10 things to do in Northern Ireland from 17 – 23 March
1. Spring Spectacular at Hillsborough Castle & Gardens, County Down, 15 March – 5 May. See Northern Ireland’s royal residence burst into colour as Spring Spectacular returns to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. More bulbs than ever have been planted to create stunning floral displays and installations across beds, pots, barrels and even a boat. Discover an array of springtime blooms, from fragrant hyacinths to vibrant tulips, and admire the selection of Northern Irish daffodils. After enjoying the fresh air and strolling around the grounds, warm up with a treat in the café.
2. Arts Night at the Museum with North Down Museum, Bangor, County Down, 21 March. Explore your creative side when North Down Museum once again opens its doors for Arts Night at the Museum. Visitors can expect everything from clay work to printmaking, to sketching and painting as you explore the museum in a unique and unexpected way. Arts Night is an event for the whole family... and it’s free.
3. St Patrick's Day at Ulster Folk Museum, Holywood, County Down, 17 March. Celebrate a St Patrick's Day steeped in history, folklore and tradition. Watch Irish dancers, listen to traditional music and hear folklore tales this St Patrick's Day at Ulster Folk Museum. See demonstrations including ploughing and horse shoeing, get involved at the craft stations and enjoy colcannon samples and demonstrations from the talented makers. Stop by McCusker's fully-licenced pub (please drink responsibly) before leaving and bring a shamrock home with you (while stock lasts).
4. Saint Patrick's Day at Slemish, Broughshane, County Antrim, 17 March. Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in spectacular style with a memorable trek up Slemish—the legendary mountain where Ireland’s patron saint once tended sheep. This iconic annual tradition invites you to conquer the 1.5km round trip to the summit and take in the breathtaking panoramic views. The hike takes approximately one hour, so be sure to wear warm, waterproof layers and sturdy footwear (boots recommended - no soft trainers).
5. Spring Equinox Sunrise Walk and Yoga at Lagan Valley Regional Park, Belfast, 20 March. Mark the spring equinox at sunrise in the tranquil surroundings of Lagan Valley Regional Park. You will meet outside the Lockkeeper's Visitor Centre at 6.20am to enjoy the sunrise together on the astronomical start of spring.
6. Earth Yoga - In The Heart Of The Marble Arch Caves, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 23 March. Enjoy a unique experience as you get in touch with your inner yogi in a beginner-friendly, 60 minutes, yoga session in the depths of the Marble Arch Caves. Relax body and mind as you connect withnature inside the cave with an inviting and inspiring class that is open to all.
7. Spring Equinox: Ancient Influencers at Navan Centre and Fort, Armagh, County Armagh, 22 March. Join guest speakers, Anthony Murphy and Helen Bel Logue for two special talks either the morning (10:30am-12:30pm) or afternoon (2:00pm-4:00pm). Anthony’s talk will focus on the ancient astronomers of stone age Ireland, with a particular focus on the astronomical orientations of the neolithic passage tombs of the Boyne Valley. Helen will highlight what the transition taking place this spring equinox could mean on both a personal and collective level.
8. Omagh Sperrins Walking Festival at Gortin Glen Forest Park, County Tyrone, 22-23 March. Get your walking boots ready for the Sperrins Walking Festival, taking place across the Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural beauty (AONB). The programme, developed and delivered by The Sperrins Partnership and outdoor experts Far and Wild, is designed to help walkers of all abilities enjoy the beautiful landscape as well as promoting health, physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.
9. St Patrick's Day Crafts at Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, 15 –17 March. Celebrate St Patrick's Day at Seamus Heaney HomePlace and keep the children entertained with some crafts. Why not visit the exhibition this St Patrick's Day and stop by the Creative Zone. Create your very own hand-made St Patrick's Day-themed card to take home. Entry included as part of exhibition ticket.
10. Guided Historical Tour of the Earl Bishop's Estate at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, Castlerock, County Londonderry, 17 March. Join the National Trust and Hervey Heritage Group on a journey through time and history across one of the jewels of the Causeway Coast. Taking off from the Bishop's Gate entrance of Downhill Demesne, this two-hour walk-and-talk will take you through the Earl Bishop Hervey's estate, including his gardens and 'castle'. It is the perfect opportunity to soak up the surrounding landscapes and breath-taking views of golden beaches and crashing Atlantic waves. You'll also enjoy access to the iconic cliff-edge Mussenden Temple.
For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit discovernorthernireland.com. Subject to availability and change without notice.
