Days out Northern Ireland - Spring and summer 2019 - National Trust

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Days out Northern Ireland - Spring and summer 2019 - National Trust
Days out
Northern Ireland
Spring and summer 2019

Registered charity number 205846
Days out Northern Ireland - Spring and summer 2019 - National Trust
National Trust
                                                                                                                                                                                                Welcome
            Northern Ireland                                                                                                                                                                    The longer days and warmer air can only mean one thing; spring and
                                                                                                                                                                                                summer are on the way. Our gardens are beginning to bloom; our houses
                                                                                                                                                                                                are coming out of their winter sleep and our countryside is buzzing with
                                                                                                                                                                                                busy bees and pollinators. Now’s the time to explore the wonderful places
                                                                                                                    Carrick-a-Rede
                                                                                                                    and Larrybane
                                                                                                                                                                                                we look after – from the coastal paths along the Causeway Coast, to the
                                                                                                  White Park Bay                                                                                peak of Slieve Donard in the Mourne Mountains, this guide will introduce
                                                                                       North Antrim Cliff Path                Ballyconagan                                                      you to the rich variety of landscape, historic houses and industrial
                                                                                        Dunseverick Castle                        Rathlin Island
                                                                                                                                  The Manor House
                                                                                                                                                                                                heritage that’s in our care.
                                                                                      Giant’s Causeway
                                                                                 Portstewart
                                                                                      Strand      Portrush                  Fair Head and
                                                              Downhill Demesne                 Barmouth and     Ballycastle Murlough Bay
                                                              and Hezlett House                Grangemore Dunes
                                                                                                 Coleraine                      Cushleake Mountain
                                                                                                                                 Cushendun
                                                                                                                                        Cushendall
                                                        LONDONDERRY
               Letterkenny

                               Lifford          Gray’s
                                                Printing Press
                                           Strabane
                                                                                                                        Ballymena                          Skernaghan Point
                                                                                                                                                 Larne
                                                                                                                                                                 Portmuck
                                                                                                                                               Glenoe
                                                                                                                                                                  Mullaghdoo and Ballykeel
   Donegal
                                                                                                                         Antrim     Patterson’s
                                                                                               Springhill                           Spade Mill Carrickfergus
                                                                  Wellbrook                                                                                      Lighthouse Island
                                                                 Beetling Mill         Cookstown                           Divis and
                                                      Omagh                                                                the Black           Holywood
                                                                                                                                                         Bangor
                                                                                                        Lough      Crumlin Mountain                             Ballymacormick Point
                                                                                                        Neagh                            BELFAST                and Orlock Point
                                                                                                                        The Crown Bar         Belmont Newtownards
                                                                                                                          Collin Glen         Tower
                                                                                         Coney                                                               Mount Stewart
                                                                     Dungannon           Island                             Minnowburn Lisnabreeny
                                                                                                                           Lisburn
                                                                                                                                                                    Strangford Lough                                                             Discover the wonders of nature
                                                                         The Argory                         Craigavon
                                                                                                    Ardress House
                                                                                                                                                      Rowallane                                 Make every day a new adventure
                                                                                                                                                      Garden
                             Enniskillen
                                 Castle Coole                                             Armagh
                                                                                                                              Ballynahinch
                                                                                                                                                                             Kearney and
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               National Trust members
   SLIGO                                                                                                                                                 Castle Ward         Knockinelder
                     Florence
                     Courtt                                                                                                                                                 Ballyquintin Farm                                                  During normal opening hours members
                                                          Monaghan
                                                                                                                                                   Murlough Nature                              Welcome                                        are entitled to free entry. Additional
                                           Crom                                                Ballymoyer                                          Reserve                                                                                     charges for some events may also apply to
                                                                                                            Derrymore House                    Newcastle
                                                                                                                                                                                                Places to visit – map                2         members to help raise essential funds for
                                                                                 N2

                                                                                                              Newry                            Slieve Donard
                                                                                                              p
                                                                                                                                                  Mourne                                        Hop along for some Easter fun        4–5       the restoration and upkeep of the special
                                                                                                                                                  Coastal Path
                                                                                                                                                                                                Little Rangers, Big Missions         6–7       place you are visiting.
                                             Cavan                                                      Dundalk
                                                                                                                                     Kilkeel
                                                                                                                                                                                                Top six natural play areas           8–9
                                                                                                                                  Blockhouse and
arrick on
hannon                                                                                                                            Green Islands                                                                                                Further information
                                                                                           DUBLIN                                                                                               What’s on                            10–39
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Details of events are correct at the time of
                                                                                                                                                                                                Information                                    printing. Please note that the information
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               provided in this guide may change without
              Places of Interest
                                                                                                                                                                                                Holiday with the National Trust      40–41
                 National Trust                                                                                                                                                                                                                notice. Please check event details before
                 Coast and Countryside                                                                                                                                                          Get in touch                         42        travelling by contacting the relevant place or
                 National Trust                                                                                                                                                                 Did you know...?                     43        visiting our website nationaltrust.org.uk/ni
                 Buildings and Gardens
                 Towns and Cities                                                                                                                                                                                                              Stay connected
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   nationaltrust.org.uk/ni
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   facebook.com/nationaltrustNI
                                                                                                                                                                                                Alternative formats
             For alternative formats please call us on 028 9751 0721                                                                                                                                                                               @nationaltrustNI
                                                                                                                                                                                                Telephone 028 9751 0721 or email
             or email ni.customerenquiries@nationaltrust.org.uk                                                                                                                                 ni.customerenquiries@nationaltrust.org.uk          @nationaltrustNI

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Days out Northern Ireland - Spring and summer 2019 - National Trust
Hop along for some Easter fun
     Over Easter half-term there are loads of activities at our places for kids
     and grown-ups to get messy, muddy and back in touch with nature. It’s
     the perfect opportunity for the whole family to create special memories
     and get inspiration for the summer months ahead.

                                                                                                          Look out for Easter bunnies

                                                                                                          In Fermanagh we’ll be welcoming the               On the North Coast, Downhill Demesne is
Follow a Cadbury Easter Egg trail and get your face painted                                               arrival of spring with lots of hands on fun,      full of surprises. Follow the sensory tree trail
                                                                                                          nature trails and wildlife spotting at Crom,      through the ancient woods and discover
                                                                                                          Castle Coole and Florence Court. On Easter        the Bishop’s Play Trail along the way. Head
                                                                                                          Monday Florence Court will be hosting             to Porstewart Strand to take part in sand
    Along the way you’ll be able to try out a few of the ‘50 things to do before                          its Easter Monday Family Fun Day. Have            sculpting and join in with one of the ranger
    you’re 11 ¾’ challenges, take part in a Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt or just                               your face painted like Bunny, enjoy spring        or gardener walks and talks (please check
    enjoy running wild in the great outdoors. And what’s more, every muddy                                themed Easter crafts and step back in             website for dates and times).
    day out helps us care for special places for many Easters to come.                                    time as the estate showcases its industrial
                                                                                                          past with carpentry and blacksmith
    Hop down to Rowallane Garden for some Fun in               Take a trip to Mount Stewart and           demonstrations.
    The Garden. Get competitive and challenge your             see if you can spot Ruby Red and her
                                                                                                          You’ll find plenty to keep all ages entertained
    loved ones to an egg and spoon race at the front of        friends as they celebrate the return
                                                                                                          at our places in Mid Ulster too. Scale new         Meet the animals at Ardress House
    the house. Get involved in fun Easter crafting in the      of spring. Have fun on the trails, get
                                                                                                          heights in the play area at The Argory, check
    Barn or pick up a nature wristband and head off on         mucky making seed bombs or join one
                                                                                                          out the nature trail through the gardens and
    an exploration around the garden, spotting nature          of the family friendly garden tours. If
                                                                                                          finish off in the courtyard for family games
    bursting into life as you go.                              you’ve energy for more, take a stroll to
                                                                                                          and a tasty treat in the tea-room. Say hello
                                                               the natural play area and discover new
                                                                                                          to the farmyard animals at Ardress House
                                                               challenges to be conquered.
                                                                                                          and discover the new spring flowers in the
Have fun with our nature themed activities                     Half-term is packed with activities        meadows at Springhill.
                                                               at Castle Ward. Explore the Secret
                                                               Shore Nature Trail or get creative with
                                                               the spring themed activities. Why
                                                               not make a day of it and bring along
                                                               a picnic, visit the farmyard animals
                                                               and relax by the shores of Strangford
                                                               Lough.                                     Dates and activities may
                                                                                                          change, for a full list of things to
                                                                                                          see and do this Easter half-term
                                                                                                          visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ni

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Days out Northern Ireland - Spring and summer 2019 - National Trust
Little Rangers, Big Missions!
    Turn your kids into Little Rangers by taking
    part in our Big Missions to help nature…

                                                        Here are some of the Big
                                                        Missions your Little Rangers
                                                        can help us with but look
                                                        out for lots more ways to get
                                                        involved at our places over                     Take on a Big Mission challenge and help us look after nature

                                                        the next few months.
                                                                                                        Butterfly spotting                                              Build a bug hotel
                                                        Bird spotting                                   Get up close to the butterflies and see how                     Find lots of types of sticks, moss and
                                                                                                        many different species you can spot. Look                       leaves and look for a log to build them
                                                        If you’re near the coast, check out how our     carefully (but don’t catch) and check that                      around. Leave your bug hotel ready
                                                        seabird colonies are doing and see how          the butterflies are healthy. Quietly look to                    for other rangers to discover on their
                                                        many seabirds you can spot. Or if you’re        see that their wings aren’t damaged.                            adventures.
                                                        inland, look up to the skies and count how
                                                        many different species of birds you can see.
Let us know what wonderful creatures you find                                                           Tree checks                                                     Pond dipping
                                                                                                        Help us make sure our trees are healthy – have                  Peer (carefully) into ponds to see what
                                                        Litter picking
                                                                                                        a walk around a tree to make sure the trunk                     lurks beneath the surface. Note the variety
    We’re looking for kids of all ages who are          Help us to look after wildlife by carefully     and roots are ok. Measure the width, check                      of bugs you see. Check to see if you can
    happy to roll up their sleeves, pull on their       collecting any rubbish you spot on your         for lichen on the bark and take bark rubbings.                  spot any litter as this can be harmful to
    wellies and help us with some important             summer adventure. If you find glass or          Why not take a tree survey to see how many                      wildlife. Remove it, but only if it’s safe to
    conservation jobs to look after nature at           dangerous items please report it to a ranger.   different species there are.                                    do so.
    our places and spaces.
    Our Big Missions for Little Rangers include
    everything from planting wildflower                                                                 Take your whole family on a Big Mission to help nature          Weeding
    seeds, to protecting wildlife by lifting                                                                                                                            Find a ranger or gardener and ask if they
    litter and bird and butterfly spotting to                                                                                                                           have any patches of weeds they would like
    check how healthy the populations are.                                                                                                                              you to clear. Pulling up weeds helps give
    Creative kids can build bug hotels or birds                                                                                                                         other flowers more room to bloom!
    nests, to provide quality accommodation
    for wildlife, or get their hands dirty pulling
    out unwanted weeds.

    ‘A Little Ranger is a very
    fun job to do. It’s fun to
                                                                                                                                                                          Take part in a Little Ranger
    get mucky and it helps
                                                                                                                                                                          Big Mission at a National
    the environment.’
                                                                                                                                                                          Trust place near you, visit
    Ollie, age 7
                                                                                                                                                                          nationaltrust.org.uk/ni for
                                                                                                                                                                          inspiration.
6                                                    See what you can spot pond dipping                                                                                                                                 7
Days out Northern Ireland - Spring and summer 2019 - National Trust
Top six natural play areas
    We’re on a mission to connect children with nature. We want to
    see them running free in the fresh air, learning new skills and trying
    new things. To encourage them, we’ve created a number of natural
    play areas at our places where kids of all ages can play in nature.

                                                                                                                                                     Florence Court

                                                                                                  Springhill
                                                                                                                                                     Florence Court
                                                                                                                                                     You’ll find the natural play area at
                                                                                                  Springhill                                         Florence Court located just behind
                                                                                                                                                     the house with plenty of activities to
                                                                                                  Venture through the woodlands at Springhill        discover. Have a go at adding to the nest
Mount Stewart                                                                                     and discover a clearing with natural climbing      of willow, try the rope swing, or make
                                                                                                  frames, rope swings and dens, mystical             some music on the wooden xylophone.
                                                                                                  creatures and thrones. Children of all ages will   Using tree stumps, branches, and other
    Mount Stewart                                                                                 be able to get in touch with nature and create     natural materials found in the forest, the
                                                                                                  their own stories and games as they let their      rangers are always adding to the play
    Inspired by Edith, Lady Londonderry’s                                                         imaginations run wild in this natural setting.     area, so there’s something new to see
    children’s book, The Magic Inkpot, Mount                                                                                                         every time you visit.
    Stewart’s natural play area brings characters
    from this mythical tale of Irish legends to     Downhill Demesne
    life. Step into a magical land of upside-down
                                                    Located 200 yards through Bishop’s                                                               Murlough Nature Reserve
    trees, where sea dragons play and sleeping
                                                    Gate, past the beautiful gardens and
    dragons lie. Balance beams, stepping logs,                                                                                                       Our newest natural play area, you’ll find
                                                    carpets of wild garlic, the Bishop’s
    a tree cave, squirrel run, see-saw and more                                                                                                      this playground near the carpark just
                                                    Play Trail is the perfect place to let
    provide a fun challenge for mind and body.                                                                                                       before you enter the dunes. Look out
                                                    your children explore their natural
                                                                                                                                                     for larger than life animals as you climb,
                                                    surroundings. Tackling the spider’s
                                                                                                                                                     crawl, hop and skip though this fun
                                                    web, climbing the causeway stones and
Minnowburn                                                                                                                                           obstacle course.
                                                    navigating the walking see-saw are just
                                                    some of the adventures on offer here.
                                                                                                                                                     Murlough Nature Reserve

                                                    Minnowburn
                                                    The natural play trail at Minnowburn
                                                    winds through the forest following the
                                                    River Lagan. Made largely from recycled       Bishops Play Trail at Downhill Demesne
                                                    tree trunks and willow, the trail features
                                                    balancing beams, stepping stones, a
                                                    seesaw, log ladder and more. Some of
                                                    the larger pieces of natural play include a
                                                    giant xylophone, willow den and a teddy
                                                    bear picnic seating area.

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Days out Northern Ireland - Spring and summer 2019 - National Trust
What’s on                                                                                                        Rowallane Garden
                                                                                                                      March–September
                                                                                                                      Go Plant Hunting
                                                                                                                      Collect your Plant Hunters Passport and take
     We have a full calendar of things                                                                                your family on an imaginary journey following in

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                March
     to see and do this spring/summer                                                                                 the footsteps of the plant hunters who collected
                                                                                                                      amazing plants from around the world. At the
     across Northern Ireland. From nature
                                                                                                                      core of the experience is an illustrated activity
     walks, to family fun days, you’ll find                                                                           booklet. Each stop in the booklet will unlock the
     lots of reasons to get out and enjoy                                                                             story of a plant and the person who discovered it
     our places and spaces. For the full                                                                              through an activity or puzzle.
                                                                                                                      10am–6pm
     programme of events please visit
                                                                                                                      Normal Admission Members Free
     nationaltrust.org.uk/ni.
                                                                                                                      Rowallane Garden
                                                                                                                      March
                                                                                                                      Spring Sensory Walk
                                                                                                                      Pick up a copy of our ‘Spring Sensory Stroll’        Plant Hunters at Rowallane Garden
     Rowallane Garden                                                                                                 and discover ways to explore and interact with
     Every Sunday (March–September)                                                                                   our garden. Our experienced gardening team
                                                                                                                                                                           Murlough NNR
     Garden Walk                                                                                                      have selected the path and picked locations to
                                                               Sea Safari                                                                                                  2 March
     Go on a leisurely walk with one of our friendly                                                                  showcase key points of sensory interest during
                                                                                                                                                                           Jo’s Walks – Woodland in Winter
     volunteers. Learn about the history of the garden                                                                this time of renewal and change.
                                                                                                                                                                           A ramble through Murlough’s woodlands,
     and find out what is in seasonal bloom with these         Castle Ward                                            10am–6pm
                                                                                                                                                                           identifying trees in winter and looking at how the
     informative walks.                                        From March onwards                                     Normal Admission Members Free
                                                                                                                                                                           woods have developed.
     2.30pm                                                    High Tea at Sea
                                                                                                                                                                           Meet at Keel Point concrete standing
     Normal Admission Members Free                             Step aboard the Sea Safari boat and travel across      Cushendun                                            Booking Essential
                                                               Strangford Lough, stopping off on an island for        1 March                                              Contact 028 4375 1467
     Castle Ward                                               tea and scones (tide and condition dependant).         Beach Clean                                          2pm
     Every Weekend (March, April and September)                You can expect to see seals, lighthouses, SeaGen,      Join our ranger team on a litter pick to help keep   No Charge Donations Welcome
     Daily (Throughout May–August)                             tidal turbine, whirlpools and much more.               our beach beautiful.
     Bike and Canoe/Kayak Hire                                 Suitable for ages 8 years plus. Trips leave from       Meet at Cushendun beach                              Portstewart Strand
     Hire both bikes and canoes on the same day and            Strangford Pier and last approximately two hours       Booking Advisable                                    2 March
     receive 10% off the total! Everyone can enjoy the         (tide dependant)                                       Contact 028 7084 8728                                Conservation Farming Talk and Walk
     estate’s top quality bike and canoe trails, with          Booking Essential                                      10am–12noon                                          Discover why we use grazing animals at
     biking equipment available from age 18 months             Contact Strangford Sea Safari on 028 4372 3933         No Charge Donations Welcome                          our places to help deliver our conservation
     and canoeing from age 4 years.                            or email fun@strangford-seasafari.com
                                                                                                                                                                           management plans. Our ranger will talk about the
     Booking Essential                                         From £20 per adult                                     Cushendun Beach Clean
                                                                                                                                                                           type of livestock used, the benefits they bring
     Contact Strangford Sea Safari on 028 4372 3933                                                                                                                        and the challenges of having them on the dunes
     or email fun@strangford-seasafari.com                     Castle Ward                                                                                                 and beach.
                                                               Weekly from March onwards                                                                                   Booking Essential
     Castle Ward                                               Game of Thrones Archery Experience                                                                          Contact 028 7083 6396
     From March onwards                                        Have a go at archery in the very place where the                                                            2–4pm
     Sea Safari                                                BAFTA award winning TV show was filmed – in                                                                 No Charge Donations Welcome
     A sightseeing tour of Strangford Lough with               our courtyard aka ‘Winterfell’. Stand in our replica
     its abundance of nature and wildlife. See the             archery range movie set, dress in GoT themed
                                                                                                                                                                           Fermanagh Places
     SeaGen, Angus Rocks Lighthouse, surface                   costume and take aim.
                                                                                                                                                                           2–3 March
     whirlpools and some of the many seals at                  Private bookings can also be arranged.
                                                                                                                                                                           Free Open Weekend
     Cloughy Rocks Nature Reserve. You might even              Booking Essential
                                                                                                                                                                           Visit Florence Court, Castle Coole or Crom free
     spot a pod of porpoise or even a basking shark!           Contact Strangford Sea Safari on 028 4372 3933
                                                                                                                                                                           of charge this weekend and get a taste of what
     Suitable for ages 3 years plus. Trips leave from          or email fun@strangford-seasafari.com
                                                                                                                                                                           these fantastic places have to offer.
     Strangford Pier and run hourly throughout the day                                                                                                                     No Charge Donations Welcome
     Booking Essential
     Contact Strangford Sea Safari on 028 4372 3933
     or email fun@strangford-seasafari.com
     From £20 per adult
                                                                                                                                                                           Members help keep
                                                                                                                                                                           special places special
10                   Events may change, please visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ni for the latest information                                                                                                                         11
Days out Northern Ireland - Spring and summer 2019 - National Trust
Mount Stewart                                                                                              Giant’s Causeway
                                                                  Saturday 9 March                                                                                           17 March
                                                                  Night Run                                                                                                  Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration
                                                                  Join us for our Night Run this March, in                                                                   Celebrate all things Irish at the Giant’s
                                                                  partnership with Cotswold Outdoor. This event is                                                           Causeway with live music, dance and a special
March

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 March
                                                                  about having fun at your own pace, meeting new                                                             Leprechaun trail down to the stones, as well as
                                                                  people, exploring Mount Stewart after dark and                                                             face painting and treats for all.
                                                                  raising funds for our ongoing conservation work.                                                           Meet at the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre
                                                                  Online Booking Essential                                                                                   9am–5pm
                                                                  Please visit nationaltrust.org.uk/mount-stewart                                                            Normal Admission Members Free
                                                                  Meet at Mount Stewart reception
                                                                  5.15–9pm                                                                                                   Hezlett House
                                                                  Adult £14 child £7                                                                                         17 March
                                                                  Member Adult £14 child £7                                                                                  Leprechaun Hunt
                                                                                                                                                                             Help us to find the Leprechauns that have
                                                                  Giant’s Causeway                                                                                           escaped from their homes in Bishop’s Gate.
                                                                                                                        Mussenden Temple goes green on 17 March
                                                                  9 March                                                                                                    Enjoy traditional Saint Patrick’s Day crafts and
                                                                  Community Open Day                                                                                         activities. Fun for all the family.
                                                                                                                        Mount Stewart                                        12noon–4pm
        Fermanagh Free Open Weekend                               Join us for the first of our Community Open Days      9–10 March
                                                                  of 2019 and enjoy the full Visitor Experience free                                                         Normal Admission Members Free
                                                                                                                        World Book Weekend
        The Argory                                                of charge. Take a guided walk with one of our         Do you like jumping in muddy puddles like Peppa
                                                                  rangers, or explore the site at your own pace with                                                         Mussendun Temple
        7 March                                                                                                         Pig or do you have adventures like The Famous
                                                                  a self-led audio guide, available in 11 languages.                                                         17 March
        Artificial Sunshine: A Series of Talks                                                                          Five? We would love to hear all about your
                                                                  Browse the range of locally sourced gifts and                                                              Mussenden Lights
        Wonder what makes the acetylene light fittings                                                                  favourite stories and characters at our World
                                                                  crafts in the shop, or relax with a coffee or treat                                                        Mussenden Temple will be going green for one
        at The Argory so unique? Join our curator as                                                                    Book Day Weekend. Come dressed up and join
                                                                  in the café.                                                                                               night only. Grab your camera and a torch and
        she explores the history of domestic lighting                                                                   the fun.
                                                                  Meet at the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre                                                                don’t miss this rare opportunity to see the
        throughout the ages.                                                                                            11am–3pm
                                                                  9am–5pm                                                                                                    iconic Earl Bishops Library in a different light.
        Complimentary refreshments served                                                                               Normal Admission Members Free                        Meet at Lion’s Gate
        Booking Essential
                                                                  Carrick-a-Rede                                                                                             7–9pm
        Contact 028 8778 4753                                                                                           Downhill Demesne
                                                                  9–10 March                                                                                                 No Charge Donations Welcome
        7pm                                                                                                             16 March
        Normal Admission Members Free                             Fishery Open Weekend                                  Bulbs and Buds
                                                                  Come explore the fisherman’s cottage on                                                                    Carrick-a-Rede
                                                                                                                        Join our knowledgeable gardener and explore the      18 March
        Murlough NNR                                              Carrick-a-Rede Island and hear how salmon             beginning of spring on the estate. Get some tips
                                                                  fishermen first erected a rope bridge here in 1755.                                                        Ballintoy Rockhunt Club
        9 March                                                                                                         to take home all the while enjoying the beautiful
                                                                  Guided talks every 15 minutes.                                                                             Calling all fossil hunters! Come and explore
        Winter’s Gone, What’s Next for the Rangers                                                                      surroundings of Bishop’s Gate.
                                                                  Meet at the fisherman’s cottage                                                                            Larrybane Quarry to find fossils and learn about
        Join the ranger team for a walk and talk to find                                                                Meet at Bishop’s Gate
                                                                  on Carrick-a-Rede Island                                                                                   the geology of the area.
        out what they do over the winter months and                                                                     Booking Essential
                                                                  1–4pm                                                                                                      Everyone welcome
        what’s next on the calendar.                                                                                    Contact 028 7084 8728
                                                                  Normal Admission Members Free                                                                              Meet at Larrybane Quarry
        Meet at Keel Point concrete standing                                                                            2–4pm                                                10am–12noon
        Booking Essential                                                                                               Normal Admission Members Free
        Contact 028 4375 1467                                     Join our gardener for a bulbs and buds talk at
                                                                  Downhill Demesne                                                                                           Have fun fossil hunting at Larrybane Quarry
        10.30am–12.30pm                                                                                                 Castle Ward
        No Charge Donations Welcome                                                                                     17 March
                                                                                                                        Saint Patrick’s Walk
        National Trust Northern Ireland                                                                                 Join us on our annual walk through Saint Patrick’s
        (excluding Fermanagh)                                                                                           country. Organised jointly by Newry, Mourne and
        9 March                                                                                                         Down District Council and the Lecale Ramblers,
        Free Open Day                                                                                                   the route includes a mixture of quiet country
        Enjoy free admission at a number of National                                                                    roads and green lanes. The event is free and a wee
        Trust places today. Come and meet our staff and                                                                 dram of whiskey (or tea/coffee) is provided at our
        volunteers, and learn more about the amazing                                                                    refreshment point. Due to livestock this walk is
        places we look after. (Please note Fermanagh                                                                    not suitable for dogs.
        places free open weekend is 2–3 March)                                                                          For further information contact Downpatrick
        For further details visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ni                                                               Tourist Information Centre on 028 4461 2233 or
                                                                                                                        email downpatrick.vic@nmandd.org
                                                                                                                        Registration 10–10.30am, walk starts 10.45am
                                                                                                                        Free event
 12                     Events may change, please visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ni for the latest information                                                                                                                       13
Days out Northern Ireland - Spring and summer 2019 - National Trust
Mount Stewart                                              Springhill                                                                                                The Argory
        23 March                                                   30 March                                                                                                  6 April
        Spring Walk                                                Allotment Open Day                                                                                        Good Food Market
        Enjoy a three mile walk through the rolling                Fancy seeing what goes on behind the big wall                                                             Come along to taste and buy a range of locally
        countryside of the Demesne and discover                    at Springhill? Hear more from our community                                                               sourced produce. The historic courtyard will
March

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                April
        the wealth of wildlife, history and stunning               allotment holders and learn some top tips on                                                              come to life with a cookery demonstration,
        landscape of this unique estate.                           how to grow your own.                                                                                     guided estate tours, music and more.
        Suitable for children aged 8 years plus with               11am–3pm                                                                                                  For trade stand information, please email
        accompanying adult. Stout walking boots                    Normal Admission Members Free                                                                             argory@nationaltrust.org.uk
        required. Well behaved dogs on leads only.                                                                                                                           11am–4pm
        Meet at Mount Stewart reception                            Rowallane Garden                                                                                          Normal Admission Members Free
        Booking Essential                                          30 March
        Contact 028 4278 8387                                      Flower Pressing Session                                                                                   Mount Stewart
        10am–1pm                                                   Learn about the techniques of flower pressing.                                                            7 April
                                                                                                                      Pet Nose Day at Mount Stewart
        Normal Admission Members Free                              Our gardeners will show you how and why it’s                                                              Pet Nose Day
                                                                   important to press flowers, and share a few tips                                                          This award-winning charity event returns
        The Argory                                                 on how to speed up the process. Great fun for      The Argory                                             as part of Pet Month and celebrates our
        23–24 March                                                families.                                          4 April                                                four legged friends. Bring along your dog
        Spring Book Fair                                           11am–12noon                                        Artificial Sunshine: A Series of Talks                 and be entertained by agility and training
        Browse through hundreds of second hand                     Normal Admission Members Free                      After two years of cleaning and conserving, The        demonstrations.
        books and stock up on all your essential                                                                      Argory’s acetylene light fittings have been restored   11am–3pm
        summer reads. Enjoy live music in the                      Mount Stewart                                      to their former glory. Meet the conservation team      Normal Admission Members Free
        courtyard on Sunday afternoon.                             31 March                                           to find out how we did it and what’s next.
        11am–5pm                                                   Mother’s Day                                       Complimentary refreshments served                      Glenoe Waterfall
        Normal Admission Members Free                              Treat your mum to a fabulous afternoon tea. Sit    Booking Essential                                      13 April
                                                                   back and relax with a glass of Prosecco while      Contact 028 8778 4753                                  The Geology of Glenoe
                                                                   celebrating your marvellous mum.                   7pm                                                    Come for a journey through time as we look
                                                                   Children are 12 years and under                    Normal Admission Members Free                          at the fascinating and diverse geology of this
        Artificial sunshine lights up The Argory
                                                                   Booking Essential                                                                                         beautiful glen.
                                                                   Contact 028 4278 8387                              Mount Stewart                                          Meet at disused quarry car park, Waterfall Road,
                                                                   12noon, 12.30pm and 1pm                            6 April                                                Glenoe
                                                                   Adult £25 Child £12.50                             Car Bazaar                                             1–4pm
                                                                   Member Adult £25 Child £12.50                      Come along and sell your unwanted items or browse      No Charge Donations Welcome
                                                                                                                      around the many stalls and pick up a few treasures.
                                                                   Castle Ward                                        As this is held outdoors, please check Facebook or
                                                                   31 March                                           our website to confirm event is going ahead.           Learn about the geology of Glenoe
                                                                   Castle Ward in Bloom                               TRADERS: Gates will open from 7am for set
                                                                   Treat your mum or someone special to a day         up. Please do not arrive before 7am as you
                                                                   out at Castle Ward this Mother’s Day. Visit the    will not be able to access the property and
                                                                   Windsor Garden in full bloom, take a tour of the   may cause congestion on the Portaferry Road.
                                                                   eccentric mansion house and make your own          Terms and conditions apply, please see website
                                                                   posy with the Victorian language of flowers.       for details. Traders and caterers please email
                                                                   12noon–4pm                                         eventsmountstewart@nationaltrust.org.uk
                                                                   Normal Admission Members Free                      for prices.
                                                                                                                      9am–12noon
                                                                   Rowallane Garden                                   Car £5 Van £10 Trailer £15
                                                                   Throughout April
                                                                   Spring Sensory Walk                                Murlough NNR
                                                                   Pick up a copy of our ‘Spring Sensory Strolls’     6 April
                                                                   walk. It will help you explore and interact with   Jo’s Walks – Beach Combing
                                                                   our garden. Our experienced gardening team         Join Jo, Murlough’s first warden and naturalist for
                                                                   have selected the path and picked locations to     another of her fantastic walks and talks. We’ll be
                                                                   showcase key points of sensory interest during     discovering the secrets of the shore and searching
                                                                   this time of renewal and change.                   for treasures brought in by the waves.
                                                                   10am–6pm                                           Meet at Keel Point concrete standing
                                                                   Normal Admission Members Free                      Booking Essential
                                                                                                                      Contact 028 4375 1467
                                                                                                                      2.30pm
                                                                                                                      No Charge Donations Welcome
 14                     Events may change, please visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ni for the latest information                                                                                                                      15
Days out Northern Ireland - Spring and summer 2019 - National Trust
Strangford Lough
                                                                                              13 April
                                                                                              Greyabbey Bay Ramble
                                                                                              Join a ranger on a fascinating walk across the
                                                                                              sand flats to nearby Mid Island. Discover some of
April

                                                                                                                                                                                                            April
                                                                                              the area’s remarkable archaeological features and
                                                                                              an abundance of wildlife that make Strangford
                                                                                              Lough so special.
                                                                                              Long distance walk. Suitable for children aged
                                                                                              8 years plus with accompanying adult.
                                                                                              Wellingtons and packed lunch required.
                                                                                              No dogs please.
                                                                                              Meet at Greyabbey car park
                                                                                              Booking Essential
                                                                                              Contact 028 4278 8387
                                                                                              11.30am–2.30pm
                                                                                              Adult £4 Child £1
                                                                                              Member Adult £4 Child £1

                                                                                              Mount Stewart
                                                                                              13–28 April
        Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts                                                              Easter at Mount Stewart
                                                                                              Scurry on down to Mount Stewart over the
                                                                                              Easter holidays and see if you can spot Ruby Red
        We are delighted to team up with Cadbury once again to offer a                                                                                   Go on a rhododendron ramble at Mount Stewart
                                                                                              and her friends as they celebrate the return of
        fun Easter experience at our places. With nature themed egg hunts,                    spring. Have fun on our trails, get mucky making
        activities and games suitable for all, it’s a great family day out. Normal            seed bombs or join one of our family friendly              Castle Ward
                                                                                                                                                         15–28 April
        admission charges apply, Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt, £1.50 per child.                    garden tours.
                                                                                                                                                         Easter at Castle Ward
                                                                                              11am–4pm
                                                                                              Normal Admission Members Free                              Explore the Secret Shore Nature Trail or get
          Place                          Date                            Time                                                                            creative with the spring themed activities. Why
                                                                                              Mount Stewart                                              not make a day of it and bring along a picnic,
          Ardress                        19–23 April                     11am–4pm
                                                                                              14 April                                                   visit the farmyard animals and relax by the
          Castle Coole                   20–23 April                     11am–4pm                                                                        shores of Strangford Lough.
                                                                                              Rhododendron Ramble
          Castle Ward                    19–23 April                     12noon–4pm           Tour the rhododendrons at Mount Stewart with               12noon–4pm
          Crom                           20–23 April                     11am–4pm             Head of Gardens, Neil Porteous.                            Normal Admission Members Free
          Downhill Demesne               21–22 April                     12noon–4pm           Suitable waterproof clothing and sturdy
                                                                                              footwear essential                                         Downhill Demesne
          Florence Court                 19–23 April                     11am–4pm                                                                        15–28 April
                                                                                              Meet at Mount Stewart reception
          Mount Stewart                  19–23 April                     11am–4pm             Booking Essential                                          Easter at Downhill
          Murlough NNR                   19–23 April                     11am–3pm             Contact 028 4278 8387                                      A full two week programme of nature based
                                                                                              11am–1pm                                                   discovery with events for all ages spread across
          Rowallane Garden               19–23 April                     10.30am–3pm
                                                                                              Adult £10 Child £5                                         Downhill/Hezlett House and Porstewart Strand
          Springhill                     19–23 April                     11am–4pm                                                                        to include sand sculpting, sensory tree trail,
                                                                                              Member Adult £10 Child £5
          The Argory                     19–23 April                     11am–4pm             Normal Admission Applies                                   walks and talks with our rangers and gardener
                                                                                                                                                         and a selection of the ‘50 things to do before
                                                                                                                                                         you’re 11 ¾’.
        Every time you head out on a Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt, you                             For a full list of what’s happening at our places          12noon–4pm
        help us fund vital conservation work to protect special places                        this Easter, including Cadbury Easter Egg                  Normal Admission Members Free
        for future generations to explore. Thank you.
                                                                                 Join the     Hunts visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ni
                                                                               Egg Hunt Fun

 16                                                                                                            Events may change, please visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ni for the latest information           17
Days out Northern Ireland - Spring and summer 2019 - National Trust
Cushendun                                                                                                       Florence Court
                                                               19 April                                                                                                        22 April
                                                               Curious Fairies                                                                                                 Easter Monday Family Fun Day
                                                               Come along and try to find the Cushendun                                                                        Easter fun for all the family, with Cadbury Easter
                                                               fairies emerging from their winter slumber to                                                                   Egg Hunts, music and much more.
April

                                                                                                                                                                               Egg Hunt £1.50 per child

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    April
                                                               look after the special flora/fauna that live here.
                                                               Booking Essential                                                                                               11am–5pm
                                                               Contact 028 7084 8728                                                                                           Normal Admission Members Free
                                                               10am– 12noon
                                                               No Charge Donations Welcome                                                                                     Crom
                                                                                                                                                                               22 April
                                                               Ardress                                              Cruise the lough at Crom                                   Cruise the Lough
                                                               19–28 April                                                                                                     See a different side to Crom estate from the water
                                                               Easter at Ardress                                    Strangford Lough                                           as you cruise around the lough in Crom’s 100 year
        Celebrate World Heritage Day at the Giant’s Causeway   Bounce over to Ardress this Easter, say hello        20–21 April                                                old traditional craft.
                                                               to the friendly farmyard animals and enjoy           Life Around the Lough                                      Weather dependant
        The Argory                                             springtime adventures.                               Photographic exhibition from National Trust                Booking Essential
        15–28 April                                            11am–5pm                                             collection presenting historical records, lesser           Contact 028 6773 8118
        Easter at The Argory                                   Normal Admission Members Free                        known landscapes and work of National Trust                1–5pm
        Hop over to The Argory this Easter and go wild                                                              volunteers on nature reserves.                             Adult £5 Child £2.50
        in the play park, enjoy Easter crafts and games in     Kearney                                              Meet at Lookout Information Centre, Mount                  Member Adult £5 Child £2.50
        the courtyard and take part in our nature trail.       20 April                                             Stewart
        11am–5pm                                               Have a Go: Scything                                  12noon–5pm                                                 Murlough NNR
        Normal Admission Members Free                          Enjoy a hands on tools day. We will be using         No Charge Donations Welcome                                27 April
                                                               traditional scythes to cut winter grass at our                                                                  Bug Detectives
        Springhill                                             heritage orchard to improve its health and           Divis and the Black Mountain                               Join in as we get out our magnifying glasses and
        15–28 April                                            habitat for wildlife.                                21 April                                                   discover a whole world of bugs and beasties…
        Easter at Springhill                                   Maximum 6 adults. Other tasks suitable for           Four Peaks Challenge                                       just where could those little critters be hiding?
        Put a spring into your step this Easter at             children 8 years plus. Bring outdoor clothing        Join our ranger for a guided walk across the               Meet at Keel Point concrete standing
        Springhill! Discover new spring flowers in the         and packed lunch.                                    peaks of the Black Hill, Black Mountain, Divis             Booking Essential
        meadows. Enjoy springtime activities and have          Meet at Kearney Village car park                     Mountain and Armstrong’s Hill. Suitable for age            Contact 028 4375 1467
        lots of fun in the natural play areas.                 Booking Advisable                                    12 years plus. All children must be accompanied            2pm
        11am–5pm                                               Contact 028 4278 7769                                by an adult.                                               No Charge Donations Welcome
        Normal Admission Members Free                          10am–1pm                                             Suitable clothing and footwear essential. Bring
                                                               No Charge Donations Welcome                          a warm flask and light snack.                              Rathlin Island
        Giant’s Causeway                                                                                            Registration at The Coffee Barn                            27 April
        18 April                                                                                                    10am–4pm                                                   Mucky Route Repairs
        World Heritage Day                                     Become a bug detective at Murlough NNR               Adult £3                                                   Well worn paths need work to keep them in a
        Come help us celebrate World Heritage Day at                                                                Member Adult £3                                            good condition and help prevent erosion and
        Northern Ireland’s only World Heritage Site. Hear                                                                                                                      habitat damage, so get stuck in to some
        what makes this such a special place and how                                                                Giant’s Causeway                                           practical work helping our rangers look after
        the National Trust is protecting it for ever, for                                                           21 April                                                   the trails on Ballyconaghan.
        everyone.                                                                                                   Earth Day                                                  Booking Essential
        Meet at the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre                                                                 To celebrate Earth Day, we’re offering a free              Contact 028 7084 8728
        9am–5pm                                                                                                     guided geology walk of the World Heritage Site.            10am–4.15pm
                                                                                                                    Meet geologist guide Ian Enlander at the front             Free event (boat charge additional)
        Rowallane Garden                                                                                            of the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre
        18–26 April                                                                                                 Booking Essential
        Fun in the Garden                                                                                           Contact 028 2073 3419
        Get competitive and challenge your loved ones to                                                            2–5pm
        an egg and spoon race at the front of the house.                                                            No Charge
        Get involved in fun Easter crafting in the barn.
        Pick up a nature wristband and head off on an
        exploration around the garden to spot nature
        bursting into life.
        10am–6pm
        Normal Admission Members Free

  18                                                                                                                                 Events may change, please visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ni for the latest information             19
Mount Stewart
                                                                                                                         28 April
                                                                                                                         Jazz in the Garden

                                                                                                                                                                              April/May
                                                                                                                         Bring your picnic and settle down on the
                                                                                                                         lawn with your family and friends to enjoy an
                                                                                                                         afternoon of jazz in the beautiful gardens at
                                                                                                                         Mount Stewart.
                                                                                                                         Sorry no BBQ’s. Picnics welcome. Please note
                                                                                                                         that this event takes place outside. Appropriate
                                                                                                                         clothing required

 No. 5                                              No. 18                                                               2–4.30pm
                                                                                                                         Normal Admission Members Free
Skim a stone                                   Create some
                                                                                                                         Rowallane Garden
                                                 wild art                                                                May–June
                                                                                                                         Tiger Who Came to Tea
                                                                                                                         Get up close to the beloved artwork from Judith

      50 Things Month at
                                                              The Tiger Who Came to Tea visits Rowallane Garden          Kerr’s much-loved children’s classic picture
                                                                                                                         book, ‘The Tiger Who Came To Tea’,
                                                              The Argory                                                 at Rowallane Garden.

     the Giant’s Causeway                                     27 April                                                   Visit the website for details.
                                                              Vintage Rally                                              Normal Admission Members Free
                                                              Hundreds of vintage vehicles will descend upon
                                                              The Argory as we host our famous vintage                   Giant’s Causeway
      Join our Rangers every Saturday in                      vehicle rally. A must-see event for all vehicle            Every Saturday in May
                                                                                                                         50 Things Month
                                                              enthusiasts.
       May 2019 for a 50 Things activity                      11am–5pm                                                   50 Things’ led activities.
                                                              Normal Admission Members Free                              Meet at the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre
                                                                                                                         10am–12noon
                                                              White Park Bay                                             No Charge
                                                              27 April
                                                              Primrose Walk and Dawn Chorus                              Carrick-a-Rede
                                                              Tune your ears in to the birdy melodies from               Every Sunday in May
                                                              our delightful songbirds as we wind our way                50 Things Month
                                                              through an ocean of primroses.                             Join our team for a 50 Things activity.
                                                              Booking Essential                                          Meet at reception
                                                              Contact 028 7084 8728                                      2–4pm
                                                              6–8am                                                      No Charge

    No. 36                No. 37                              No Charge Donations Welcome

                     Check out the              No. 31                                                                   The Argory

 Make a home                                                  Mount Stewart                                              2 May

                     crazy creatures          Hunt for bugs   28 April                                                   Artificial Sunshine: A Series of Talks
for a wild animal                                             Tour the Temple                                            Kevin Killen, creator of The Argory’s spectacular
                      in a rock pool                          Join one of our guides for a tour of the Temple            neon artwork, ‘Artificial Sunshine,’ discusses the
                                                                                                                         inspiration behind his design and the fascinating
                                                              of the Winds. Hear the history of this special
                                                              building and enjoy the stunning views over                 process of working with neon.
                                                              Strangford Lough.                                          Complimentary refreshments served
                                                              Meet at the Temple of the Winds                            Booking Essential
                                                              Booking Essential                                          Contact 028 8778 4753
                                                              Contact 028 4278 8387                                      7pm
                                                              12noon–1pm and 2–3pm                                       Normal Admission Members Free
                                                              Normal Admission Members Free

                     For more details visit
             nationaltrust.org.uk/giants-causeway

                                                                               Events may change, please visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ni for the latest information             21
Cushendun                                                                                                   Castle Ward
      3–6 May                                                                                                     5–6 May
      Big Arts Weekend                                                                                            The Wonderful World of Mary Ward
      Come along and support this local event, try                                                                Celebrate the wonderful life of Mary Ward
      some of the delicious food and see the wide                                                                 and learn more about this leading naturalist,
      array of hand crafted goods the artisan market                                                              astronomer and artist through a range of fun
May

                                                                                                                                                                                                                          May
      has to offer.                                                                                               activities and displays.
      Meet at Glenmona House                                                                                      12noon–4pm
      10am–5pm                                                                                                    Normal Admission Members Free
      Free event
                                                                                                                  Crom
      Minnowburn                                                                                                  6 May
      4 May                                                                                                       Cruise the Lough
      Minnowburn Dander                                                                                           See a different side to Crom estate from the       What nests will you find at Springhill
      Join our ranger for a walk around the              Wide variety of plants at Rowallane Garden Spring Fair   water as you cruise around the lough in Crom’s
      picturesque Minnowburn area. Learn about the                                                                100 year old traditional craft.                    Springhill
      wildlife, botany and history of this outstanding   Murlough NNR                                             Weather dependant (check website for details)      10 May
      location.                                          4 May                                                    Booking Essential                                  Nest Quest
      Meet at Minnowburn car park                        Jo’s Walks – Rabbits and Flowers                         Contact 028 6773 8118                              Join our ranger team to help spot nests around
      11am–12.30pm                                       A walk investigating the history and social life of      1–5pm                                              the gardens and wider estate at Springhill. Learn
      No Charge Donations Welcome                        Murlough’s rabbits and how important they are            Adult £5 Child £2.50                               the importance of why we protect the birds’
                                                         for conserving Murlough’s flowers.                       Member Adult £5 Child £2.50                        nests and hear first-hand how you can help birds
      Mount Stewart                                      Meet at Keel Point concrete standing
                                                                                                                                                                     at home.
      4 May                                              Booking Essential                                        Cushendun                                          Handmade nest boxes available to buy.
      Car Bazaar                                         Contact 028 4375 1467                                    6 May                                              Booking Advisable
      Come along and sell your unwanted items or         2pm                                                      Go Wild with the Rangers                           Contact 028 8674 8210
      browse around the many stalls and pick up a        No Charge Donations Welcome                              Join our ranger for a morning of fun and           2pm
      few treasures.                                                                                              adventure in Cushendun.                            Normal Admission Members Free
      As this is held outdoors, please check Facebook    Rowallane Garden                                         Booking Essential
      or our website to confirm event is going ahead.    4–5 May                                                  Contact 028 7084 8728                              Mount Stewart
      TRADERS: Gates will open from 7am for set          Spring Plant Fair                                        10am–12noon                                        10–11 May
      up. Please do not arrive before 7am as you         A wonderful opportunity to purchase plants               No Charge Donations Welcome                        Bluebell Walks
      will not be able to access the property and        from a range of specialist plant stalls, as well as                                                         Join the ranger team and explore the trails, with
      may cause congestion on the Portaferry Road.       from Rowallane Garden.                                   Florence Court                                     carpets of bluebells and primroses at this time
      Terms and condition apply, please see website      11am–4pm                                                 6 May                                              of year.
      for details. Traders and caterers please email     Normal Admission Members Free                            Scenic Forest Walk                                 Suitable for children with accompanying adult.
      eventsmountstewart@nationaltrust.org.uk                                                                     Join our ranger for a scenic 9km trail in          Unsuitable for buggies. Stout walking boots
      for prices.                                        Mount Stewart                                            Florence Court forest. At the highest viewpoint    required. Well behaved dogs on leads only
      9am–12noon                                         5 May                                                    enjoy panoramic views of Fermanagh and             Meet at Mount Stewart Trailhead
      Car £5 Van £10 Trailer £15                         Dawn Chorus Walk                                         Lough Erne, the fourth largest lake in Ireland.    Booking Essential
                                                         Enjoy the delights of the spring dawn chorus             11am–1pm                                           Contact 028 4278 8387
      Join the birds for dawn chorus at Mount Stewart    at Mount Stewart and learn all about bird song           Normal Admission Members Free                      11am–12.30pm and 2–3.30pm
                                                         with the ranger, followed by a hearty breakfast.                                                            Normal Admission Members Free
                                                         Suitable for children aged 8 years plus with             Have fun in nature with our rangers at Cushendun
                                                         accompanying adult. No dogs please.
                                                                                                                                                                     Downhill Demesne
                                                         Meet at Lookout Information Centre,                                                                         11 May
                                                         Mount Stewart                                                                                               Woodland Trail and Plant Fair
                                                         Booking Essential                                                                                           Join our ranger and gardens team on a behind-
                                                         Contact 028 4278 8387                                                                                       the-scenes woodland walk around Bishop’s Gate.
                                                         4.30–8am followed by breakfast
                                                                                                                                                                     Explore the Black Glen and carpets of wild garlic
                                                         Adult £10 Child £6                                                                                          while enjoying the wealth of wildlife, history and
                                                         Member Adult £10 Child £6                                                                                   breathtaking views on offer. There will also be a
                                                                                                                                                                     plant fair to enjoy during your visit.
                                                                                                                                                                     Meet at Bishop’s Gate
                                                                                                                                                                     Booking Essential
                                                                                                                                                                     Contact 028 7084 8728
                                                                                                                                                                     2–4pm
                                                                                                                                                                     Normal Admission Members Free
22                                                                                                                                                                                                                        23
Ardress House                                        Cushendun
                                                                 12, 19 May                                           18 May
                                                                 Apple Blossom Sundays                                Red Squirrel Day
                                                                 Set in the middle of our rich apple-growing          Let’s have a walk around the woods in Cushendun
                                                                 county, Ardress will be celebrating the apple        to see if we can find our wonderful native red
                                                                 blossom with apple treats and fun for all the        squirrels in the tree canopy above.
May

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                May
                                                                 family. There will be orchard tours, local ciders    Meet at Glenmona House
                                                                 and apple produce on sale.                           Booking Essential
                                                                 11am–5pm                                             Contact 028 7084 8728
                                                                 Normal Admission Members Free                        12noon–2pm
                                                                                                                      No Charge Donations welcome
                                                                 Castle Coole
                                                                 17 May                                               Mount Stewart
                                                                 Candlelit Tour                                       18 May                                              Help us find red squirrels at Cushendun
                                                                 Experience the sights and sounds of Castle Coole     Tastings at the Temple – Spring has Sprung
                                                                 as you never have before, as part of Museums at      Enjoy an evening of fabulous company and a          Mount Stewart
                                                                 Night. After a candlelit walk through the upstairs   decadent spring themed menu, all in the stunning    19 May
                                                                 and basement rooms, enjoy a glass of wine in the     surroundings of the Temple of the Winds.            Spring Garden Walk
                                                                 basement kitchen.                                    Strictly over 18’s only                             The gardens at Mount Stewart were recently
                                                                 Booking Essential                                    Booking Essential                                   described as one of the Top Ten Gardens in the
                                                                 Contact 028 6632 2690                                Contact 028 4278 8387                               World and they come alive at this time of year.
      Celebrate the apple blossom at Ardress House
                                                                 7.30pm                                               7.30–10.30pm                                        Enjoy a tour of the gardens with our gardening
                                                                 Adult £15                                            Adult £50                                           experts. Discover the carpets of wildflowers
      Florence Court                                             Member Adult £15                                     Member Adult £50                                    in the woodlands and look out for the first
      11 May                                                                                                                                                              returning spring migrants.
      Music at the Summer House                                  Castle Ward                                          Murlough NNR                                        Suitable waterproof clothing and sturdy
      Join us for an afternoon of music at the                   17 May                                               18 May                                              footwear essential
      restored summer house. Bring a picnic and                  Castle Ward at Night                                 Bluebell Stroll with a Ranger                       Meet at Mount Stewart reception
      enjoy the views of the Pleasure Ground across              See Castle Ward as you have never seen it before     Join our ranger on a walk through Murlough’s        Booking Essential
      to Benaughlin Mountain.                                    and celebrate Museums at Night on an exclusive       heathland. Discover the best views of the           Contact 028 4278 8387
      2–4pm                                                      torchlight tour.                                     bluebells that carpet the shadier parts of          11am–1pm
      Normal Admission Members Free                              National Trust Members only – Limited spaces         Murlough in spring.                                 Adult £10 Child £5
                                                                 available                                            Meet at Keel Point concrete standing                Member Adult £10 Child £5
      Carrick-a-Rede                                             Booking Essential                                    Booking Essential                                   Normal Admission Applies
      11–12 May                                                  Contact 028 4488 1204                                Contact 028 4375 1467
      Fishery Open Weekend                                       7.30–9.30pm                                          2pm                                                 Strangford Lough
      Come explore the fisherman’s cottage on                                                                         No Charge Donations Welcome                         25 May
      Carrick-a-Rede Island and hear how salmon                  Stroll through the bluebells at White Park Bay                                                           St Brendan Sea Safari
      fishermen first erected a rope bridge here in                                                                   White Park Bay                                      A treat for all the family as we take a scenic
      1755. Guided talks every 15 minutes.                                                                            18 May                                              voyage on Strangford Lough to view seals,
      Meet at the fisherman’s cottage on                                                                              Bluebell and Bird Walk                              seabirds and other wildlife at this internationally
      Carrick-a-Rede Island                                                                                           An exciting opportunity to discover the bluebells   important marine site.
      1–4pm                                                                                                           and birds of White Park Bay. Our knowledgeable      Please bring waterproof clothing
      Normal Admission Members Free                                                                                   ranger will lead you to the best views of the       Meet in Portaferry
                                                                                                                      bluebells and identify all our feathered friends    Booking Essential
      Divis and the Black Mountain                                                                                    along the way.                                      Contact 028 4278 8387
      12 May                                                                                                          Meet at car park                                    1–3.30pm
      A Ranger Field Study                                                                                            Booking Essential                                   Adult £15 Child £5
      Take a walk with our Belfast rangers around                                                                     Contact 028 7084 8728                               Member Adult £15 Child £5
      Divis and the Black Mountain, taking in the                                                                     10am–12noon
      upper reaches of the Collin River. Suitable for                                                                 No Charge Donations Welcome                         Florence Court
      all ages.                                                                                                                                                           26 May
      Suitable clothing and footwear essential. Bring                                                                                                                     Country Fair
      a warm flask and light snack.                                                                                                                                       An event not to be missed, the annual Country
      10am–12noon                                                                                                                                                         Fair features dog shows, rare breeds, live music,
      No Charge Donations Welcome                                                                                                                                         craft stalls and much more.
                                                                                                                                                                          12noon–5pm
                                                                                                                                                                          Normal Admission Members Free

24                     Events may change, please visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ni for the latest information                                                                                                                       25
Crom                                                                                                      Florence Court
                                                                 27 May                                                                                                    3 June
                                                                 Cruise the Lough                                                                                          Scenic Forest Walk
                                                                 See a different side to Crom estate from the water                                                        Join our ranger for a scenic 9km trail in Florence
                                                                 as you cruise around the lough in Crom’s 100 year                                                         Court forest. At the highest viewpoint enjoy
                                                                                                                                                                           panoramic views of Fermanagh and Lough Erne,

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     June
                                                                 old traditional craft.
May

                                                                 Weather dependant                                                                                         the fourth largest lake in Ireland.
                                                                 Booking Essential                                                                                         11am–1pm
                                                                 Contact 028 6773 8118                                                                                     Normal Admission Members Free
                                                                 1–5pm
                                                                 Adult £5 Child £2.50                                                                                      Downhill Demesne
                                                                 Member Adult £5 Child £2.50                                                                               8 June
                                                                                                                                                                           Summer Hay Meadows
                                                                 Rowallane Garden                                                                                          Conservation farming walk and talk, see the hay
                                                                 27 May                                                                                                    meadows in their full glory. Plant ID charts available.
                                                                 Wild Flower Wonders                                  Explore the rose garden at Springhill                Meet at Bishop’s Gate
                                                                 Let our team share with you the magic of                                                                  Booking Essential
                                                                 wildflower collecting and sowing seed. Learn         Springhill                                           Contact 028 7084 8728
                                                                 about the importance of wildflower meadows,          Every Thursday in June                               2–4pm
                                                                 pollinators and how you can grow wildflowers on      Rose Month                                           Normal Admission Members Free
                                                                 your own patch.                                      Drop in to hear from our gardener how to care for
                                                                 11am–12noon                                          roses and learn about the different types of roses   Minnowburn
      Summer of sport at Rowallane Garden                        Normal Admission Members Free                        that we have at Springhill. Enjoy a complimentary    8 June
                                                                                                                      sample of rose cordial produced from fresh           Meadow in a Bottle
                                                                 Rowallane Garden                                     flowers in the gardens.                              Join our ranger to create your very own wildflower
      Mount Stewart                                                                                                   2–3pm                                                sensory bottle to take home and learn all about
                                                                 Throughout June, July, August
      26 May                                                                                                          Normal Admission Members Free                        the wildflower meadows of Minnowburn.
                                                                 Summer BBQ
      Tour the Temple                                                                                                                                                      Meet at Minnowburn car park
                                                                 Rowallane will be celebrating the hottest days of
      Join one of our guides for a tour of the Temple                                                                 Mount Stewart                                        11am–1pm
                                                                 the summer with a classic BBQ. Keeps your eye on
      of the Winds. Hear the history of this special                                                                  1 June                                               No Charge Donations Welcome
                                                                 social media channels for updates.
      building and enjoy the stunning views over                                                                      Car Bazaar
                                                                 BBQ is an additional cost
      Strangford Lough.                                                                                               Come along and sell your unwanted items or           Carrick-a-Rede
                                                                 Normal Admission Members Free
      Meet at the Temple of the Winds                                                                                 browse around the many stalls and pick up a few      8–9 June
      Booking Essential (max 15 people)                                                                               treasures.                                           Fishery Open Weekend
                                                                 Rowallane Garden
      Contact 028 4278 8387                                                                                           As this is held outdoors, please check Facebook      Come explore the fisherman’s cottage on
                                                                 Throughout June, July, August
      12noon–1pm and 2–3pm                                                                                            or our website to confirm event is going ahead.      Carrick-a-Rede Island and hear how salmon
                                                                 Summer of Sport
      Normal Admission Members Free                                                                                   TRADERS: Gates will open from 7am for set            fishermen first erected a rope bridge here in 1755.
                                                                 This summer rekindle your youth as we launch our
                                                                 Summer of Sport. Take to our track and compete       up. Please do not arrive prior to 7am as you         Guided talks every 15 minutes.
      Mount Stewart                                                                                                   will not be able to access the property and          Meet at the fisherman’s cottage on
                                                                 in classic sports day activities such as the sack
      26 May                                                                                                          may cause congestion on the Portaferry Road.         Carrick-a-Rede Island
                                                                 race and hoopla. Once you have hopped your
      Jazz in the Garden                                                                                              Terms and condition apply, please see website        1–4pm
                                                                 way to victory, take your position on the nature-
      Bring your picnic and settle down on the                                                                        for details. Traders and caterers please email       Normal Admission Members Free
                                                                 themed winners podium and proudly declare
      lawn with your family and friends to enjoy                                                                      eventsmountstewart@nationaltrust.org.uk
                                                                 yourself the number one sports day athlete with
      an afternoon of jazz in the gardens at                                                                          for prices.
                                                                 our social media tag #RowallaneWinners.                                                                   Discover the birds and butterflies at Murlough NNR
      Mount Stewart.                                                                                                  9am–12noon
                                                                 10am–6pm
      Sorry no BBQ’s. Picnics welcome. Please note                                                                    Car £5 Van £10 Trailer £15
                                                                 Normal Admission Members Free
      that this event takes place outside. Appropriate
      clothing required                                                                                               Murlough NNR
                                                                 Giant’s Causeway
      2–4.30pm                                                                                                        1 June
                                                                 Every Sunday in June
      Normal Admission Members Free                                                                                   Jo’s Walks – Birds and Butterflies
                                                                 Face painting
                                                                 Face painting by our resident face painter Krystle   Join us as we search for birds and butterflies,
                                                                 at no extra charge.                                  hoping to see Murlough’s most important Marsh
                                                                 Meet at the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre          Fritillary and learning its complex life cycle.
                                                                 12noon–5pm                                           Meet at Murlough main car park
                                                                 Normal Admission Members Free                        Booking Essential
                                                                                                                      Contact 028 4375 1467
                                                                                                                      2pm
                                                                                                                      No Charge Donations Welcome

26                     Events may change, please visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ni for the latest information                                                                                                                            27
Skernaghan Point                                    Castle Ward
                                                                  15 June                                             21 June
                                                                  Geology and Botany of Skernaghan Point              Midsummer Music
                                                                  Discover the fascinating geological features and    Enjoy an evening of music at Castle Ward on the
                                                                  interesting coastal plants around Skernaghan        longest day of the year. Watch the sun setting
June

                                                                                                                                                                                                                            June
                                                                  Point at the beautiful northern tip of              over the shores of Strangford Lough as you
                                                                  Islandmagee.                                        while away the evening listening to the music.
                                                                  Meet at Browns Bay car park                         Limited spaces available
                                                                  1–4pm                                               Booking Essential
                                                                  No Charge Donations Welcome                         Contact 028 4488 1204
                                                                                                                      7.30–10pm
                                                                  Mount Stewart                                       Adult £10 Child £5
                                                                  16 June                                             Member Adult £10 Child £5
                                                                  Father’s Day Fun
                                                                  Bring the whole family to Mount Stewart for         Giant’s Causeway
                                                                  some tasty food, live music and 50 things fun.      23 June
                                                                  11am–4pm                                            Dawn Chorus Walk
       Come on an orchid hunt at Portstewart Strand
                                                                  Normal Admission Members Free                       Join our conservation expert Dr Cliff Henry on
                                                                                                                      an early morning guided walk of the site and
       Castle Coole                                               Springhill                                          hear about the flora and fauna of Northern
       14 June                                                    16 June                                             Ireland’s only World Heritage Site. After working
       Queen Anne Afternoon Tea Experience                        Garden Fair                                         up an appetite, enjoy a hearty cooked breakfast
       Join us in the beautiful Breakfast Room at Castle          A great opportunity to stock up on all your         in the Causeway Hotel.
       Coole for an exclusive afternoon tea experience.           shrubs and plants, herbs and other specimens        Meet at The Causeway Hotel
       Ticket includes admission.                                 native to Springhill. Take a look at our            Booking Essential
       Booking Essential                                          community allotments, enjoy a tour of Springhill    Contact 028 20733419                                Explore the rocky Portmuck coastline
       Contact 028 6632 2690                                      gardens and get some gardening tips from our        6.30–9.30am
       2pm                                                        rangers. Children can have a go in our ‘Plant it,   Adult £7                                            Portmuck
       Adult £25                                                  grow it, eat it’ workshop, nature trails and much   Member Adult £7                                     29 June
       Member Adult £25                                           more for all the family.                                                                                Portmuck Geology Walk
                                                                  11am–4pm                                            Murlough NNR                                        Discover the fascinating geological features
       Portstewart Strand                                         Normal Admission Members Free                       29 June                                             around Portmuck Harbour and how they helped
       15 June                                                                                                        Ragwort Challenge                                   shape the history of the local area.
       Orchid Hunt                                                                                                    Muck in with the rangers and help us remove         Meet at Portmuck car park
                                                                  Springhill Garden Fair
       Our amazing sand dune system is host to a range                                                                this invasive species. Get the whole family         1–4pm
       of orchids including Bee and Pyramidal Orchids,                                                                involved and crown the champion ragwort             No Charge Donations Welcome
       which can be seen growing in their natural                                                                     remover as our rangers try and remove as much
       habitat. Come on a dune adventure with our                                                                     as possible in one day.                             White Park Bay
       ranger to discover why Portstewart Strand is very                                                              Meet at Keel Point concrete standing                29 June
       much more than just a beach.                                                                                   Booking Essential                                   Picnic and Pulling
       Booking Essential                                                                                              Contact 028 4375 1467                               Pack up a picnic and assist our ranger team
       Contact 028 7083 6396                                                                                          10.30am–1pm                                         with some ragwort pulling for an hour or more.
       2–4pm                                                                                                          No Charge Donations Welcome                         Learn about why we need to remove most of the
       Adult £2 Child £1                                                                                                                                                  ragwort but not all of it.
       Member Adult £2 Child £1                                                                                       Dawn chorus walk at the Giant’s Causeway            Booking Essential
                                                                                                                                                                          Contact 028 7084 8728
       Rowallane Garden                                                                                                                                                   10am–4pm
       15 June                                                                                                                                                            No Charge Donations Welcome
       Flower Pressing Session
       Get ready to learn about the techniques of flower                                                                                                                  Crom
       pressing. Our gardeners will show you how and                                                                                                                      30 June
       why it’s important to press flowers, and share a                                                                                                                   Summer Family Adventure
       few tips on how to speed up the process. Great                                                                                                                     Kick-start your family summer adventure at
       fun for families.                                                                                                                                                  Crom. Take part in craft activities, bug hunts,
       11am–12noon                                                                                                                                                        woodland trails and more.
       Normal Admission Members Free                                                                                                                                      1–6pm
                                                                                                                                                                          Normal Admission Members Free

 28                  Events may change, please visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ni for the latest information                                                                                                                     29
Castle Ward                                                                                                       Portstewart Strand
                                                                     Sundays throughout July and August                                                                                6 July
                                                                     Summer Music Series                                                                                               Butterfly Safari 1
                                                                     Bring a rug and a picnic and enjoy a relaxing                                                                     Fun for the whole family as you join our
                                                                     afternoon in a tranquil and beautiful setting                                                                     rangers on the hunt to catch and identify the
June

                                                                     listening to the musical melodies. The perfect                                                                    dunes fluttering residents. Nets provided.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   July
                                                                     way to spend a Sunday afternoon.                                                                                  Booking Essential
                                                                     2.30–5pm                                                                                                          Contact 028 7083 6396
                                                                     Normal Admission Members Free                                                                                     2–4pm
                                                                                                                                                                                       Adult £2 Child £1
                                                                   Downhill Demesne                                                                                                    Member Adult £2 Child £1
                                                                   3, 10, 17, 24, 31 July
                                                                   Downhill Gardens and Estate Tours                                                                                   Castle Ward
                                                                   An exciting opportunity to join our                                                                                 12–13 July
                                                                   knowledgeable gardener and learn more                                                                               Pirates Picnic
                                                                   about the beautiful gardens at Bishop’s Gate.                                                                       ‘Ahoy me hearties’, we are back from sailing
                                                                   Meet at Bishop’s Gate                                                                                               the seven seas for another fun filled day at
       Take a tour to learn more about Downhill gardens and estate
                                                                   2–4pm                                                                                                               Castle Ward. Captain Ward is looking for some
                                                                   Normal Admission Members Free                                                                                       swashbucklers to join him as he makes you
       Mount Stewart                                                                                                                                                                   ‘Walk the Plank’. Come in pirate costume and
                                                                   Carrick-a-Rede                                       Look for butterflies in the sand dunes at Portstewart Strand   prepare to seek and find his hidden treasure.
       30 June
       Tour the Temple                                             5 July                                                                                                              ‘Shiver me Timbers’ there is lots of fun to be
       Join one of our guides for a tour of the Temple             Fossil Hunting                                       Mount Stewart                                                  had!
       of the Winds. Hear the history of this special              Join our ranger team for fossil hunting in           6 July                                                         1–5pm
       building and enjoy the stunning views over                  Larrybane Quarry.                                    Car Bazaar                                                     Normal Admission Members Free
       Strangford Lough.                                           Meet at Larrybane Quarry                             Come along and sell your unwanted items or
       Meet at the Temple of the Winds                             10am–12noon                                          browse around the many stalls and pick up a                    Mount Stewart
       Booking Essential                                           No Charge Donations Welcome                          few treasures.                                                 12–13 July
       Contact 028 4278 8387                                                                                            As this is held outdoors, please check Facebook                Teddy Bears Picnic
       12noon–1pm and 2–3pm                                        White Park Bay                                       or our website to confirm event is going ahead.                Bring along your favourite teddy and join
       Normal Admission Members Free                               5 July                                               TRADERS: Gates will open from 7am for set                      Little Red Riding Hood. Bring a picnic or
                                                                   Go Wild with the Rangers                             up. Please do not arrive before 7am as you                     treat yourself to something delicious from
       Mount Stewart                                               Join our rangers for a morning of fun and            will not be able to access the property and                    our caterers. Dress up and enjoy a day full of
       30 June                                                     adventure on White Park Bay.                         may cause congestion on the Portaferry Road.                   activities for all ages.
       Jazz in the Garden                                          Booking Essential                                    Terms and condition apply, please see website                  11am–4.30pm
       Bring your picnic and settle down on the                    Contact 028 7084 8728                                for details. Traders and caterers please email                 Normal Admission Members Free
       lawn with your family and friends to enjoy an               10am–12noon                                          eventsmountstewart@nationaltrust.org.uk
       afternoon of jazz in the beautiful gardens at               No Charge Donations Welcome                          for prices.                                                    Portstewart Strand Butterfly Safari is a summer highlight
       Mount Stewart.                                                                                                   9am–12noon
       Sorry no BBQ’s. Picnics welcome. Please note                Crom                                                 Car £5 Van £10 Trailer £15
       that this event takes place outside. Appropriate            6 July
       clothing required                                           Music by the Lake                                    Murlough NNR
       2–4.30pm                                                    Join us for a relaxing evening and listen to local   6 July
       Normal Admission Members Free                               musicians by the shores of Lough Erne.               Jo’s Walks – Duneland Flowers
                                                                   Online Booking Essential                             A walk in search of the specialised flowers of
       The Argory                                                  Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/crom                      Murlough’s duneland on a long ramble through
       Every Sunday in July                                        7–10pm                                               the coastal duneland.
       Lazy Sundays                                                Adult £12 Chilld £5                                  Meet at Keel Point concrete standing
       Come and join us for laid back tunes and                    Member Adult £12 Chilld £5                           Booking Essential
       relaxation. Chill in the Courtyard while the kids                                                                Contact 028 4375 1467
       are entertained and feast on our summer BBQ.                                                                     2pm
       BBQ is an additional cost                                                                                        No Charge Donations Welcome
       1–4pm
       Normal Admission Members Free

 30                       Events may change, please visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ni for the latest information                                                                                                                                       31
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