Spring 2020 Northern Ireland Near you

Leap for nature in 2020 2020 is a landmark year for the National Trust – it is our 125th as a conservation charity. As a region, we greet this ‘quasquicentennial’ in great health having met the milestone of 100,000 members. Thanks to each and every one of you for your continued support.

eaching these milestone We have been motivated by this February’s Rmoments reinforces that extra day to galvanise additional action. I promise to… Our ‘Leap for Nature’ encourages you to the need for beauty and space make a personal promise to help, because 1. Reduce my energy use by turning 4. Create new homes for wildlife by remains as relevant today as if we all take more notice of nature, we down heating/wearing a jumper/using letting the grass grow/taking part in when we started. By focusing on can begin to help it recover. draught excluders/switching off lights. No Mow May/leaving a wild patch/ putting up a nest box for birds. people and place, we hope to be We have picked five pledges to inspire On page 5, discover how energy what everyone needs when they you. Select one or more, or even create efficiency in your home saves the On page 2, unearth the State of Nature and what we are promising to do to help. need it; a fun day out, a haven to your own, and then share your promise environment and your pocket. with family and friends. Maybe they will relax, a sanctuary to reflect or an 2. Enjoy the benefits of cold fresh air by 5. Celebrate the return of spring by join in too. going out to look at blossoms/listening opportunity to connect. getting out for a winter run/walk and spotting winter wildlife. to the dawn chorus. This year we will continue to connect people On page 7, find our top trails to get you On the back page, browse events so we and place by showcasing how nature can fit and boost your mood. can all celebrate spring together. Visit improve your wellbeing and quality of life. By nationaltrust.org.uk/ni to explore more embracing our wonderful natural landscapes, 3. Reduce food miles/waste/packaging great days out. we all have much to gain, and the natural by growing my own veg /eating world has never needed our attention more. seasonally/making a window box/helping Promises picked, it’s time to spring That is why these intertwining issues are at the in a community garden. into action this February with a ‘Leap heart of our ten-year strategy for ‘Restoring a for Nature’ – we couldn’t ask for a healthy, beautiful, natural environment’. On page 3, read about our Field to Fork better birthday gift. initiative and the perfect seasonal cake to bake.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni Spring 2020 1 Restoring nature and sustainable land management As the environment and the decisions around how we manage our land attract more attention in society, it is clear that the role and work of the National Trust becomes more and more important.

In Northern Ireland, agricultural land well-being and carbon capture to mitigate report forward, we will continue to play makes up 75% of the total landscape, climate change) for the benefit of society. our part including working with our 77 so has a fundamental role to play The report makes clear that investing tenant farmers and the wider farming in stewarding our environment and in safeguarding or restoring a healthy community to improve connections In the picture in shaping its future sustainability. environment at source is much more cost between people and the land. We Worrying global headlines about the effective than addressing ‘downstream’ will increase our efforts to link our Dr Bob Brown OBE reducing numbers of harvests, due to impacts of environmental degradation. communities with the land and nature Regional Chairman soil degradation, leave us looking for Working with nature, rather than against both where they live and beyond. This solutions to what are generational and it, will bring better and more sustainable report confirms the need for action. Two major publications came out last long-term challenges. Some of these results. This, along with better and This issue of Near You celebrates the autumn, and provoked discussions have been raised by the State of Nature independent environmental governance amazing work which our teams across throughout the National Trust and report, described in Bob’s article. In in NI, is going to be key going forward. Northern Ireland are already doing much further afield. Let me run them Northern Ireland, we are the largest single Another central theme was the connection, and the actions we are taking to move past you… landowner apart from government. A large or rather lack of it, in the relationships forward the change that is needed. percentage of this is designated land, thus between how we farm, produce and eat Your continued support in this is key In September last year, the Department protecting the most important plants, food; how we care for our health and the to our work in restoring nature. of Agriculture, Environment and animals and birds we have. environment, and how we sustain rural Thank you! Rural Affairs (DAERA to its friends) communities. This is a complex system that published a discussion document on A recent report brought forward by the has people at its heart and there was broad an environment strategy for Northern RSA Food, Farming and Countryside agreement that the current system isn’t Ireland, with the strap-line: ‘A living, Commission highlighted the need for working and that needs to change. working, active landscape valued by more recognition across government everyone’. It’s difficult to dispute the of the importance of a healthy natural The inextricable links between land philosophy behind that aspiration. environment (clean air, water, flood management and nature are clear. To help Heather McLachlan protection, recreation for health and move the recommendations from the Regional Director The document appears to be genuinely open-minded, and seeking views and contributions to further iterations, and NORTHERN IRELAND’S BIODIVERSITY IS DECLINING that’s very welcome. But it could have Checking done more. More species in the UK have seen their We have seen big changes in where the populations decrease than increase: UK’s wildlife is found: The strategy needs to have much nature’s pulse stronger ambition than is currently of 2,450 species assessed are have little have found in little found in evident; many of its statements would We have known for decades that nature is threatened with extinction decreased change increased fewer places change more places have been interesting and controversial in decline but two major reports put the from the island of Ireland in the 1970s. But today’s audience, cold hard facts in black and white. The aware and concerned about climate two landmark 2019 health checks made CLIMATE CHANGE IS HAVING AN change and mass extinctions of species depressing reading at both a global and INCREASING IMPACT ON NATURE and their habitats, expect something local scale. Climate change IN THE UK Agricultural more proactive. All the work undertaken Urbanisation by many government and non- The International Union for Conservation management THE government bodies like the National of Nature confirmed that extinction GREATEST now threatens a third of all assessed DRIVERS OF Trust, to address real issues with real CHANGE IN of moth decline is due of aphid increase is actions, for example in the Northern species across the planet, concluding that to climate change due to climate change Freshwater NORTHERN Pollution human civilisation is in jeopardy from the Ireland Biodiversity Strategy, seems management IRELAND The UK’s kittiwake population has declined by 70% since completely forgotten. accelerating decline of the Earth’s natural ARE... 1986 as climate change has reduced the availability of life-support systems. The State of Nature sandeels, a key food source in breeding season The publication of this document Report painted a stark picture of the loss Invasive Woodland Migratory birds are arriving non-native species management and laying eggs earlier: coincided (roughly) with the publication of wildlife. The report collated the best Fisheries of the 2019 State of Nature report, available data on the UK’s biodiversity. It Swallows are arriving in the Great tits lay their eggs on which makes bleak reading. UK wide, revealed that 11% of the 2,450 species found UK 15 days earlier and average 11 days earlier AGRICULTURAL MANAGEMENT HAS breeding 11 days earlier than they did in 1968 15% of our species for which we have in Ireland are classified as threatened and than they did in the 1960s therefore at risk of extinction from Ireland. THE POTENTIAL TO HAVE THE BIGGEST data are under threat of extinction, POSITIVE IMPACT ON NATURE IN NI whilst 2% are already gone. In Northern POLLUTION Ireland, whilst our breeding birds Key findings for Northern Ireland included have done well (good news for a a 43% decline in the abundance of nine Northern Ireland produces change!), we’ve lost about 38% of our butterflies since 2006 and a 38% decline 12% of the UK's ammonia emissions but covers only overwintering waterfowl – the birds in the 36 wintering waterbird species since of Northern Ireland’s land is 6% of the land that make Strangford Lough and other 1988. The report found a 66% increase in managed for agriculture places such wonderful winter spectacles. the abundance of 41 breeding bird species There are declines in the condition of since 1994, however the majority of these many terrestrial protected sites, and are not threatened, and therefore this WOODLAND MANAGEMENT at sea only 4.5% of protected areas are does not reflect the long-term decline in under favourable management. farmland birds, as reported in Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland (2014 Our excellent teams working in some of to 2019). Over In 2013, the estimated cost of these to the environment was NI’s most special places are striving and Northern Ireland is one ...much of this of UK land is of the least forested is plantations succeeding in bringing our own lands up So, what pressures are being put on of the 31,500 million covered by regions in Europe with of non-native to high conservation standard. But as nature? The State of Nature report shows species in Ireland per year woodlands-3.17m only 4.3% of land area Sitka Spruce are non-native hectares covered by woodlands... research from Germany shows, islands that the intensive management of land has a large part to play, alongside climate of quality wildlife will have only limited FISHERIES success unless the land and sea-scapes change, pollution, urbanisation and other around them are also good for wildlife. factors. The good news is that nature can 57% Indeed poor quality terrain has been bounce back. We are actively playing our part to restore nature. Our current Land, of UK waters have had their seen to act as a ‘sink’ for the richer Just over half of UK fisheries seafloor habitats physically Outdoors and Nature Programme focuses damaged by bottom wildlife within a site. are assessed as being fished The status of 18% of on restoring a healthy, beautiful, natural sustainably. The target is UK fish stocks is unknown contact fishing gear 100% by 2020 between 2010 and 2015 So if we are going to have a ‘living, environment and we see this as a timely working, active landscape’ and one opportunity to deliver more for nature. We where special places like ours reach their are working with farmers, governments PUBLIC SUPPORT FOR CONSERVATION IN THE UK CONTINUES TO GROW full potential, the environment strategy and partners on trialling new methods and will be very important. Will it join the approaches for a nature-friendly farming other strategies gathering dust on system. To halt and reverse documented species decline, we aim to increase the Time donated by volunteers The financial value of their 18,700 volunteers are As many as 70,000 government shelves? We will work hard has increased by 46% time has been estimated at involved in structured volunteers submit biological to ensure that doesn’t happen. number and size of habitats on our land. since 2000 £20.5 million monitoring schemes that records to National Recording This in turn will make the land and water per annum cover bats, birds, butterflies Schemes (NRS) or to Local and plants alone Environmental Records (and the species these support) better Centres (LERCs) able to adapt to climate change. Your However, public sector expenditure on biodiversity in the membership helps make this possible so UK, as a proportion of GDP, has fallen by 42% since a peak in 2008/9 thank you!

2 Spring 2020 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni Ahead of the herd Castle Ward has become the first National on the estate known as Tullyratty ASSI to Trust property in Northern Ireland to achieve Paul’s nature ambition for the site. deliver a field to fork initiative. Dexter beef, Through the management practice known which has been raised sustainably on the as conservation grazing, these cattle have estate, is available to visitors on a seasonal been able to create the needed conditions basis through the café at Castle Ward. The to promote a wild array of wildflowers, exciting partnership between the National which in turn provide nectar sources for our Trust and tenant farmer, Alan Laughlin, is a native pollinators and attract insects which fantastic example of what can be achieved then act as a food source for farmland birds. through an effective working relationship. Their usefulness in delivering conservation management is however only part of the The hidden value of nature ‘We were passionate about working with story. These cattle, which are raised on the Alan because it helps us reconnect the public estate and are pasture fed only, present to where their food comes from, highlighting themselves as a highly sustainable beef “...the need of quiet, the need of air, the need of the link between good food, health and the product, raised to high environmental exercise, and, I believe, the sight of sky and of things environment’ said Paul Livingstone, our and welfare standards. It is with these growing, seem human needs, common to all...” Lead Ranger. credentials that Alan diversified his farm and created his own Dexter beef business National Trust founder, Octavia Hill Over recent years, Alan’s rare breed of Dexter where he sells direct to customers, creating cattle have been transforming the grasslands a high value niche product.

The belief that ‘Everyone needs nature’ was in 2018, Minnowburn provided benefits at the heart of Octavia Hill’s famous words. to society worth over £2.7 million. Nature is valuable to us in many ways. This was over 66 times the cost of While benefits such as food production maintaining the site. The most significant and fresh water are obvious, we may not benefit identified was its contribution to appreciate the less noticeable benefits such people’s health and wellbeing. With over as improved air quality and the positive 145,000 visits each year, many of these impact of nature on health and wellbeing. visits met the required standards of intensity and duration of physical activity A recent study carried out in partnership required for quality-adjusted life years. In with Northern Ireland Environment Link this way, these active visits combined to identified the hidden value of nature at deliver estimated annual savings of over two urban green spaces in the Belfast £1.8 million to the NHS. area, one of which was the National Trust site at Minnowburn. Minnowburn is in As we develop our understanding of the the heart of the Lagan Valley Regional many benefits provided by nature, we Park on the southern edge of Belfast. This are committed to using this information type of study, known as a natural capital in order to better manage our sites. assessment, considered different elements This will ensure that nature can thrive of nature, their benefits and their monetary and that the benefits of nature can be value to society. The study estimated that enjoyed for ever, for everyone.

Spring Lemon Courgette Cake recipe Spring into the season with this lemon Method courgette cake. A little healthier than your 1. Pre-heat oven to 160°C average treat, the courgette keeps the mixture 2. Mix together courgette, sugar, egg, light and moist. The recipe is a great way to lemon and oil in a bowl. In another use garden produce or leftovers from the bowl, mix together all the dry farmer’s market. The tea-room at The Argory ingredients – flour, salt, bicarbonate even added thyme to their café creation. of soda, baking powder and Sowing the seeds of success cinnamon. Combine the two mixtures Well done to the Florence Court Kitchen Garden volunteers who received a ‘Highly Ingredients until just blended. commended’ Certificate at the 2019 British Museum Marsh Trust Awards. Created to • 200g Grated courgette 3. Pour into a greased loaf tin and bake recognise the contribution of volunteers from across the UK, it was their dedication, • 140g Caster sugar for 45 minutes. innovation and excellence in engaging with the public that reaped success. Through • 1 Egg 4. Leave to cool in tin for 10 minutes the Trust’s education programme, 2,500 primary school children have visited the • 110ml Vegetable oil before turning out. Kitchen Garden as well as local colleges supporting students with learning difficulties. • 200g Plain flour 5. Optional topping – mix lemon juice With international groups like the American Horticultural Society also making visits, • 1/2 tsp Salt with 2 tbsp caster sugar and drizzle the standard of groups being attracted to the Kitchen Garden also stood out. If • 1/2 tsp Bicarbonate of soda over cake whilst hot. you’re interested in volunteering at Florence Court, please e-mail • 2 tsp Baking powder [email protected] • 1 tsp Ground cinnamon Indulge in more delicious treats this • 1 Lemon zest spring with a visit to our cafés.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni Spring 2020 3 Young volunteers add a splash of colour to Divis One chilly week last November, a group The volunteers were all participants in and Black Mountain. We went to the of local young people worked with a 12-week initiative run by the Prince’s summit for ideas for the design – the street artists, Dermot McConaghy Trust at Colin Glen, which provides 360° view was inspirational. Street art (DMC) and Eoin McGinn (EMIC) from opportunities for people aged 16–30, was a new experience for me, and I was Seedhead Arts, to create a colourful who are not in employment, education apprehensive at first. However, I would piece of art on the front of the old or training. As part of this programme, definitely seek out opportunities to Nissen Hut at Divis in Belfast. Over four the group were challenged to develop repeat this in the future. It has especially days, its faded façade was transformed a project of benefit to the community helped me with a pessimistic outlook on by their creative response to the which develops their skills, confidence winter.’ landscape. and employability. This team chose to brighten up and bring life to the old We would like to say a big thank you New interactive The young people’s experience of Nissen Hut at Divis Mountain car park. to all the volunteers who braved the Divis and other wild places, a view of chilly, and sometimes wet weather, the mountain skyline from across the ‘It was a great opportunity for our two to transform the old Nissen Hut and nature trail at city and a poem by conservationist, organisations to get together and work inspire others to explore the nature on John Muir, all inspired the design. on a project that gives the young people our doorstep. Group volunteering is Bishop’s Gate Dermot explained how the group had from an urban space the opportunity one of a number of ways that youth and collaborated: ‘What I like about this to interact and take ownership of the community groups help us shape and The ranger team at Downhill Demesne type of project is that we have to solve a rural environment,’ explained Jerome look after the wild landscape at Divis and and Hezlett House have created a new problem visually through people coming O’Loughlin, Team Leader with the Black Mountain. To find out more, visit interactive nature trail at Bishop’s together, having a discussion, putting Prince’s Trust at Colin Glen. nationaltrust.org.uk/divis-and-the-black- Gate to help children make a deeper ideas into a concept and developing mountain connection with nature. Five features that into a design for a wall. Then you A member of the group, Rachel, have been placed along the trail to get to take that design and paint it live. described how being involved had Follow activity on Divis and Black activate the senses, inspire creativity and Everyone gets to nurture the idea until it impacted on her: ‘Despite living fairly Mountain on Facebook and Instagram create homes for invertebrates, offering comes to a finished piece.’ close by, this was my first time at Divis @nationaltrustbelfast even more reasons for all ages to engage with our wonderful woodlands.

Paving the way at Mount Stewart Restoring the floor at Mussenden Spring 2020 will see the opening of the The ranger team at Mount Stewart We were floored by the result of final section of the seven mile boundary Demesne have been working hard since cracks and setting them with a colour our recent conservation project walk at Mount Stewart Demesne. The new 2015 to restore the network of historic matched pneumatic grout. In the at Mussenden Temple. Working in section is within the north-eastern part of trails to their former glory. The project centre of the floor, a build-up of an partnership with Cliveden Conservation, the estate linking Fort Hill to Moat Hill. All would not have been possible without the unknown substance was taken away we restored the floor inside the iconic this hard work means that the public will dedicated team of regular volunteers who for analysis. This came back as a non- building. The impressive transformation now have access to this special part of the turn out each week, no matter what toxic and natural sediment which took a month to complete and would estate for the first time. The walk passes the weather. the team then carefully removed. not have been possible without the through an historic landscape of mixed Using a fine diamond grinder, they support of our members. Brian Bentley farmland, woodlands, and archaeological Visitors to Mount Stewart can now enjoy evened the floor surface back to its (pictured), the Head Conservator on remains that has largely remained a network of over 12 miles of walking natural state. The final phase saw the the project, was delighted with how the unchanged. There is a wealth of wildlife to trails. With all-terrain mobility scooters, team carefully grind back the surface work progressed. be seen and if you are very lucky, you may red squirrel hide, natural play area and the abrasions on the newer stones and even get a glimpse of one of the elusive largest cluster of Geocaches in Northern replace the smaller outer stones that A team of three conservators started in pine martens, which have recently re- Ireland, there is something for all interests were beyond repair. Visit Mussenden the Temple by steam cleaning all of the established themselves on the estate. and abilities at the estate this spring. Temple to admire the floor up close.

4 Spring 2020 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni Low-carbon life – tips to be Explore and Play at more energy-efficient at home Rowallane Garden

Reducing our energy use is a great way to topped up. This will not only save energy Have you visited the new Explore and Play start lowering our carbon footprint. As a but also help save your device. area at Rowallane Garden yet? Located charity, we are committed to playing our in the Pleasure Ground, this exciting part in limiting the long-term damaging 3. Don’t just stand-by. TVs and game area has been designed for children to effects of a changing climate. One way we consoles consume as much electricity get outdoors and be adventurous. With are doing this is by focusing on how we when left on stand-by as in use, so switch intricate wooden sculptures, the new use energy at our places. We have set some off appliances at the plug. Explore and Play area has been made ambitious targets, such as generating 50% using completely natural materials. Fallen of our energy needs from renewable sources 4. Be water wise. Not overfilling kettles, trees have been reimagined as climbing and reducing energy use by 15% in 2020. In cutting one washing load a week and frames, activity dens have been made Northern Ireland, we are working hard to go using a bowl to wash up can shore up from branches and stepping stones have beyond our energy reduction target through savings. While doing the dishes, you can been inventively fashioned from tree simple, practical changes and by building plan your next National Trust visit. stumps and logs. Beams and obstacles energy efficiency into what our people do offer graduated risks and challenges that every day. We are installing more efficient 5. Chill out. A thermostat drop of one are sure to leave younger visitors feeling heating control equipment in our visitor degree can save up to 10% of household very proud of themselves. Visit Rowallane centres, offices and holiday cottages, and energy use. Keep doors and windows Garden this spring to enjoy what our upgrading all our traditional light bulbs to closed when your heating is on to prevent talented staff and volunteers have created. modern efficient LED types. Much of this your system working harder than it activity you can replicate at home. needs. Closing internal doors and moving furniture away from warm radiators also Here are our top six tips to reduce your helps save energy. carbon footprint and your bills. 6. Warm up. Our bodies are natural heat 1. Illuminate savings. Shed a little light on producers but we only heat up when we your savings by turning them off. Lighting get moving. Desk jobs and sofa slouching typically accounts for 15% of your home’s means we don’t move as much as we electrical demand. Turning lights off when should. Get active and you’ll tackle not in use can help you save big. LED bulbs climate change and your fitness. Make it a are typically up to 80% more efficient than weekly routine to go for a walk or a cycle traditional bulbs. With different colours to at your nearest National Trust property. choose from, they can also help add the perfect ambiance to each room. There are many more ways to save energy and be energy efficient but hopefully 2. Charged and ready. Did you know that these everyday tips are practical ways when a device like your mobile phone to get you started. The main thing to reaches full charge, it continues to use remember is that no matter how small electricity? Known as trickle charging, it is you think the impact will be, it all makes best to disconnect your battery when it is a difference.

The moon shines bright at Mussenden

No words are needed at Downhill Demesne this February as Mussenden Temple welcomes ‘Silent Light’, an impressive new dark sky, light installation by artists James ‘Sunshine’ is here to stay Russell and Hannah Plumb. As torchlight illuminates your pathway across the clifftop, After months of cold weather, sunshine suit its new space while maintaining the see the elusive and distant moon brought is once again shining in County Tyrone. spirit of the original design. The last near with this special ticketed experience. ‘Artificial Sunshine’, the stunning neon owner of The Argory, Mr Walter Albert light installation by Northern Irish artist Neville McGeough Bond, lived here and Cloaked within the circular Mussenden Kevin Killen, is now on permanent display housed his collection of modern art, so Temple, which exudes the presence of in The Argory outside Dungannon. its permanent new home continues the an observatory, this unique creative tradition of welcoming modern art into collaboration evokes the eight phases of In 2018, the team at the historic house the house. the moon by creating images from dirt took the bold decision to commission and lichen on broken glass. When layered a contemporary light installation to Wanting to continue Mr Bond’s legacy precisely on top of each other, the ‘Stained replace the West Hall chandelier during of ‘collecting the art of others’ and the Moons’ produce the image of light and its conservation in London. Lit up by its story of Acetylene Gas, we believe this is shadow reflecting back to us from the bright reception, the team redesigned and an artwork which Mr Bond would have Earth’s Moon. relocated ‘Artificial Sunshine’ within the supported and a project he would have North Wing at the end of 2019. Mounted encouraged. Take a guided house tour Running from 9 to 23 February 2020, on the wall in the service stairs, the of The Argory this spring and admire tickets can be booked online at stunning neon-sculpture has evolved to ‘Artificial Sunshine’ in its new home. nationaltrust.org.uk/ni

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni Spring 2020 5 Mending the Mournes

By ranger Clare O’Reilly Follow the adventures of Clare and the Mournes ranger team on Twitter @NTMournes

Before moving to Northern Ireland, I increasing footfall. After several months whom we share our vital research. The Donard, and helicopter lifts will bring in knew of the Mournes through literature, on the team, I was brought on as the new team has been lucky to learn from the tonnes of local stone to use in repairs. images of beautiful peaks and popular Mountain Ranger, working alongside expertise of Upland Path consultant, Unique, satisfying, and with a real sense hiking paths. The importance of these fellow Mountain Ranger Marc Vinas- Matt McConway who has over 25 years of responsibility, this job brings new mountains to Northern Ireland was Alcon. Since inception in January 2019, of knowledge including similar projects challenges and rewards every day. I get to clear, as the taxi driver from the airport the project has maintained solid progress. on Ben Nevis. be a part of a team of dedicated staff and emphasised to me (repeatedly!) on the 500m of path and 25 drains are complete volunteers who work tirelessly toward the way to my new home. I had arrived in so far, with landscaping blending the work Our proudest achievement is the same goal, and I could not imagine doing the dramatic surrounds of Murlough into the mountain’s natural beauty. We’ve incredible contribution of our volunteers anything else. National Nature Reserve as a volunteer, used drones to map erosion, undertaken who have committed over 1,500 hours excited to learn from the expertise of regular surveys on specialised species to of support, come rain or shine. Currently the existing tanger team, and to be part monitor protection requirements and they are helping us repair the next 300m Step into Clare’s boots for the day of the project working throughout 1,400 have successfully secured another £40k of the most heavily waterlogged and by booking a place at one of our acres in the Mourne Mountains. grant from DAERA using the Challenge scarred landscape on the Glen River ‘Mending the Mournes’ events Fund. Through the project, we have Path. Exciting progress will be made in I learnt how path repairs protected strengthened our relationships with other the next few months as we move back up this spring. See our ‘Have a go’ vital, delicate habitats while allowing Mournes stakeholders like Mountaineering towards the saddle between the summits days on the back page. for a sustainable route to withstand Ireland and Mourne Heritage Trust, with of Slieve Commedagh and Slieve

Unravelling fashions Conservation of at Mount Stewart shifting goalposts

All our property teams continuously Newcastle, at the foot of the Mourne care for our wonderful collections. For Mountains in County Down, is a seaside the team at Mount Stewart, these seams resort famed for its sandy beaches. have been expanded to include the However over recent decades, its iconic arrival of a fantastic costume collection. golden sands have actually been shifting Items from the estate of Lady Mairi Bury down the coast of Dundrum Bay towards add a new and potentially vast element the extensive dune system of Murlough to our existing collection. Supported by National Nature Reserve. Such changes fascinating anecdotes and knowledge not only affect people but force species from Lady Mairi’s daughter, Lady Rose and habitats to move with the sand or Lauritzen, this new collection provides vanish completely. Given its populations personal insight into the family who of seals and seabirds, we need to lived here as well as the changing tastes understand what is happening, and why, and fashions of the twentieth century. so we can plan to protect Ireland’s oldest nature reserve. Highlights include Edith, Lady Londonderry’s Oriental Robe, c.1900– Researchers from the School of 1940. This opulent Chinese robe made Geography and Environmental Sciences from red and green silks incorporates at Ulster University have stepped in to high quality decorative panels of Peking help and are leading the investigation of changes to the sand levels. The data will knot-work, much loved in traditional coastal processes that shape Dundrum help build a computer model to predict Chinese embroidery. Another beautiful Bay. Over a period of three years, they will how Dundrum Bay is likely to respond to piece is a sterling silver, crystal and measure how the shape of the beach is future climate and sea level changes. turquoise belt buckle, c. 1925 which has changing from month to month using GPS a strong Egyptian influence. technology mounted on quad bikes to This research is part of the €5.98m survey the beach at low spring tides. Marine Protected Area Management and Over the next 18 months, the team led Monitoring (MarPAMM) project that and advised by Freelance Costume They will also use computer modelling of is supported by the EU INTERREG VA Curator, Helen McAneney, hope to wave conditions to see how wave energy is Programme administered by the Special have reviewed, catalogued, and made distributed along the coast and near shore EU Programmes Body. If you see the team publicly accessible the approximately areas. They will examine under-average around, and time allows, the researchers 3500 items on our Collections Online. conditions up to storm wave scenarios are happy to discuss their work with to fully investigate what is forcing these walkers and National Trust members.

6 Spring 2020 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni Wonder Walks Share your photos with us using #nationaltrustni If your ‘New Year, New You’ fitness goals have fallen from focus, let the arrival of spring and the lure of the perfect picture re-inspire you. With trails that boast breathtaking views, here are four insta-worthy walks that will motivate you to lace up those walking shoes. Murlough National Giant’s Causeway Florence Court Nature Reserve Divis and the Black Mountain With the wild wind howling along the This challenging hike takes you through the wild forest, rising above the canopy With the Mourne Mountains providing a With the wide open sky above and jagged cliffs, spraying salt into the air, for an unforgettable view of Fermanagh’s dramatic backdrop, follow sandy paths Belfast below, the view from this five head out across the dramatic grassland glistening lakes and hills. This red forest and heathland tracks on the North mile walk is worth it. A wilderness on the overlooking the Causeway bay. The park trail rewards walkers with views Point and South End trails. At around city’s doorstep, there’s a great mixture red trail is a bracing clifftop walk which across Fermanagh and beyond. Keep three miles each, you might spot seals of environments to explore. With tarmac offers spectacular views of the world- an eye out for the Lady’s Well and have on the shore and seabirds fishing at this roadway towards the masts, wooden famous Causeway Coast. You’ll have a closer look at the famous Yew Tree impressive County Down location. With boardwalk across the bog and open the option to walk to the Amphitheatre which is mother to millions. Following views in all directions, find yourself on countryside across the top, your mind viewpoint (five minutes) joining the the Claddagh River along the Riverside boardwalks meandering through sand will be as motivated as your legs. Causeway Coast Way (Yellow Trail) at the top of Shepherd’s Steps or taking a Walk, you’ll face a winding climb to the dunes and soaking up views of Dundrum circular trail by joining the Blue Trail. stunning viewpoint. Castle and the Mourne Mountains.

@marks_outside © PressEye @BelmoreCourt @dkeanephotography Read more about each of these walks, and many more, on our website nationaltrust.org.uk/ni

Walking near cattle on Divis

If you’re a regular walker on Divis and the Having just been let outside, livestock are Capture the beauty of nature Black Mountain, the free grazing cattle full of the joys of spring. Here’s what to are a familiar sight. Whether you’ve smiled keep in mind when walking near cattle. We asked local photographer, Paul Moane who back at your cud-chewing companion or found your heart-rate rising a beat, it’s 1. Look ahead and plan your path. If you see regularly visits our places for his top five tips to always wise to act safely around livestock. cattle ahead, don’t put yourself at risk by capture the perfect picture. Put them into action this walking close to them, pick a route that lets The mountain boasts blanket bog, wet you walk around them and avoid getting spring and share your photos with us on social media and dry heath and grassland with a diverse between cows and their calves. range of grasses, wild flowers and fungi. @nationaltrustni This unique habitat supports several 2. The biggest potential danger stems from Working as a photographer in Northern 3. Weather watch. The weather can change species such as Skylarks, Irish Hare and a contact between cattle and dogs. Cows see Ireland is quite special. Within a two very quickly, so be prepared for all the wide variety of Waxcap Fungi. Without the dogs as a much greater threat than humans. hour drive lies a diversity of landscapes. elements on one day. Embrace the wet grazing cattle on the mountain, the land They become more agitated around them. From our stunning rugged coastlines weather, photograph reflections in puddles, would revert to scrub and these precious They will become instinctively aggressive if with sandy beaches to the local patterns on a crisp morning, silhouettes species could be lost. We work closely with they perceive this as a threat to their young mountains with bogs, peatlands and of trees and the dramatic light of the sun local tenant farmers to select breeds which so keep dogs on a lead. lakes – we do have it all. breaking through the rain. Experiment with are traditionally more docile. During the sunlight, shoot into it to produce rays of most sensitive times of year for cattle, like 3. Move past cattle carefully and calmly. Be 1. Plan ahead. Set your alarm and get light/flare. the current breeding and rearing season, we prepared for the cattle to react to your up early to make the most of the day keep cows with young calves in dedicated presence, especially if you have a dog. ahead. Sunrise or sunset offer the warm 4. Keep it simple. Simple scenes can be enclosures away from public trails. Don’t panic or run. Most cattle will stop tone that gives photographs a real stronger. Rather than capturing a lot of before they reach you. If they follow, just magical look. details in the one picture, take a few walk on quietly and quickly. different versions of the same scene. Using 2. Observe. Look at the colours, light one interesting element in the image and 4. If you sense a threat, keep moving but and landmarks around you. Use scale, leaving plenty of space can be powerful. don’t run or turn your back to the animal. perspective and the patterns of the If you have a dog, let the lead go so you can surroundings. Bring the camera close 5. Go for it. Get out there. Learn to see reduce the danger to yourself, and both get to flowers and foliage. Experiment things differently – colours, scale, patterns, to safety separately. using pathways, rivers or landmark perspective in the great outdoors. Capture buildings to lead the viewer in. our stunning landscape in the different Keep us informed of any problems or seasons and, most of all, enjoy your incidents you may experience by emailing photographic journey. the Belfast team at [email protected]

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni Spring 2020 7 Spring 2020 Highlights Northern Ireland What's on

To browse the full list of spring activities, visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ni Event details are subject to change. To avoid disappointment, please visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ni to confirm details.

Saint Patrick’s Day Giant’s Causeway Easter Saint Patrick’s Day Pick a day out near you Tuesday 17 March, 9am–6pm Take a hop and a skip across the world-famous Mount Stewart stones this Saint Patrick’s Day. Tap your Saturday 4 to Sunday 19 April, 11am–4pm toes to traditional Irish music and dancers Scurry down to Mount Stewart for the Easter before following the leprechaun trail down to holidays and see if you can spot Ruby Red Northern Ireland’s only World Heritage Site. and her friends as they celebrate spring. Meet at Visitor Centre. Normal Admission Members Free Normal Admission Members Free Rowallane Garden Mussenden Temple Saturday 4 to Sunday 19 April, 10am–6pm Mussenden Lights Get competitive and challenge family and Tuesday 17 March, 7–9pm friends to a race on the front lawn including Perched on the North coast, see the iconic the classic tradition of egg and spoon racing. Mussenden Temple join world-famous Normal Admission Members Free landmarks in lighting up the night sky for Saint Leap for nature Patrick’s Day. Pack a torch and your camera to Castle Ward capture the Earl Bishops Library in a different Monday 6 to Sunday 19 April, 11am–4pm Derrymore light for one night only. Explore the Secret Shore Nature Trail and Birdsong and Bluebells Dawn Chorus Meet at Lion’s Gate. get creative with the spring themed activities. Saturday 25 April, 5am No Charge Donations Welcome Make a day of it by visiting the farmyard Rise before the lark and experience an amazing animals. spring dawn chorus on an early morning guided Normal Admission Members Free walk through the beautiful Derrymore Woods. Florence Court End your walk by tucking into a hearty cooked Castle Coole Monday 6 to Sunday 19 April, 11am–4pm breakfast in Bessbrook. Monday 6 to Sunday 19 April, 11am–4pm Enjoy some Easter fun as you follow the trail Booking Essential Enjoy some Easter fun as you follow the trail around the grounds to solve the nature clues Contact 02887 784753 around the grounds to solve the nature clues and complete the Easter trail. or email [email protected] and complete the Easter trail. Normal Admission Members Free Adult £10 Member Adult £10 Normal Admission Members Free Price includes breakfast Crom North Coast Monday 6 to Sunday 19 April, 11am–4pm Mount Stewart Easter on the North Coast Enjoy some Easter fun as you follow the trail Dawn Chorus Walk Monday 6 to Sunday 19 April, 12noon–4pm around the grounds to solve the nature clues Sunday 3 May, 4.30–8am Roll up your sleeves and have a go at nature and complete the Easter trail. Rise before the lark and experience an amazing based activities with events for all ages Normal Admission Members Free spring dawn chorus. Wander through the across Downhill Demesne, Hezlett House, woodlands with our expert ranger and discover Portstewart Strand and Cushendun. Discover The Argory the bird song as it echoes through the trees. As sand sculpting, sensory tree trails and walks Easter at The Argory the estate awakes, tuck into a hearty breakfast. Eye-catching art with our rangers. Tick off some of the 50 Monday 6 to Sunday 19 April, 11am–4pm Booking Essential things to do before you are 113/4. Hop over to The Argory this Easter and go wild Contact 02842 788387 The Argory Normal Admission Members Free in the play park, enjoy crafts and games in the Adult £8 Child £5 Argory Art Talk Member Adult £8 Child £5 Thursday 26 March, 7pm courtyard and take part in our nature trail. Springhill Enjoy traditional games on the front lawn. Price includes breakfast Join the house and collections team and discover more about Mr Bond and his love of Easter at Springhill Normal Admission Members Free Monday 6 to Sunday 19 April, 11am–4pm Ardress modern art. During the evening you will have Apple Blossom the opportunity to see ‘Artificial Sunshine’ in its Put a spring in your step as you enjoy Ardress springtime activities and discover the nature Friday 10 to Sunday 19 April, 11am–4pm Sunday 10 and 17 May, 11am–5pm new, permanent location as well as some never Set in the heart of the Orchard County, Ardress before seen works of art from his collection. trail and play areas. Bounce over to Ardress this Easter to say hello will celebrate Armagh’s rich apple-growing Complimentary refreshments included. Normal Admission Members Free to the friendly farmyard chickens. Enjoy the nature trail around the orchards and grounds. traditions. Enjoy apple teas in the threshing barn, Booking Essential sample MacIvors cider, make floral garlands and Contact 02887 784753 Normal Admission Members Free explore the orchards on a guided tour. or email [email protected] Normal Admission Members Free Normal Admission Members Free

‘Have a go’ days Meet like-minded members Castle Coole Annual Spring Bulb Plant If you like making the most of your National Trust membership Sunday 8 March, 12noon–4pm and enjoy some company on your outings, why not join your local Roll up your sleeves and help us plant over 100,000 snowdrops in Fermanagh in 2020. Members’ Association? These are groups of Trust members who live Suitable clothing and footwear essential. near you and get together for talks, walks, outings, day trips and even Normal Admission Members Free holidays. Wherever you live, there’s a group within Downhill Demense reach, waiting to give you a warm welcome. Wild Garlic Foraging Walk and Workshop Saturday 14 March, 11am–2pm North Coast Whether you’re a top chef or home cook, garlic is a kitchen staple. Pick your own wild garlic Stephanie Craig on this foraging walk and have a go at making 07771 930211 wild garlic pesto. Tuck into a wild garlic inspired lunch and take home your pesto to use in your North Down and Ards own kitchen. Margaret Curral Online Booking Essential 02890 424136 nationaltrust.org.uk/downhilldemesne Adult £25 Member Adult £25 Belfast Mournes Mary Stanley Mending the Mournes 02891 460393 Saturday 28 March, Saturday 18 April, Rathlin [email protected] Saturday 16 and 30 May, 9.30am–3.30pm Ranger for the Day Looking for an adventure? Come help our Friday 8 May, 10am mountain ranger team complete vital repairs Carry out practical conservation work and Fermanagh to the Glen River path on Slieve Donard. Learn discover the wildlife that call Rathlin home. Jenny Cecil traditional path work skills such as stone- Join our ranger team to look after the 02866 387988 pitching and heathland re-profiling and help landscape and trails at Ballyconaghan and [email protected] look after one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic discover how we work with the tenant farmer. locations. Suitable outdoor clothing essential Price includes ferry crossing. including sturdy steel toe cap boots. Online Booking Essential Booking Essential Book by 1 May at nationaltrust.org.uk/ Photo credits: Paul Moane, Declan Keane, Mark O’Connor, Terry McCartney Contact 02843 751467 cushendun National Trust Images / Chris Lacey, John Miller, Conor Edgell, John Hammond or email [email protected] Adult £25 Member Adult £25 National Trust / Paul Canning, PressEye, Kevin Duncan, Clare O’Reilly, Kyle Lamb, Toby Edwards, Jade Blair, Derek Murray, Matthew Morrison, James Plumb.

Get in touch: telephone 02897 510721 or email [email protected] Published by the National Trust, Northern Ireland Regional Office, Rowallane Stableyard, Saintfield, Ballynahinch, Co Down BT24 7LH. Printed on 60% recycled paper. Telephone: 02897 510721 Registered Charity No. 205846 Director: Heather McLachlan Editor: Paula Donnelly © National Trust 2020 Please recycle this leaflet after use.

8 Spring 2020 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni