10 things to do in Northern Ireland
Here are ten exciting things happening 16 – 22 January 2023
1. Fused Glass Ogham Experience at White Rock Glass Studio, Newtownhamilton, County Armagh, 21 January(more dates available). Reconnect with your inner creative in this fully immersive, fused glass experience at White Rock Glass Studio with professional visual artist Tracey Mc Verry. Surrounded by the wild and dramatic scenery of the FewsMountains, Tracey welcomes visitors to her 5th generation family home and glass studio, overlooking the National Trust’s ancient Ballymoyer Woodland.
2. Journey into Stillness: A New Year wellness retreat at Elmfield Estate, Gilford, County Armagh, 21 January(more dates available). Take time to “just be” on this mini journey of self-discovery. Immersed in the natural surroundings of Elmfield Estate’s magnificent trees and peaceful gardens, you will be guided to connect with your peace within. Held by the natural world, totally secluded from the outside and from everyday life, guests are taken through a series of simple practices, to reconnect with themselves, each other, and their natural environment.
3. Sourdough in a Day, Ballycastle, County Antrim, 22 January (more dates available). Learn how to make sourdough at home with Ursa Minor Bakehouse. The class covers three different types of bread, using both sourdough culture and yeast. Starting from scratch, you will be guided through the process, learning tips and tricks along the way.
4. Limitless, Limavady, County Londonderry. Check website for opening times. If you’re up for a challenge, then Limitless Adventure Centre is definitely for you. Adrenalin junkies and thrill seekers will love the array of experiences on offer. Both the vista and wide range of activities won’t disappoint. You will pilot a hovercraft over grass and water with the wind in your hair and the taste of salt on your lips.Expert tuition is on hand before your driving skills are put to the test.
5. Movie Nights at The Bushmills Inn, Bushmills, County Antrim, 19 January (more dates available). Cold winter nights are the perfect excuse to enjoy the magic of one of The Bushmills Inn movie nights. Enjoy a great evening out with a two-course meal followed by a movie and popcorn in their boutique cinema at £32.50 per person. Dinner is served at 6pm and the movie begins at 8pm.
6. Game of Thrones Studio Tour, Banbridge, County Down. Check website for opening times. Located at the authentic filming location of Linen Mill Studios in Banbridge, County Down, Game of Thrones Studio Tour invites you to experience the world of Game of Thrones like never before.This is an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in an expansive collection of costumes, props, sets and weapons, and to discover the artistry that designed the Seven Kingdoms and brought the story of Game of Thrones to life on screen. Check the website for ticket offers throughout the year.
7. Mother Goose at Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 12 - 21 January. Lakeland Players make their much-anticipated return to the Ardhowen. Filled with wonderful comedy scenes and all the usual traditional slapstick and audience participation, Mother Goose will be sure to get 2023 off to an EGGcellent start.
8. Cookery demonstration by Ian Orr at Ardtara Country House, Maghera, County Londonderry, 18 January. Chef Ian Orr, Ardtara Country House, showcases winter dining with a range of comfort foods, one pot wonders and some lighter dishes to help the waistline. The demonstration commences at 7pm followed by a 5-course meal. Why not make a night of it with the B&B package which includes the cookery demonstration and a 5-course meal. See more details on their website.
9. The Wizard of Oz at The Burnavon with the Stewartstown Dramatic Society, Cookstown, County Tyrone, 6 – 28 January. Enjoy a journey with Dorothy and her dog Toto, as she travels along the Yellow Brick Road through the land of OZ to the Emerald City to ask the wonderful Wizard of OZ to send her home to Kansas. Check for further details on evening and matinee shows on their website.
10. Belfast Music Walking Tour, Belfast, starting 21 January (dates available throughout the year). Take this popular tour around Belfast city centre, delivered in association with the Oh Yeah Music Centre, to discover why Belfast deserves its prestigious UNESCO City of Music designation. On a leisurely, music-filled stroll, your guide Dolores will introduce you to many of the city’s music legends, past and present, accompanied by a soundtrack of their music. You will also hear about Belfast’s rich musical heritage, traditions and roots.
Booking is essential for most activities. Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.
For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/
