily use in the British Isles. The guided tour will capture life during the Industrial Revolution and ‘dig up’ the history of the humble spade.

Next, stop for refreshments and shopping at mugwumps 2. Set in a converted stone farmhouse and byre, Mugwumps is one of the most unique gift and coffee shops in Ireland and a popular meeting place for locals and tourists.

Next travel the short distance to sentry hill 3, a victorian farmhouse with a facinating family history. The house and its contents provide a rare insight into life in rural ulster during the 19th century. As you cross the farmhouse threshold you will stand where the past shakes hands with the present.

Finish your day with a visit to the new museum at the mill 4. Housed within what was originally the wet spinning floor of Mossley Mill, the museum tells the story of the mill and the people who worked there from the 1800s to the mill’s closure in 1996.

to BooK contActlisa o’Kane, Tourism & Events Manager t: (028) 9034 0052 e: [email protected]

visit contacts1

PATTERSoN’S SPAdE MIll 751 Antrim Road, Templepatrick, Co. Antrim, BT39 0AP.

(028) 9443 3619

2

MuGWuMPS GIFTS ANd CoFFEE SHoP Sleepy Hollow, 15 Kiln Road, Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim, BT36 4Su.

(028) 9084 2374

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SENTRy HIll 40 Ballycraigy Road, Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim, BT36 8SX.

(028) 9083 2363

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MuSEuM AT THE MIll Carnmoney Road North, Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim, BT36 5QA.

(028) 9034 0000

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Barnaby’s Restaurant; oregano Restaurant; Corrs Corner Hotel.

retail therapy - The Abbey Centre; Ballyclare Town Centre.

extending your visit - Mallusk Heritage Walking Trail; Ballyrobert Cottage Garden; Theatre at the Mill.

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6-7HOURS

sentry hill

30maxGroup size

northern ireland environment agency


6HOURS

creative / hands-on activity

group size min/max

national trust

Food & drinks available to purchase

approx length oF visit in hours

hardly any walking

location

lots oF walking

lunch included

moderate walking

reFreshments included

outdoors

shopping opportunity

20maxGroup size

Armagh

The ecclesiastical centre of ireland, founded by Saint Patrick, Armagh’s georgian elegance offers a wonderful diversity of visit ideas, as does the beautiful ‘orchard country’ around the ancient city. Become a perfect potter, solve a murder mystery, follow arts trails through unique wetlands, visit tranquil nature reserves and magical islands, explore the shores of the largest inland lake in the British isles, blast off into space at a state-of-the art observatory or journey back to the dawn of irish history and mythology.


disabled access

coach parking


Saint Patrick’s citywalk in the footsteps of saint patrick in the beautiful ancient city of armagh. visit historic cathedrals and fascinating museums, and spend some time shopping in the city’s boutiques.

This tour starts at saint patrick’s trian visitor complex 1 where you can trace the story of Armagh City from pagan times to the coming of St Patrick’s Celtic Christianity and modern day Ireland. It’s a short stroll to the Cathedral Gardens and st patrick’s church of ireland cathedral 2, which has a direct line back to the church St Patrick founded in 445AD. It is also the burial site of Brian Boru. Next to the cathedral is armagh public library 3, the oldest library in Northern Ireland. Founded in 1771 by Archbishop Robinson it contains extensive collections of 17th and 18th century books.

Enjoy lunch in one of the city’s inviting cafés and restaurants and spend some time shopping in Armagh’s many boutiques or specialist shops.

The final part of the tour is a visit to saint patrick’s catholic cathedral 4, whose two distinctive twin Gothic spires frame the Armagh City skyline. Though Archbishop Crolly laid the foundation stone on St Patrick’s Day, 1840, it took over 60 years to complete this exquisite cathedral.

As some of this tour is outside, participants are encouraged to wear suitable clothing and footwear.

to BooK contActArmagh Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 3752 1800 e: [email protected]

visit contacts1

SAINT PATRICk’S TRIAN VISIToR ComPlEx 40 English Street, Armagh, BT61 7BA.

(028) 3752 1801

2

ST PATRICk’S ChuRCh oF IRElAND CAThEDRAl Cathedral Close, Armagh, BT61 7EE.

(028) 3752 3142

3

ARmAGh PuBlIC lIBRARy 43 Abbey Street, Armagh, BT61 7Dy.

(028) 3752 3142

4

ST PATRICk’S CATholIC CAThEDRAl Cathedral Road, Armagh, BT61 9Dl.

(028) 3752 2638

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Embers Coffee house & Grill Bar; Rumours Coffee Shop; manor Park Restaurant; Footlights Bar & Bistro.

retail therapy - Armagh City Centre Shopping.

extending your visit - The Palace Demesne; Armagh Public library; Gosford Forest Park;The Navan Centre.

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6-7HOURS

st patrick’s catholic cathedral


Morning on The Hilldiscover armagh’s rich christian heritage and literary links with a ‘morning on the hill’, visiting st patrick’s church of ireland cathedral, no 5 vicars’ hill and armagh public library.

There is no more significant religious site on the island of Ireland than the ancient hill of Armagh, where St Patrick built a church in 445AD. A church has stood here ever since and today st patrick’s church of ireland cathedral 1 maintains an unbroken link back to our patron saint. Among other highlights of your guided tour you will see silverware from 1796, the staircase to the bell tower and pre-Christian stone carvings.

Next visit no 5 vicars’ hill 2, built in 1772 as the Diocesan Registry to hold records for the Cathedral and Armagh Diocese. While the records are no longer held here, examples are on display, along with ancient coins and gems, significant prints and early Christian bells.

Finally, the tour takes you to the oldest library in Northern Ireland, armagh public library 3. Established in 1771 by Archbishop Robinson its unique collections include books, manuscripts, prints, coins and gems, many from his own library. A first edition of Jonathan Swift’s ‘Gulliver’s Travels’ has his handwritten amendments in the margins. As part of the tour visitors will be shown how to handle these items. 1835 ordnance Survey maps will also be on display for visitors to view their locality.

to BooK contActArmagh Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 37521800 e: [email protected]

visit contacts1


(028) 3752 3142

2

No 5 VICARS’ hIll 5 Vicars’ hill, Armagh, BT61 7ED.

(028) 3752 3142

3

ARmAGh PuBlIC lIBRARy 43 Abbey Street, Armagh, BT61 7Dy.

(028) 3752 3142

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Armagh City hotel; Embers Coffee house &Grill Bar.

retail therapy - Armagh City Centre Shopping; Rushmere Shopping Centre.

extending your visit - Armagh Planetarium; St Patrick’s Trian Visitor Complex; Gosford Forest Park;The Navan Centre.

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3-4HOURS

armagh public library


From Archaeology to Astronomyvisit ulster’s ancient capital and then trek the stars, galaxies and distant worlds with an astronomical voyage of discovery at armagh planetarium and observatory.

one of Ireland’s most ancient monuments Navan Fort was the seat of the high kings of ulster and its ancient capital. At the navan centre 1 the tour can start with the ‘Vanished World’ of lost myths, travel into the ‘Real World’ of archaeology and then enter the ‘other World’ to discover the compelling legends of the ulster Cycle. Visit the Iron Age dwelling with living history interpretations recreating their way of life. Finally walk the path of history to the ancient seat of kings at Navan Fort.

Trek the stars and discover the universe in Ireland’s first full dome 3D digital theatre at armagh planetarium 2. The Planetarium’s new projection system accurately recreates the beauty of the night sky and will take you on voyages to distant worlds.

Next visit the armagh observatory 3, a modern astronomical research institute adjacent to the Planetarium. Founded in 1790 the observatory is one of the uk and Ireland’s leading scientific research establishments. outside the Astropark is a scale model of the universe, which you can stroll around, discovering some of the amazing phenomena in our solar system, galaxy and beyond. The observatory’s 14 acres of landscaped gardens include sundials, historic telescopes and telescope domes.


visit contacts

1

NAVAN CENTRE 81 killylea Road, Armagh, BT60 4lD.

(028) 3752 9644

2

ARmAGh PlANETARIum College hill, Armagh, BT61 9DB.

(028) 3752 3689

3

ARmAGh oBSERVAToRy College hill, Armagh, BT6 1 9DB.

(028) 3752 2928

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Restaurant at The Navan Centre; Armagh City hotel; Footlights Bar & Bistro.

retail therapy - Armagh City Centre Shopping; Spires Retail Park.

extending your visit - The mall; Armagh County museum; Fusiliers museum; Armagh’s Cathedrals.

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6-7HOURS 50max

Group size

armagh planetarium


From galaxy gardens to Peaceful Placesit’s no wonder that armagh has been described as the ‘garden of ireland’! From orchards and open parklands to its astropark and formal gardens, armagh is a horticultural delight.

Start your visit strolling the 14 acres of landscaped gardens at armagh observatory 1. Explore the universe on a walk through the Astropark, discovering the changing positions of the planets from the amazing orrery exhibit, and enjoy wonderful woodland walks through yew, oak and hazel trees.

A short distance across the city, in the beautiful palace demesne 2 is ‘The Garden of the Senses’. more a sensory experience than an ordinary garden, it’s divided into five distinct parts to excite all the senses. Nearby, an arboretum hosts 1,550 trees, planted in 1994 to mark 1550 years since the arrival of St Patrick in Armagh. After a delicious lunch in the city visit st patrick’s church of ireland cathedral 3 for its monastic herb garden laid out in the simple pattern employed by the early Christian monasteries.

Then travel to the delightful National Trust property of the argory 4 and its wonderful wooded riverside estate. Enjoy the Pleasure Garden, Victorian arbours and the beautiful rose garden with its fascinating sundial dating back to the 1820s. Stop for afternoon tea in the team room or browse the gift shop and second hand book shop.

Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and comfortable walking shoes.

to BooK contActArmagh Tourist Information Centre t: 028 3752 1800 e: [email protected]

visit contacts

1

ARmAGh oBSERVAToRy College hill, Armagh, BT61 9DB.

(028) 3752 2928

2

ThE PAlACE DEmESNE Armagh, BT60 4El.

(028) 3752 1800

3


(028) 3752 3142

4

ThE ARGoRy 144 Derrycaw Road, moy Co. Armagh, BT71 6NA.

(028) 8778 4753

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Embers Coffee house &Grill Bar; The manor Park Restaurant; Footlights Bar & Bistro.retail therapy - National Trust Shop at The Argory; Woodvale Garden Centre and Art Gallery; moy Antiques.extending your visit - St Patrick’s Trian Visitors Complex; Armagh County museum; Armagh Planetarium; Tayto Castle & Factory.

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the argory


6-7HOURS

45maxGroup size


orchard county And country House tourvisit the ‘orchard county’ of armagh, taking in the national trust’s ardress house and some stunning countryside.

A glorious journey through the ‘orchard County’ of Armagh, where over 4,000 acres are covered by apple trees. It’s beautiful all year around but it comes alive with pale pink blossom towards the end of April and early may.

on this guided coach tour the first stop is a visit to a working apple producer 1, where you can enjoy a guided tour of the facilities and learn about the production process, before sampling the wonderful fresh produce. Then it’s onto the beautiful conservation village of loughgall and delightful loughgall country park 2. After the coach tour this is an opportunity to stretch your legs with a stroll around one of the lovely waymarked walks. A visit to the manor house is also recommended.

The Famous Grouse Restaurant near loughgall or Groucho’s Café Bar & music lounge in Richhill are recommended lunch stops.

After lunch travel on to ardress house 3. Nestled in an apple orchard, this modest 17th century country home has a collection of tools and horse-drawn machinery, as well as animals on show. Take the chance to stroll through its attractive gardens with their scenic woodland walks.


visit contacts1

ThIS IS A PRIVATE ComPANy NoT NoRmAlly oPEN To ThE PuBlIC. DETAIlS WIll BE CoNFIRmED uPoN BookING.

2

louGhGAll CouNTRy PARk 11-14 main Street, loughgall Co. Armagh, BT61 8hZ.

(028) 3889 2900

3

ARDRESS houSE 64 Ardress Road, Portadown Co. Armagh, BT62 1SQ.

(028) 8778 4753

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The Famous Grouse; Stonebridge Restaurant; Grouchos Café Bar & music lounge.retail therapy - Dispensary house Gallery; Greenmount Farm organic Farm Shop.extending your visit - Armagh Cathedrals; St Patrick’s Trian Visitor Complex; The market Place Theatre.

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ardress house


nordic Walking in gosford Forest Parklearn the technique of nordic walking whilst exploring the stunning surroundings of gosford Forest park.

here’s a great way to combine one of the fastest growing fitness activities in the world with a walk around one of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful areas. Nordic Walking is a technique of walking with specially designed poles which actually make you work harder, thus getting fitter, even though it seems easier. other benefits include an increase in energy levels, lesser impact on joints and ensuring upper body muscles are used.

So, why not give it a go whilst exploring gosford Forest park 1, the historic demesne and gardens of Gosford house with your guide and instructor. once a retreat of Jonathan Swift and an inspiration for his poetry writing, the grounds also include rare breed animals, heritage poultry and red deer.

Finish your trip in the nearby village of markethill, home to locally renowned alexander’s of markethill 2, a home furnishing shop that is a treasure trove of beautiful goods for house and home. Visitors can enjoy a hearty homemade lunch in the upstairs café or one of the restaurants in the village.

Nordic poles are provided however please wear suitable outdoor clothing and comfortable walking shoes. your guide can tailor the tour to suit your group requirements and also offers Nordic Walking tours at oxford Island and Castlewellan Forest Park. Full details can be found on discovernorthernireland.com/groups.

to BooK contActFiona mullan t: 077402 85794 e: [email protected] w: www.mountainsojourns.co.uk

visit contacts1

GoSFoRD FoREST PARk 7 Gosford Demesne, markethill, Co. Armagh, BT60 1GD.

(028) 3755 1277

2

AlExANDER’S oF mARkEThIll 16 Fairgreen Road, markethill, Co. Armagh, BT60 1PW.

(028) 3755 1133

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The old Barn Steakhouse & Grill; Armagh City hotel.

retail therapy - markethill Village; Armagh City Centre.

extending your visit - The Navan Centre; St Patrick’s Trian Visitor Complex.

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3-4HOURS

nordic walking, gosFord Forest park

6-24min-max

Group size

taste And telltake a guided ‘taste and tell’ tour around the ‘orchard county’ of armagh enjoying the delicious foodie delights en route.

Discover a taste of Armagh, the ‘orchard County’ of Ireland. The tour starts in the plantation village of Waringstown at harnett’s oils 1, a family run business which prides itself in growing, cold-pressing and bottling the finest hemp and rapeseed oils. Enjoy a tour of the production facility and sample their speciality oils.

Next, travel to the yellow door deli 2 in Portadown where the counters are bursting with the freshest seasonal produce and delights like local game pie and Armagh strawberry tarts. Travelling to the main apple growing area, visit armagh cider company 3 at Ballinteggart house, learning about the cider making process and sampling the freshly pressed apple juice and cider.

make a lunch stop at the award-winning grouchos café bar & music lounge 4 in Richhill, where you might even have a chance to learn how to make the perfect apple pie! Nearby is Forthill Farm shop 5, Tandragee which specialises in producing the best quality free range pork and beef products. Don’t go home without buying some bacon, highly recommended for the ultimate ulster Fry experience. If there’s still time, finish your day with a guided tour of Armagh, learning about its connections to St Patrick and enjoying the atmospheric Georgian streets.

to BooK contActBarbara Ferguson, Armagh Guided Tours t: (028) 3755 1119 m: 077405 11442 e: [email protected]

visit contacts1

hARNETT’S oIlS Waring Estate, Waringstown, Co. Armagh, BT66 7QA.

(028) 3888 1210

2

yElloW DooR DElI 74 Woodhouse Street, Portadown, Co. Armagh, BT63 5NN.

(028) 3835 3528

3

ARmAGh CIDER ComPANy 73 Drumnasoo Road, Portadown, Co. Armagh, BT62 4Ex.

(028) 3833 0681

4

GRouChoS CAFé BAR & muSIC louNGE 1 The Square, Richhill, Co. Armagh, BT61 9PP.

(028) 3887 1874

5

FoRThIll FARm ShoP 80 Ballymore Road, Tandragee, Co. Armagh, BT62 2Jy.

(028) 3884 0818

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - manor Park Restaurant; White house Gastro Bar; Rainbow Restaurant; yellow Door Deli; Bluestone Restaurant.retail therapy - Richardson Farm Shop; Barnhill Farm orchards; high Street mall.extending your visit - Armagh County museum; The Navan Centre; Saint Patrick’s Trian Visitor Complex.

findgoodlocalfood.com promoting the best of local food produce in Ards, Armagh, Craigavon, Down and Newry & mourne.

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6-7HOURS

apple pickingFor additional information and more group day visit ideas, please visit discovernorthernireland.com/groups92


Murder Mystery in Portadowndiscover the story of portadown on a thrilling murder mystery tour before an afternoon of leisurely outdoor fun.

Enjoy coffee at chimes coffee house 1 before local guide Allan hamilton takes you on a guided treasure trails 2 walking tour around the charming market town of Portadown. your mission will be to find who murdered a local shoemaker. This tour gives you a unique insight into the fascinating history of the town as you search for clues among its best-known buildings and monuments. Returning to Portadown enjoy lunch in Zio Restaurant or The Seagoe hotel.Next enjoy an afternoon of soft activities, choose from: archery at craigavon watersports centre 3 or Pitch & Putt at the craigavon golf & ski centre 4 where you can also prepare for the pistes on Northern Ireland’s only artificial ski slope. Golfers, may prefer to spend the afternoon at one of the welcoming golf clubs in the area; edenmore golf & country club 5, lurgan golf club 6 or portadown golf club 7. Please wear suitable footwear and outdoor clothing.

to BooK contActSandra Durand, Tourism Development officer, Craigavon Borough Council t: (028) 3831 2575 e: [email protected]

visit contacts1

ChImES CoFFEE houSE 18 Church Street, Portadown, Co. Armagh, BT62 3lQ.

5

EDENmoRE GolF & CouNTRy CluB 70 Drumnabreeze Road, magheralin, Craigavon, Co. Armagh, BT67 0Rh.

(028) 9261 9241

2

TREASuRE TRAIlS 69 kingsway Drive, Portadown, Co. Armagh, BT62 3Dx. (028) 3833 6266 or 079808 59028

6

luRGAN GolF CluB Windsor Avenue lurgan, Craigavon, BT67 9BN.

(028) 3832 2087

3

CRAIGAVoN WATERSPoRTS CENTRE 1 lake Road, Craigavon, Co. Armagh, BT64 1AS.

(028) 3834 2669

7

PoRTADoWN GolF CluB 192 Gilford Road, Portadown, Craigavon, Co. Armagh, BT63 5lF.

(028) 3835 5356

4

CRAIGAVoN GolF & SkI CENTRE 16 Turmoyra lane, Craigavon, Co. Armagh, BT66 6NG.

(028) 3832 6606

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Zio Restaurant; The Seagoe hotel; yellow Door Deli.

retail therapy - knox’s Food Court; high Street mall; The meadows Shopping Centre.

extending your visit - Brownlow house; lurgan Park; Tannaghmore Gardens, Animal Farm and Barn museum.


6-7HOURS

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Walking on Waterdiscover another world walking alongside britain’s oldest canal to an 18th century lock house before exploring the christian heritage sites around craigavon.

Newry Canal, built in 1741 to transport coal, is the oldest summit level canal in the British Isles and its towpath, now a waymarked way, offers an enthralling walk through another world. Beginning with coffee at Portadown’s yellow door deli 1, you’ll follow the canal past a nature reserve with beautiful flora and fauna until you reach the charming 18th century moneypenny’s lock house 2. At this recently renovated lock keeper’s house with stables and bothy (a basic shelter), you’ll discover what life was like for the lock keeper and lightermen who operated the locks, and get a fascinating insight into the history and wildlife of the area.

After a stop at brownlow house tea rooms 3 for lunch discover the enthralling Christian heritage of Craigavon with links to St Patrick and the Quakers at a special talk in craigavon museum 4 on oxford Island. Browse the unique Quaker and methodist book collections while you are there.

Next take a coach tour to some the sites you’ve heard about - the 19th century Quaker meeting house in lurgan, the site of Ireland’s first Quaker meeting place, Ireland’s oldest Quaker cemetery, the medieval Annaloiste Bell and the atmospheric Shankill Graveyard, where you can hear the chilling story of marjorie mcCall – ‘lived once, buried twice’!


visit contacts1

yElloW DooR DElI74 Woodhouse Street, Portadown, Craigavon, Co. Armagh, BT62 1Jl.

(028) 3835 3528

2

moNEyPENNy’S loCk houSE 4km from Portadown Centre via Newry Canal Waymarked.

(028) 3834 1635

3

BRoWNloW houSE Windsor Avenue, lurgan, Co. Armagh, BT67 9GB.

(028) 3832 6049 / 07788 533774

4

CRAIGAVoN muSEum Waterside house, oxford Island, lurgan, Co. Armagh, BT66 6NJ.

(028) 3834 1635

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Ballydougan Pottery Restaurant and Coffee lounge; 19th Restaurant at Portadown Golf Club; Brownlow house Tea Rooms.

retail therapy - Ballydougan Pottery Gift Shop; Chapman’s Farm Fresh Fruit & Veg; lurgan Town Centre; Rushmere Shopping Centre.

extending your visit - meadows Equestrian Centre; C and J Rare Breeds Farm; lough Neagh Discovery Centre. your day out

at a glance6-7HOURS

moneypenny’s lock

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Become a Perfect Potterspend an artistic day in craigavon learning how to make superb hand thrown pottery before following a trail of innovative sculptures in the beautiful wetlands of oxford island.

Begin the day with tea or coffee and scones at the beautiful Bloomvale house, a restored, thatched 18th century cottage that is home to the award-winning ballydougan pottery 1. Groups can tailor their experience, choosing to learn the art of making a hand thrown pot from master potters, watching pots being glazed or taking part in ‘paint a pot’ workshops. you’ll have time to browse their exquisite 18th century gift shop before heading to the next visit at allan kirk’s studio/gallery 2, where you can see his acclaimed landscape, urban and village scene paintings.After a lunch take your coach to the nearby village of Aghagallon and the visionary art in the wetlands 3 trail, which follows part of the beautiful loughshore Trail at oxford Island Nature Reserve. Several sculptures have been erected en route celebrating the cultural traditions of this unique wetlands area. These include a willow basket-making sculpture in Aghagallon itself, an eel fisherman in Derrytrasna and one dedicated to the famous eels of lough Neagh. Take time out here to visit the Enterprise Barge, a restored lagan Canal barge which brings the local waterway heritage to vivid life.


visit contacts1

BAllyDouGAN PoTTERy Bloomvale house, 171 Plantation Road, Craigavon, Co. Armagh, BT63 5NN.

(028) 3834 2201

2

AllAN kIRk STuDIo/GAllERy 24 Bleary Road, Portadown, Co. Armagh, BT63 5NE.

(028) 3836 2066

3

ART IN ThE WETlANDS oxford Island National Nature Reserve, lurgan, Co. Armagh, BT66 6NJ.

(028) 3831 1680

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Palomo Café & Bistro; The Ashburn hotel; The Courthouse Bar.

retail therapy - Portadown Town Centre; loughview Garden Centre; Rushmere Shopping Centre.

extending your visit - lough Neagh Southern Shore Trail; Craigavon Watersports Centre; millennium Court Arts Centre.


6-7HOURS

ballydougan pottery

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time traveltake a trip through lurgan’s enthralling past, from its most famous house and its beautiful former demesne to the historic town centre.

Start the morning with tea or coffee at brownlow house 1, one of Ireland’s most elegant early Victorian homes. A talk on the history of lurgan will be followed by a fascinating behind the scenes tour of the house, which has many unique architectural and historic features. Weather permitting, you can then enjoy a guided walk through the beautifully landscaped old demesne which is now lurgan park 2, the second biggest public park in Ireland.

you can then enjoy a delicious lunch in the Brownlow house Tea Rooms.

In the afternoon it’s time for a self-guided trail around the historic town of lurgan leaving from the elegantly refurbished 19th century lurgan town hall 3, and taking in some of Northern Ireland’s most distinguished buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, including the mechanic’s Institute, old Courthouse and the birthplace of one of Ireland’s most important literary figures, George Russell. Writing under the pseudonym AE, he was a prominent figure in the Irish literary Revival and close friend of the famous Irish poet, WB yeats.


visit contacts1

BRoWNloW houSE Windsor Avenue, lurgan, Co. Armagh, BT67 9GB.

(028) 3832 6049/07788 533774

2

luRGAN PARk Windsor Avenue, lurgan, Co. Armagh, BT67 9BG.

(028) 3832 3795

3

luRGAN ToWN hAll 2-6 union Street, lurgan, Co. Armagh, BT66 8Dy.

(028) 3832 2422

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The Ashburn hotel; The Cellar Bar; The Courthouse Bar; lurgan Golf Club.

retail therapy - Alana Interiors; houstons; Rushmere Shopping Centre; Ballydougan Pottery Gift Shop.

extending your visit - lough Neagh Discovery Centre; Craigavon Watersports Centre; Tannaghmore Gardens, Animal Farm & Barn museum.


6-7HOURS

brownlow house

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Kinnego Beautyget close to the natural world exploring the beauty of kinnego bay with a unique nature walk and sublime boat trip on the lough.

Start your day with tea or coffee and scones at the loughshore Café at lough neagh discovery centre 1 by the breathtaking oxford Island Nature Reserve. After refreshments you will be taken on a guided walk around the tranquil woodlands, wetlands and meadows of the nature reserve. Whatever time of year you come you’ll be introduced to a wonderful range of wildlife, birdlife and flora.

After a hearty lunch in the Café at the kinnego marina 2, you will be taken onboard the Coney Explorer or master mcGra for a relaxing boat trip around beautiful kinnego Bay and the surrounding area. Just sit back, relax and enjoy the stunning scenery and tranquillity of this sublime rural setting.

on your return to kinnego marina you can once again relax and enjoy the beauty of the nature reserve before your departure.

to BooK contActPaul magee t: (028) 3832 7573 e: [email protected]

visit contacts

1

louGh NEAGh DISCoVERy CENTRE oxford Island Nature Reserve, lurgan, Co. Armagh, BT66 6NJ.

(028) 3832 2205

2

kINNEGo mARINA oxford Island Nature Reserve, lurgan, Co. Armagh, BT66 6NJ.

(028) 3832 7573

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - loughside Café at lough Neagh Discovery Centre; The Ashburn hotel; Brownlow house; Ballydougan Restaurant at Ballydougan Pottery.

retail therapy - Rushmere Shopping Centre; Alana Interiors; The loughview Garden Centre.

extending your visit - Craigavon museum; Ballydougan Pottery.


6-7HOURS

kinnego marina

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Bessbrook in The Footsteps of A Mill Workerwalk in the footsteps of victorian mill workers through the historic model village of bessbrook and visit the beautiful thatched country retreat of derrymore house.

Built with local granite in the latter half of the 19th century to house workers of the great linen mill nearby, the model village of Bessbrook is one of the most atmospheric places in Northern Ireland to visit. Join samuel hanna a local guide 1 and see for yourself the spacious squares and streets unchanged from when they were planned by visionary Quaker mill owner John Grubb Richardson over 150 years ago. Visit a restored mill worker’s house from 1881 and experience the living conditions of a mill worker of the village at that time, before hearing stories of their lives in bygone days.

Nearby is derrymore house 2 a small thatched cottage built about 1760, formerly the country home of Isaac Corry, the last Chancellor of the Irish parliament and where the Act of union is said to have been drafted. The cottage is now owned by the National Trust. The surrounding grounds offer a marvellous opportunity for tranquil country walks around the estate.

As much of this tour will be outside, participants are encouraged to wear suitable outdoor clothing and comfortable walking shoes.

to BooK contActNewry Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 3031 3170 e: [email protected]

visit contacts1

SAmuEl hANNA 45 millvale Road Bessbrook, Newry, Co. Armagh.

(028) 3083 0415

2

DERRymoRE houSE Camlough Road, Bessbrook Newry, Co. Armagh, BT35 7EF.

(028) 3083 8361

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The Bank Bar & Bistro; The Canal Court hotel; The Brass monkey.

retail therapy - Buttercrane Shopping Centre; The Quays Shopping Centre; Newry City Centre.

extending your visit - Slieve Gullion Forest Park; Creggan Poets Glen; Camlough lake; Bagenal’s Castle.

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3-4HOURS

craigmore viaduct bessbrookimage © John mcguigan


The Poets And People of cregganexplore the ancient churchyard at creggan, where some of ireland’s greatest gaelic poets are buried. then follow ‘the poet’s trail’ before enjoying a relaxing afternoon of poetry, music and storytelling.

The Ring of Gullion is famed for its strong association with ‘Filí agus Filíocht’ - Poets and Poetry, with many of the major 18th century Irish poets coming from this area.

Enjoy a warm South Armagh welcome with refreshments on arrival at creggan visitor centre 1 before beginning your journey into ‘The Poets and People of Creggan’ with a local guide. The tour will explore Creggan churchyard, the Walled Garden and Poets Glen, where some of the most famous poets of South Armagh are buried, including the o’Neills. This historic graveyard is the burial place of three important 18th century Gaelic poets: Art mac Cooey, Pádraig mac Aliondain and Séamus mór mac murphy (poet and outlaw).

Choose from three waymarked trails around mullaghbane, Forkhill and Creggan, collectively titled ‘The Poet’s Trail’, to enjoy a walk in the breathtaking Ring of Gullion Area of outstanding Natural Beauty (AoNB).

Next journey to Crossmaglen to experience the character of this thriving market town before heading to the village of Cullyhanna and the Áras an chairdineil Ó Fiaich heritage centre 2, where a guided tour will recount the life of the late Cardinal o’Fiaich and the fascinating local history. Refreshments will be served.


visit contacts1

CREGGAN VISIToR CENTRE Creggan Parish Church, Glassdrumman Road, Crossmaglen, Co. Armagh.

(028) 3086 1025

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Ó FIAICh hERITAGE CENTRE Slate Quarry Road, Cullyhanna, Co. Armagh.

(028) 3086 8757

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Cross Square hotel; ma kearney’s; Savages.

retail therapy - Crossmaglen Town Centre; Buttercrane Shopping Centre; The Quays Shopping Centre.

extending your visit - Slieve Gullion Forest Park; Camlough lake; Bagenal’s Castle; Newry heritage Trail.


3-4HOURS

creggan visitor centre, creggan parish church

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Slieve gullion Journey to The Summita mountain walk exploring the slieve gullion special area of conservation and the ring of gullion area of outstanding natural beauty (aonb), taking mountain paths, forest trails and country roads.

The guided walk starts and finishes in the car park at Slieve Gullion Courtyard Centre in slieve gullion Forest park 1. While journeying to the summit your guide will take you back in time over 6,000 years with stories of the people who have lived here. Famous for its megalithic and early Christian monuments, including over twenty large stone tombs, you’ll also experience the area’s Iron Age rampart along the route to Eamhain macha, the ancient capital of ulster.

The walk offers the chance to explore the exceptional countryside, rich in geology, archaeology, wildlife and folklore. The Ring of Gullion and Slieve Gullion, in particular, have rich associations with Irish legends and myths. Deirdre of the Sorrows was raised here, Cuchulainn was buried here and on Slieve Gullion’s summit, Fionn mcCool was famously bewitched by miluchra at the lough of the Calliagh Bhirra. To this day the superstition survives that if you bathe in the lough your hair will turn white.

on reaching the summit whilst taking in the splendid views you can see the highest surviving passage tomb in the uk or Ireland. Suitable outdoor clothing, comfortable walking shoes and a packed lunch are advised.


visit contact1

SlIEVE GullIoN FoREST PARk killeavy Road, killeavy, Newry, Co. Armagh, BT35 8SW.

(028) 3084 9786

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Fionn mcCumhaill’s Café at Slieve Gullion Courtyard; murphy’s Bar and Restaurant; Newry Golf Inn.retail therapy - Buttercrane Shopping Centre; The Quays Shopping Centre; Newry City Centre.

extending your visit - Creggan Poets Glen; Derrymore house; Camlough lake. Traditional music sessions are available nightly in South Armagh pubs.


6-7HOURS

slieve gullion Forest park

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Down

There are so many ways to enjoy the bewitching countryside and coastline of County Down from retracing the mountain paths of smugglers to exploring world famous gardens, absorbing the Viking history of Strangford Lough or journeying through the country St Patrick made his home. Learn to cook the famous seafood of the area, trace the purest water to spectacular reservoirs at the heart of the Mournes, explore a vibrant linen industry, enjoy nostalgic steam train rides and lots, lots more.


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The Age of titanicspend a day immersed in the story of titanic at the ulster Folk and transport museum. enjoy discovering the history of the ship and learning how the people who built titanic lived.

Arrive at the ulster Folk and transport museum 1 and start your day with tea or coffee and a freshly baked scone in the Midland Tearoom at the Transport Museum, before exploring Titanic and her world at TITANICa: The Exhibition. Discover why Titanic and her sister ships Olympic and Britannic were built in Belfast and how local enterprise and skills were combined to produce vessels of exceptional quality and design. Find out about life on board the ships through fascinating artefacts and the personal stories that help to relate the tragic loss of Titanic in 1912. The exhibition also looks at the legacy of the great ship and poses questions about her hold on the popular imagination.

Next, move across to the Folk Museum to enjoy lunch in the Ballycultra Tearoom before starting to explore how the people who built Titanic lived. In Tea Lane you can discover conditions for a labourer, while in Cluan Place you can contrast this with life for a skilled tradesman at the shipyard. Explore the shops they would have visited, the schools where their children were educated and the churches in which they worshipped.

A truly fascinating look at life in Northern Ireland at the time Titanic was built.

to BooK ContACtPatrick McLain or Pauline Carey, National Museums Northern Ireland t: (028) 9042 8428 e: [email protected] or [email protected] w: www.nmni.com

visit ContaCt1

ULsTEr FOLk AND TrANsPOrT MUsEUMBangor road, Cultra, Holywood, Co. Down, BT18 0EU.

(028) 9042 8428

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Cultra Inn at the Culloden Hotel; Crawfordsburn Inn; Dickson’s Garden Centre.

retail therapy - Ulster Folk & Transport Museum Gift shop; Dickson’s Garden Centre; Crawfordsburn Craft shop.

extending your visit - Titanic Dock & Pumphouse; Titanic Boat Tour; Crawfordsburn Country Park.

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rms titaniCimaGe © national museums nortHern ireland


6-7HOURS


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transport in The Age of Steamexplore how people travelled around ireland before the car took over and experience all things titanic in a fascinating exhibition at the ulster Folk and transport museum.

Arrive at the ulster Folk and transport museum 1 and start your day with tea or coffee and a freshly baked scone in the Midland Tearoom, a re-creation of a traditional Ulster railway station café of the early 20th century. Enjoy the majesty of the steam trains that connected Ireland in the Irish railway collection. Climb on board the engines, marvel at the comfort of the first class carriages and contrast this with the bracing atmosphere of the basic third class carriages.

Explore the trains and trams shipyard workers would have travelled on to the Harland and Wolff shipyard. Visit TITANICa: The Exhibition and find out why Titanic and her sister ships were built in Belfast. Discover original artefacts recovered from the Atlantic, see the original plans of the ship and hear the stories from the shipyard workers, passengers and crew.

Explore vintage cars, bikes, buses and trams in the road Transport Gallery including the famous locally built DeLorean car. Enjoy a traditional Irish stew and fresh wheaten bread lunch in the Midland Tearoom before a gentle stroll down to the Land, sea and sky galleries, where you will uncover the stories of individuals and businesses from Northern Ireland who have made astonishing achievements through transport.


visit ContaCt1


(028) 9042 8428


retail therapy - Ulster Folk & Transport Museum Gift shop; Dickson’s Garden Centre; Crawfordsburn Craft shop.

extending your visit - Crawfordsburn Country Park; Ulster Museum; Bangor Castle Walled Garden.

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ulster Folk and transport museum


5-6HOURS


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textiles Through The Agesdiscover the rich history of textiles in ulster, browse through a draper’s shop from the early 1900s and enjoy a vast array of domestic textiles including beautiful quilts made from mill remnants.

Arrive at the ulster Folk and transport museum 1 and start your day with tea or coffee and a freshly baked scone in the plush Ballycultra Tearoom, whose interior is based on the dining room of an Edwardian Hotel. Explore Ballycultra and discover Ulster’s rich textile history – the cottages lived in by mill workers and shipyard workers in Tea Lane, the beautiful patchwork quilts made by gaslight using factory remnants from the mill. In Cluan Place discover the art of dressmaking, embroidery and patchwork in the dressmaker’s house.

In sloan’s Draper shop you get a real feel for an early 1900s store complete with fully operational thread loom in a back room. In the rectory you can see printed cotton bed curtains, crotched and knitted bedcovers and an intricate patchwork quilt. The maid’s room in the bank house has a typical domestic uniform, while the laundry shows where the maid would have spent a lot of time caring for the textiles in the house. A Donegal carpet, based on an original 1900s design, adds colour to the sitting room.

After your textile discovery, enjoy a traditional lunch in the Ballycultra Tearoom and spend the afternoon exploring the rest of the Folk Park, visiting the transport museum or head to Bangor for a little retail therapy.


visit ContaCt1


(028) 9042 8428


retail therapy - Ulster Folk & Transport Museum Gift shop; Bangor Town Centre; The Flagship shopping Centre.

extending your visit - Art Gallery at Clandeboye Estate; North Down Museum; Bangor Castle Walled Garden.

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ulster Folk and transport museum


6-7HOURS



From Darkness to Lighta tour of important Christian Heritage sites in north down.

From ‘Darkness to Light’, your journey takes you from the 5th century to today. Learn about those who followed in the footsteps of st Patrick and re-established Christianity within Europe and see how visitors to our shores influenced the shaping of Ireland.

Hear all about the Minister from Holywood, who was reverend by day and Colonel by night, see a drum dating back to the 1798 rebellion in Bangor Abbey, visit a site on the st Patrick’s Trail, discover the Christian links behind buildings like the Culloden Hotel and Palace Barracks in Holywood and much more!

This tour starts in Belfast, and then makes its way to Holywood priory 1 before leaving to visit bangor abbey 2, founded in the 6th century by saint Comgall of Bangor. By the time of his death in 601 this was one of the most influential seats of learning in Ireland. Next the tour will visit north down museum 3, home to a copy of the Antiphonary of Bangor, one of the most important manuscripts from the early Irish Church and the 9th century Bangor Bell. Here you will have the opportunity to stop for a coffee break at the Castle Garden restaurant before the return journey.

to BooK ContACtDavid McAnirn, Blue Badge Guide t: (028) 9145 8831 m: 077331 00755 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1

HOLyWOOD PrIOryHigh street on the corner of the Bangor road, Holywood, Co. Down.

(028) 9127 0069

2

BANGOr ABBEyAbbey street and Newtownards road, Bangor, Co. Down.

(028) 9127 0069

3

NOrTH DOWN MUsEUMNorth Down Borough Council, Castle Park Avenue, Bangor, Co. Down, BT20 4BT.

(028) 9127 1200

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The Castle Garden restaurant at North Down Museum; Cultra Inn at the Culloden Hotel.

retail therapy - The Flagship Centre; Ikea; Holywood; Bloomfield shopping Centre.

extending your visit - Grey Abbey; Nendrum Monastery; Crawfordsburn Country Park.

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saint ComGall's stained Glass window


6-7HOURS

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Parks, gardens And naturea guided nature tour of north down, including bangor town parks, bangor Castle Gardens and Crawfordsburn Country park.

start your day with morning tea or coffee at the Castle Garden restaurant in north down museum 1 before walking through Castle park 2 to admire the trees, shrubs and flora from around the globe and the wide variety of creatures that make the park their home. reaching the Castle’s Victorian Walled Garden, you’ll hear about its history, horticulture and design.

Next, take a short walk (or your chosen transport) to ward park 3 where you will learn about the history of the park, dating back to the Ward family donation of land to create the public space, and its horticulture and birdlife. Take a break for lunch; either back at the Castle Garden restaurant or one of Bangor’s great cafés, restaurants and bars.

After lunch take a short sea cruise along the North Down coastline while learning about places of interest and the wildlife that fills the skies above and the sea below. The final stop of the day is a visit to Crawfordsburn Country park 4, focusing on its fabulous flora and fauna, and interesting sites within the park as well as the history of nearby Crawfordsburn and the North Down Coastal Path running along the front of the park.

to BooK ContACtBangor Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 9127 0069 e: [email protected] visit ContaCts1

NOrTH DOWN MUsEUMNorth Down Borough Council, Castle Park Avenue, Bangor, Co. Down, BT20 4BT.

(028) 9127 1200

2

CAsTLE PArkNorth Down Borough Council, Castle Park Avenue, Bangor. Co. Down, BT20 4BT.

(028) 9127 1200

3

WArD PArkNorth Down Borough Council, Castle Park Avenue, Bangor. Co. Down, BT20 4BT.

(028) 9127 1200

4

CrAWFOrDsBUrN COUNTry PArkCountry Park, Bridge road south, Helen’s Bay, Co. Down, BT19 1JT.

(028) 9185 3621

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The Ava restaurant; The salty Dog Hotel; The Marine Court Hotel.

retail therapy - Bangor Town Centre; The Flagship Centre.

extending your visit - Ulster Folk & Transport Museum; Bangor Marina; Cockle row Cottages.

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banGor walled GardenFor additional information and more group day visit ideas, please visit discovernorthernireland.com/groups

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banGor abbey


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Saints, Vikings And ulster-Scotsa tour of historical north down with a visit to bangor abbey and an opportunity to hear about viking attacks and ulster-scots connections.

The tour begins at bangor abbey 1, a site on the st Patrick’s Trail. Enjoy a 30-minute tour of the Abbey and its artefacts and learn of its foundation in 558AD by st Comgall through to the Abbey’s demise at the hands of the Vikings. Ulster-scot James Hamilton rebuilt the Abbey in the 1600s and was later buried here.

The tour will then move on, either by coach or on foot, through Castle Park to Bangor Castle and the north down museum 2. After a tea or coffee stop in the Castle Garden restaurant, take a tour of the museum. Discover the town’s history from the founding of Bangor Abbey, its Ulster-scots heritage and the development of the town as a seaside destination.

you then have free time for lunch in the Castle Garden restaurant or at one of many excellent cafés and restaurants in the town, as well as sightseeing or retail therapy. After lunch the group will then travel to Groomsport village and Cockle row Cottages 3. Here at the atmospheric traditional fishermen’s cottages dating back to the early 1600s, you will learn of the 140 brave Ulster-scots who made the first attempt to emigrate to America on The Eagle Wing in 1636.

to BooK ContACtBangor Tourist Information Centre T: 028 9127 0069 E: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1

BANGOr ABBEyAbbey street and Newtownards road, Bangor, Co. Down.(028) 9127 0069

2

NOrTH DOWN MUsEUMNorth Down Borough Council, Castle Park Avenue, Bangor, Co. Down, BT20 4BT.(028) 9127 1200

3

COCkLE rOW COTTAGEsGroomsport, Co. Down.(028) 9145 8882

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The Castle Garden restaurant; The stables.

retail therapy - Bangor Town Centre; Bloomfield shopping Centre.

extending your visit - This day visit can be extended with a guided coach tour down the Ards Peninsula.


Fair Fa’ Ye tae The Airdsenjoy a day out in the ards borough learning about the ulster-scots influences which have helped to shape towns and landscapes here over the last 400 years.

start your visit at newtownards priory 1, a Dominican friary founded in 1244 and learn about the first scots settlers, James Hamilton and Hugh Montgomery and their influence on the area. At Grey abbey 2, discover the oldest example of Gothic architecture in Ireland. The Abbey ruins were acquired by the Montgomery’s, who still live in the grounds, in the 17th century.

Next, visit Grey abbey House 3, built in 1762, the present house is considered to be one of the finest Georgian country houses in Ireland. The fabulous gardens include a walled kitchen garden and Irish apple orchard. A lunch stop in the village of Greyabbey is recommended.

After lunch, travel through the villages of the Ards Peninsula to learn more about the first settlers and their townlands. This includes Carrowdore, Ballyfrenis, Millisle and Donaghadee. In Donaghadee, which was the landing point for the first scots settlers, be sure to view the harbour built by Montgomery and the Manor House. Perhaps stop for coffee in Donaghadee.

Next travel to Newtownards, calling at movilla abbey 4, one of the few buildings standing when the scots arrived in 1606. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and comfortable footwear.

to BooK ContACtArds Tourist Information Centre t: 028 9182 6846 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1

NEWTOWNArDs PrIOryCourt street, Newtownards , Co. Down, BT23 8yT.

(028) 9181 1491

2

GrEy ABBEy9-11 Church street, Newtownards , Co. Down.

(028) 9181 1491

3

GrEy ABBEy HOUsEGreyabbey, Co. Down .

(028) 4278 8666

4

MOVILLA ABBEyNewtownards, Co. Down.

(028) 9181 1491

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Café Manor; Donaghadee Garden Centre; The Wildfowler; Pier 36; Grace Neill’s.

retail therapy - Eden Pottery; Newtownards Town Centre; Ards shopping Centre.

extending your visit - Exploris; Castle Espie; Eden Pottery; Be Creative studio.

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movilla abbey


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Seriously Strangfjorthr!strangford lough, or ‘strangfjorthr’ as the 9th century viking settlers named it, is at the centre of this tour; whether through stunning lough vistas or the chance of getting up close and personal with its wildlife.

Make Windmill Hill viewpoint in Portaferry your first stop to capture some stunning lough views. The group can observe the narrows where up to 350 million tones of tidal waters rush into the lough daily and discover why strangford Lough is one of only three designated marine nature reserves in the Uk.

For a chance to see some of these marine creatures, visit exploris 1 Northern Ireland’s Aquarium. Take a close-up look at the underwater wonders of strangford Lough with hands-on demonstrations at the open sea tank and view baby seals rescued from the lough. Enjoy lunch in the café here.

It’s a steep climb to the top of scrabo tower 2 outside Newtownards, but the reward is an unrivalled view of strangford Lough. Continue to nendrum monastery 3, accessed by twisting lanes and a causeway, the finest example in Northern Ireland of a pre-Norman monastic enclosure with buildings. The monastery provides stunning photo opportunities of the lough. Time permitting; why not finish your day with a little retail therapy in Newtownards? The town has many independent retailers and make sure to visit ards Crafts & design Centre 4 for that special gift. sensible footwear is advised and bring waterproof clothing.

to BooK ContACtArds Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 9182 6846 e: [email protected] visit ContaCts1

ExPLOrIsThe rope Walk , Castle street, Portaferry, Co. Down, BT22 1NZ.

(028) 4272 8062

2

sCrABO TOWEr203A scrabo road, Newtownards, Co. Down, BT23 4sJ.

(028) 9181 1491

3

NENDrUM MONAsTEryMahee Island, Co. Down.

(028) 9181 1491

4

ArDs CrAFTs & DEsIGN CENTrE31 regent street, Newtownards, Co. Down, BT23 4AD.

(028) 9182 6846

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Exploris Café; The Portaferry Hotel; The Old Post Office.

retail therapy - Ards Crafts & Design Centre; The Doghouse Gallery; Mckees Farm shop.

extending your visit - Castle Espie Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre; Mount stewart House & Gardens; Eden Pottery.

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stranGFord louGH


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get Artistic in Ards!an opportunity to channel your inner artist in the ards borough.

Nestled between rolling hills and countryside you’ll find the battletown Gallery and Creative studio 1 in Newtownards. With spectacular views of scrabo Tower and strangford Lough, and set within a beautifully restored coach house, the Gallery creates the ideal ambience for your group members to channel their inner artist. Enjoy this great opportunity to create your piece of unique art and hone your artistic skills.

The workshop will be led by an experienced tutor, who will encourage all levels of artistic talent! While you are there be sure to take time to have a look at the exhibition space.

to BooK ContACtThe Battletown Gallery and Creative studio t: (028) 9182 2626, e: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1

BATTLETOWN GALLEry AND CrEATIVE sTUDIO90 Bowtown road, Newtownards, Co. Down, BT23 8sL.

(028) 9182 2626

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - roma’s restaurant; strangford Arms Hotel; Molly Browns; Eden Pottery Café.

retail therapy - Ards Crafts & Design Centre; Eden Pottery.

extending your visit - Mount stewart House & Gardens; Ards Arts Centre; somme Heritage Centre.

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battletown Gallery


6-7HOURS 10-16

min-max

Group size

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Culinary Delights of The Ards Peninsulaa fascinating coach tour around the ards peninsula with the opportunity to sample some of its fabulous local produce.

start your day with a coffee stop at the strangford arms Hotel 1 a stylishly renovated Victorian hotel in the busy market town of Newtownards. your journey takes you down the Ards Peninsula, where you can enjoy stunning views of strangford Lough and the Mourne Mountains, to Glastry Farm 2. Here, you will discover how the family make their award-winning Glastry Farm ice cream and sample fantastic flavours ranging from sophisticated lavender to distinctly local yellowman honeycomb.

Nearby in Millisle is eden pottery 3 – stop for a home cooked lunch and browse the range of contemporary pottery in the gift shop before travelling on through the pretty coastal villages of kearney and Cloughey onto Portavogie. This seaside village is famous for its prawns and herrings, so stop in at something Fishy 4 and buy some fresh fish vacuum packed to take home.

Next, head for Portaferry and take the ferry across the lough to strangford. Call in at Churchtown organic Farm shop 5 with its wonderful selection of fresh organic meat produce. you might wish to stay in strangford and have an evening meal at the Cuan 6, renowned for its seafood, homemade bread and ‘craic’.

to BooK ContACt (one of the following)David McAnirn, Blue Badge Guide t: (028) 9145 8831 m: 07733 100755 e: [email protected]

Loretto Coyle, Blue Badge Guide t: (028) 4372 5191 m: 07973 408056 e: [email protected] visit ContaCts1

sTrANGFOrD ArMs HOTEL90 Church street, Newtownards, BT23 4AL. (028) 9181 4141

2

GLAsTry FArM43 Manse road, kircubbin, Co. Down, BT22 1Dr. (028) 4273 8671

3

EDEN POTTEry218 Abbey road, Millisle, Co. Down, BT22 2DH. (028) 9186 2300

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sOMETHING FIsHyHarbour road, Portavogie, Co. Down. 077104 75718

5

CHUrCHTOWN OrGANIC FArM sHOPstrangford, Co. Down. (028) 4488 1128

6

THE CUANstrangford, Co. Down, BT30 7ND.(028) 4488 1222

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - strangford Arms Hotel; Le Winters Bistro, Bar and restaurant; Bay restaurant at Mount stewart; Finnegan’s restaurant; saltwater Brig; Quays Bar & restaurant.retail therapy - Dundonald Old Mill Coffee and Gift shop; Mckees Farm shop; Deli-licious Deli.extending your visit - Mount stewart House & Gardens; Exploris; Castle Ward; Down County Museum.findgoodlocalfood.com promoting the best of local food produce in Ards, Armagh, Craigavon, Down and Newry & Mourne.G

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6-7HOURS

ards peninsula FisHinGFor additional information and more group day visit ideas, please visit discovernorthernireland.com/groups


Discover the Magic of Mount Stewarta visit to mount stewart House, Gardens and temple of the winds, one of northern ireland’s most popular national trust properties.

your tour of mount stewart House 1, once owned by the influential Londonderry family, will reveal a remarkable heritage, famous historic artefacts and wonderful paintings, such as George stubb’s ‘Hambletonian’, voted one of Britain’s 100 greatest works of art. Hear stories about their famous political guests and see 22 chairs from the Congress of Vienna, which followed the fall of Napoleon. During the next three years the mansion house will be undergoing a major refurbishment and there will be many occasions to view new and unusual aspects as this work progresses.

Next explore the exotic luxuriance of the world famous gardens at Mount stewart. Nominated as a World Heritage site, the impressive landscape garden makes the most of the unique microclimate of the Ards Peninsula and boasts a magnificent series of outdoor ‘rooms’ and vibrant parterres which contain many rare plants. Discover the fascinating history of Lady Londonderry’s Ark Club at Dodo Terrace. Then visit our National Trust shop and see beautiful displays of locally produced gifts and relax in the Bay restaurant enjoying our range of homemade food produced from fresh local produce. Finally, walk to the romantic Temple of the Winds and enjoy fabulous views across strangford Lough.

This visit can be arranged as a half-day or full day. Garden walks and talks can be tailor-made by the National Trust gardening team to suit your group’s requirements. Advance booking essential.

to BooK ContACtVisitor services Team, Mount stewart t: (028) 4278 8387Pe: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1

MOUNT sTEWArT HOUsE & GArDENsPortaferry road, Newtownards, Co. Down, BT22 2AD.

(028) 4278 8387

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The Bay restaurant; Eden Pottery Coffee shop; Portaferry Hotel.retail therapy - National Trust Gift shop at Mount stewart; Eden Pottery; Ards Craft & Design Centre.extending your visit - North Down Museum; Grey Abbey; Exploris.

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mount stewart House & Gardens


6-7HOURS

134

Afternoon tea in The Mansiontreat your group to a luxurious afternoon tea in the stunning surroundings of lord bangor’s sitting room in Castle ward House.

Experience being a lord or lady for the day, indulging in homemade scones with cream, fruit cake and delicate finger sandwiches and sipping the finest Earl Grey tea from china cups, while overlooking the superb Castle ward 1 lawns. The sitting room was once Lord Bangor’s master bedroom and the current Lord and Lady Bangor use this room as their private sitting room while making their annual visit to Castle Ward each summer (afternoon teas will not be offered during this period).

The tradition of having afternoon tea itself was introduced in England by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, in 1840, to quell her hunger between lunch and dinner!

After refreshments, enjoy a guided tour of the quirky 18th century mansion and discover the intriguing reason why the house is built in two different architectural styles – inside and out! After the tour of the house you will have some free time to browse the gift shop and second-hand bookshop or take a stroll through the exotic Victorian sunken garden or the 17th century farmyard with cornmill.

to BooK ContACtJacqueline Baird, Visitor services Manager, National Trust t: (028) 4488 1204 e: [email protected] (booking is essential)

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CAsTLE WArD HOUsE & DEMEsNEDownpatrick, Co. Down, BT30 7Ls.

(028) 4488 1204

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The spinnaker restaurant; The Cuan restaurant.

retail therapy - National Trust Gift shop at Castle Ward; Downpatrick Town Centre.

extending your visit - Murlough National Nature reserve; Exploris Aquarium; The saint Patrick Centre; Down County Museum; rowallane Garden.

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a national trust Cream tea


3-4HOURS 24max

Group size



Historical Canoe tour of Strangford Loughpaddle with us around strangford lough. visit the historical sites of st patrick and waters sailed on by the vikings while learning about the myths and legends of this ancient land.

Come along on a historical canoe tour around beautiful strangford Lough with Action Outdoors Activity Centre. Begin at delamont Country park 1 where you will meet your guide who will get you kitted out and provide a safety briefing and guidance, before taking you onto the lough in a canoe or sit-on-top kayak.

you will journey through one of the best known passages travelled by st Patrick and visit the water the Vikings sailed on during their invasion of Ireland. Visit the famous islands in strangford Lough and learn all about their amazing history. stop off for a picnic lunch on a secluded island, taking time to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

After lunch, head over to the important trading post of Dunanelly and hear some of the tales and folklore that have been passed down through the generations. Finally finish the tour with a gentle paddle back to the shoreline, spotting seals and other wildlife along the way. Please wear warm clothes, a waterproof coat and wellies, if you have them, as your feet may get wet.

to BooK ContACtChristopher Armstrong, Action Outdoors Activity Centre t: (028) 4483 2894 e: [email protected]

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DELAMONT COUNTry PArkDownpatrick road, killyleagh, Co. Down, BT30 9TZ.

(028) 4482 8333

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Dufferin Arms; smugglers Table; Picnic Deli.

retail therapy - killyleagh Village; Downpatrick Town Centre.

extending your visit - Castle Ward; rowallane Garden; Down County Museum.

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CanoeinG on stranGFord louGH


6-7HOURS 10-30

min-max

Group size


Discover St Patrick’s Countrywho really was st patrick? He is celebrated all over the world but what has he got to do with County down and can we still trace the man and the myths that surround him in our modern landscape?

Dr Tim Campbell, Director of the saint patrick Centre 1 in Downpatrick will greet your party on arrival at the centre, where toilet facilities and a café are available. Then relax as you watch the revolutionary 180 degree film, ‘In the footsteps of st Patrick’, an exhilarating flying trip that zooms over st Patrick’s Irish journey.

Dr Campbell will then accompany your group by coach as you drive through ‘st Patrick’s Country’ in County Down. you will stop at sites like saul Church, the site of the first church he founded in Ireland, the atmospheric ancient wells at struell where st Patrick is said to have bathed, and st Tassach’s Church where he died. you will have an opportunity to enjoy lunch at Daisies Café in the st Patrick Centre. After lunch it’s onwards to st Patrick’s Grave and an exploration of medieval down Cathedral 2 nearby. From the medieval we then move on to explore the Georgian and Victorian era on a guided tour of down County museum 3 and Gaol, from where many convicts were exported to Australia in the 1800s.

to BooK ContACtDr Tim Campbell or Marian Dixon, The saint Patrick Centre t: (028) 4461 9000 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1

THE sAINT PATrICk CENTrE53A Lower Market street, Downpatrick, Co. Down, BT30 6LZ.

(028) 4461 9000

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DOWN CATHEDrAL35 English street, Downpatrick, Co. Down, BT30 6AB.

(028) 4461 4922

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DOWN COUNTy MUsEUMThe Mall, English street, Downpatrick, Co. Down, BT30 6AH.

(028) 4461 5218

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Daisies Café; Denvirs Hotel; Castle Ward Tea rooms.

retail therapy - saint Patrick Centre Craft shop; Downpatrick Town Centre.

extending your visit - Inch Abbey; Downpatrick & County Down railway; Castle Ward.

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down CatHedral on st patriCk's day


5-6HOURS

140

on The trail of St PatrickFollow the trail of st patrick, who brought Christianity to ireland in the 5th century, on this guided tour of Christian Heritage sites in County down.

The tour will start with a visit to saul Church 1, which was built in 1932 to commemorate saint Patrick’s first church in Ireland, as it was on this site he preached his first sermon after arriving in Ireland. A giant statue of the saint now dominates the adjoining hill of slieve Patrick.

Next the tour will visit the saint patrick Centre 2 in Downpatrick, the starting point for any visitor who wishes to know more about Ireland’s patron saint, where you can trace his story from a series of enthralling interactive exhibits. Next the tour will visit medieval down Cathedral 3 and what is said to be the grave of saint Patrick. A Church of Ireland Cathedral built in 1183 as a Benedictine monastery, its highlights include magnificent stained glass windows and a beautiful organ case.

Following a recommended lunch stop at the historic denvir’s restaurant 4, the tour can continue to various other Christian Heritage sites in the area including st Margaret’s Church, st Tassagh’s, slaney river (where st Patrick landed in Ireland), struell Wells (an ancient place of pilgrimage where st Patrick is said to have bathed), Ardtole Church and the tower houses of strangford and Ardglass.

to BooK ContACt (one oF tHe FoLLoWing)1. robin Moffitt t: (028) 9185 2239 m: 079721 96066 e: [email protected]

2. David McAnirn t: (028) 9145 8831 m: 07733 100755 e: [email protected]

3. Wendy Hood t: (028) 9753 3370 m: 078174 01045 e: [email protected]

4. Maureen Maginnis t: (028) 9040 2347 m: 078915 05290 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1

sAUL CHUrCHDownpatrick, Co. Down.

(028) 4461 4922

2

THE sAINT PATrICk CENTrE53A Lower Market street, Downpatrick, Co. Down, BT30 6LZ.

(028) 4461 9000

3

DOWN CATHEDrALEnglish street, Downpatrick, Co. Down, BT30 6AB.

(028) 4461 4922

4

DENVIr’ s rEsTAUrANT14 - 16 English street, Downpatrick, Co. Down, BT30 6AB.

(028) 4461 2012

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Café at the saint Patrick’s Centre; Justine’s restaurant; Denvir’s restaurant.

retail therapy - The Gift shop at the saint Patrick Centre; Downpatrick Town Centre; Celtic Crafts Gallery; The Gift shop at Downpatrick Cathedral.

extending your visit - Down County Museum; Downpatrick & County Down railway; Castle Ward; rowallane Garden.

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3-4HOURS 15-50

min-max

Group size

down CatHedralFor additional information and more group day visit ideas, please visit discovernorthernireland.com/groups


in Search of 1798the 1790s were a period of great turmoil in County down, culminating in the united irishmen’s rebellion of 1798. Hear the stories of County down’s rebels and visit the old Gaol of down.

Arrive at down County museum 1 for welcome, tea or coffee and homemade scones. The museum is located in the historic buildings of the 18th century County Gaol of Down, one of the most complete surviving Georgian gaols in Ireland. Enjoy a guided tour of the gaol and its restored cells and see the conditions in which the prisoners were kept. In addition to incarcerating many people for minor offences, the gaol held 1798 rebels captured after the battles of saintfield and Ballynahinch and the failure of the rebellion. The most famous of the United Irishmen prisoners was Thomas russell who was executed here for his part in the abortive rebellion of 1803. This tour also takes in the ‘Down Through Time’ exhibition which tells the history of Down.

you can then enjoy lunch in the Museum Tea rooms. After lunch groups will enjoy a guided bus tour of 1798 sites of interest including the battle sites in saintfield and Ballynahinch and local grave sites.

to BooK ContACtDolores McAleese, Down County Museum t: (028) 4461 5218 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1

DOWN COUNTy MUsEUMThe Mall, English street, Downpatrick, Co. Down. BT30 6AH.

(028) 4461 5218

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Denvir’s Hotel; Lecale restaurant at Ballydugan Mill.

retail therapy - Downpatrick Town Centre.

extending your visit - Downpatrick & County Down railway; The saint Patrick Centre; Murlough National Nature reserve.

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down County museum


6-7HOURS

144

Steam in The Heart of Downvisit downpatrick & County down railway, northern ireland’s only full size heritage railway, and relive the golden age of railways with a train journey to inch abbey.

All aboard for your nostalgic visit to downpatrick & County down railway 1 starting in the authentic railway station foyer, where your guide will meet and greet your group before bringing the golden age of steam in County Down to life with stories and exhibits. Next experience the delights of traditional railway travel on the short two-mile journey to inch abbey 2. steam locomotives from the 1920s and 30s, or diesels from the 60s, will take the passengers in carriages up to one hundred years old from Downpatrick to the tranquil 12th century ruins of this Cistercian Abbey.

you can enjoy a tea or coffee, and maybe even a bun, from the buffet carriage which can be parked for your group at either Downpatrick or Inch Abbey stations. Back at Downpatrick station you will find a small shop stocked with railway themed goods.

Visitors can also choose to take a tour of the new Carriage Display Gallery and Exhibition room in the station, to learn about the history of the railways in the area, the story of the carriages and see the behind-the-scenes work painstakingly carried out by volunteers to restore the carriages and artefacts.

to BooK ContACtDownpatrick & County Down railway t: (028) 4461 5779 e: [email protected] visit ContaCts1

DOWNPATrICk & COUNTy DOWN rAILWAyMarket street, Downpatrick, Co. Down, BT30 6LZ.

(028) 4461 5779

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INCH ABBEyDownpatrick, Co. Down.

(028) 9181 1491

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - restaurant at Ballydugan Mill; Denvirs Hotel; Oakley Fayre Coffee shop.

retail therapy - Downpatrick Town Centre.

extending your visit - Groups may also hire the DCDr train to travel to the grave of the Viking king, Magnus Barefoot, who was killed at this site in 1103, with an authentic living history ‘Viking’ guide.

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stream train in downpatriCkFor additional information and more group day visit ideas, please visit discovernorthernireland.com/groups


3-4HOURS

200maxGroup size

146

Home-grown And Local in Downdiscover how to find good local food in County down. visit the farm shops and local eateries serving the best of local home grown produce.

start your guided food tour of County Down at mckee’s Farm shop 1, Newtownards. Along with fresh vegetables and other superb produce, Mckee’s stocks the local Comber potato, famous for its unique flavour and quality. Next travel through the rolling green hills, stopping off at the busy old post office 2 in Lisbane to enjoy some delicious home cooking and browse their gift shop.

The tour continues through the pretty villages of killinchy and killyleagh, home to the last castle in Northern Ireland to be continually occupied for the past three decades. Call in at alfie murray’s Family butchers 3 and sample some of his award-winning produce from homemade chicken pies to locally farmed meat. Just outside killyleagh check out the naturally reared free-range rare breed meat at pheasants’ Hill Farm shop 4.

Next, your guide will bring the story of st Patrick to life as you travel along the banks of the river Quoile to Downpatrick, his reputed final resting place, before taking your tour through the pretty villages of Clough and seaforde to Ballynahinch and the primrose bar 5, famed for its fresh pub grub, to enjoy a hearty lunch prepared with the freshest local food produce.

to BooK ContACt (one of the following)David McAnirn, Blue Badge Guide t: (028) 9145 8831 m: 077331 00755 e: [email protected]

Loretto Coyle, Blue Badge Guide t: (028) 4372 5191 m: 0797340 8056 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1

MCkEE’s FArM sHOP28 Holywood road, Newtownards, Co. Down, BT23 4TQ.

(028) 9182 1304

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OLD POsT OFFICE191 killinchy road, Lisbane, Comber, Co. Down, BT23 6AA.

(028) 9754 3335

3

ALFIE MUrrAy FAMILy BUTCHErs3 Cross street, killyleagh, Co. Down, BT30 9QG.

(028) 4482 8189

4

PHEAsANTs’ HILL FArM sHOP37 killyleagh road, Downpatrick, Co. Down, BT30 9BL.

(028) 4461 7246

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THE PrIMrOsE BAr30 Main street, Ballynahinch, Co. Down, BT24 8DN.

(028) 9756 3177

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - strangford Arms Hotel; McCanns Coffee shop & Deli; Daft Eddys restaurant; Dufferin Arms; Denvir’s Hotel.retail therapy - scrabo Garden Centre; Downpatrick Town Centre.extending your visit - Castle Espie; rowallane Garden; Castle Ward; The saint Patrick’s Centre.findgoodlocalfood.com promoting the best of local food produce in Ards, Armagh, Craigavon, Down and Newry & Mourne.G

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5-6HOURS

diGGinG potatoes at sCrabo towerFor additional information and more group day visit ideas, please visit discovernorthernireland.com/groups

148

granite Men of Mournea tour of discovery in the mourne mountains, discovering how the men quarried the granite and cut and used the stone to build the mourne wall. discover how the silent valley reservoir was built and the problems that faced the men of watertown. visit annalong harbour where schooners sailed with granite setts and kerb stones for england.

The beautiful Mourne Mountains, famous for the quality of its granite, dry stone walls and water supply, as well as the amazing Mourne Wall - is one of the popular tourist attractions in Northern Ireland.

This tour takes you on the scenic high road through the mountains, passing spelga Dam on route to the silent valley reservoir 1. Enjoy a short stroll around the former Watertown where there are a number of visitor facilities including tea rooms and information centre.

Next the tour visits kilkeel where granite is still worked today and stop for lunch in one of the harbour cafés. After lunch the tour continues along the coast to Annalong Harbour where 18 schooners set sail each month laden with Mourne granite. you will also visit the Corn mill 2 at Annalong to see one of the former uses of granite.

keeping to the coast next head to the busy seaside resort of Newcastle, where you will have time to wander along the promenade or browse in the local shops.

Please come prepared with comfortable walking shoes and outdoor clothing.

to BooK ContACtLoretto Coyle, Blue Badge Guide, Outdoor Ireland North m: 07973 408056 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1

sILENT VALLEy rEsErVOIr Head road, kilkeel, Co. Down, BT34 4HU.

(028) 9074 1166

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ANNALONG COrN MILL Marine Park, Annalong, Co. Down, BT34 4rH.

(028) 4376 8736

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Tearooms at silent Valley; Harbourside Tea room; Mourne Grange Craft & Coffee shop; The kilmorey Arms; The Harbour Inn.

retail therapy - Mourne Grange Craft & Coffee shop; Newcastle Town Centre.

extending your visit - The Cnocnafeola Centre; Murlough Nature reserve; Tollymore Forest.

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mourne wall



150

Seafood Capital of The Mournesa culinary treat in the mournes, enjoy a seafood cookery demonstration at the mourne seafood Cookery school followed by a tour of the majestic mourne mountains.

Arrive at kilkeel Harbour, home to Northern Ireland’s largest fishing fleet. Enjoy morning tea or coffee and homemade scones or tray bakes in the Harbourside tea room, Gallery & Gift shop 1. Then take a tour of the mourne maritime visitor Centre 2 and kilkeel harbour learning about the local maritime heritage and the fantastic seafood for which kilkeel is famous.

Next door your taste buds will be tantalised with a range of seafood cookery demonstrations and tasters in the mourne seafood Cookery school 3. spend the latter part of the morning browsing the shops in kilkeel town centre. Lunch will be served in rushton’s restaurant in the kilmorey arms Hotel 4.

In the afternoon your expert guide will take you on a coach tour of the Mournes where you’ll learn all about the remarkable geology of the area and its famous granite heritage, as well as hear spellbinding tales of smugglers, grave robbers and other local folklore. you’ll also see some of Northern Ireland’s most impressive building feats, like the Mourne Wall, spelga Dam and the spectacular silent Valley reservoir. you’ll also visit Poverty Mountain, Annalong Harbour, Cranfield Aerodrome, Greencastle Castle and see where Princess Diana’s Memorial was crafted in granite.

to BooK ContACtPamela Houston, kilkeel Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 4176 2525 e: [email protected] visit ContaCts1

HArBOUrsIDE TEA rOOMsNautilus Centre, rooney road, kilkeel, Co. Down, BT34 4AG.

(028) 4176 2525

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MOUrNE MArITIME VIsITOr CENTrENautilus Centre, rooney road, kilkeel, Co. Down, BT34 4AG.

(028) 4176 2525

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MOUrNE sEAFOOD COOkEry sCHOOLNautilus Centre, rooney road, kilkeel, Co. Down, BT34 4AG.

(028) 4176 2525

4

kILMOrEy ArMs HOTEL41 Greencastle st, kilkeel, Co. Down, BT34 4BH.

(028) 4176 9165

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - kilmorey Arms Hotel; The Harbour Inn; The Beachcomber Café.

retail therapy - Mourne Grange Craft & Coffee shop; J knox & sons Homeware; J A shannons Homeware & Gifts.

extending your visit - silent Valley reservoir; Whitewater Brewery; Cranfield Blue Flag Beach; Annalong Harbour & Coastal Path.

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mourne seaFood bar


6-7HOURS

100maxGroup size


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tour of The Majestic Mournesenjoy a fabulous day exploring the sublime mourne mountains on a guided coach trip, learning about the rich heritage of its people and unique landscapes, and visiting the extraordinary silent valley reservoir.

spend an inspirational day enjoying the stunning beauty, wonderful produce, compelling folklore and fascinating heritage of the Mourne Mountains. Arrive at kilkeel Harbour, home to Northern Ireland’s largest fishing fleet to enjoy morning tea or coffee and homemade scones or tray bakes in the Harbourside tea room, Gallery & Gift shop 1. Then take a tour of the mourne maritime visitor Centre 2 and kilkeel Harbour learning about the local maritime heritage and fantastic seafood.

spend the latter part of the morning browsing the shops in kilkeel Town Centre. Lunch will be served in rushton’s restaurant in the kilmorey arms Hotel 3.

In the afternoon depart for a coach tour of the Mournes with your expert guide. Learn about the geology of the Mournes, the rich granite heritage, stories and folklore of smugglers and grave robbers! see incredible building feats such as the Mourne Wall, spelga Dam and the spectacular silent valley reservoir 4. your tour also includes Poverty Mountain, Annalong Harbour, Cranfield Aerodrome, Greencastle Castle and can extend into rostrevor and Warrenpoint.

to BooK ContACtPamela Houston, kilkeel Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 4176 2525 e: [email protected] ContaCts visit ContaCts1

HArBOUrsIDE TEA rOOMsNautilus Centre, rooney road, kilkeel, Co. Down, BT34 4AG.

(028) 4176 2525

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MOUrNE MArITIME VIsITOr CENTrENautilus Centre, rooney road, kilkeel, Co. Down, BT34 4AG.

(028) 4176 2525

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kILMOrEy ArMs HOTEL41 Greencastle st, kilkeel, Co. Down BT34 4BH.

(028) 4176 9165

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sILENT VALLEy rEsErVOIrHead road, kilkeel, Co. Down, BT34 4HU.

(028) 9074 1166

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - kilmorey Arms Hotel; The Harbour Inn; The Beachcomber Café.

retail therapy - J knox & sons Homeware; J A shannons Homeware & Gifts.

extending your visit - Whitewater Brewery; Cranfield Blue Flag Beach; Annalong Harbour & Coastal Path.

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silent valley reservoir


6-7HOURS

100maxGroup size



olden Days And olden Waysenjoy the morning exploring ‘olden days and olden ways’, then take to the hills for music, dance and stories of old.

After morning tea or coffee, take an engrossing trip back in time exploring the artefacts on display at the olden days and olden ways 1 exhibition, a portrayal of home and farm life in bygone days. As you browse the extensive collection of domestic, agricultural and craft artefacts from the past enjoy reminiscing and let your memories come flooding back. you may be able to watch a demonstration of traditional farming activity, such as the use of a hand thresher or winnower (weather permitting).

the mourne lodge 2 in the picturesque village of Attical, between spelga Dam and silent Valley will serve you a feast of home baked goodies for lunch before relaxing in the function room listening to the tale of the dance floor – its journey from the Old Ballroom of romance to the floor underfoot today.

After the storytelling, there’s an opportunity to try out the dance floor with a music, song and dance session with local artists. The music will get your toes tapping and make your soul happy. No previous knowledge of dance is required.

to BooK ContACtOlden Days And Olden Ways t: (028) 4176 2034 m: 07921161155 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1

OLDEN DAys AND OLDEN WAys6 slatemill road, kilkeel, Co. Down, BT34 4JW.

(028) 4176 2034

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THE MOUrNE LODGEBog road, Attical, kilkeel, Co. Down, BT34 4HT.

(028) 4176 5859

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - kilmorey Arms Hotel; kilkeel Golf Club; Mourne Grange Craft & Coffee shop.

retail therapy - Mourne Grange Craft & Coffee shop; killkeel Town Centre.

extending your visit - silent Valley reservoir; Mourne seafood Cookery school; Mourne Maritime Heritage Centre.

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silent valley


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newry – A Walking tour Through The Ages of A Border Citystep back into the past, discovering the history and heritage of newry and learning about its people as you tour the streets.

This guided heritage trail through the streets of Newry will uncover the history of this ancient border town turned modern city. Along the way you’ll find many restaurants, shops and places of interest to enjoy.

your tour starts at newry & mourne museum 1 at Bagenal’s Castle, a recently restored 16th century fortified house and adjoining 19th century warehouse. Many original features uncovered during restoration - fireplaces, windows, doorways, gun loops and a bread oven - have been interpreted for the visitor while drawings show life throughout the castle in the 16th century.

As you follow the trail around the city you will visit the Cathedral of st Patrick and st Colman in Hill street, as well as other historic and beautiful buildings such as Newry Town Hall, constructed in 1893 and situated right on the county boundary between Armagh and Down.

The history of Newry is well documented through the evolving of the Newry Canal which made an important contribution to the town. Next visit, st Patrick’s Church of Ireland, the first Protestant Church to be built after the reformation in Ireland, where a visit to the graveyard will reveal a fascinating insight into the characters of the 18th and 19th centuries.

to BooK ContACtNewry Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 3031 3170 e: [email protected]

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NEWry & MOUrNE MUsEUMBagenal’s Castle, Castle street, Newry, Co. Down, BT34 2DA. (028) 3031 3170

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The Bank Bar & Bistro; The Canal Court Hotel; The Brass Monkey; rED; Bellini’s; Cobbles.retail therapy - Buttercrane shopping Centre; The Quays shopping Centre; Newry City Centre.extending your visit - slieve Gullion Forest Park; Creggan Poets Glen; Camlough Lake; kilbroney Forest Park and kilbroney Old Graveyard.

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st patriCk's CHurCH oF ireland


3-4HOURS



Find Yourself At Bagenal’s Castletravel back through the ages at bagenal’s Castle and take a journey of personal discovery.

your day begins at bagenal’s Castle 1 in Newry, a beautifully restored 16th century fortified house and adjoining 19th century warehouse that is now home to Newry & Mourne Museum and the Tourist Information Centre.

Enjoy a guided tour of the castle where restoration work has uncovered many original features, including fireplaces, windows, doorways, gun loops and a bread oven, which illustrate how the various living quarters of the castle would have functioned in the 16th century. The museum also hosts various different collections relating to prehistory, Newry’s Cistercian foundations, Ulster’s Gaelic order and the relationship with the English Crown, the building of a merchant town, the history of the ‘Gap of the North’ and much, much more.

After the tour take a short stroll into the city where there are numerous cafés and restaurants. returning to Bagenal's Castle, take a journey of personal discovery with a genealogy expert. Learn how to discover the stories of your ancestors and build your unique family history.

Before leaving be sure to browse the excellent range of local crafts and merchandise for sale in the Tourist Information Centre.

to BooK ContACtNewry Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 3031 3170 e: [email protected]

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BAGENAL’s CAsTLECastle street, Newry, Co. Down, BT34 2 DA.

(028) 3031 3170

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The Bank Bar & Bistro; The Canal Court Hotel; The Brass Monkey; rED; Bellinis; Cobbles.

retail therapy - Buttercrane shopping Centre; The Quays shopping Centre; Newry City Centre.

extending your visit - slieve Gullion Forest Park; Creggan Poets Glen; Newry Heritage Trail; silent Valley reservoir.

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baGenal’s Castle


3-4HOURS

25-30min-max

Group size


Ancient Archaeologya guided tour of some fascinating archaeological sites in the banbridge district.

Begin the day with tea or coffee and scones at the F.e. mcwilliam Gallery & studio 1, home of Banbridge Tourist Information Centre, which also includes a gallery, sculpture garden, studio, café and craft shop.

your journey through history starts with a visit to atmospheric Lisnavaragh Fort, before heading to seafin Castle, one of the most important archaeological sites in the area and possibly the castle known as Magh Cobha, an important fortress mentioned in medieval Irish and English documents. seafin Castle looks across the river Bann to the impressive Ballyroney Motte and Bailey and reveals two phases of medieval building.

Next is a visit to the ancient Legananny Dolmen, an unusually tall tripod-dolmen, on the slieve Croob mountain range and Finnis souterrain, or Binder’s Cove, an underground site that dates back to the 9th century and consists of one main passage with two side passages, lit by solar lighting.

recommended lunch stops at the angler’s rest 2 or the old George 3. Finish the tour with a visit to Dromore and one of the finest examples of a Norman Motte and Bailey in the British Isles today. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and comfortable walking shoes.

to BooK ContACtBanbridge Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 4062 3322 e: [email protected]

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F.E. MCWILLIAM GALLEry & sTUDIOBanbridge Tourist Information Centre, 200 Newry road, Banbridge Co. Down, BT32 3NB.

(028) 4062 3322

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ANGLEr’s rEsT42 Aughnacloy road, katesbridge, Banbridge, Co. Down, BT32 5QG.

(028) 4067 1515

3

THE OLD GEOrGE3 Caddells Lane, rathfriland, Newry, Co. Down, BT34 5Px.

(028) 4063 0623

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Angler’s rest; The Old George; Brontë steak House; The Halfway House.

retail therapy - The Outlet; Banbridge Town Centre; Treetops Nursery.

extending your visit - Ferguson Irish Linen Centre; scarva Visitor Centre; Brontë Homeland Interpretative Centre.

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leGananny dolmen


6-7HOURS


Literary Sisters And Designer Discount ShoppingFollow the story of patrick brontë, father of the famous brontë sisters, with a visit to the brontë interpretative Centre and brontë Homeland drive. Finish your day with a shopping spree at the outlet.

start your morning with tea or coffee and scones at the F.e. mcwilliam Gallery & studio 1 home of Banbridge Tourist Information Centre. A fabulous addition to the arts, it includes a gallery, sculpture garden, studio, café and craft shop. Then it’s off to the brontë interpretative Centre 2, an exhibition on the Brontës at Drumballyroney Church and school, where Patrick Brontë, father of authors Charlotte, Emily and Anne, preached and taught. From here the group can take the Brontë Homeland Drive, a ten mile driving route which links buildings and sites connected to the family, such as the Brontë Homeland Picnic site, near where Patrick was born in 1777, and his mother’s childhood home.

Following a suggested lunch stop at the historic old George 3 in rathfriland, the group will enjoy a trip to the outlet 4, just outside Banbridge, an outlet mall offering discounted shopping on designer brands all year round. you will be welcomed to the centre with goody bags and discount shopping vouchers from management staff.

This tour can be organised for any day of the week. However, to make the most of the shopping opportunity, late night shopping at the Outlet is on Thursday and Friday nights.


visit ContaCts1

F.E. MCWILLIAM GALLEry & sTUDIOBanbridge Gateway Tourist Information Centre, 200 Newry road, Banbridge, Co. Down, BT32 3NB.

(028) 4062 3322

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BrONTë INTErPrETATIVE CENTrEChurch Hill road, rathfriland, BT34 5PH.

(028) 4062 3322

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THE OLD GEOrGE3 Caddells Lane rathfriland, Newry, Co. Down, BT34 5Px.

(028) 4063 0623

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THE OUTLETBridgewater Park, Banbridge, Co. Down, BT32 4GJ.

(028) 4062 5151

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Quail’s Café at the F.E. McWilliam Gallery; Brontë steak House; The Old George; The Downshire Arms Hotel.

retail therapy - The Outlet; Banbridge Town Centre.

extending your visit - Dromore Motte and Bailey; scarva Visitor Centre.

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brontë interpretative Centre


6-7HOURS


From Flax to Fabricdiscover the history of the irish linen production in the bann valley and the families connected with this important industry.

start your morning with tea or coffee and scones at the F.e. mcwilliam Gallery & studio 1 home of Banbridge Tourist Information Centre, which includes a gallery, sculpture garden, studio, café and craft shop. Next, the tour visits the thomas Ferguson irish linen Factory 2, allowing you a unique opportunity to learn about the production of quality Irish linen while watching the various stages of the production process. you will also be able to browse the fabulous linen collections in the gift shop.

Now, the tour takes you along the river Bann, learning about various houses, buildings and factories along the way associated with what was once a thriving linen industry, such as springvale Watchtower. There will be an opportunity to visit one of the linen houses situated along the river Bann.

The group can enjoy a hearty lunch at Ballydougan Potteryrestaurant or Gilberry Fayre, before a visit to the beautiful Friends’ meeting House 3 in Moyallon, where many of the great ‘linen lords’ are buried, including H A Uprichard, son-in-law of Forster Green who founded Forster Green Hospital. The tour finishes with a visit to the irish linen Centre 4 in Lisburn.


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F.E. MCWILLIAM GALLEry AND sTUDIOBanbridge Tourist Information Centre, 200 Newry road, Banbridge, Co. Down, BT32 3NB.

(028) 4062 3322

2

FErGUsON IrIsH LINEN CENTrE54 scarva road, Banbridge, Co. Down, BT32 3QD.

(028) 4062 3491

3

FrIENDs’ MEETING HOUsEstramore road, Portadown, BT63 5JZ.

4

IrIsH LINEN CENTrEMarket square Lisburn, Co. Antrim, BT28 1AG.

(028) 9266 3377

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Bannville House Hotel; Ballydougan Pottery restaurant; Gilberry Fayre.

retail therapy - The Outlet; Banbridge Town Centre; Ballydougan Pottery.

extending your visit - Brontë Homeland Drive; scarva Visitor Centre.

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linen tHread


6-7HOURS


on the trail of Harry Fergusona chance to discover more about Harry Ferguson, a local inventor of genius who made the first powered flight in ireland and revolutionised farming around the world.

The tour will meet in Hillsborough tourist information Centre 1 before setting off to visit the Harry Ferguson memorial piece at Hillsborough Forest 2. This bronze plaque celebrates the centenary of the first powered flight in Ireland. It is sited close to the lake where Harry’s historic 130-yard flight took place on December 31st 1909.

Next the tour stops at drumlough presbyterian Church Hall 3 where Harry attended school before visiting the Ferguson Homestead and Harry Ferguson memorial Garden 4, between the towns of Dromore, Dromara and Ballynahinch (Magheraconluce road). you will be able to see the life-size statue of Harry by sculptor John sherlock which marks his contribution to agriculture and the long field from which some of Harry’s early flight attempts took place. A lunch stop will be made at a local restaurant. Travelling to the nearby town of Dromore, you will see a TEE20 tractor on the roadside at the A1 junction. Find out about local man rex McCandless, an engineer who worked with Harry on several projects.

The final stop is brookhall Historical Farm 5, Glenavy. This working farm contains many Ferguson implements such as a model Ford Ferguson TEF20, MF135 and MF65, a plough, drill plough, grubber and spreader.

to BooK ContACtHillsborough Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 9268 9717 e: [email protected]

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HILLsBOrOUGH TOUrIsT INFOrMATION CENTrEThe Courthouse, The square, Hillsborough, Co. Down, BT26 6AG.

(028) 9268 9717

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HILLsBOrOUGH FOrEsTc/o Forest service Northern Ireland, Hillsborough, Co. Down.

(028) 4377 2240

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DrUMLOUGH PrEsByTErIAN CHUrCH1 rafferty’s Hill road, Drumlough, Hillsborough, BT26 6QB.

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HArry FErGUsON MEMOrIAL GArDENGrowell House, 41 Magheraconluce road, Dromore, BT25 1EE.

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BrOOkHALL HIsTOrICAL FArM2 Horse Park, Ballinderry road, Lisburn, Co. Antrim, BT28 2QU.

(028) 9262 1712

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The Plough Inn; The Hillside restaurant ;The Parson’s Nose; The Chimes Coffee shop; Out of Habit Café; Humble Pie Coffee shop.

retail therapy - Hillsborough Village; Dobbie’s Garden Centre; sprucefield shopping Centre.

extending your visit - Hillsborough Castle Gardens; Dromore Motte and Bailey.

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massey FerGusonimaGe © stepHen paskins


6-7HOURS


georgian gems – Hidden Secrets of A County Down Villageexplore the unique history, heritage and hidden secrets of charming Hillsborough in County down.

An unforgettable day awaits in this idyllic Georgian village. start at the tourist information Centre 1 situated in the 18th century Courthouse, before visiting Hillsborough Castle and Gardens 2, the magnificent former residence of the Hill family. Currently, the official residence of the secretary of state for Northern Ireland, its sumptuous surroundings have welcomed British royalty, Heads of state and famous politicians.

Next visit the secret Garden 3 in what was once the kitchen garden of Hillsborough Castle. A little known gem, your tour will reveal its current regeneration programme. Its café serves delicious lunches and light refreshments. A range of plants, organic herbs, fruit and vegetables are also for sale.

In the afternoon take a tour around Hillsborough to admire its many architectural delights. stroll up the long avenue of st malachy’s parish Church 4 to see one of the oldest graveyards in the area. Behind the façade of Main street lie many hidden gems such as old barrack House Garden 5 and Barn Gallery. Finally visit Hillsborough Forest 6, where the famous Harry Ferguson flew the first powered flight in Ireland.

to BooK ContACtHillsborough Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 9268 9717 e: [email protected]

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HILLsBOrOUGH TOUrIsT INFOrMATION CENTrEThe Courthouse, The square,Hillsborough, Co. Down, BT26 6AG.(028) 9268 9717

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sT MALACHy’s PArIsH CHUrCHHillsborough, Co. Down. (028) 9268 8839

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HILLsBOrOUGH CAsTLE & GArDENsMain street, Hillsborough, Co. Down, BT26 6AG. (028) 9268 1309

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OLD BArrACk HOUsE GArDEN7 Main street, Hillsborough Co. Down, BT26 6AE. (028) 9268 2329

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sECrET GArDEN22 Moira road, Hillsborough, Co. Down, BT26 6DU. (028) 9268 8886

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HILLsBOrOUGH FOrEsTc/o Forest service Northern Ireland Hillsborough Co. Down. (028) 4377 2240

WHiLe You’re in tHe AreAeating out - The Parsons Nose; The Hillside; The Plough Inn.retail therapy - Hillsborough Village; sprucefield shopping Centre; Lisburn City Centre; Dobbies Garden Centre.extending your visit - Hilden Brewery; Ballance House; Brookhall Historical Farm; Harry Ferguson Memorial Garden.

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HillsborouGH Castle & Gardens


6-7HOURS 25max

Group size

Fermanagh

The tranquil beauty of its lakes, the elegance of its Georgian estates and the historic charm of Enniskillen make Fermanagh a glorious destination. Take your pick from magical underground boat journeys through atmospheric show caves, cruises around loughs dotted with castles and islands and shopping for the finest crafts. Uncover the ancient art of mumming and railway memorabilia in a unique venue, go green with fabulous eco friendly courses and tour the oldest pottery in Ireland.


YoUr GUIdE To AT A GlAncE

6HOURS


Group size min/max

national trust


disabled aCCess

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loCation

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lunCH inCluded

moderate walkinG


outdoors


20maxGroup size


discovering Upper lough Ernediscover Fermanagh’s hidden heritage visiting the blessingbourne estate and the sheelin lace museum at bellanaleck and taking a delightful boat trip on upper lough erne.

Start your day at the blessingbourne estate 1, Fivemiletown with morning tea or coffee and scones. Enjoy a nostalgic tour of the working farm and the impressive big house at Blessingbourne, as well as the charming gardens and lovely lake. You’ll also be able to explore the unique collection of original carriages, buggies, penny farthings and genuine Romany caravans at the historic carriage and costume museum.

Continue your journey through Lisnaskea to the share Centre 2 and take a boat trip aboard the Inishcruiser on Upper Lough Erne. The fascinating commentary will recount the history of the surrounding countryside, including famous Upper Lough Erne treasures like Gad Tower and the Crom Estate.

Finish your day with another hidden gem of Fermanagh, the award-winning sheelin irish lace museum and lace shop 3 in Bellanaleck about five miles from Enniskillen. Here you’ll find over 700 exhibits of all types of antique Irish lace dating from 1850 to 1900.

To BooK conTAcTFermanagh Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 6632 3110 e: [email protected]

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BLESSInGBoURnE ESTaTE

Blessingbourne, Fivemiletown, BT75 0QS.

(028) 8952 1188

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SHaRE HoLIdaY VILLaGE

Smith’s Strand, Lisnaskea, Co. Fermanagh, BT92 0EQ.

(028) 6772 2122

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SHEELIn IRISH LaCE MUSEUM

Bellanaleck, Enniskillen, BT92 2Ba.

(028) 6634 8052

WHIlE YoU’rE In THE ArEAeating out - The Valley Hotel; donn Carragh Hotel; Watermill Restaurant; Sheelin Restaurant.

retail therapy - Erneside Shopping Centre; The Buttermarket Craft & design Centre.

extending your visit - Walking Tour of Lisnaskea; Crom Estate; Belle Isle Cookery School.

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blessinGbourne CarriaGe museum


6-7HOURS

30-40min-max

Group size


lakeland delightsdiscover the fascinating history and stories of the beautiful lakes of Fermanagh and historic enniskillen on this guided coach tour of the main attractions along lower lough erne.

Take a guided coach tour through Ireland’s only island town, enniskillen 1 visiting Enniskillen Castle, the Boulevard, The Clinton Centre, Cenotaph, Court House and Town Hall.

The tour continues along the shores of Lower Lough Erne, stopping off at the world famous belleek pottery 2 which, at 150 years old, is Ireland’s oldest pottery. after a fascinating guided tour you’ll have 90 minutes of free time to browse the visitor centre and admire the displays in the Pottery Museum. There’ll also be time for some retail therapy in the shop and delicious refreshments in the coffee shop/restaurant.

From Belleek you will travel back to Enniskillen via the northern shore of Lower Lough Erne. Visiting the famous Janus figure in Caldragh Graveyard before passing through the picturesque village of Kesh and along the scenic route to Castle archdale Country park 3, home of the Castle archdale at War Exhibition. discover the vital role Lough Erne played in the Second World War as the most westerly flying-boat station, from which aircraft protected the allied convoys from the U-boat threat in the north atlantic. You can also see flying-boat docks, ammunition dumps and slit trenches from that era in the park.

To BooK conTAcTLakeland Tours t: (028) 8954 1646 e: [email protected]

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FERManaGH ToURIST InFoRMaTIon CEnTREWellington Road, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, BT74 4EF.

(028) 6634 6736

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BELLEEK PoTTERY3 Main Street, Belleek, Co. Fermanagh, BT93 3FY.

(028) 6865 9300

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CaSTLE aRCHdaLE CoUnTRY PaRKLisnarick, Irvinestown, Co. Fermanagh, BT94 1PP.

(028) 6862 1588

WHIlE YoU’rE In THE ArEAeating out - Restaurant at Belleek Pottery; Hotel Carlton; The Thatch; Black Cat Cove.

retail therapy - Erneside Shopping Centre; The Buttermarket Craft & design Centre.extending your visit - Tully Castle; Castle Caldwell Forest Park; orchard acre Farm.

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belleek pottery


6-7HOURS

30-40min-max

Group size


Mummers And Musiciansdiscover the traditions of the ancient folk art of mumming at the aughakillymaude Community mummers Centre in derrylin.

Chaotic, ancient and great fun, there’s few local traditions that are as enjoyable as the mumming performances put on by these ‘men of straw’. The aughakillymaude Community Mummers (aughakillymaude means the ‘wooden field of the wild dog’) are so renowned for their participation in the ancient rural pastime of mumming they have unwittingly become the unofficial cultural ambassadors for rural Fermanagh. They are delighted to share their traditions with visitors from far and near.

Your visit to the aughakillymaude Community mummers Centre 1 will begin with a video presentation on this most enjoyable of ancient pastimes and a tour of the centre with a local guide. You’ll be able to see the display of the various characters depicted during a mumming performance – all of which have been created by a local craftsperson, as well as photographic displays of how the intricate straw costumes are constructed.

To BooK conTAcTaughakillymaude Community Mummer’s Centre t: (028) 6774 2727 m: 0797 107 5955 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1

aUGHaKILLYMaUdE CoMMUnITY MUMMER’S CEnTREKnockninny, derrylin, Co. Fermanagh.

(028) 6774 2727

WHIlE YoU’rE In THE ArEAeating out - Knockninny Country House; Watermill Restaurant; Café at Marble arch Caves; arch House.


extending your visit - Marble arch Caves Global Geopark; Florence Court, Crom Estate; Sheelin Lace Museum.

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auGHakillymaude Community mummers

30maxGroup size


Going Green In Fermanagha fabulous way to engage in some of Fermanagh’s wide range of activities which support the ethos of eco-tourism, enjoying the beautiful landscape of the area without harming the environment.

In the morning get creative at orchard acre barn 1 near Irvinestown, Fermanagh’s only Eco Barn and an oasis of tranquillity. Following refreshments on arrival, you can choose from a range of great courses, like creative craft, cookery, green living, gardening, beauty, and basket weaving. You can tailor activities to suit your group’s requirements.

next head to Enniskillen for some lunch and shopping – visit the buttermarket Craft and design Centre 2 and watch local artists and crafts people at work. don’t forget to pick up some renowned local Fermanagh Black Bacon from o’doherty’s, Enniskillen’s prizewinning butcher who raise their pigs in idyllic conditions on one of the islands in Lough Erne. There are numerous enticing restaurants, coffee shops and bars in the town to enjoy a spot of lunch.

In the afternoon unwind at blaney spa & yoga Centre 3, with a massage or yoga or just relax in their hot tub or sauna. This tour would suit smaller groups.


visit ContaCts1

oRCHaRd aCRE FaRMMoynaghan north Road, Lisnarick, Irvinestown, Co. Fermanagh, BT94 1LQ.

(028) 6862 1066

2

THE BUTTERMaRKET CRaFT & dESIGn CEnTREdown Street, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, BT74 7dU.

(028) 6632 3117

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BLanEY SPa & YoGa CEnTREInnishbeg, Blaney, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, BT93 7EP.

(028) 6864 1525

WHIlE YoU’rE In THE ArEAeating out - The Manor House Hotel; Scoffs Restaurant; Blakes of the Hollow.

retail therapy - Enniskillen Town Centre; Erneside Shopping Centre.

extending your visit - Belleek Pottery; Sheelin Lace Museum; Marble arch Caves Global Geopark.

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6-7HOURS

orCHard aCre Farm


reawaken the pastreawaken the past at Florence Court house, one of the most charming and beautiful Georgian mansions in northern ireland. on this fascinating upstairs downstairs tour the past is brought back to life as you discover the stories of the Cole family, their staff and the working estate.

on arrival at Florence Court 1 you will be greeted by a member of the national Trust team. Groups can enjoy a general tour of this beautiful 18th century house or choose one of the special interest tours - ‘Power and Politics’, ‘The Gentleman Farmer’, or ‘Upstairs dramas and downstairs Tales’. House tours take approximately one hour.

afterwards, you can explore this most beautiful of Irish estates, set against the spectacular backdrop of the Cuilcagh mountains. all around are fascinating reminders of the estate’s industrial heritage, like the Blacksmith’s Forge, Carpenter’s Workshop and Sawmill, while a stroll in the forest will bring you to the famous Florence Court Yew Tree, from which all Irish yew trees are descended!

There are many delightful places to enjoy a few moments of blissful tranquillity in the walled garden and summer house, or you could spend some time browsing the gift shop and second hand bookshop. don’t miss the award-winning Stables Tea Room which offers a range of delicious home baked snacks and lunch options.

Please note that wheelchair access is only to the ground floor in the main house. However, a virtual tour is available in the visitor reception area to view the first floor and basement rooms.

To BooK conTAcTangela Chestnutt, national Trust t: (028) 6634 8264 e: [email protected] (booking is essential)

visit ContaCt1

FLoREnCE CoURTFlorence Court, Co. Fermanagh, BT92 1dB.

(028) 6634 8249

WHIlE YoU’rE In THE ArEAeating out - Sheelin Tea Room; Custom House; Café Merlot.

retail therapy - The Buttermarket Craft & design Centre; Erneside Shopping Centre.

extending your visit - Belleek Pottery; Castle Coole; Crom Estate; devenish Island; Marble arch Caves Global Geopark.

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3-4HOURS 15 min

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Underground And overgroundexperience two of the best–loved attractions in Fermanagh – the marble arch Caves Global Geopark and Florence Court house and estate – in one day.

The tour starts with a visit to the magnificent marble arch Caves Global Geopark 1, the only cave system in northern Ireland open to the public. It’s a unique chance to explore this fascinating natural underworld of rivers, waterfall, winding passages and lofty chambers. The 1½ hour tour of the caves also features a magical underground boat journey.

next visit the national Trust property of Florence Court 2, just a ten-minute drive from the caves, one of the most charming and beautiful Georgian houses in Ireland. Famous for its magnificent Rococo plasterwork, Florence Court was the home of the Cole family, descendants of William Cole who founded Enniskillen during the Plantation. Following a tour of the delightful house, packed with fascinating historical features, you can explore its stunning demesne with extensive gardens, blacksmith’s forge, sawmill, waterwheel, eel bridge and ice-house.

Please note there are a lot of steps in the caves and that warm clothing and sensible walking shoes are required. Cave tours can be reduced after heavy rainfall; it’s always best to ring on the morning prior to your visit to confirm your booking.

To BooK conTAcTLakeland Tours t: (028) 8954 1646 e: [email protected] ContaCts

visit ContaCts1

MaRBLE aRCH CaVES GLoBaL GEoPaRKMarlbank Scenic Loop, Florence Court, Co. Fermanagh, BT92 1EW.

(028) 6634 8855

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FLoREnCE CoURTFlorence Court, Co. Fermanagh, BT92 1dB.

(028) 6634 8249

WHIlE YoU’rE In THE ArEAeating out - Café at Marble arch Caves; Stables Tea Room at Florence Court; arch House; Customs House Country Inn.

retail therapy - Erneside Shopping Centre; ashwood Garden Centre; The Buttermarket Craft & design Centre.

extending your visit - Sheelin Lace Museum; Enniskillen Castle; Coles Monument; Crom Estate.

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marble arCH Caves Global Geopark


4-5HOURS 30-40

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Between The Bridgesdiscover the hidden secrets of enniskillen by land and water with a guided walking tour and boat trip, followed by a visit to Castle Coole.

Join a local tour guide on a stroll ‘between the bridges’ to discover the hidden secrets of enniskillen 1, Ireland’s only island town. Learn about the remarkable characters who lived in the streets years ago and how the Maguire and Cole families shaped Enniskillen. The walking tour takes you to the most fascinating buildings and monuments in this historic town, like Enniskillen Castle Museums, Headhunters Railway Museum, several churches, the Buttermarket Craft & design Centre, the Cenotaph, Court House and the Town Hall.

after the walking tour enjoy an hour-and-a-half free time to revisit your favourite places, enjoy a delicious lunch or sample some of the local shopping.

For the second part of the tour, visitors will take a boat trip on the mv kestral 2 around Enniskillen and learn more about life on the lakes. discover how Lough Erne was formed and the legend of the fairy well.

The final part of the tour takes in the magnificent national Trust property of Castle Coole 3, home of the Earls of Belmore. This is one of Ireland’s finest neo-classical houses set in a historic wooded landscape park. The sumptuous Regency interior boasts an especially fine state bedroom specially prepared for George IV.


visit ContaCts1

LaKELand ToURSEnniskillen airport, Trory, Enniskillen, BT94 2FP.

(028) 6632 9900

2

MV KESTRaL Brook Park, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh.

(028) 6632 2882

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CaSTLE CooLEdublin Road, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh.

(028) 6632 2690

WHIlE YoU’rE In THE ArEAeating out - ardhowen Theatre Restaurant; Killyhevlin Hotel; Bush Bar; Saddlers.


extending your visit - Marble arch Caves Global Geopark; Florence Court; devenish Island.

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Castle Coole


6-7HOURS 20max

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on The Hunt For railway MemorabiliaFans of the steam train age will love this nostalgic trip to Headhunters barber shop and railway museum, a treasure trove of railway memorabilia.

How many places can you get a haircut and explore the golden age of steam travel at the same time? The Johnston family’s decision to combine their traditional barbers skills with their interest in local railway history has led to one of the most unique and fascinating attractions in northern Ireland. Today, the Headhunters barber shop & railway museum 1 boasts one of the largest collections of Irish railway memorabilia on display.

Starting at the reconstructed booking office, where the ticket collector invites you to step on board, your journey recreates railway travel through Fermanagh and the border counties until the closing of the lines in 1957, with lovingly created exhibits like the Station Master’s office, booking office and signal box. You’ll find an absorbing range of memorabilia including uniforms, signalling instruments, signs, lamps, tableware, timetables, tickets and photographs from the three local railway companies – The Great northern Railway (Ireland), The Sligo Leitrim & northern Counties Railway and The Clogher Valley Railway.

Whether you are a railway enthusiast or just a child brought up on ‘Thomas the Tank Engine’, why not combine your visit with a unique opportunity to have your hair professionally styled in the most nostalgic of surroundings! admission to the Railway Museum is free and visitors do not have to get their hair cut. To extend your time why not visit Enniskillen Castle Museums which is only a 10min walk from The Railway Museum.

To BooK conTAcTnigel Johnston, Headhunters Barber Shop & Railway Museum t: (028) 6632 7488 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1 HEadHUnTERS BaRBER SHoP & RaILWaY MUSEUM 5 darling Street, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, BT74 7dP. (028) 6632 7488

WHIlE YoU’rE In THE ArEAeating out - The Railway Hotel; Blakes of the Hollow; Westville Hotel; Killyhevlin Hotel.retail therapy - Craft Shop at Enniskillen Castle Museum; Enniskillen Town Centre; Erneside Shopping Centre.extending your visit - Enniskillen Castle Museums; Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre; Blaney Spa & Yoga Centre; devenish Island.

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HeadHunters barber sHop & railway museum

1-2HOURS


cruise To crom In companyCruise the historic and beautiful shores of upper lough erne to the national trust’s magnificent Crom estate.

There’s no more relaxing or tranquil way to enjoy beautiful Lough Erne than by enjoying a cruise of exploration on the 57-seater Inishcruiser from the marina at the share Holiday village 1. Weaving through the intricate network of the lake’s many islands, the Inishcruiser takes in glorious views of Fermanagh’s rich, unspoilt countryside. See the ruins of the original plantation castle and the 18th century castle at Crom Estate, still home to the current Lord Erne, as well as Crom’s old school house, church and island gardens.

The cruise passes Crichton Tower on Gad Island, home to noisy gatherings of cormorants and Canadian geese and provides a unique view of the ancient oak reserve of Reilly Wood and the Lady Bridges. You can find out all about Lough Erne during a stop at the visitor centre.

The cruise takes approximately two hours, group rates are available and meals can be arranged on board by request.

To BooK conTAcTThe Share Holiday Village t: (028) 6772 2122 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1

SHaRE HoLIdaY VILLaGE

Smiths Strand, Lisnaskea, Co. Fermanagh, BT92 0EQ.

(028) 6772 2122

WHIlE YoU’rE In THE ArEAeating out - a range of dining options are available on board the Inishcruiser or in the Share Holiday Village café; The Valley Hotel.

retail therapy - Enniskillen Town Centre; Belleek Pottery; The Buttermarket Craft & design Centre.

extending your visit - arts, crafts, land and water-based activities are available at the Share Holiday Village; Castle Coole; Enniskillen Castle Museum.

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3-4HOURS

20-57min-max

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Londonderry

The Walled City and the stunning natural world on its doorstep host a wide range of enthralling visit ideas. Discover why the city is set to be the first UK City of Culture in 2013, from great literary figures and ancient cathedrals to vibrant arts, a unique local history and the famous walls. Trace the landscape that inspired Seamus Heaney, follow the trail of an eccentric bishop to dramatic ruins with spectacular views, get creative in enthralling workshops, discover the source of Danny Boy, learn to cook with the experts and so much more.


YoUr gUiDe To AT A gLAnCe

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Walled Wonderdiscover the local history and culture of ireland’s only completely walled city on this guided walking tour and visit to the tower museum.

Tea or coffee and scones will be served in a hotel venue 1 in the city on arrival. Your guide will meet you here before transporting you back in time to discover the city’s fascinating history, taking you on a tour of the 17th century city walls and st Columb’s Cathedral 2. Built between 1614 and 1619, the historic walls are almost perfectly preserved, making Derry~Londonderry one of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe.

Enjoy a traditional pub lunch in one of the numerous bars or restaurants in the city before visiting the award winning tower museum 3. This recently refurbished museum houses two state-of-the-art exhibitions; the ‘Story of Derry’ and ‘The Armada Shipwreck’, which showcases artefacts unearthed from the La Trinidad Valancera, found wrecked off the Donegal Coast. Complete your visit with panoramic views of the city from the museum’s open-air rooftop.

Later in the afternoon, there is an opportunity for some retail therapy. the richmond Centre 4 and Foyleside 5 have a huge range of high street stores while the Craft village 6 specialises in local craft and unique gifts such as crystal and glassware. Or why not visit austin’s 7, the world’s oldest department store!

To BooK ConTACTDerry Visitor & Convention Bureau t: (028) 7137 7577 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1Hotel venue will be confirmed upon booking.

5FOYLESiDE Orchard Street, Derry, Co. Londonderry, BT48 6XY.(028) 7137 7575

2ST COLumB’S CATHEDrAL 5 London Street, Derry, Co. Londonderry, BT48 4rQ. (028) 7126 7313

6THE CrAFT ViLLAgE Shipquay Street, Derry, Co. Londonderry, BT48 6Ar. (028) 7136 0329

3TOwEr muSEum union Hall Place, Derry, Co. Londonderry, BT48 6Lu. 028) 7137 2411

7AuSTin’S DEPArTmEnT STOrE The Diamond, Derry, Co. Londonderry, BT48 6Hr. (028) 7126 1817

4THE riCHmOnD CEnTrE Shipquay/Ferryquay Street, Derry, Co. Londonderry, BT48 6PE. (028) 7126 0525

WHiLe YoU’re in THe AreAeating out - Bentley Bar; Fitzroy’s; Austin’s rooftop and Café mezzo restaurants.

retail therapy - The richmond Centre; Foyleside Shopping Centre; The Craft Village; Austin’s Department Store.

extending your visit - ness Country Park; Prehen House; museum of Free Derry.

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6-7HOURS


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Derry - Past And Presentuncover derry~londonderry’s past and present on a guided walking tour around the city’s historic buildings.

Tea or coffee and scones will be served on your arrival in a hotel venue 1 in the city, from where your guide will take you to the apprentice boys memorial Hall 2. Situated within the historic 17th century walls this listed neo-gothic building houses a museum dedicated to the history and heritage of the Siege of Londonderry 1688-1689. Discover the story of this extraordinary siege and the part played by the Apprentice Boys from artefacts and engrossing video presentations.

next meet your guide outside the neo-gothic Guildhall 3 building, which will be undergoing renovations during 2012. walk across the city’s newest landmark ‘The Peace Bridge’ to Ebrington Barracks a former navy base. next, it’s time for a traditional pub grub lunch in one of the city’s great bars and restaurants. After lunch, discover the people’s story of the struggle for civil rights, the Battle of the Bogside and Bloody Sunday at the newly opened museum of Free derry 4. The tour finishes with an opportunity to visit ‘The People’s gallery’ to see the Bogside artists murals and find out more about the work and the ideas behind this tourist attraction.


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Hotel venue will be confirmed upon booking

2

APPrEnTiCE BOYS mEmOriAL HALL Society Street, Derry, Co. Londonderry, BT48 6PJ.

(028) 7134 7630

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THE guiLDHALL Derry, Co. Londonderry, BT48 6BB.

(028) 7137 7335

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muSEum OF FrEE DErrY 55 glenfada Park, Bogside, Derry, Co. Londonderry, BT48 9Dr.

(028) 7136 0880

WHiLe YoU’re in THe AreAeating out - Badger’s Bar & grill; Custom House restaurant.

retail therapy - Foyleside Shopping Centre; Austin’s Department Store; The Craft Village.

extending your visit -This visit can be extended with an evening performance by Derry Dancers, a lively blend of traditional irish, Céilí and Scottish Highland dancing.

apprentiCe boys memorial Hall


6-7HOURS


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Culture in The Citydiscover for yourself why derry~londonderry was awarded uk City of Culture 2013 on this enthralling cultural tour of the historic city.

Your day trip begins with a visit to the workhouse museum 1 and its fascinating Atlantic memorial exhibition, which explores the vital role played by Derry in the Battle of the Atlantic during world war ii. You can also see many artefacts and archives relating to workhouse life and the great Famine. This building is of great historic interest but watch out as it is said to have ghostly residents!

next, enjoy the tale of two Cities 2, an hour of folklore, music and song, showcasing the wonderful cultural heritage of the city. Afterwards visit Culturlann ui Chanain 3, the only purpose-built irish language arts and culture centre in northern ireland. Enjoy an irish stew lunch and a taste of irish culture in this award winning architectural building.

Final stop for the day is to wander around the Gordon Gallery 4, which exhibits the work of contemporary (largely irish) artists with national and international reputations, in one of the best contemporary gallery spaces in ireland.

To BooK ConTACTDerry Visitor and Convention Bureau t:(028) 7137 7577 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1

wOrkHOuSE muSEum 23 glendermott road, Derry, Co. Londonderry, BT47 6Bg.

(028) 7131 8328

2

TALE OF TwO CiTiES Tours n Trails, 16 Sheriffs road, Sheriffs mountain, Derry, Co. Londonderry, BT48 0JS.

(028) 7136 7000

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CuLTurLAnn ui CHAnAin 37 morshraid Sheamais/ 37 great James Street, Doire/Derry, BT48 7DF.

(028) 7126 4132

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gOrDOn gALLErY 13a Pump Street, Derry, Co. Londonderry, BT48 6Jg.

(028) 7137 4044

WHiLe YoU’re in THe AreAeating out - Badger’s Bar & grill; Fitzroy’s.

retail therapy - Foyleside Shopping Centre; Austin’s Department Store; The Craft Village.

extending your visit -This visit can be extended with an evening performance by Derry Dancers, a lively blend of traditional irish; Céilí and Scottish Highland dancing.


6-7HOURS

Gordon Gallery


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Literary Links And Tall Taleslearn all about the great artists from the worlds of literature and music with connections to derry~londonderry.

This tour will trace the roots of the many great artists from the worlds of literature and music that have strong connections to the City of Derry and explore the source of their inspiration. Among those whose work and lives you will discover are Saint Colmcille (also known as Columba), george Farquhar, kathleen Coyle, Jennifer Johnson, John Hume, Paddy (Bogside) Doherty, Eamon mcCann, nell mcCafferty, Brian Friel, nobel Laureate Seamus Heaney, Seamus Deane and Joyce Cary.

Begin the day with tea or coffee and scones in a hotel 1 before hopping onboard the legenderry roadtrain 2 , a unique and inspiring experience of Derry, including a digital snapshot of the city and the amazing music of local singers via state-of-the-art technology. Enjoy a traditional pub lunch in one of the city’s welcoming bars and restaurants and maybe some shopping too.

After lunch travel back to the 1700s at prehen House 3, the home of the famous legend of ‘Half Hanged mcnaughton’. This stately home is set next to Prehen woods and crammed full of history and character. On the tour you’ll discover Prehen House’s quirky and fascinating history, before enjoying a Bushmills whiskey with the Lady of the manor!


visit ContaCts1

Hotel venue will be confirmed upon booking.

2

THE LEgEnDErrY rOADTrAin 28 The Craft Village, Derry, Co. Londonderry, BT48 6Ar.

078 1304 3147

3

PrEHEn HOuSE Prehen road, Derry, Co. Londonderry, BT47 2PB.

(028) 7134 2829

WHiLe YoU’re in THe AreAeating out - Badger’s Bar & grill; Encore Brasserie at the millennium Forum.

retail therapy - richmond Shopping Centre; Austin’s Department Store; The Craft Village.

extending your visit - no trip to Derry City would be complete without an evening of storytelling, energetic live irish music and of course, a delicious bowl of homemade irish stew! This tour can be extended into the evening to allow you an opportunity to enjoy the ‘craic’ with the locals.

derry~londonderry CitysCape


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gardens of The north Westspend your day discovering the privately owned hidden horticultural gems of the londonderry area.

This full day tour takes in three very different private gardens, all of which have been developed by owners with a deep horticultural passion. First stop is a visit to one of the city’s best kept secrets, Hampstead Hall 1 As featured on BBC’s ‘Secret garden’ series, Hampstead Hall is home to a fascinating garden in the suburbs of Derry, with a tranquil Japanese style garden, an italian garden and a formal garden in front of an elegant georgian town house.

Take a break for lunch at the radisson roe park resort 2 in Limavady. not only can you enjoy views of the stunning roe Park Valley and a delicious lunch cooked with the finest irish produce, but you can arrange a local horticulturalist to join you, to offer advice on many aspects of gardening.

On your return journey to Londonderry, stop at walworth Garden 3, Ballykelly. This is a recently restored wall garden, with lavish plantings of roses, shrubs, trees and herbaceous perennials.

To BooK ConTACTDerry Visitor and Convention Bureau t: (028) 7137 7577 e: [email protected] visit ContaCts1

HAmPSTEAD HALL 40 Culmore road, Derry, Co. Londonderry, BT48 7rS.

(028) 7135 4807

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rADiSSOn rOE PArk rESOrT Drumane road, Limavady, Co. Londonderry, BT49 9LB.

(028) 7772 2222

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wALwOrTH gArDEn 45 walworth road, Ballykelly, Co. Londonderry, BT49 9Ju.

(028) 7776 2671

WHiLe YoU’re in THe AreAeating out - radisson roe Park resort; ramada Da Vinci’s Hotel.

retail therapy - Foyleside Shopping Centre; richmond Shopping Centre.

extending your visit - Prehen House; Tower museum; Derry City walls.


6-7HOURS

roe valley park


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Limavady Heritage TrailFrom early Christian Heritage to romantic ruins, there’s a wealth of history and heritage waiting to be discovered on this fascinating journey through the past in limavady and the roe valley.

Start your day in ritters Tea rooms at roe valley Country park 1 enjoying tea or coffee and light refreshments, and marvellous views of the beautiful park. guests will then enjoy a guided tour of the park, bringing its fascinating history to life, from stories of the O’Cahan clan which once ruled the area and the famous ‘leap of the dog’ which gives Limavady its name, to the pioneering of northern ireland’s first hydro electric power station (under the guidance of the local genius who gave his name to the tea rooms here). You will also trace the industrial relics of the linen industry that once thrived in the roe Valley.

next, you’ll visit the fascinating limavady union workhouse 2 for a tour and interpretation of one of the best remaining examples of an original workhouse in ireland. Enjoy lunch in one of the cafés and restaurants in Limavady.

After lunch, guests will embark on a guided tour of the north sperrins Heritage trail 3 which includes visits to important historical buildings and monuments, such as Banagher Old Church and Auglish Stone Circles.

To BooK ConTACTLimavady Tourist information Centre t:(028) 7776 0650 e: [email protected] visit ContaCts1

rOE VALLEY COunTrY PArk 41 Dogleap road, Limavady, Co. Londonderry, BT49 9nn.

(028) 7772 2074

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LimAVADY wOrkHOuSE irish green Street, Limavady, Co. Londonderry, BT49 0AQ.

(028) 7776 5438

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nOrTH SPErrinS HEriTAgE TrAiL Limavady Tourist information Centre.

(028) 7776 0650

WHiLe YoU’re in THe AreAeating out - Lucille’s kitchen; The Lime Tree restaurant; radisson roe Park resort.

retail therapy - Limavady Town Centre.

extending your visit - Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House; Benone Strand; magilligan martello Tower.

dunGiven priory

your day outat a GlanCe 6-7

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What’s Cooking in Limavady?impress your family and friends with your newly acquired cookery skills from my little kitchen Cookery school.

Start the day with tea or coffee at the roe valley arts & Cultural Centre (ionad ealaíon agus Cultúir Ghleann na ró) 1, taking time to enjoy the gallery and retail facilities available at this fabulous new arts venue.

next, you will be taken to my little kitchen Cookery school 2, a cookery school located on a secluded farm in greysteel, for a cookery demonstration from my Little kitchen’s resident chef. Husband and wife team Phillip and nuala Ford have made this cookery school the most enjoyable way to learn to cook restaurant quality food. So, sharpen up your cooking skills, sample the wonderful cuisine and enjoy the fabulous views of Lough Foyle and the surrounding countryside from my Little kitchen’s hilltop location.

in the afternoon, spend some time indulging in retail therapy in the town of Limavady, renowned for its shopping experience, including traditional crafts and gift shops, clothing and footwear specialists.

To BooK ConTACTLimavady Tourist information Centre t: 028 7776 0650 e: [email protected] visit ContaCts1

rOE VALLEY ArTS & CuLTurAL CEnTrE/ iOnAD EALAíOn AguS CuLTúir gHLEAnn nA ró 24 main Street, Limavady, Co. Londonderry, BT49 0FJ.

(028) 777 60650

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mY LiTTLE kiTCHEn COOkErY SCHOOL 162 gortgare road, greysteel, Co. Londonderry, BT47 3DB.

(028) 7181 3712

WHiLe YoU’re in THe AreAeating out - radisson roe Park resort; Hunters Bakery & Café; The Lime Tree restaurant; Prego Café.


extending your visit - roe Valley Country Park; Dungiven Priory; Banagher glen.

my little kitCHen Cookery sCHool


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Craft, explore, ShopCome and learn new creative skills at the roe valley arts & Cultural Centre before discovering the charms of shopping in limavady.

Start the day with tea and coffee at Hunters bakery & Café 1 in Limavady, a family run bakery specialising in delicious traditional northern irish breads. Then stroll across to the newly opened roe valley arts & Cultural Centre (ionad ealaíon agus Cultúir Ghleann na ró) 2 where groups can either take part in a creative workshop tailored to their specific requirements or watch a demonstration. Following the workshop there is an opportunity to explore the new centre and its many fantastic facilities, which include an enticing gift shop.

Then head into the centre of this busy market town and enjoy lunch in one of Limavady’s renowned eateries.

Your afternoon is then free to explore and shop in the historic town of Limavady, where The Londonderry Air, the haunting melody of the famous ‘Danny Boy’, was first heard.

To BooK ConTACTLimavady Tourist information Centre t:(028) 7776 0650 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1

HunTEr’S BAkErY & CAFé 5-11 market Street, Limavady, Co. Londonderry, BT49 0AB.

(028) 7772 2411

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rOE VALLEY ArTS & CuLTurAL CEnTrE/ iOnAD EALAíOn AguS CuLTúir gHLEAnn nA ró24 main Street, Limavady, Co. Londonderry, BT49 0FJ.

(028) 7776 0650

WHiLe YoU’re in THe AreAeating out - radisson roe Park resort; Lucille’s kitchen; The Lime Tree restaurant.


extending your visit - roe Valley Country Park; gortmore Viewing Point; St Aidan’s Church and Holy well.

roe valley arts & Cultural Centre


6-7HOURS

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Dune Discoverywalk into a different world when you enter one of the oldest and tallest dune systems in ireland at portstewart strand. an oasis of tranquillity, it has its own microclimate and a vast array of fascinating flora and fauna.

The national Trust team invites you to visit this unique ecosystem and spend an afternoon being guided through the dunes at portstewart strand 1. whether its spring, summer, autumn or winter you’ll encounter a wonderful mix of plants and flowers. Discover delightful flowers such as dune pansies, violets, bird’s-foot trefoil and wild strawberries carpeting the dunes. Also look for the tracks of animals that call the dunes home, as well as a host of other varieties of plant life, wildlife and insects.

This walk guarantees to show you a side of Portstewart Strand that most visitors don’t usually see. Hopefully you will explore, learn and understand why the dunes are so important to us here at the national Trust. This is a two-hour guided walk, starting from the visitor centre, at a leisurely pace suitable for ramblers of all ages. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and comfortable walking shoes.

To BooK ConTACTnational Trust t: (028) 7083 6396 / (028) 2073 1582 e: [email protected] (booking essential) visit ContaCt1

POrTSTEwArT STrAnD 118 Strand road, Portstewart, Co. Londonderry, BT55 7Pg.

(028) 7083 6396

WHiLe YoU’re in THe AreAeating out - morelli’s of Portstewart; The ice House Bar & restaurant; Cromore Halt.

retail therapy - Portstewart Promenade; The Diamond Centre.

extending your visit - Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House; The giant’s Causeway; Carrick-a-rede rope Bridge.

portstewart strand


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rural Life And The Bishops Tourenjoy a guided tour of a rural 17th century irish thatched cottage followed by a visit to the dramatic ruins of downhill demesne.

Enjoy a visit to Hezlett House 1 in Castlerock to experience life in a rural 17th century thatched cottage. One of northern ireland’s oldest surviving buildings - its timber frame dates from 1690 - its cosy interior is furnished in a mid-Victorian style. Your guided tour will give you an enthralling insight into the lives of the family who once lived there.

recommended lunch stop at Crusoe’s restaurant or Pretty Crafty Tea room, Castlerock.

in the afternoon the tour continues with a visit to the dramatic ruins of downhill demesne 2, which enjoys one of the most spectacular locations in northern ireland. Famous for fabulous cliff top walks with sweeping views over ireland’s wild north coastal headland, the Downhill Demesne, once home to its flamboyant creator Earl Bishop Hervey, provides a dramatic setting for the illuminating Bishops Tour. Begin your journey through its fascinating history with a walk through the gardens at Bishop’s gate, before finishing up at Downhill ruins and the stunning circular mussenden Temple, which hugs the cliff headland.

The full day visit is suitable for a small group up to 10 people. A half-day visiting Downhill Demesne only, is suitable for groups of 15 to 25 people.

To BooK ConTACTnational Trust t:(028) 7084 8728 e: [email protected] (booking essential) visit ContaCts1

HEzLETT HOuSE 107 Sea road, Castlerock, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, BT51 4Tw.

(028) 7084 8728

2DOwnHiLL DEmESnE 107 Sea road, Castlerock, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, BT51 4Tw.

(028) 7084 8728

WHiLe YoU’re in THe AreAeating out - Crusoe’s restaurant; Pretty Craft Tea room.

retail therapy - The Diamond Centre; moore’s of Coleraine; Pretty Craft Design Centre.

extending your visit - Portstewart Strand; Benone Strand;The giant’s Causeway; magilligan Point.

downHill demesne


6-7HOURS 25max

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Walking in The Footsteps of early Mantravel back in time and discover the earliest known settlement site in ireland. enjoy a two-mile circular woodland walk and learn how our ancient ancestors lived over 9,000 years ago!

Take a tour right back to the dawn of human settlement in ireland where Stone Age hunters once camped to fish salmon in the natural weir. it was only in the 1970s that Peter woodman and his team of archaeologists uncovered evidence at mountsandel 1 of a mesolithic (middle Stone Age) settlement dated to between 7700BC and 7400BC, dramatically revising our understanding of pre-historic life here. Flint tools discovered here indicated the presence of Stone Age hunters. mountsandel remains the earliest known settlement site in ireland.

Your tour will include a guided woodland walk (including some steep inclines) and a chance to learn more about our earliest visitors.

You’ll enjoy some lovely views over Somerset wood and the river Bann. The forest walk leads from the Fort down to the banks of the Bann and passes close to the weir at the Cutts. You might even be lucky enough to see kingfishers and herons that nest along the riverside.

This fascinating tour back in time is suitable for groups of 25 to 30 people and involves about two miles of walking.

Please come prepared for the weather, wearing comfortable walking shoes.

To BooK ConTACTColeraine Tourist information Centre t: (028) 7034 4723 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1

mOunTSAnDEL mountsandel road, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry.

(028) 2955 6000

WHiLe YoU’re in THe AreAeating out - Brown Trout golf & Country inn; Bushtown House Hotel; The Lodge Hotel.

retail therapy - Coleraine Town Centre; The Diamond Shopping Centre.

extending your visit - Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House; Leslie Hill Open Farm; Benvarden garden.

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A Hoke in Heaney Countrytake a ‘hoke’ in Heaney country and find out more about the people, places and landscape that inspired the area’s most famous son, poet and nobel laureate seamus Heaney on the ultimate seamus Heaney tour.

Begin this unique and absorbing tour at laurel villa townhouse 1 in magherafelt, ireland’s only poetry guesthouse and winner of the Highly Commended award in the 2010 northern ireland Tourism awards. Blue Badge guide Eugene kielt will give you an introductory talk while you enjoy a welcome cup of tea or coffee before you view Laurel Villa’s unique collection of rare Heaney special editions and memorabilia.

You will then retrace the footsteps of the young Heaney as he makes his way to school in the townland of Anahorish – ‘my place of clear water’ as he calls it. Visit ‘Devlin’s Forge’, a place the famous poet immortalised in his writing and experience many other places that inspired him.

After lunch in one of the district’s many fine eateries and an opportunity for some shopping, visit Bellaghy to meet ‘The Turfman’, a life-size representation of Heaney’s most famous poem, ‘Digging’. Then it’s up the hill to bellaghy bawn 2, a 17th century Plantation house and walled enclosure where you can have a look at the Heaney Library, consisting of a media archive, a unique collection of radio and television broadcasts featuring Seamus Heaney and some of his books and manuscripts.

To BooK ConTACTEugene kielt, Blue Badge guide t: (028) 7930 1459 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1

LAurEL ViLLA TOwnHOuSE 60 Church Street, magherafelt, Co. Londonderry, BT45 6Aw.

(028) 7930 1459

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BELLAgHY BAwn Castle Street, Bellaghy, Co. Londonderry, BT45 8LA.

(028) 7938 6812

WHiLe YoU’re in THe AreAeating out - Bryson’s Bar; Ditty’s Coffee Shop; The Terrace Hotel.

retail therapy - mid-ulster garden Centre; meadowlane Shopping Centre; Saville row Factory Shop.

extending your visit - Springhill House; Ardboe High Cross; Tirkane Sweat House.

©national portrait Gallery, london, seamus Heaney by ross wilson

When i hoked there, i would find an acorn and a rusted bolt. if i lifted my eyes, a factory chimney. And a dormant mountain.an extraCt From terminus by seamus Heaney


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Abbeys, organics And The Banntake a tour of the lower bann valley and learn about its local history and heritage. special visits to bethlehem abbey and Culmore organic Farm.

meet your guide Tommy Collins, a registered Blue Badge guide, at a suitable location before heading to our lady of bethlehem abbey 1, Portglenone, where you will hear first-hand from one of the resident Brothers about the Cistercian Order and monastic life. A coffee stop will be made at the Abbey tea shop. Then the tour travels through Portglenone where you will hear of Timothy Eaton of Eaton’s stores in Toronto and his connections to the town. Following the Bann Valley downstream you’ll learn of the industries associated with the river such as the Diatomite and the Bann clay brick industries.

next stop is at Portna, where you will see one of the canals of the Bann navigation system and the river floodgate systems used to control the water levels on Lough neagh and enjoy a short walk.

At kilrea, you’ll learn about the Plantation of ulster and the mercers Company who built kilrea in the 1600s. You’ll have time to enjoy lunch, browse the shops and experience the famous locally made mullins ice cream. Finally, you’ll visit Culmore organic Farm 2 for a talk on organic farming by dairy farmer David Laughlin, before a scenic drive back to the original departure point.

To BooK ConTACTTommy Collins, Blue Badge guide t: (028) 2954 0645 m: 07989397942 e: [email protected] w: www.beguided.co.uk

visit ContaCts1

Our LADY OF BETHLEHEm ABBEY 11 Ballymena road, Portglenone, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, BT44 8BL.

(028) 2582 1211

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CuLmOrE OrgAniC FArmkilrea, Co. Londonderry, BT51 5rY.

07711441818

WHiLe YoU’re in THe AreAeating out - Arbutus restaurant; The manor House & golf Club.

retail therapy - Ballymena Town Centre; Coleraine Town Centre.

extending your visit - river Bann trips on the maid of Antrim can also be organised.

portna loCks, kilrea


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tyrone

The wildly beautiful landscape of tyrone is a natural host to any number of enthralling visit ideas. Why not try a scenic driving tour of the magnificent Sperrins, learn about the ancient art of turf cutting and try it for yourself or journey back to prehistoric times uncovering ancient sites. Visit ireland’s last working beetling mill or come right up to date shopping for designer label clothes or going behind the scenes at a theatre production. So much to choose from, what are you waiting for?



Antiques And The Argorysample a unique view of County tyrone with a walking tour around the delightful village of moy and a visit to the argory, a beautiful national trust property. Finish your day by discovering the amazing diversity of items at moy antiques in the village.

Beginning with morning refreshments in the restaurant at killymaddy tourist information & Craft Centre 1, you’ll be able to browse the locally produced crafts in the craft shop before the short journey to the argory 2 for a guided tour of the 1824 house and its beautiful grounds. With everything as it was at the end of the 19th century, it has many celebrated features, like a magnificent cabinet barrel organ, one of the most important of its kind. There are also 315 acres of woodland and parkland with wonderful walks to explore, before a recommended lunch stop in the Tea Room at The Argory.

After lunch, travel into the village of Moy which was founded as a Plantation settlement in 1764 by Lord Charlemont. A conservation area, the village is renowned for its antique shops. After a short walking tour you will have an opportunity to browse some antiques with a visit to moy antiques 3, whose range covers everything from 19th and 20th century furniture, to an enthralling selection of objets d’art and architectural and garden antiques. Finish your visit to Moy with tea or coffee and refreshments in tomney’s bar 4.

to BooK contActKillymaddy Tourist Information & Craft Centre t: (028) 8776 7259 e: [email protected] (Booking is essential)

visit ContaCts1

KILLyMAddy TIC & CRAFT CenTRe 190 Ballygawley Road, dungannon, Co. Tyrone, BT70 1TF.

(028) 8776 7259

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The ARgoRy 144 derrycaw Road, Moy, Co. Armagh, BT71 6nA.

(028) 8778 4753

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Moy AnTIques 12 The street, Moy, Co. Tyrone, BT71 7sg.

(028) 8778 4895

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ToMney’s BAR The square, Moy, Co. Tyrone.

(028) 8778 4895

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Tomney’s Bar; Viscounts Restaurant; Cano’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant.

extending your visit - Ardress house; Island Turf Craft Centre; Peatlands Park.

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clogher Valley church trailsample the archaeology, heritage and history of the churches of lovely Clogher valley, County tyrone on this fascinating Christian Heritage trail.

start your morning at killymaddy tourist information Centre 1. enjoy tea or coffee and scones in the restaurant before browsing through the unique selection of wonderful local crafts, including hand thrown pottery and stunning ceramics, stocked in the Craft Centre.

now it’s time for an enthralling guided coach tour of the ecclesiastical gems of the Clogher Valley, which include some of northern Ireland’s most fascinating churches. during the tour your guide will provide a wonderful narrative of the history, archaeology and values associated with these distinctive religious and historic sites, all of which have a fascinating story to tell. highlights of the tour will include visits to Ballinasagart Church of Ireland; st James Parish Church; st Mary’s Church; st Macartan’s Cathedral and Forth Chapel (also known as st Macartan’s Church).

A hearty lunch of the finest local produce will be provided by a member of the Flavour of Tyrone, good Food Circle. In the afternoon your tour of the historic churches throughout the Clogher Valley will resume. It is recommended you wear appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes, as there are short walks to some of the sites.

to BooK contActKillymaddy Tourist Information & Craft Centre t: (028) 8776 7259 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1

KILLyMAddy TouRIsT InFoRMATIon CenTRe 190 Ballygawley Road, Ballygawley, dungannon, Co. Tyrone, BT70 1TF.

(028) 8776 7259

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Killymaddy Restaurant; Corick house hotel; somer’s Coffee shop; salley’s Restaurant.

retail therapy - Killymaddy Craft Centre; The suitor gallery & Coffee shop; The Linen green designer Village.

extending your visit - The Clogher Valley Carleton Trail; Knockmanny Forest Park; Blessingbourne estate, Carriage and Costume Museum.

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CloGHer valley CHurCH trailillustration by anGela HaCkett


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carleton in carleton’s countrya fascinating tour of the sites and places associated with the novelist william Carleton in his native Clogher valley.

your morning exploring Carleton’s Country will start with tea or coffee at suitor Gallery & Coffee shop 1. Local guide and a member of the Carleton summer school 2, Jack Johnston will meet you at suitor’s and take the group on a literary journey through the Clogher Valley.

you will visit the sites of hedge schools, the big houses mentioned in Carleton’s narrative, Clogher Cathedral and graveyard, where many of Carleton’s characters are buried. The tour will also include the cottage at springtown, Augher where Carleton lived and the Forth Chapel he attended, and many more historic locations associated with the novelist, including the 17th century Corick house and Augher Castle.

A lunch stop will be made at salley’s restaurant 3 in Aughnacloy, a member of the Flavour of Tyrone, good Food Circle and advocate of local produce. The tour finishes with a visit to dungannon’s famous linen Green designer village 4, where you can indulge yourself with great designer names like Paul Costello and Anne storey before exploring the enticing range of products at the ulster Weaver’s shop in this refurbished linen mill.

to BooK contActJack Johnston t: (028) 8554 8288 e: [email protected] visit ContaCts1

suIToR gALLeRy & CoFFee shoP 17 grange Road, old Ballygawley Roundabout, Co. Tyrone, BT70 2LP.

(028) 8556 8653

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The CARLeTon suMMeR sChooL Ratory, Clogher, Co. Tyrone.

(028) 8554 8288

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sALLey’s ResTAuRAnT Moore street, Aughnacloy, Co. Tyrone, BT69 6Ay.

(028) 8555 7979

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LInen gReen desIgneR VILLAge Moygashal, dungannon, Co. Tyrone, BT71 7hB.

(028) 8772 2272

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - somers Coffee shop; The Valley hotel; Corick house hotel; Auberge du Lac.

retail therapy - suitor gallery & Coffee shop; Killymaddy Craft Centre.

extending your visit - Todd’s Leap; Blessingbourne estate, Carriage and Costume Museum; ulster American Folk Park.

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For additional information and more group day visit ideas, please visit discovernorthernireland.com/groups224 CloGHer Co. tyrone


chairs And carriagesa guided walk through atmospheric altadavin Forest in County tyrone to find st patrick’s Chair, followed by a nostalgic visit to the Coach and Carriage museum at blessingbourne estate.

Arrive at altadavin Forest 1 outside Augher, County Tyrone for a morning walk to the historic site of the magnificent st Patrick’s Chair and Well. Carved from stone, they were reputedly built for st Patrick to stop and quench his thirst on his journey through the Clogher Valley. The site is said to have mystical powers and water from the well is said to cure toothache and warts! This area is also said to be frequented by druids.

Afterwards make your way to blessingbourne estate 2 in Fivemiletown for a well deserved break of tea or coffee and scones and a glimpse of a more elegant age. The sublime setting of the working farm and big house at Blessingbourne will transport you back to days gone by in the most evocative way. your visit includes a tour of the Coach and Carriage Museum, where you’ll discover a unique collection of original carriages, buggies, a penny-farthing, genuine Romany caravan, old farm machinery and even a un helicopter! small personal group tours of the house are available on request.


visit ContaCt1

ALTAdAVIn FoResT

Aughnacloy Road, Clogher Co. Tyrone.

2

BLessIngBouRne esTATe

Fivemiletown, Co. Tyrone, BT75 0qs.

(028) 8952 1188

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Killymaddy Restaurant; The Valley hotel; Corrick house hotel.

retail therapy - Killymaddy Craft Centre; enniskillen Town Centre; The Linen green designer Village.

extending your visit - Knockmanny Forest Park; Crom estate; ulster American Folk Park.

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dungannon Shopping And good Foodexperience the culinary delights and unique shopping of dungannon on this special tour.

superb locally sourced food and top quality crafts and designer wear make this tour a must. Begin your day with a walking tour of dungannon Town heritage Trail, discover the history of the o’neill’s and dungannon, and the town’s links with the great events of Irish history including the Flight of the earls and the Plantation of ulster. next, enjoy morning coffee at one of dungannon’s well established Flavour of Tyrone, good Food Circle eateries, located within walking distance of the town’s Market square. The tour will allow you to visit many of dungannon’s enticing shops in the main area of the town.

next is a stop at dungannon park 1, one of dungannon’s most beautiful, hidden treasures with its very own fishing lake and lovely walks surrounding the area. The tour will be concluded with a visit to dungannon’s famous linen Green designer village 2 where you can spend a beguiling afternoon in this refurbished linen mill exploring world class designer label clothes and accessories from the likes of Paul Costello and Anne storey, and check out sublime gifts at stores like the ulster Weavers. great food and superior shopping draw thousands of shoppers each year to the Linen green designer Village.

It is recommended to wear appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes, as there are short walks between attractions. september 2012 will see the launch of the newly refurbished Ranfurly house and Castle hill gardens.


visit ContaCts1

dungAnnon PARK Moy Road, dungannon, Co. Tyrone, BT71 6dy.

(028) 8772 8690

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LInen gReen desIgneR VILLAge Moygashel, dungannon, Co. Tyrone, BT71 7hB.

(028) 8772 2272

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Killymaddy Restaurant; dine@dungannon golf Club; Café Latte; Corick house hotel.retail therapy - Killymaddy Craft Centre; Island Turf Crafts Visitor Centre; Parkanaur nursery & garden Centre; The suitor gallery.

extending your visit - Blessingbourne estate, Carriage & Costume Museum; President grant’s Ancestral homestead.G

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A day in The Bogvisit the island turf Crafts visitors Centre in Coalisland to discover the secrets of tyrone’s bog lands and enjoy an evening of entertainment in Cookstown with a living history walking tour.

nothing evokes the aroma of traditional Irish life like turf burning in a fire. on this unique visit to island turf Crafts visitor Centre 1, you will learn all about the work of a turf cutter and rural life in the bog land in the Bog Museum, which includes exhibits and an informative short video presentation.

There may also be the opportunity to make a small item from turf. Take time to browse the craft shop and the unique gifts the centre fashions from the turf.

Continue your visit with an evening living history tour of Cookstown. The tour departs from the burnavon arts & Cultural Centre 2 at 7pm. you’ll be taken on a guided walking tour through the fascinating streets of Cookstown, which was founded as a market town back in 1620. you may even meet influential characters from days gone by who will fascinate you with their knowledge of this historic town. The tour concludes around 9pm.

to BooK contActCookstown Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 8676 9949 (option 2) e: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1

IsLAnd TuRF CRAFTs VIsIToR CenTRe51 dungannon Road, Coalisland, Co. Tyrone, BT71 4hP.

(028) 8774 9041

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BuRnAVon ARTs & CuLTuRAL CenTReBurn Road, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone, BT80 8dn.

(028) 8676 9949

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - yankee star grill; deli on the green; The Loft Coffee Bar at The Linen green.

retail therapy - The Linen green designer Village; dungannon Town Centre; Cookstown Town Centre.

extending your visit - springhill house; east sperrins scenic driving Route.

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go Potty in cookstowntake advantage of this golden opportunity to watch an accomplished local potter talk about her work and then watch her create a unique hand built clay piece. best of all, you can even try it for yourself!

start your day in Cookstown with coffee and scones at the burnavon arts & Cultural Centre 1, then sit back and relax while a local ceramic artist talks you through her beautiful and diverse range of work and explains some of the techniques she uses. she will then give a demonstration of creating a stunning piece of pottery by hand and willing volunteers may even get the opportunity to join in.

Begin an enjoyable afternoon with a relaxing lunch and then take time out to browse Cookstown’s enticing range of shops which include many familiar high street names alongside some popular family run stores.

to BooK contActBurnavon Arts & Cultural Centre t: (028) 8676 9949 (option 5) e: [email protected]

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BuRnAVon ARTs & CuLTuRAL CenTReBurn Road, Cookstown, Co .Tyrone, BT80 8dn.

(028) 8676 9949

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - glenavon house hotel; greenvale hotel; Royal hotel; Tullylagan Country house hotel; otter Lodge.

retail therapy - Cookstown Town Centre; Broadfields Retail Centre.

extending your visit - springhill house; Wellbrook Beetling Mill; An Creagán.

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traditional pottery

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Behind The Scenes At The Burnavontake a peek ‘behind the scenes’ at the burnavon arts & Cultural Centre to experience the preparations and nerves of performance night.

This is a fantastic chance for theatre lovers to witness what life is really like backstage on a performance night. There’s always a magical, if often chaotic, atmosphere backstage as actors and production staff hurry to make sure all is ready in time. now, you can join the fun yourself on a special ‘behind the scenes’ tour at the burnavon arts & Cultural Centre 1 on performance nights. Meet with the staff, technical team and production team - and maybe the odd performer or two - to see everything that goes into delivering a theatre production.

on arrival you will meet a representative of the theatre management team and be taken backstage for a guided tour. Then it’s time to take your seats, sit back and enjoy the show.

Please note, ‘behind the scenes’ tours are only available on performance nights, prior to the actual performance. groups must also purchase tickets to the show.

to BooK contActBurnavon Arts & Cultural Centre t: 028 8676 9949 (select option 5) e: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1

BuRnAVon ARTs & CuLTuRAL CenTReBurn Road, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone, BT80 8dn.

(028) 8676 9949



extending your visit - Moneymore heritage Trail; springhill house.

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Scenic driving tour of The Sperrinsa relaxing tour around the breathtaking scenery and fascinating visitor attractions of the sperrins with breaks for lunch and shopping.

The ideal tour for those who want to see the sperrins at an easy and relaxing pace from the comfort of an executive coach with the inside knowledge of a personal tour guide. start the tour at the Cookstown Tourist Information Centre in the burnavon arts & Cultural Centre 1 in Cookstown where visitors will be greeted with tea or coffee on arrival and meet their tour guide.

The tour follows the east sperrins scenic driving Route which takes in a wealth of visitor attractions and includes some of the most beautiful scenery in the sperrins and Lough neagh region. Among other memorable locations en route will be Cookstown, springhill house, slieve gallion, Lough Fea, Beaghmore stone Circles and Wellbrook Beetling Mill, the last working mill of its kind in Ireland. short stop-offs at specific locations will be included, as will a lunch stop at one of Cookstown’s many hotels. Longer stops at specific visitor attractions can be arranged by request.

The afternoon is free for shopping in the market town of Cookstown which offers many big name retail outlets and fine independent stores. If you visit on a saturday, don’t miss the saturday Market, granted a royal charter in 1627.

to BooK contActCookstown Tourist Information Centre t: (028) 8676 9949 (option 2) e: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1

BuRnAVon ARTs & CuLTuRAL CenTRe Burn Road, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone, BT80 8dn.

(028) 8676 9949



extending your visit - springhill house; Wellbrook Beetling Mill; drum Manor.

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sprinGHill House


Sperrin christian Heritageexplore the medieval and early Christian Heritage of the sperrins on this absorbing guided tour of the area.

Amidst its wild, ruggedly beautiful landscape, there are numerous sites of historical interest in the sperrins. This packed tour will bring you to several fascinating medieval and early Christian heritage sites in the sperrins, an Area of outstanding natural Beauty (AonB). The tour begins at the site of one of the earliest Christian churches in Ireland and then travels to explore the remains of a medieval monastery. As you tour this spectacular countryside you’ll also gain an appreciation of how medieval cattle farming and raiding influenced the sperrins landscape and its social structure.

A lunch stop will be made at an Creagán 1, omagh.

There are some short walks along tracks and across fields which are likely to be wet and muddy, so come prepared with strong walking boots and warm clothing.

to BooK contActBrendan gormley, About ulster t:(028) 8164 7112 m:07926 785706 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1

An CReAgán Creggan, omagh, Co. Tyrone, BT79 9AF.

(028) 8076 1112

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Fir Trees hotel; oyster’s Restaurant; Alley Arts Centre.

retail therapy - An Creagán Craft & gift shop; strabane Town Centre.

extending your visit - glenelly Valley; Beaghmore stone Circles; ulster American Folk Park.

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ardboe HiGH Cross


ireland Before The celtsdiscover the prehistoric landscapes and archaeology of the sperrins on this fascinating bus and walking tour.

Journey back to an ancient past in the sperrins region, which boasts a large number of archaeological sites dating back thousands of years. on this mini bus and walking tour you will explore many interesting aspects of the prehistoric landscape of the sperrins. The tour includes a visit to the beaghmore stone Circles 1, a remarkable ancient site of great importance. only discovered during peat cutting in the 1940s, these seven stone circles are all associated with cairns (ancient burial tombs). At this and other equally fascinating sites, you will have an opportunity to learn about the ancient architecture of court, portal and wedge tombs and discover the ritual and astronomical significance of stone circles and standing stones.

A lunch stop will be made at an Creagán 2, omagh.

There are some short walks along tracks and across fields which are likely to be wet and muddy, so come prepared with strong walking boots and warm clothing.

to BooK contActBrendan gormley, About ulster t: 028 8164 7112 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1

BeAghMoRe sTone CIRCLes Blackrock Road, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone.

(028) 8076 1112

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(028) 8076 1112

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Mellon Country Inn; La gondola; Vanilla Restaurant.

retail therapy - An Creagán Craft & gift shop; omagh Town Centre.

extending your visit - sperrins scenic driving Routes; ulster American Folk Park.

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beaGHmore stone CirCles


The Secret glensa wonderful guided bus tour through the hidden glens and landscapes of the sperrins.

on meeting your guide in Maghera, your group will take a leisurely bus tour to discover the magnificent landscape of the sperrins, an Area of outstanding natural Beauty (AonB).

stretching from Lough neagh to omagh, the spectacular sperrins have largely been sculpted by the vast ice sheets of the last Ice Age. The sperrins also encompass many scenic and little known landscapes ‘the secret glens’. As well as taking you on a magical journey of discovery through these lesser-known beauty spots, the tour will uncover the enthralling history, heritage and folklore of the region. A lunch stop will be made at the alley arts Centre 1 in strabane.

to BooK contActMartin Bradley t: (028) 7131 8473 m: 07926 785706 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1

ALLey ARTs CenTRe 1 Railway street, strabane, Co. Tyrone, BT82 1ee.

(028) 7138 4444

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Walsh’s hotel; oyster’s Restaurant.

retail therapy - strabane Town Centre.

extending your visit - ulster American Folk Park; sperrins scenic driving Routes; sion Mills.

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tHe sperrins


catch The creggan White Harediscover the entrancing legend of the Creggan white Hare and places where the fairies come out after dark at an Creagán, which brings the local stories and history of the area to vivid life.

nothing evokes the true nature of an area like its folklore and legends and this is a chance to get an enthralling insight into local culture. Begin your tour at an Creagán 1 with tea or coffee and scones in the restaurant. enjoy an engaging tour of An Creagán exhibition and learn all about the legendary Creggan White hare and how it constantly managed to escape from the many hunters who came from near and far to try and track it down. hear too about the respect in which fairies are held by locals in the country and the locations where they come out after dark.

next take a short bus trip to the newly opened Museum in Carrickmore, which portrays the history of the area, from its social, political and economic past to its sporting heritage.

Return to An Creagán for lunch in the restaurant and take a short stroll on the path to the pond and community garden area. Make sure to leave enough time to browse the fabulous goods in the An Creagán Craft & gift shop, you’ll find a wide range of handcrafted items and gifts to choose from.

to BooK contActAn Creagán t: (028) 8076 1112 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCt1


(028) 8076 1112

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - An Creagán Restaurant; glenavon house hotel; otter Lodge.

retail therapy - An Creagán Craft & gift shop; Cookstown Town Centre.

extending your visit - Wellbrook Beetling Mill; Beaghmore stone Circles; Creggandevesky Chamber grave.

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Making A living Was Hard WorkFrom cutting turf to our oldest beetling mill and once thriving linen industry, this absorbing tour takes you through rural working life of yesteryear in County tyrone.

Begin your tour at an Creagán 1 with tea or coffee and scones in the restaurant. enjoy an engaging tour of An Creagán exhibition and hear the stories of the local peatlands and bogs before visiting a turf cutting area nearby to discover how turf was cut and how bog land is turned into fuel.

next, follow the Biodiversity Trail at the centre to find out the important part the bog land plants play in keeping our air and water clean. Relax by the duck path and community garden area before lunch is served in the restaurant. Make sure to leave enough time to browse the fabulous goods in An Creagán Craft & gift shop, which has an enticing range of quality handcrafted items and gifts to choose from.

After lunch take a short bus trip to wellbrook beetling mill 2 to learn the history of the local linen industry. Beetling was the last stage in the manufacturing of linen – and Wellbrook is the last working beetling mill in northern Ireland. The Mill has a 16ft water wheel, which is powered by the adjacent Ballinderry River. enjoy a guided tour and ‘hands-on’ demonstrations of how linen was produced in the 19th century.

to BooK contActAn Creagán t: (028) 8076 1112 e: [email protected]

visit ContaCts1


(028) 8076 1112

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WeLLBRooK BeeTLIng MILL 20 Wellbrook Road, Corkhill, Co. Tyrone, BT80 9Ry.

(028) 8674 8210

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - An Creagán Restaurant; glenavon house hotel; otter Lodge.

retail therapy - An Creagán Craft & gift shop; national Trust gift shop at Wellbrook Beetling Mill; Cookstown Town Centre.

extending your visit - springhill house; Beaghmore stone Circles; Creggandevesky Chamber grave.

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wellbrook beetlinG mill


ireland VS AmericaJourney from the thatched cottages of rural ulster, via a full-scale emigrant sailing ship, to the log cabins of the american Frontier at the ulster american Folk park.

enjoy refreshments in the café on arrival at the ulster american Folk park 1 before taking a walk around the emigrants exhibition which explains the story of over 200 years of migration from Ireland to America.

Then step outside to explore life in rural ulster 150 years ago through a range of authentic exhibits like the Mellon homestead, typical of the farmsteads left behind as Irish people sought a new life in America. you will meet an array of costumed characters on your journey with traditional crafts to show, tales to tell and food to share. sit behind an original 1900s schoolhouse desk, chat to the blacksmith and pull up a stool in o’Reilly’s Pub, before visiting the printer for your ticket to America.

In the ship and dockside gallery discover a replica of an early 1800s emigrant sailing ship, relive the voyage of emigrants and find yourself in a whole new world. Inhale the aroma of freshly baked corn bread or try your hand at candle dipping in the buildings which represent the type of houses early settlers built in frontier America. Before heading home enjoy a final cup of tea or coffee in the café and a browse around the craft shop.

As much of the museum is outside sensible shoes and appropriate clothing for the season and weather should be worn.

to BooK contActBreege o’sullivan, national Museums northern Ireland t: (028) 8224 3292 e: [email protected] w: www.nmni.com visit ContaCt1

uLsTeR AMeRICAn FoLK PARK 2 Mellon Road, omagh, Co. Tyrone, BT78 5qu.

(028) 8224 3292

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - ulster American Folk Park café; Mellon Country Inn.

retail therapy - ulster American Folk Park Craft shop; omagh Town Centre; An Creagán Craft & gift shop.

extending your visit - south sperrins scenic driving Route; An Creagán; gortin glen Forest Park.

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ulster ameriCan Folk park


Adventure experienceenjoy a fantastic adventure on a multi-activity day in tyrone with todds leap outdoor activity Centre and adventure tours ni.

start your day at todds leap outdoor activity Centre 1 with some clay pigeon shooting, hitting the clays out of the sky, while enjoying the beautiful rural setting at the same time. you will be given full tuition and guidance under the supervision of qualified instructors. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced shot, clay pigeon shooting is an enjoyable sport suitable for men and women of any age.

Conclude your visit at Todds Leap with a tasty farmhouse lunch in the clubhouse.

In the afternoon get on target and try your hand at archery, one of the oldest sports in the world, with adventure tours ni 2. you’ll need a steady hand and keen eye, not to mention a sense of humour and a willingness to give it a go, but the reward is an unforgettable afternoon of sport.

Afterwards, you can choose to spend a little more time in Tyrone with a fabulous three-course evening meal at the restaurant on the duke of Abercorn’s Baronscourt estate.

to BooK contActshirley o’hanlon, Todds Leap outdoor Activity Centre t: (028) 8556 7170 e: [email protected] orMarcus Craig, Adventure Tours nI t: 079716 39932 e: [email protected] visit ContaCts1

Todds LeAP ouTdooR ACTIVITy CenTRe 30 Todds Leap Road, Ballygawley, Co. Tyrone.

(028) 8556 7170

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AdVenTuRe TouRs nI 5 urbalreagh Road, Ardstraw, Co. Tyrone, BT78 4LR.

0797 163 9932

WHile You’re in tHe AreAeating out - Askins Bar & Restaurant; Ardbeg Restaurant; Baronscourt hunting Lodge hotel.

retail therapy - The suitor gallery & Crafts; Killymaddy Craft Centre; The Linen green designer Village.

extending your visit - ulster American Folk Park; grant Ancestral homestead.

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How to......make your next group outing

an ‘eventful visit’? 254...book a coach 258...book a day out with the

National Trust 262...book a Tour Guide 263...find your perfect pub 268...make the most of a hotel 269

TourisT informaTion 270

it’s the year we take centre stage with new, iconic visitor attractions, unprecedented events and historic anniversaries. We have an amazing programme of events planned for 2012 to showcase all that’s great about northern ireland. from the opening of Titanic Belfast, one of the most intriguing buildings to ever emerge in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, to the 50th year of the world renowned ulster Bank Belfast festival at Queen’s. Whether its music, theatre, festivals, comedy, tours or exhibitions, there’s going to be something to tickle everyone’s fancy. What better way to experience the celebration of ni2012, than with your group. so, start planning your eventful visit now!

Titanic Belfast festival 2012A fusion of international-scale events to mark the centenary of Titanic’s fateful maiden voyage is planned. From the opening of the multi-million pound Titanic Belfast visitor attraction, through to commemoration services on the 100th anniversary of the ship’s sinking - a range of plays, tours, talks, films and major musical events will position Belfast as the ‘home’ of Titanic.

Titanic Light show 7–11 April 2012A visionary lighting show to showcase the iconic new Titanic Belfast visitor attraction. There will be a spectacular launch event on 7 April followed by an installation over a number of evenings to feature this amazing building.

our timeni 2012

our place

HOW TO... make your next group outing an ‘eventful visit’?2012 is destined to be one of the most extraordinary years in northern ireland’s history.

mTV music Event 11 April 2012MTV will be back in Northern Ireland to deliver a major outdoor music event on the Titanic Slipways. Not to be missed!

Titanic: a Centenary Commemoration 14 April 2012A gala commemorative event in the Waterfront Hall, Belfast’s award-winning cultural venue, this will be a showcase of the city’s Titanic story. Narrated by a breathtaking range of the UK’s most well known cultural icons and celebrities, this will be a testament to the ordinary shipbuilders of Belfast who built an extraordinary ship.

Titanic (scenes from the British Wreck Commissioner’s inquiry, 1912) 22 April–20 May 2012A Verbatim Play By Owen McCafferty, A MAC Production

“It was a dark mass that came through the haze...” Reginald E Lee (Lookout)

100 years ago, the British Government ordered a formal inquiry into the loss of RMS Titanic. 36 days, nearly 100 witnesses and over 25,000 questions asked. What happened to the Titanic as seen through the 1912 Inquiry is a human story. A courtroom drama full of intrigue, bravery and human frailty.

“ ...everything was against us.” Charles Lightoller (2nd Officer).

BBC Titanic Proms 8 September 2012A large scale voices and music of Belfast performance which will be a stunning celebration of the rich heritage of song and music in Belfast and across Northern Ireland.

For more information on Titanic Belfast Festival visit belfastcitycouncil.gov.uk/events

Peace one Day Concert 21 June 2012This music concert will showcase the iconic new event space at the historic Ebrington site in Derry~Londonderry. Peace One Day is an international community headed up by renowned producer Jeremy Gilley, with Jude Law as a key ambassador. Celebrating Olympic Truce, the Peace One Day Concert will be the opening concert of the London 2012 Festival and will attract massive media attention and the biggest names in music. For more information visit peaceoneday.org

Land of Giants 30 June 2012On the night of the 30 June 2012, Land of Giants will present a unique tale to an audience of 20,000 on Belfast’s newest events space, the Titanic Slipways. Commissioned by Legacy Trust UK, Land of Giants will be a highlight of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The event takes inspiration from local iconic giants – Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver, Finn McCool, Harland and Wolff’s Samson and Goliath, the Olympic and Titanic ships and the Giant’s Causeway - as well as Northern Ireland people who are giants in ideas, talent and heritage. It involves a cast and crew of 500+ people and combines acrobatics, music and special effects. Land of Giants will play a key role in the lead up to the 2012 Games presenting Northern Ireland on the international stage. Find out more at landofgiants.info

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a Coastal installation, by Deborah Warner July 2012Created by the renowned opera and theatre director Deborah Warner, in collaboration with the actor Fiona Shaw and creative producer Artichoke, this new living artwork has been co-commissioned by Derry~Londonderry Culture Company 2013 for the Cultural Olympiad. Installations will appear simultaneously from dusk til dawn at locations along the UK and Ireland coast. From Northern Ireland to Cornwall, from remote Scottish islands to East Anglia, these artworks are a poignant exploration of love poetry and a celebration of the extraordinary beauty of our coastline. For more information visit artichoke.uk.com

Clipper round the World Yacht race and maritime festival July 2012The Clipper Round The World Yacht Race fleet will race across the Atlantic on its homecoming leg from Nova Scotia, arriving in Derry~Londonderry in early July 2012. It will be welcomed by a four day maritime festival to celebrate the visit of the world’s longest race. This is an opportunity to be inspired by the endeavour of the crew and take part in the celebrations to welcome to Northern Ireland yacht crews from around the world. For more information visit derrycity.gov.uk/clipper

Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre September 2012This is the year the Giant’s Causeway unveils the visitor centre worthy of its giant reputation as a must-see destination. To celebrate this, a large scale installation by a major artist is planned which will be of a scale significant enough to pay tribute to this World Heritage Site. Further details on this event will be released soon.

50th ulster Bank Belfast festival at Queen’s 19 October–3 November 2012The 50th Ulster Bank Belfast Festival at Queen’s will take place in October and November 2012.Dance, music, theatre, visual arts, film, classical and world music will all come to life in many forms during this autumnal event. This year promises a world of talent on your doorstep. All we’re asking is for you to open the door, step outside and embrace the cultural experiences awaiting you. Keep an eye on belfastfestival.com for updates.

our timeni 2012

our placeand there’s more…Garden enthusiasts are sure to enjoy a group outing to the Garden festival at Hillsborough Castle, 18-20 may 2012. Set in the surroundings of the walled garden at Hillsborough Castle the Garden Festival is a gardening extravaganza. Whether you want to find inspiration for your garden, need advice, want to buy plants, flowers or garden equipment, relax and enjoy a wonderful day out with jazz music and good food.

If Literature inspires your group then the Belfast Book festival, 11-18 June 2012 could offer a stimulating group visit. An exciting programme is planned for 2012 with many of the events taking place in the Linen Hall Library, itself a fascinating venue for a group visit. For more literary inspired visits Aspects irish Literature festival, 26-30 sep 2012 in North Down features the cream of Irish writing talent and promise to deliver an exciting programme of workshops, literary chats, lively debates and of course lots of readings!

The European Heritage open Days, 8-9 september 2011 are a unique opportunity to visit some of Northern Ireland’s most interesting buildings, many of which are not normally open to the public. So it’s your chance to see inside cottages and castles, mills and mansions, public and private buildings and many more, all for free. Perfect for groups on the heritage hunt!

Music lovers will no doubt love The ulster orchestra and they organise a popular programme of lunchtime concerts at the Ulster Hall, Belfast throughout the year.

Tickets are reasonably priced at £5 and offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Belfast and a welcome midday opportunity to hear some great music. Find the full programme of lunchtime concerts on ulsterorchestra.com.

For those interested in creative activities, an annual celebration of craft, featuring events and activities that showcase the work of craft makers in Northern Ireland takes place during august Craft month at various locations across Northern Ireland.

Active groups will no doubt enjoy the challenge of a walking festival. The mourne international Walking festival, 22-24 June 2012 is the ideal time to discover the delights of the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), there is not only a huge diversity of flora and fauna, but also a wealth of heritage, myths and legends to explore. There are walks to suit all levels of fitness and ability with routes between 10km and 40km at both high and low level. Another walking festival takes places in the heart of the Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The sperrins Walking festival takes place over the weekend 2-5 august 2012 and combines a range of walks to suit all levels of ability.

Many more exciting events to inspire your next group outing will be happening in 2012. Go to discovernorthernireland.com/events for more event information.

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HOW TO... book a coachChoosing which coach operator to use can be a daunting prospect but it’s one of the most important elements for those involved in organising group travel.

starting pointHiring a coach is a vital part of arranging a group trip for all group organisers. It might seem a simple task but actually, there’s a lot to consider and discerning organisers do not choose a coach on price and seating capacity alone.

There are many different companies with different vehicles and different prices but there are a few things you should consider before making your final decision. The standard of service, and the quality of vehicles and drivers, can make all the difference.

It is important that you choose transport operators for the right reasons. A good operator is easy to contact and responds promptly in a friendly approachable manner. They have knowledge and experience and are happy to advise on travelling times, comfort stops and other options.

It is therefore essential that you choose the right operator for your needs and establish a clear line of communication to ensure your requirements are met and any problems quickly resolved.

Once you have developed a relationship with a coach operator, it is often the case that you’ll stick with them. They come to understand your needs and you can rely on expectations being fulfilled. Having a regular driver who knows and understands your group can be important, but you may also find that one operator is more suitable for one day trip, while another has proven experience in tours abroad. Shopping around for prices gives you a basis for comparison and will also influence your purchasing decision.

Which operator?There are dozens of coach operators throughout Northern Ireland, but a good place to start is to search through the members of the Federation of Passenger Transport (FPTNI), Northern Ireland’s trade association for the coach and bus industry. FPTNI members conform to very high standards and have a strict code of conduct.

The following is a checklist of items you should look for when hiring an operator:• AcopyofacurrentOperatorsLicence

- Road Service Licence.• Insurance-MotorFleet,Public

and Employers liability and where appropriate, Tour Operator liability.

• Thecompany’sreputation.• Driver-NIAccessVetting.• Wellmaintainedvehicleswith

seatbelts which comply with latest safety standards and are presented in a clean and safe condition.

• MaintenanceStandards.• Easytocontact.• Promptresponse.• FPTNIMember.• A24-hourhelplinetobeused

in case of emergency.• Intheeventofacomplainttheoperation

of a formal complaint procedure to deal effectively and quickly with any client dissatisfaction.

• Membershipoftradeorganisations, or organisations like the Coach Tourism Council, will also show that an operator is committed to certain standards of service.

Buying a packageIf you are looking to buy a package from a coach operator (which, for instance, would include overnight accommodation and transport) then you must make sure that they meet the requirements of the Package Travel Regulations, either in terms of bonding, insurance or a trust account.

The following information must be included in any brochure: • Aclearstatementoflegalidentity

of the operator.• Themeansoftravel,destination,

the itinerary with dates and times of day, and the date of departure.

• Thenatureofaccommodation and meal facilities offered.

• Atotalprice,oratleastabreakdown of the components that make up the total price, with a clear statement of what is included and what is not.

• Astatementofthebookingprocedureand conditions.

• Detailsofanyinsurancefacilities.

Types of coachVehicles are now high specification, comfortable and very valuable, often worth in excess of £200,000 each.

The type of coach that you require can also influence your decision. For instance, you may have a smaller group and require a 27 seater midi-coach.

Nowadays, regardless of size, most coaches come with facilities such as onboard DVD players, GPS satellite navigation, extra legroom and reclining seats. Coaches are now allowed to be longer in length and many companies will have vehicles over 14 metres to cope with larger groups. It all depends on your budget and your group’s expectation of comfort.

Other factors also need to be taken into consideration, including if there are hot drinks facilities on board and who would be liable if they were spilled whilst being served, as well as the legal rules on alcohol on board a coach.

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special needsIf your group includes the very young, elderly or people with disabilities, you need to ensure that the company can provide appropriate vehicles and arrange stops at places where their needs can be met. From 2006, new seatbelt laws have been introduced in the UK that require passengers to wear safety belts if available. So certain requirements need to be paid attention to, along with issues such as the location of emergency exit points. These are all subjects that should be discussed and worked out with your coach operator before you embark on a journey.

once bookedOnce you have booked a coach operator, it is important to ensure that the operator is clear on the identity of the group organiser, as this person will be required to manage the group, including ensuring the adherence of instructions on times of departure. It is also important to confirm and agree information such as the itinerary, which should include a mutual understanding as to when the driver will take legal rest breaks.

Coach parking Although your coach operator can take care of coach parking arrangements, it is useful to know where to get information on this and how to book as well as whether parking fees will be included in the price you are quoted.

For more information contact the Federation of Passenger Transport Northern Ireland Ltd.

federation of Passenger Transport northern ireland Ltd (fPTni) Ecos Centre, Broughshane Road, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, BT43 7QA.

T: (028) 2563 8938 m: 07525 908714 f: (028) 2563 2957 W: www.fptni.org

For a full list of FPTNI members, please visit www.fptni.org

mcmillan Travel 12 Mullan Road, Ballymoney, Co. Antrim, BT53 7ED T: (028) 2766 6989 E: [email protected]

mcCombs Executive Travel Unit C, Loughside Industrial Estate, Dargan Crescent, Co. Antrim, BT3 9JB T: (028) 9077 7440 E: [email protected]

ulsterbus Tours Europa Bus Centre, Belfast, Co. Antrim, BT12 5AH T: (028) 9033 7004 E: [email protected]

Call-a-Coach 15 Cumbria Lodge, Crumlin, Co. Antrim, BT29 4GE T: (028) 9445 4141 E: [email protected]

Logan’s Executive Travel 58 Galdanagh Road, Dunloy, Co. Antrim, BT44 9DB T: (028) 2765 7203 / 7431 E: [email protected]

richmond Coaches 39B Ballinderry Road, Lisburn, Co. Antrim, BT27 2QT T: (028) 9262 2888 E: [email protected]

Quinn Coach Hire 14 Cullenbragh Road, Poyntzpass, Co. Armagh, BT35 6SD T: (028) 3082 1439 E: [email protected]

Executive Travel Lynch 22 Daisy Hill Park, Derry, Co. Londonderry, BT48 8EZ T: (028) 7135 4013 E: [email protected]

Glenshane Coach Hire 11A Glenshane Road, Maghera, Co. Londonderry T: (028) 7964 2129 E: [email protected]

Capital Coach Hire 6 Needham Court, Kilkeel, Co. Down, BT34 4JQ T: (028) 4176 5894 E: [email protected]

Classic Coaches 57 Kilkeel Road, Annalong, Co. Down, BT34 4TJ T: (028) 4376 8190 E: [email protected]

Downshire Coach Hire 1 Meenan Road, Banbridge, Co. Down, BT32 3PJ T: (028) 4062 5288 E: [email protected]

mcanulty’s Yellow Line Coaches 35 Church Street, Warrenpoint, Co. Down, BT34 3HN T: (028) 4175 2228 E: [email protected]

newcastle Coach Hire 7 Tullybrannigan Drive, Newcastle, Co. Down, BT33 0TV T: (028) 4372 6159 E: [email protected]

rJG Bullick 71 Newry Street, Rathfriland, Co. Down, BT34 5PZ T: (028) 4063 8006 E: [email protected]

Lakeland Tours Enniskillen Airport, Trory, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, BT94 2FP T: (028) 6632 9900 E: [email protected]

ace Coaches 2 Windmill Hill Road, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone, BT71 7BS T: (028) 8775 3535 E: [email protected]

J & K Coaches Unit 2, Ardboe Business Park, Ardboe, Co. Tyrone, BT71 5BJ T: (028) 8673 7776 E: [email protected]

Lynch’s Coaches 80 Castlefin Road, Castlederg, Co. Tyrone, BT81 7EE T: (028) 8167 1344 E: [email protected]

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These range from industrial heritage sites such as the fascinating Patterson’s Spade Mill in County Antrim to world famous historic houses and gardens like Florence Court in County Fermanagh and Mount Stewart in County Down.

When making group bookings, the National Trust advises group organisers to contact the visitor services team at the venue of their choice. In this way, the specific group interests and needs can be discussed using just one point of contact right the way through, from initial enquiry to the actual group visit.

The National Trust also recommends that, where possible, group organisers should arrange a preliminary site visit. This provides an important opportunity to see the location and setting of the venue, discuss the various tour options available that will best suit their group requirements, check availability and discuss refreshment and retail opportunities.

Group organisers should also be aware that group tours around historic venues

and gardens can be adapted to suit specific group needs. For example, National Trust properties can provide a group rate to include a tour with tea and coffee or a tour with lunch and half day or full day visits. A number of National Trust venues can also open outside normal public opening times if requested. It should be noted, however, that an additional charge may be applied in these circumstances.

To help group organisers plan group tours, the National Trust has developed a Groups Guide. This publication highlights a selection of the group tours available at National Trust venues from garden tours to historic house tours, conservation tours to industrial heritage tours. Whatever your group interests, the National Trust has a group tour for you.

For a copy of the National Trust Groups Guide please contact:

(028) 9751 0721 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk

national Trust northern ireland

HOW TO... book a day out with the National TrustThe national Trust offers amazing places to visit for great group days out.

HOW TO... book a Tour GuideBlue Badge GuidesToday the Blue Badge is recognised as the symbol of excellence within the tourism industry. We at Northern Ireland Tour Guide Association (NITGA), believe that a Blue Badge Guide is the third key element in making a great day out (the other two being a comfortable coach and good food).

Our association has grown since the first Blue Badge guides qualified in 1992 to a body of over 60 independent guides today. Each of our guides is unique in their own right. They come from a variety of backgrounds and bring a wealth of knowledge and skills with them. For a full list of specialities and geographical areas covered, refer to our web site at www.bluebadgeireland.com, which also contains information about driver guides, language guides and current rates.

Where do i start?Having been involved in group travel for some 30 years, and guiding for the past four years, I believe I am in the unique position of being able to address the subject from both a consumer and service provider perspective.

The good news is that the task of planning a great day out has just become a whole lot easier thanks to this publication, which is a one-stop shop for all the necessary ingredients. Gone are the days when your day out was planned around the experiences of a neighbouring group or on a friend’s recommendation. However, like all successful events it’s all about planning and preparation. Hopefully, the next few paragraphs will assist in making your day out a great one!

What you need to consider?When do you want to go?There has been a significant change over the past two years. Events, once crammed into June and July, now take place throughout the year. That’s due to a number of reasons, including the greater availability of venues, such as museums, more eating establishments and better opening hours.

How far should you go?

Know your limitations and set reasonable and achievable targets based on the abilities and interests of your group. There’s no point in planning a day trip from Tyrone to Belfast, including a trip to the Glens of Antrim and afternoon tea in Coleraine.

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Take my word, it can’t be done. In situations like this why not include an overnight stop; itineraries can be tailored to meet your needs.

What does the group want?Get this right and you will become an overnight celebrity. Well, perhaps not, but you will get the job again next year. Canvas the group; do they want some sightseeing, a visit to a historical building or a guided walking tour? Don’t forget free time for shopping!

What are the benefits of having a Blue Badge Guide?• Theyassistintheplanningprocess,

making recommendations regarding routes, timings and itineraries

• Provideaninterestingand entertaining commentary.

• Usetheirknowledgeandskillsthroughout the day for the benefit of the driver and group, thus ensuring that your day out is ‘a great day out’.

What will it cost?In today’s financial climate you may well ask this question, why book a guide and incur that additional expense? Today’s luxury coaches carry up to 50 plus passengers. At current guiding rates the cost to each passenger could be as little as £1.50 per half day or just under £3 per person for a full day. We are here to assist regarding itineraries, lunch venues and site visits and work closely with the local Tourist Information Centres and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board.

To learn more visit:

www.bluebadgeireland.com

David mcanirn. Chairperson, northern ireland Tour Guide association (niTGa)

What others say“I have been employed in the travel industry for the past 40 years and have been coming to Ireland for the last 20 years as it always has been a popular destination with our clients.

My first experience of working with a Blue Badge Guide was in London in 1989. Since then it has been our company policy to always employ the services of a Blue Badge Guide. Why? Well, there are several good reasons. They know the best touring locations, best eating establishments, where to park our coaches whilst on tour, route planning and timings, but top of the list is the superb commentaries, supplemented with the usual craic.

The presence of a guide is now something that our clients have come to expect, and has become an integral part of our group holidays.”

richard Green. Director, north Dorset Travel of Bournemouth.

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anderson isabel Belfast, Co. Down, St Anne’s Cathedral T: (028) 9066 7083 m: 07855102813 E: [email protected]

anderson Phyllis Belfast, Hillsborough, Giant’s Causeway T: (028) 9269 9659 m: 07768885443 E: [email protected]

Barrett Bibi Belfast, Derry, Giant’s Causeway, Pub Tours, Ards Peninsula m: 07779427056 E: [email protected]

Beggs andrew Scots-Irish history, N.Ireland, Belfast T: (028) 9077 6367 m: 07749902313 E: [email protected]

Blackburn marjory Genealogy, Rural life, Co. Tyrone T: (028) 8772 5129 m: 07887638847 E: [email protected]

Brown Colin Belfast, Derry, Antrim Coast, Ards Peninsula, Pub Tours m: 07565096868 E: [email protected]

Carson Helen Nat Trust, Down, Giant’s Causeway, Mournes T: (028) 9145 7271

Caughey richard Belfast, Down, Sports, History, Fishing T: (028) 9042 4731 m: 07714439137 E: [email protected]

Clarke alan Belfast, Lisburn City Historic Quarter T: (028) 9268 9626 m: 07808718765 E: [email protected]

Clarke Louise Belfast, Co. Down, Coach & Walking T: (028) 4277 2093 m: 07801226438 E: [email protected]

Clenaghan-mcGrane mairead Co. Armagh T: (028) 3884 9788 m: 07762110575 E: [email protected]

Collins Tommy N.Ireland, Rural life, Ulster-Scots T: (028) 2954 0645 m: 07989397942 E: [email protected]

Conway Tim History, Ireland & U.K, Golf, Genealogy T: (028) 7082 5678 m: 07802957567 E: [email protected]

Cooper michael Derry, Donegal, Giant’s Causeway, Music T: (028) 7136 1311 m: 07743175709 E: [email protected]

Cornett Barbara Antiques, Gardens, Pubs, Belfast, N. Ireland T: (028) 9020 1786 m: 07884372800 E: [email protected]

Courtney Lowell Sport, Genealogy, Derry, North Coast T: (028) 7082 3232 m: 07974663136 E: [email protected]

Coyle Loretto Belfast, Mournes, Causeway Coast T: (028) 4372 5191 m: 07973408056 E: [email protected]

Crawford Judy Belfast, Hillsborough Village, Pubs T: (028) 9268 3665 m: 07720948064 E: [email protected]

Cross Glen Belfast, Industrial & Christian Heritage T: (028) 9064 2271 m: 07704433685 E: [email protected]

Cunningham John B. N.Ireland, History, Genealogy, Folklore T: (028) 6865 8327 m: 07855325693 E: [email protected]

northern ireland Tourist Guide association www.bluebadgeguideireland.org

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Dick frank WWII, Co.Down, Hillsborough T: (028) 4481 1173 m: 07760100680 E: [email protected]

Dickson Billy Range of ”Themed Tours” of Belfast T: (028) 9029 2631 m: 07974315293 E: [email protected]

Doherty Christine Belfast, North Coast, St Patrick T: (028) 9447 2242 m: 07776043325 E: [email protected]

Dunlop Helen North Coast, Cities of Belfast & Derry T: (028) 2073 1438 m: 07977402687 E: [email protected]

Eggert anna Belfast, Political Murals, Study Tours T: (028) 9066 0581 m: 07746508088 E: [email protected]

Elder Lorna North Down, Belfast, Giant’s Causeway T: (028) 9181 2827 m: 07779853721

ferguson Barbara Co. Armagh, Farming & Folklore T: (028) 3755 1119 m: 07740511442 E: [email protected]

fox Donna Myths & legends, Education T: (028) 3752 4684 m: 07990575630 E: [email protected]

Gill Emily Belfast City T: (028) 9058 1179 m: 07754461808 E: [email protected]

Graham David N. Ireland, Belfast, Derry, Nat Trust, History T: (028) 2565 6754 m: 07712658389 E: [email protected]

Graham Lyn Belfast, St Anne’s Cathedral T: (028) 9086 4740 E: [email protected]

Guinchard Kevin History, Literature, Castles, Stately Homes m: 07800563199 E: [email protected]

Heaton Brin Belfast, Giants Causeway, Golf, Crafts T: (028) 9042 6019 m: 07989397799 E: [email protected]

Hirsk maria Brontë, Archaeology, Christian Heritage T: (028) 4067 1330 m: 07733100989 E: [email protected]

Hood Wendy Tours, Belfast, Fermanagh, Down, Antrim T: (028) 9753 3370 m: 07817401045 E: [email protected]

Howell Charles Antrim Coast & Causeway, Ornithology T: (028) 2075 1112 m: 07889068030 E: [email protected]

Howell Heather Antrim Coast & Causeway, Irish Crafts T: (028) 2075 1112 m: 07889068031 E: [email protected]

Kennan John Belfast, North Down, Railways, Theatre T: (028) 9042 2078 m: 07919463078

Kerr sarah North Antrim Coast, Agriculture T: (028) 2073 0180 m: 07845492500 E: [email protected]

Kielt Eugene South Derry, Tyrone, Ulster Heritage T: (028) 7930 1459 E: [email protected]

Laird roland All Ireland Culture, History, Nature T: (028) 9182 2816 m: 07709486896 E: [email protected]

Lynch nadine Derry City, Donegal, Fermanagh, Antrim Coast T: (028) 7186 0907 m: 07808205890 E: [email protected]

maginnis maureen Day Trip Planning Belfast and NI T: (028) 9040 2347 m: 07891505290 E: [email protected]

martin Ken All Aspects of Belfast History m: 07981812959 E: [email protected]

mcanirn David N. Ireland, Belfast, North Coast, Christianity T: (028) 9145 8831 m: 07733100755 E: [email protected]

mcCusker Breege Fermanagh, Monastic, Plantation, WWII T: (028) 6862 1430 m: 07788927963 E: [email protected]

mcElroy Ken Belfast & N.Ireland, Itinerary Services T: (028) 3884 0054 m: 07801541600 E: [email protected]

mcilvenna John o Belfast, Carrickfergus, Christianity T: (028) 9083 5221 m: 07816969350 E: [email protected]

mcLernon Jennifer Christianity, Irish Lit, Art & Culture T: (028) 2565 5965 m: 07709523116 E: [email protected]

moffitt robin St Patrick, Belfast, Glens of Antrim T: (028) 9185 2239 m: 07972196066 E: [email protected]

moorhead Patrica Hillsborough, Belfast, Walking & Coach T: (028) 9268 1071 m: 07763203123 E: [email protected]

morgan Deirdre Belfast, Walking & Coach, Falls-Shankill T: (028) 9031 0226 m: 07812739683 E: [email protected]

moriarty Virginia All Ireland, Belfast, Mournes, Giant’s Causeway T: (028) 4275 7817 m: 07771705850 E: [email protected]

murphy Chris All Ireland, Belfast, Mournes, St Patrick T: (028) 4484 3141 m: 07927895580 E: [email protected]

neill nollaig Belfast, Antrim, Down, Armagh, Mournes T: (028) 9070 5202 m: 07801543754 E: [email protected]

noe Doris Belfast, St Patrick, Giant’s Causeway & Glens T: (028) 4484 3141 m: 07927895580 E: [email protected]

Pimley robert Belfast, Giant’s Causeway, St Patrick, Mournes T: (028) 9062 9592 m: 07743335379 E: [email protected]

Quinn John Belfast, Social, Political. m: 07900512478 E: [email protected]

rice Hugh N. Ireland, Belfast, Antrim Coast, Mournes T: (028) 9028 0925 m: 07798884538 E: [email protected]

robinson Ken EFL Study Tours, Causeway Coast, St George’s Market, National Trust, Green Tourism T: (028) 2564 1003 m: 07884400667 E: [email protected]

scott Billy Black Taxi Tour, Belfast & Giant’s Causeway T: (028) 9087 5978 m: 07798602401 E: [email protected]

Todd mary Medical & Nursing History, Antrim Coast T: (028) 9186 3584 m: 07740374442 E: [email protected]

Turtle sam North Coast, Rural Life, Sport, Belfast T: (028) 2955 7993 m: 07711768538 E: [email protected]

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Visitors can enjoy the character of traditional pubs like McHugh’s Bar in Belfast, dating back to 1711; or a modern bar and bistro like Dorman’s & The Opera, Magherafelt, the Northern Ireland Pub of the Year 2011. Or alternatively, for good food based on local produce try the Dirty Duck Ale House in Holywood, idyllically overlooking the sea, and winner of Northern Ireland Food Pub of the Year 2011.

To help you discover the best of Northern Ireland’s pubs and what they have to offer check out the Pub finder at www.pubsofulster.org. Here you can search by location to find your perfect pub, or by the feature you are looking for to make your perfect experience – food, entertainment, accommodation, outdoor area or function facilities.

You’ll find pubs steeped in the history and culture of the country with many locals being owned and run by the same family for generations, having welcomed visitors for hundreds of years. The Irish pub is known

the world over for its hospitality, good nature and craic, and the Ulster pub provides a unique offering within this world famous experience. As well as being a famous visitor attraction, local pubs are often the hub of community life and a source of identity for the areas they serve. It’s a great way to really get to know a town or tourist destination, while enjoying some genuine Northern Irish hospitality and culture.

So don’t miss out and make sure a visit to the pub is a must do for any trip, whether it’s to soak up the atmosphere or for some well deserved rest and relaxation for weary travellers and those feeling the exertion of an excursion.

Most pubs will happily accommodate both small and large groups; however it’s always good to call ahead. Some pubs will have individual policies on the admission of children and its worth checking in advance if there are under 18’s within your party.

Pubs of ulster

HOW TO... find your perfect pubGood food and great hospitality are an important element of a great day out and the pubs of northern ireland are world famous for their unique atmosphere, friendly welcome and high quality food. so whether you are looking for a cosy traditional pub or a modern café-style bar – northern ireland has it all.

A day away is real tonic particularly if you are heading off with a group of friends or a membership club with a common interest. These trips often revolve around visiting an historical site, visitor attraction or special interest venue. An integral part of any day out is the social side of the experience and is important that you and your friends have an enjoyable time away. A nice cup of tea or more substantial refreshment is all part of the day out. If you are arranging your day, why not consider one of Northern Ireland’s many hotels for your morning coffee, afternoon tea or evening meal. A hotel is a really great option for a group of people as they often have private rooms in which you can sit as a group and enjoy each other’s company. Hotels are happy to tailor menus to suit group’s individual budgets and can often offer additional added value with entertainment or entry to a local attraction.

If you go away regularly why not extend the trip and go for something different by staying overnight. If you have never thought of this, perhaps this is the year to do it, as there is exceptional value at the moment. An overnight trip is a really great way to enhance your event calendar allowing you to visit more than one place with the added bonus of bringing a social dimension to your group’s activity. You could even consider getting in a

speaker to talk about a common interest or the local area as part of your trip away. Hotels are a great option for an outing like this as their private facilities are great for dining and meetings. This can be very cost effective and is often given for a nominal sum or no cost at all for overnight guests staying on one of the quieter nights of the week like a Sunday or Monday. If you are part of a network of groups why not organise a gathering of branches from other areas and meet in a central location. A real chance to network, swap ideas and garner new partners. Networking opportunities shouldn’t be underestimated, additional time means you can really get to know individual group members and find out what makes them tick in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Hotels are all about hospitality and your local hoteliers are happy to welcome you whether it’s for a quick cup of coffee, soup and sandwich or something more substantial. The hotels in Northern Ireland would be delighted to see you and your members in the coming year. If you are interested in staying at one of Northern Ireland’s many excellent hotels and guesthouses, please visit our website, www.nihf.co.uk, or contact us directly on (028) 9077 8835.

northern ireland Hotels federation (niHf)

HOW TO... make the most of a hotelsee the sight and stay the night.

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Tourist Information For more information on any of the Itineries listed please contact any of the relevant Tourist Information Centres. BelfastAntrimArmaghDownFermanaghLondonderryTyrone

BelfastBelfast Welcome Centre Tourist information – Belfast & niT: (028) 9024 6609E: [email protected]

Belfast international airportT: (028) 9448 4677E: [email protected]

George Best Belfast City airportT: (028) 9093 5372E: [email protected]

County antrimantrimT: (028) 9442 8331E: [email protected]

BallycastleT: (028) 2076 2024 E: [email protected]

BallymenaT: (028) 2563 5900E: [email protected]

CarrickfergusT: (028) 9335 8049E: [email protected]

Giant’s CausewayT: (028) 2073 1855E: [email protected]

LarneT: (028) 2826 0088E: [email protected]

LisburnT: (028) 9266 0038E: [email protected]

Portrush (seasonal)T: (028) 7082 3333E: [email protected]

County armagharmaghT: (028) 3752 1800E: [email protected]

County DownBanbridgeT: (028) 4062 3322E: [email protected]

BangorT: (028) 9127 0069 E: [email protected]

DownpatrickT: (028) 4461 2233E: [email protected]

HillsboroughT: (028) 9268 9717E: [email protected]

KilkeelT: (028) 4176 2525E: [email protected]

270 271

newcastleT: (028) 4372 2222E: [email protected]

newtownardsT: (028) 9182 6846E: [email protected]

newry CityT: (028) 3031 3170E: [email protected]

Portaferry (seasonal)T: (028) 4272 9882E: [email protected]

County fermanaghEnniskillenT: (028) 6632 3110E: [email protected]

County LondonderryColeraineT: (028) 7034 4723 E: [email protected]

LimavadyT: (028) 7776 0650E: [email protected]

Derry Visitor & Convention BureauT: (028) 7126 7284E: [email protected]

magherafeltT: (028) 7963 1510E: [email protected]

County TyroneCookstownT: (028) 8676 9949E: [email protected]

KillymaddyT: (028) 8776 7259E: [email protected]

omaghT: (028) 8224 7831E: [email protected]

strabaneT: (028) 7138 4444E: [email protected]

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ni great days out for groups

Documents

clay pigeon

sir arthur

austins department

freshly baked

book contactbrendan

book contactpamela

hunters bakery

creggandevesky