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Home , Castle Ward, Crom Estate, Derrymore House, Fair Head, Florence Court, Mount Stewart

What’s on near you spring and summer 2016

Registered charity number 205846 Welcome Ideas and inspiration Go walkabout 4 5 Welcome to a new year of exploring with the Pumped up and ready to go Sailing around in boats 5 and an action packed calendar of fun things to do for all the Run for your life 6 family. Enjoy walks to take in the views, amazing objects in Make the most of the coast 7 our collections, treats in the tea-room and special events for Wildlife magic 8 all tastes and interests. 50 things to do before you’re 113/4 9 A treasure chest of history 10 Our places on the silver screen 13 from just Spring and summer events 14 to 34 Information Who we are and what we do 35 £5.25 Volunteer and make a difference 35 Time to get away 36 a month Contact details 38 Places to visit — Map 39 Members help Glorious keep special Gardens in 2016

Some of Northern ’s most beautiful private places special gardens are open to visitors under the Gardens National Trust members Scheme. An exciting mixture of town and country gardens of different sizes and styles of planting are You can help take care of everything During normal opening hours lined up for visitors to enjoy this summer season. from open countryside to sweeping members are entitled to free For details of open gardens and gardens by coastlines and even majestic entry. Additional charges for some appointment visit ulstergardensscheme.org.uk staircases. Join the National Trust or to request a leaflet, contact 028 9751 0721. events may also apply to members Further Information and your membership will help to help raise essential funds for look after these special places for Details of events are correct at the time of printing. everyone to enjoy. the restoration and upkeep of the Please note that the information provided in this special place you are visiting. guide may change without notice. Please check event details before travelling by contacting the relevant Become a National Trust member place or visiting our website nationaltrust.org.uk and you can start getting to know A mouth-watering year hundreds of special places from just Follow us on-line ’s Year of Food and Drink 2016 is a £5.25 a month. nationaltrust.org.uk/ni celebration of everything that makes the produce from this place so good. Thanks to wild coasts, facebook.com/nationaltrustni endless green acres and famously fickle weather, Join today at your @nationaltrustni Northern Ireland is producing some of the world’s finest and freshest ingredients—from iconic breads favourite place or online to seafood, spirits and meat. There’s no better Alternative Formats time to enjoy a true taste of Northern Ireland. at nationaltrust.org.uk Telephone 028 9751 0721 or email To find out more and to get involved visit [email protected] tourismni.com/yearoffoodanddrink Registered charity number 205846

2 3 Go walkabout Pumped up

We look after 108 miles of Northern Ireland’s coastline and and ready to go 46 square miles of countryside. So whether it’s an afternoon ramble with the dog, or a hiking adventure with friends, there’s Trees passing by in a blur and the wind in your hair. There’s nothing quite like always a special place to explore. Stretch your legs, and your experiencing the great outdoors on a bike. From gentle parkland trails to thrill imagination, and enjoy the great outdoors. rides across rugged terrain, you can find cycle routes to suit you. And with bikes to hire at some of our places, all you need to bring is a sense of adventure.

On the level Short, easy and mostly flat, our cycle routes for young families are perfect for little ones—or even bigger ones who want a gentler jaunt. Choose your own speed at . Our cycle trails have special ‘Slow Zones’—ideal for little legs and more time to savour the sweeping views. Listen out for the drumming of woodpeckers as you rush along the woodland trails at .

Go further afield Castle Ward and Florence Court are also perfect if you want to get on your bike Free and easy and take a longer, more challenging ride. If you’re pushing a buggy, or simply want a soothing stroll, there are lots of trails that offer a gentle meander Sailing around in boats through awe-inspiring landscapes. Or take a long walk Ever canoed down a river? Tasted the salty spray as you kayaked through wild coast and countryside, clear the cobwebs along the coast? There are lots of special places around the country and reward yourself with views that lift the soul. with coastlines, lakes and estuaries just waiting for you to discover.

Discover the veteran trees, woodland and All aboard riverside walks at The Argory, and marvel at the carpet of winter snowdrops. Whether you’re a budding sailor or an ancient mariner, there are plenty of ways to explore the fascinating Catch the breeze and go fly a kite at waterways around you. Downhill Demesne. Children will also love exploring the natural play trail. Take the exhilarating rope bridge challenge Try dipping a toe in the water with one of the beginners’ at Carrick-a-Rede and enjoy fantastic kayak sessions with Clearsky Adventure at Castle Ward views as far as the eye can see. or join one of their more advanced sessions. Spring is a great time to visit Follow the canoe trail on Lough, where Rowallane Garden and legend has it that there’s an island for every day of when the rhododendrons burst into colour. the year. You get a bird’s-eye view of the marine life teeming below the surface. Looking over , and the Black is a haven for those seeking the Discover hidden coves and wildlife close-up on a wild countryside experience. canoeing trip along the River Blackwater with access points at The Argory. For an invigorating clifftop walk with unusual views, explore the basalt columns Hire a boat at Crom and explore the islands or have a of the Giant’s Causeway. go at coarse angling and pike fishing. 4 5 Make the most of the coast

Tasting the salty ocean on a wild swim, or catching a wave that flings you skywards, our coastline is a place of discovery, thrills and adventure. And there’s something for everyone to get active. Why not dive in today?

Run for your life

Running outdoors is great for body and soul—and with hundreds of miles of countryside and coastal paths, there’s sure to be a special place that you can turn into your personal outdoor gym. We have lots of trails where you can keep fit while getting in tune with nature.

With its winding paths and elegant Find your own way avenue, is a jogger’s dream. Join the friendly parkrun around If a gentle run isn’t challenging enough, why the estate on Saturday mornings. not try geocaching or orienteering? It’s a great way to test your mind as well as your body. Be a beachcomber Take the plunge Look out for the electric blue flash of a kingfisher or the glimpse of an otter on There are hidden caches at many of our There’s more to our beaches than miles of The crisp, sea air in your nostrils. The feeling of a gentle run through Minnowburn. places. Log on to geocaching.com and golden sand. Look closely and you’ll find being swept along by the waves. There’s nothing opencaching.com for details and clues. Just rare and captivating wildlife all around you. as exhilarating as swimming in coastal waters. Surrounded by ancient woodland Crom grab your trainers, map and GPS device, and Rock pools are nature’s lucky dips. At Take a plunge into the sea at Murlough NNR on the shores of is a world set off into the unknown. away from every day stresses. Murlough NNR you can feel a crab scuttle on the coast. Look out for the across your hand, or the bristling tentacles common and grey seals hauled out on the rocks. Take in the views of Runs with a view of an anemone. and the as you jog along the Paddle in the water at Strand woodland trails at Springhill. Swap a treadmill for a trail in the Try some beachcombing along where the golden sands and views of the beautiful outdoors to make your run White Park Bay and then enjoy a picnic headland and more memorable. You can’t spot a deer on this secluded beach. provide the perfect backdrop. bounding through trees, see inspiring Spot seals at , watch views or breathe in fresh sea air in a gym. the acrobatics of terns and gulls and in Go barefoot along the sandy beach at the autumn see up to 90% of the global Portstewart Strand. Then race to the top population of light-bellied brent geese. of the sand dunes and take in the views. Stretch those calf muscles on your way up . The sweeping view from the top is an inspiring sight.

6 7 Wildlife magic The fleeting flash of a marsh fritillary butterfly or a kingfisher. The low drone of bees working a wildflower meadow. The elegant silhouette of a fallow deer feeding at dusk. All kinds of wonderful wildlife grace the special places we look after. 50 things to do before you’re 11¾

It’s time to go wild! We want kids to get messy, mucky, soggy. We want them to build a den out of twigs, run around in the rain, scrape their knees exploring a cave, plunge their hands into a gloopy rock pool. That’s why we’ve come up with 50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾.

Hit the dirt Go outdoors, keep track online Put the family’s washing machine to the After a day exploring the great outdoors, All aflutter test. Here are our favourite ways to get kids can keep track of their adventures really, really dirty outdoors. on our 50 Things app and website. They In early summer the colourful flowers of wildflower can unlock games, earn badges and Build a cosy den meadows attract a wealth of insects from butterflies to collect secret rewards. And, of course, Make your own little hide-away. Gather hoverflies and bees. So it couldn’t be easier to catch a find out even more ways to go outside some branches and twigs from the glimpse of these delicate, dancing creatures. and get stuck into nature. woods and let your imagination go wild. Pick up a 50 things to do scrapbook Run around in the rain Murlough NNR and Portstewart Strand Mammals and birds when you visit our special places—and Never mind if it’s raining outside, put are brimming with butterflies and moths. tick off as many wild activities as you can. Look out for some beauties like the marsh Ancient and semi-natural woodlands are some wellies on and go puddle-jumping! fritillary, common blue, meadow brown and amongst our richest habitats providing a home Download the app and discover Hunt for bugs dark green fritillary. for a myriad of birds and mammals including even more wild things to do at Crawl through the mud and track down roosting areas for bats and home for rare nationaltrust.org.uk/50things Cast a net across the flowering meadows at species like red squirrels and pine martens. a beetle, or hold a wriggling worm in Rowallane Garden to find some interesting your hand. We want kids to have fun, but we and colourful insects. Explore the ancient oak trees and look out for also want them to play safe, so Climb a tree red squirrels and bats at Crom, Florence Court we recommend all these activities With so many trees around, how do you Watch butterflies in a colourful summer and Mount Stewart. are supervised by an adult. meadow at Castle Coole, and discover the know which one to climb? Find one with wildlife that lives in and around Lough Coole. Listen to the dawn chorus in our woodlands strong branches you can reach from the at Minnowburn, Mount Stewart and ground. The Argory. Discover what’s in a pond or river Take your net and go dipping in the river. Remember to return any mini beasts that you find back to the water.

8 9 Feast your eyes

Whether you’re in the mood for a gentle stroll through a beautiful home before indulging in tea and cake in one of our tea-rooms, or looking for in-depth knowledge Springhill, Court Mantua Dress about our many and varied collections, a visit to one of our Perhaps the prettiest house in Northern houses is a must. From delicate Ireland, Springhill has a history stretching back costume at Springhill, to sumptuous Mount Stewart, Central Hall into the 17th century. Find out more about Regency furniture at Castle Coole, the troubled times of the Plantation and the the collections open an intriguing many generations of the family who lived in this charming house, with its excellent library door into the past. and fine furniture. The costume collection is an A treasure chest of history added attraction to this delightful place. We look after one of the world’s largest and most significant For sheer splendour, nowhere can match holdings of fine art and heritage objects. Many of these items Castle Coole’s rich interiors and furnishings. were commissioned, acquired and accumulated by country house Ordered for the house in the early years of the 19th century the opulent furniture is of owners over many centuries, as contemporary furnishings and exceptional quality and is unique in Ireland. as dazzling displays. Not all places are grand treasure houses— Ardress House, set in the apple orchards of many are small with deep personal associations, offering you the Armagh, is a very fancy farm house. What a chance to uncover a broad spectrum of social, political, scientific surprise awaits those who enter and discover and industrial histories. the wonderful drawing room.

Every object tells a story • Discover the dazzling silver display at Mount Stewart, just one of the new collections in this remarkable house, along with a wealth of sculpture, one of the largest collections of family portraits by Sir Thomas Lawrence, and many newly decorated rooms. • See where Edith, Lady Londonderry sat at her desk surrounded by family photos and Castle Coole, State Bedroom loved mementos. With red telephone to hand she corresponded with plant hunters, artists, writers, friends and relatives. Here, Browse our online collections Edith also wrote her books and researched her planting plans for the garden. Find out more about the thousands of items in our houses across • Enjoy new rooms opening at Mount Stewart Northern Ireland, England and Wales at different times of the year and join at nationaltrustcollections.org.uk special tours revealing the family history. Mount Stewart, Lady Londonderry’s Sitting Room Ardress House, Drawing Room 10 11 © ITV/Rainmark Our places, our collections

Most houses can be visited on a guided tour, led by one of our knowledgeable and friendly guiding staff. While at Mount Stewart you can visit at your own pace with room guides on hand to offer more information about the house and family. ©Universal Pictures The Frankenstein Chronicles at Castle Ward Our places on the silver screen From costume dramas to fantasy and fairy tales, the historic houses and stunning landscapes we look after have provided backdrops to some unforgettable moments on the silver screen.

Hezlett House, Kitchen Follow in the footsteps of the stars Dracula Year Zero at Divis The BBC One comedy, Blandings, is based on and the Hezlett House offers a completely different The Argory’s splendidly crowded rooms impress the celebrated stories of PG Wodehouse and visit: intimate, sometimes tiny rooms, with their rich furnishings: polished brass, crimson the majority of filming took place at Crom Castle Ward, Portstewart Strand, give a real feel for what life was like in this velvets and damasks, dark mahogany and gilt with a number of days at Florence Court. Carrick-a-Rede, Downhill Demesne and intriguing thatched farm house. picture frames, all give the impression of solid Castle Coole, the elegant neo-classical were host to some of the cast comfort and an appreciation of fine things. Top it all mansion set in magnificent parkland, became and crew for HBO Game of Thrones. Meet the Kodiak Bear in the hall at by hearing the organ played on musical open days. Castle Ward and hear about the a sumptuous film set for the Apocalypse The series follows the dynastic struggles extraordinary Mary Ward. In the 1850s Set in the Fermanagh hills, Florence Court is the Films Company movie adaptation of August of rival clans who fight for supremacy and Mary was a woman way ahead of her house that everyone wants to live in: beautiful Strindberg’s classic play, Miss Julie. the Iron Throne. time, writing books on the Wonders of plasterwork, gracious, cosy rooms and a wealth of Mount Stewart and Castle Ward feature

the Microscope and studying comets and history. Explore the extensive basement and yards FilmsCompany© Apocalypse in The Frankenstein Chronicles. A thrilling nebulae—she could have been the Professor with their servants’ rooms, kitchen and laundry. Miss Julie at Castle Coole remake of the Frankenstein story as a crime Brian Cox of her day. drama for ITV. Universal Pictures production of Dracula Something for everyone Year Zero was filmed at various Northern Ireland locations including Mount Stewart, Discover great art and collections Divis and the Black Mountain and the and explore historic places in our Giant’s Causeway. The storyline is based care. From a massive masterpiece by on the original Bram Stoker novel. Stubbs, to an Ancient Greek grave marker, from the jacket worn during The 19th century period drama, the sinking of The Birkenhead to a December Bride, is set in Northern Ireland stunning silk court mantua dress— and filming locations included Island there is no shortage of choice. Taggart onStrangford Lough.

The Argory, Organ 12 13 14 planning fundays outfor all thefamily. of activities for everyone. It’s timeto start wildlifespotting, we’ve afantastic array and craft fairs to children’s events and From guided walks and boat trips,music summer events Spring and Member Adult £15 Child £7.50 Child £10 (includes estate admission) Adult £20(includes estate admission) Afternoon tea sittings: 1pm,2.30pm, 4pm Contact 028 8778 4753 Booking Essential traditional delights. Victoria sponge, homemade scones and other The Argory. Enjoy delicate finger sandwiches, Give Mum a special treat thisMother’s Day at Mother’sDay Afternoon Tea 6 March The Argory Member Adult £8 Adult £16 (includes estate admission) 2pm, 4pm Contact 1204 028 4488 Booking Essential house alive. homemade treats while we bring thestories of the Ward HousethisMother’s Day. Relax and enjoy the cream tea intheexclusive Strangford Suite in Castle Treat that special lady in your life to a delightful Mother’sDay—HistoricalCream Tea 6 March Castle Ward No Charge Donations Welcome fantastic places have to offer. charge this weekend and get a taste of what these VisitFlorence Court, Castle Cooleor Cromfree of FreeOpen Weekend 5–6 March Fermanagh Places Car £5, Van £10, Trailer £15 9am–12noon Traders can arrive from 7amfor set up. around themany stalls and pick up a few treasures. Come along and sell your unwanted items or browse CarBoot Sale 5 March Mount Stewart

No Charge Donations Welcome For further details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni weekend 5–6March). after. Excludes Fermanagh places (Fermanagh free and learn more about the amazing places we look places today. Come and meet our staff and volunteers, Enjoy free admission at a number of National Trust FreeDay Open 12 March National Trust Northern Ireland Normal Admission Members Free 1–4pm coastal views. the history of salmon fishing and enjoy stunning cottageon Carrick-a-Rede Hearisland. allabout Cross thebridge and see insidetheoldfisherman’s FisheryOpen Weekend 12–13 March Carrick-a-Rede Normal Admission Members Free 11am–4pm painting and balloon modelling. leprechauns onthetreasure trail and enjoy face Visitor Centre and the Causeway Hotel. Find the CelebratethingsIrish attheGiant’s all Causeway Saint Patrick’s Day Festival 12–13 March Giant’s Causeway open days inMarch Explore National Trust places for free onspecial

Normal Admission Members Free 1–3.30pm of traditional musicinthestableyard. Castle Ward starts theseason with thesounds Saint Patrick’s Day 17 March Castle Ward 11am–1pm, 2–4pm 028 4372 3933 or [email protected] Contact Clearsky Adventure Centreon Booking Essential Weather dependant. and win someprizes? Suitable for age 4 years plus. Can you catch theleprechaun with his crock of gold of laughs,challenges and even somelocal folklore. In thisfunfamily treasure hunt you will enjoy plenty the mischievous leprechauns of and fairies Ireland. People have told tales for a thousand years about Treasure Hunt Saint Patrick’s Day—Myths and Legends Family 17 March Castle Ward Walk starts 10.45am Registration 10–10.30am or [email protected] Information Centre 2233 on028 4461 For further information contact Tourist this walk isnotsuitable for dogs. provided at our refreshment point. Dueto livestock is free and a wee dram of whiskey (or tea/coffee) is of quiet country roads and green lanes. The event and theLecale Ramblers, theroute includes a mixture country. Organised jointly by Down District Council Join usonour annual walk through Saint Patrick’s Saint Patrick’s Day Walk 17 March Castle Ward Join usfor leprechaun huntson Saint Patrick’s Day

11am city walls as part of the Saint Patrick’s Day festival. Join usfor a funleprechun hunt around theiconic Leprechaun Hunt 17 March /Londonderry Member Adult £15 Child £8 Adult £15 Child £8 11.30am–2.30pm Contact 028 4278 8387 Booking Essential waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear essential. meal intheMount Stewart Tea-Rooms. Suitable Head of Gardens, NeilPorteous, followed by a rustic Tour therhododendrons at Mount Stewart with Rhododendron Ramble and Roast 20 March Mount Stewart Normal Admission Members Free 12noon–5pm CDs and DVDs are welcome prior to theevent. activities on Sunday. Donations of unwanted books, something for everyone with live music and children’s and stock upon all your essentialreads. There’s Browse through hundreds of second handbooks Spring Book Fair 19–20 March The Argory Normal Admission Members Free 10am–4pm help usseek outtheleprechauns at thisfunevent. Hezlett House. Come along with the whole family to Downhill forest and hiddenthemselves around Leprechauns have escaped from their homein Leprechaun Hunt 17 March Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House Take a tour of therhododendrons at Mount Stewart 15 March Wellbrook Beetling Mill 25–28 March Florence Court Easter Egg Hunt 26–27 March Follow the clues along the wooded glen, crack the Easter Treasure Hunt code and unlock the Cadbury’s chocolate prize. Enjoy some Easter fun as you follow the trail around Egg Hunt £1 per child. the grounds to find the chocolate treasure in our 2–5pm Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt. March Normal Admission Members Free Egg Hunt £1 per child. March 11am–4pm Ardress House Normal Admission Members Free 25–30 March Easter Egg Hunt Crom The Easter Bunny has made a trail around the 26–28 March farmyard and gardens at Ardress House. Follow Easter Treasure Hunt There’s lots of Easter fun at our places across the clues to unlock the Cadbury’s surprise. Enjoy Join us for some Easter fun as you follow the trail Northern Ireland some eggstra Easter fun on Easter Sunday with face around the grounds to find the chocolate treasure in our Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt. Springhill painting, games and other children’s activites. Egg Hunt £1 per child. 21 March–3 April Egg Hunt £1 per child. 11am–4pm Easter Egg Hunt 1–6pm Normal Admission Members Free Join our fantastic Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt around Normal Admission Members Free and grounds throughout the Easter Castle Coole holidays. Enjoy some eggstra fun on Easter Sunday Castle Ward 26–28 March and Monday with face painting, games and other 25 March–3 April We’re teaming up with Cadbury for adventurous Easter Treasure Hunt Easter Egg Hunts children’s activities. Easter at the Barn Join us for lots of Easter fun with children’s craft Have some Easter fun as you follow the trail around Egg Hunt £1 per child. Crom activities, table top games, kiddies ride-on tractors, the grounds to find the chocolate treasure in our 12noon–5pm 28 March sandpit and farmyard trail. Bring along a picnic, visit Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt. Normal Admission Members Free Cruise the Lough the farmyard animals and relax by the shores Egg Hunt £1 per child. See a different side to from the water of Strangford Lough. 11am–4pm The Argory as you a cruise around the lough in Crom’s 100 year 12noon–4pm Normal Admission Members Free 21 March–3 April old traditional craft. Weather dependant. Easter Egg Hunt Normal Admission Members Free Castle Ward Booking Essential Solve the clues to help find the Cadbury’s chocolate 27–28 March Contact 028 6773 8118 prize on our Easter Egg Hunt, throughout the Easter Murlough NNR Easter Fair 1–5pm holidays. Enjoy some eggstra fun on Easter Monday 26 March Our Easter fun continues with the annual Easter Adult £4 Child £2 and Tuesday with face painting, games and other Easter Egg Hunt Fair with plenty for everyone to enjoy. Search for Member Adult £4 Child £2 children’s activities. Come along for some Easter fun as you follow the clues on the Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt over the sand Cadbury’s chocolate prizes throughout the day, Egg Hunt £1 per child. Florence Court dunes and beach to discover the chocolate treasure. browse local craft and food stalls and take a horse 12noon–5pm 28 March Egg Hunt £1 per child. and carriage ride (weather dependant). The annual Normal Admission Members Free Easter Monday Family Fun Day Booking Essential Mega Easter Hunt will be taking place at 3pm on both days. Easter fun for all the family with Cadbury Easter Egg Rowallane Garden Contact 028 4375 1467 Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt £1 per child. Hunts, music and much more. 24 March–3 April or email [email protected] Mega Easter Hunt £1 per child. Egg Hunt £1 per child. Easter Egg Decorating 2–3pm 12noon–6pm 11am–5pm Come along each day to the Rowallane café Normal Admission Members Free Normal Admission Members Free Normal Admission Members Free and take part in our decorating egg-stravaganza. Mount Stewart 11am–2.30pm Rowallane Garden 26 March Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House Normal Admission Members Free 29 March Spring Walk 27–29 March Easter Egg Hunt Easter Chick Hunt Mount Stewart Enjoy a three mile walk through the rolling Fun for all the family as you follow the trail around Hop along for a family fun day out exploring the 25–28 March countryside of the demesne and enjoy the wealth the historic Downhill Demesne. Hunt for clues to nooks and crannies around the beautiful garden Easter Egg Hunt of wildlife, history and stunning landscape of this crack the code and unlock the Cadbury’s chocolate while following the clues in the Cadbury Easter Egg Bring the children to Mount Stewart this Easter to unique estate. Suitable for age 8 years plus with surprise in our Easter Egg Hunt. Hunt to win a chocolate prize. Fun for everyone. take part in our popular Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt. accompanying adult. Stout walking boots required. Meet at Lion’s Gate. Egg Hunt £1 per child. Follow the clues around the Lake Walk and return to Well behaved dogs on leads only. Egg Hunt £1 per child. 10.30am–3pm collect your chocolate prize. Booking Essential 12noon–4pm Normal Admission Members Free Egg Hunt £1 per child. Contact 028 4278 8387 Normal Admission Members Free 12noon–4pm 10am–1pm Normal Admission Members Free Normal Admission Members Free 16 17 The Argory Carrick-a-Rede Florence Court April (Thursday to Sunday only) 9–10 April 24 April Daffodil Danders Fishery Open Weekend Music at the Summer House It’s a sure sign that spring has arrived when the bright Cross the bridge and see inside the old fisherman’s Join us for an afternoon of music at the restored yellow heads of daffodils appear at The Argory. Enjoy cottage on Carrick-a-Rede island. Hear all about summer house. Bring a picnic and enjoy the views a self guided walk and finish off with a cuppa in the the history of salmon fishing and enjoy stunning of the Pleasure Ground and across to Benaughlin

April Courtyard Coffee Shop. coastal views. Mountain April 12noon–5pm 1–4pm 2–4pm Normal Admission Members Free Normal Admission Members Free Normal Admission Members Free

Springhill Murlough NNR Divis and the Black Mountain April (Saturday and Sunday only) 10 April 24 April Daffodil Danders Spring into Action for the Beach Clean Four Peaks Challenge Spring has sprung and so have our daffodils. Take a Help us give Murlough National Nature Reserve a If you enjoy the great outdoors, then don’t miss this self-guided walk through Springhill grounds in the spring clean, ready to start a new season. opportunity to join our Ranger for a guided walk company of countless colourful daffodils. Suitable clothing and footwear essential. across the peaks of the Black Hill, Black Mountain, 12noon–5pm Meet at main car park. Divis Mountain and Armstrong’s Hill. Suitable for age Normal Admission Members Free Booking Essential Take the four peaks challenge on Divis and the Black Mountain 12 years plus. All children must be accompanied by an Contact 028 4375 1467 adult. Suitable clothing and footwear essential. Bring Mount Stewart 10.30am–12.30pm a warm flask and light snack. Mount Stewart 2 April Registration at The Barn. 17 April Car Boot Sale Castle Ward Booking Essential Pet Nose Day Come along and sell your unwanted items or browse 10, 24 April Contact 028 9082 5434 This award-winning charity event returns as part of around the many stalls and pick up a few treasures. Historical Afternoon Tea 10am–4pm Pet Month and celebrates our four legged friends. Traders can arrive from 7am for set up. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live Adult £3 Member Adult £3 Bring along your dog and be entertained by agility 9am–12noon in a house like Castle Ward? This wonderful event and training demonstrations. Car £5, Van £10, Trailer £15 brings to life some of the stories in the fascinating Mount Stewart 11am–5pm history of the estate. Listen to the tales while you 24 April Normal Admission Members Free The Argory enjoy delicious homemade treats in the exclusive Jazz in the Gardens 9 April Strangford Suite. Bring your picnic and settle down on the lawn with Castle Coole Good Food Market Booking Essential your family and friends to enjoy an afternoon of jazz 21 April–1 May In celebration of Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Contact 028 4488 1204 in the beautiful gardens at Mount Stewart. Castle Coole Gallery Drink, come along to taste and buy a range of locally 2pm, 4pm Sorry no BBQ’s. The historic basement rooms provide the sourced produce. The once bustling Courtyard at Adult £16 (includes estate admission) 2–4.30pm perfect setting for the Castle Coole Gallery Art The Argory will come alive with cookery Member Adult £8 Normal Admission Members Free Exhibition. Visitors will have the opportunity to demonstrations, music and country activities. Food admire and purchase wonderful pieces of art and drink vendor enquiries contact 028 8778 9014. Rowallane Garden Castle Coole from renowned artists. 11am–4pm 16–17 April 30 April 11am–4pm Normal Admission Members Free Tea Blending Paws in the Park Normal Admission Members Free To celebrate Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Dogs are always weclome at Castle Coole but Drink drop into the Rowallane café for an insight into especially today. Join our dog walk, enter your pooch Enjoy World Heritage Day at the Giant’s Causeway The Argory natural tea blending. Each session last 30 minutes. in our pet dog show and pick up some behaviour 24 April 11am, 2pm techniques and grooming tips. Afternoon Tea Normal Admission Members Free 12noon–3pm Enjoy a delightful afternoon tea; finger sandwiches, Normal Admission Members Free Victoria sponge, homemade scones and other Giant’s Causeway seasonal delights. 17 April Join us for an afternoon of Music at Florence Court World Heritage Day Booking Essential Contact 028 8778 4753 Thirty years ago the Giant’s Causeway was designated Afternoon tea sittings: 1pm, 2.30pm, 4pm as Northern Ireland’s first World Heritage Site by Adult £20 (includes estate admission) UNESCO. Join a guided walk from one end of our Child £10 (includes estate admission) World Heritage Site to the other, plant wildflowers, Member Adult £15 Child £7.50 enjoy crafts, face painting and music with an international flavour. 11am–4pm Normal Admission Members Free

18 19 Crom Carrick-a-Rede Strangford Lough 2 May 7–8 May 30 April Cruise the Lough Fishery Open Weekend Chapel Island Guided Walk See a different side to Crom estate from the water Cross the bridge and see inside the old fisherman’s A fascinating walk from across the as you a cruise around the lough in Crom’s 100 year cottage on Carrick-a-Rede island. Hear all about sand flats to nearby Chapel Island with our Ranger. old traditional craft. Weather dependant. the history of salmon fishing and enjoy stunning You will discover some of the area’s remarkable Booking Essential coastal views. Contact 028 6773 8118 1–4pm May archaeological features and an abundance of wildlife May Normal Admission Members Free that make Strangford Lough so special. Wellingtons 1–5pm Adult £4 Child £2 recommended. Bring a packed lunch. Not suitable Mount Stewart Member Adult £4 Child £2 for dogs. 8 May Meet at Greyabbey car park, Road. Late Spring Guided Walk Castle Ward Booking Essential The gardens at Mount Stewart were recently Contact 028 4278 8387 7 May described as one of the Top Ten Gardens in the World 12.30–3.30pm Ramble with the Head Ranger and they come alive at this time of year. Enjoy a tour Adult £4 Child £1 Join our Head Ranger for an energetic ramble around of the gardens with our gardening experts. Discover Member Adult £4 Child £1 the estate as he reveals the hidden secrets of the the carpets of wildflowers in the woodlands and look landscape around this iconic demense. Celebrate Apple Blossom day at Ardress House out for the first returning spring migrants. The Argory Booking Essential Meet at Mount Stewart reception. 30 April Contact 028 4488 1204 Booking Essential Vintage Rally Mount Stewart No Charge Donations Welcome Contact 028 4278 8387 Hundreds of vintage vehicles will descend upon 1 May 11am–1pm The Argory as we host our famous vintage vehicle Dawn Chorus Walk Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House Adult £10 Child £5 rally. A must-see event for all vehicle enthusiasts. Enjoy the delights of the spring dawn chorus and 7 May Member Adult £10 Child £5 12noon–5pm learn all about bird song with our Ranger, followed Behind the Scenes—Bluebell Walks Murlough NNR Normal Admission Members Free by a hearty breakfast. Suitable for age 8 years plus Come along for an afternoon stroll around the with accompanying adult. Not suitable for dogs. Bishop’s Gate gardens and glen to see the bluebells in 8 May full bloom. Join the estate Ranger who will highlight Spring Walk Rowallane Garden Meet at the Lookout, Mount Stewart. the latest developments around the wider demesne Take a stroll with one of our knowledgeable Rangers 30 April–1 May Booking Essential and show off the hidden gems in the gardens. to discover the sights and sounds of Murlough in Spring Plant Fair Contact 028 4278 8387 5–8am Meet at Bishop’s Gate. spring. Learn about this fascinating site which dates A wonderful opportunity to purchase plants from back over 6,000 years. Adult £8 Child £5 2–4pm a range of specialist plant stalls, as well as from Meet at main car park. Member Adult £8 Child £5 Normal Admission Members Free Rowallane Garden. Booking Essential 11am–4pm Mount Stewart Contact 028 4375 1467 Normal Admission Members Free Ardress House 7 May or email [email protected] 2 May 12.30–2.30pm Car Boot Sale Florence Court Apple Blossom Day Normal Admission Members Free Come along and sell your unwanted items or browse 1 May Set in the middle of our rich apple-growing county, around the many stalls and pick up a few treasures. Scenic Forest Trek Ardress House will be celebrating the apple blossom Castle Coole Traders can arrive from 7am for set up. Join our Head Ranger for a scenic 9km trail in with apple treats and fun for all the family. There will 13 May 9am–12noon Florence Court forest. At the highest viewpoint enjoy be orchard tours, local ciders and apple produce on Candlelit Tour Car £5, Van £10, Trailer £15 panoramic views of Fermanagh and Lough Erne, the sale, and an apple trail for the kids. Experience the sights and sounds of Castle Coole as fourth largest lake in Ireland. 1–6pm you never have before as part of Museums’ Night. Stroll through carpets of bluebells at Downhill Demesne After a candlelit walk through the upstairs and 11am–1pm Normal Admission Members Free and Minnowburn basement rooms enjoy some tasty bites from the Normal Admission Members Free Castle Ward Lincoln Cathedral range in the basement kitchen. Join the Head Ranger at Florence Court for a forest trek 2 May Booking Essential 50 Things—Go Wild at Castle Ward Contact 028 6632 2690 To celebrate ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 3’ we’re 7.30pm going wild about wildlife. Drop into the Barn and get Adult £10 Member Adult £10 crafty or maybe explore the estate and try to find Minnowburn some of the geocaches. How many things can you 14 May tick off your list? Minnowburn Dander 12noon–4pm Join our Ranger for a walk around the picturesque Normal Admission Members Free Minnowburn area. Learn about the wildlife, botany and history of this outstanding location. Meet at Minnowburn car park. 11am–12.30pm No Charge Donations Welcome 20 21 Strangford Lough Castle Ward Springhill 21 May 30 May 4 June Saint Brendan Sea Safari 50 Things—Get Crafty at the Barn Mid Ulster Vintage Rally A treat for all the family as we take a scenic voyage on Come along and get all arty at Castle Ward as Enjoy the largest vintage vehicle rally in Mid Ulster. Strangford Lough to view seals, seabirds and other we continue the ‘50 things’ theme. Create some Hundreds of vehicles and items of machinery on wildlife at this internationally important marine site. wonderful wild art, make mud pies and generally just display with fun for all the family. Hosted by the Meet at Portaferry. get creative. Mid Ulster Vintage Vehicles Club. May Booking Essential 12noon–4pm 12noon–5pm June Contact 028 4278 8387 Normal Admission Members Free Adult £5 Child £2 10.30am–1pm Member Adult £5 Child £2 Adult £15 Child £5 Family £35 Crom Member Adult £15 Child £5 Family £35 30 May Florence Court Cruise the Lough 5 June Rowallane Garden See a different side to Crom estate from the water Scenic Forest Trek 28 May as you cruise around the lough in Crom’s 100 year old Join our Head Ranger for a scenic 9km trail in Soap Making Masterclass traditional craft. Weather dependant. Florence Court forest. At the highest viewpoint enjoy What is soap and how does it work? Learn how to Booking Essential panoramic views of Fermanagh and Lough Erne, the Celebrate National Mills weekend and see the corn mill make your own soap by the cold processed method. in action at Castle Ward Contact 028 6773 8118 fourth largest lake in Ireland. Class will involve weighing and sourcing ingredients, 1–5pm 11am–1pm calculations and method. We will make soap using Florence Court Adult £4 Child £2 Normal Admission Members Free herbs from the garden to give an unusual twist. 14 May Member Adult £4 Child £2 Price includes coffee/tea, tuition and materials. Taste of Florence Court Crom Join our Gardener in the Walled Garden to hear Booking Essential The Argory 10 June Contact 028 9751 0131 tips on how to grow your own fruit and vegetables. 4 June Moth Night 10am–1pm Afterwards, Chef John Roche, will cook up some Good Food Market Moths are indicators of the health of the natural Adult £25 Member Adult £25 produce fresh from the soil for you to taste. In celebration of Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and environment and a vital part of the food chain. 12noon–4pm Drink, come along to taste and buy a range of locally Join us as we set out our traps to see what moths Florence Court Normal Admission Members Free sourced produce. The once bustling Courtyard at inhabit Crom. The next morning at 9am we will 29 May The Argory will come alive with cookery be releasing the moths so come along for an early Country Fair Castle Ward demonstrations, music and country activities. Food morning mothy coffee. Enjoy our annual Country Fair with dog shows, rare 15 May and drink vendor enquiries contact 028 8778 9014. Booking Essential breeds, live music, craft stalls and much more. It’s an Corn Mill bursts into Life 11am–4pm Contact 028 6773 8118 event not to be missed. The Corn Mill at Castle Ward was once the heart of Normal Admission Members Free 8.30–9.30pm 12noon–5pm this historic estate. Dating from 1835, this once busy Normal Admission Members Free Normal Admission Members Free mill ground the corn from the fields into flour for the Mount Stewart estate. Join our volunteers as they celebrate National 4 June Mount Stewart Mills Weekend and see this piece of industrial Car Boot Sale 29 May Discover what it takes to manage Murlough National heritage in full swing. Come along and sell your unwanted items or browse Nature Reserve Jazz in the Gardens The Corn Mill will operate on the hour. around the many stalls and pick up a few treasures. Bring your picnic and settle down on the lawn with 2–4pm Traders can arrive from 7am for set up. your family and friends to enjoy an afternoon of jazz Normal Admission Members Free 9am–12noon in the beautiful gardens at Mount Stewart. Car £5, Van £10, Trailer £15 Sorry no BBQ’s. Castle Ward 2–4.30pm 21 May Murlough NNR Normal Admission Members Free Dog Agility 4 June Get Stuck In at Murlough This amazing fun display is not to be missed. These The Argory The Rangers at Murlough work extremely hard at wonderful pets will have you transfixed as they 29 May conserving this precious and delicate habitat for traverse the jumps, tunnels, see-saws, twists and Afternoon Tea wildlife. Come along and discover what it takes to turns. Come along and cheer on your favourite Enjoy a delightful afternoon tea; finger sandwiches, manage the nature reserve and help them with a canine friend. Victoria sponge, homemade scones and other day’s essential habitat management. Physical work 11am–4pm seasonal delights. Normal Admission Members Free involved. Suitable clothing and footwear essential. Booking Essential Meet at main car park. Contact 028 8778 4753 Booking Essential Afternoon tea sittings: 1pm, 2.30pm, 4pm Contact 028 4375 1467 Adult £20 (includes estate admission) or email [email protected] Child £10 (includes estate admission) 2–4.30pm Member Adult £15 Child £7.50 22 23 Carrick-a-Rede Portstewart Strand The Argory 11–12 June 18 June July Lazy Sundays Fishery Open Weekend Orchid Walk Come and join us every Sunday in July for laid back Cross the bridge and see inside the old fisherman’s Our amazing sand dune system is host to a tunes and relaxation. Chill in the Courtyard while the cottage on Carrick-a-Rede island. Hear all about range of orchids, including bee and pyramidal kids are entertained and feast on our summer BBQ. the history of salmon fishing and enjoy stunning orchids, which can be seen growing in their 1–4pm

June coastal views. natural habitat. The whole family will enjoy this Normal Admission Members Free July 1–4pm trip across the sand dunes with our Ranger Normal Admission Members Free to explain the range of floral habitats. Kearney Booking Essential 1 July Castle Ward Contact 028 7083 6396 Rock Pool Extravaganza 11–12 June 2–4pm Young wildlife enthusiasts will love this day out at Book Fair Adult £2 Child £1 Enjoy afternoon tea at The Argory magical Kearney Village on the outer Peninsula. ‘A book is a dream which you hold in your hand’ Member Adult £2 Child £1 Discover the amazing creatures lurking beneath and this event is guarenteed to make all book lovers Castle Ward the seaweed and slithering through the pools. This dreams come true. Browse through thousands of Springhill 20–21 June promises to be a great day out for all the family. quality used books and CDs for a great bargain, stroll 18–19 June Summer Solstice Full Moon Paddle Power Wellingtons recommended. down to the barn for book themed crafts and much Garden Fête Take in the beautiful surroundings while paddling Meet at Kearney Village. more. Book donations are welcome prior to event. A great opportunity to stock up on all your shrubs on Strangford Lough by moonlight. A truly unique Booking Essential To arrange collection of large quantities of books and plants, herbs and other specimens native to experience. Learn kayaking skills and have fun under Contact 028 4278 8387 please call 028 4488 1204. Springhill. Take a look at our community allotments, the watchful eye of our expert instructors. Weather 1–2.30pm 11am–5pm enjoy a tour of Springhill Gardens and get some dependant. Suitable for age 18 years plus. Adult Free Child £3 Normal Admission Members Free gardening tips from our Rangers. Children can have a Booking Essential Member Adult Free Child £3 go in our ‘Plant it, grow it, eat it’ workshop. Contact Clearsky Adventure Centre on Mussenden Temple 11am–4pm 028 4372 3933 or email [email protected] Cushendun 17–18 June Normal Admission Members Free 8.30–10.30pm 2 July Midsummer Concert Woodland Craft Skills Day Enjoy an evening of music with Craig Ogden on guitar Giant’s Causeway The Argory Join our Ranger for a day of fun and adventure. Learn in the unique surroundings of Mussenden Temple. 19 June 26 June survival techniques, forage for survivial tools, build a Complimentary buffet supper is included. Concert Mid-Summer Solstice Walk Afternoon Tea campfire and much more. organised by the North Coast Association. Join us on an early morning summer walk, followed Enjoy a delightful afternoon tea; finger sandwiches, Booking Essential Booking Essential by a hearty breakfast in the Causeway Hotel. Victoria sponge, homemade scones and other Contact 028 2073 3419 Contact 07799 609732 Booking Essential seasonal delights. 10am–1pm 8pm Contact 028 2073 3419 Booking Essential No Charge Donations Welcome Adult £21 Member Adult £21 6.30–9am Contact 028 8778 4753 Adult £7 Child £7 Afternoon tea sittings: 1pm, 2.30pm, 4pm Gray’s Printing Press Member Adult £7 Child £7 Adult £20 (includes estate admission) 2 July Find out more about orchids at Portstewart Strand Child £10 (includes estate admission) Fourth of July Celebrations Mount Stewart Member Adult £15 Child £7.50 Join the team at Gray’s Printing Press and find out 19 June why the fourth of July is significant here. Kids crafts Father’s Day at Mount Stewart Mount Stewart and more. Take the whole family to Mount Stewart for this 26 June 11am–3pm popular day out. The Vintage Car Display returns to Jazz in the Gardens Normal Admission Members Free the front of the house. Bring your picnic and settle down on the lawn with 11am–5pm your family and friends to enjoy an afternoon jazz Discover amazing creatures on the shores near Kearney village Normal Admission Members Free session. Sorry no BBQ’s. 2–4.30pm Normal Admission Members Free

Join the National Trust and your Springhill membership will help take care of special July Summer Sundays places—for ever, for everyone. Join us every Sunday in July for laid back tunes and relaxation. Chill in the Laundry Yard while the kids Join today at your favourite place or online are entertained and soak up the atmosphere of Springhill. at nationaltrust.org.uk 1–4pm Normal Admission Members Free Registered charity number 205846 24 25 Rowallane Garden Castle Ward 2–3 July 11 July Yogurt Popsicles Show Pirates Picnic To celebrate Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and ‘Ahoy me hearties’, we are back from sailing the seven Drink join our cook to make heathly treats for seas for another fun filled day at Castle Ward. Captain everyone, using summer fruits and local dairy Ward is looking for some swashbucklers to join him

July produce. Each demo lasts approx 30 minutes. as he makes you ‘Walk the Plank’. Come in pirate July 11am, 2pm costume and prepare to seek and find his hidden Normal Admission Members Free treasure. With pirate crafts, live music and scrub the decks with Skinny Jim, ‘Shiver me Timbers’. Crom 1–5pm 3 July Normal Admission Members Free Outdoor Adventures Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of outdoor activities Castle Ward celebrating the beauty of nature and wildlife at Crom. 11 July Take part in craft activities, bug hunts, woodland Pirates Cellar at Pirates Picnic trails and more. One of Captain Ward’s pirates has taken over the 1–5pm basement at Castle Ward. Let Buccaneer Scurvy Dog Normal Admission Members Free show you where they are stashing the plundered loot. Celebrate National Meadow Day and take a walk Don’t stay too long though, just in case he signs you through the Minnowburn flower meadows Mount Stewart Listen to music on the shores of Lough Erne up to join his gang. Minnowburn 3, 6 July Limited numbers in the basement. 2 July Woodland Warriors White Park Bay Tours leave every 30 minutes. Get Mellow in the Meadow An action packed day of adventure while learning 8 July 12noon–4pm To coincide with National Meadow Day, enjoy a how to survive in the woodlands. We will build Go Wild with the Rangers Normal Admission Members Free mellow walk through our new wild flower meadow. shelters and bonfires as we find out more about our Join our Rangers for a morning of fun and adventure. We will look at the wild flowers, the insects and native wildlife and plants. We will help you complete some of your ‘50 things to Mount Stewart evidence of the mammals that use the meadow as a This is a drop off activity for young people do before you’re 11 3’. 12–13 July home and food source. aged 11–14 years. Booking Essential Teddy Bears Picnic Meet at Minnowburn car park. Booking Essential Contact 028 2073 3419 Bring your favourite teddy and meet Goldilocks and 11am–12.30pm Contact 028 4278 8387 10am–12noon the Three Bears as the story unfolds around the lake No Charge Donations Welcome 10am–4pm No Charge Donations Welcome with other children’s activities. £20 per participant 11am–5pm Mount Stewart Crom Normal Admission Members Free 2 July Portstewart Strand 9 July Car Boot Sale 8 July Music by the Lake Cushendun Come along and sell your unwanted items or browse Go Wild with the Rangers Join us for a relaxing evening and listen to local 15 July around the many stalls and pick up a few treasures. A morning of fun and adventure with our Rangers. musicians by the shores of Lough Erne. Go Wild with the Rangers Traders can arrive from 7am for set up. We will help you to complete some of your Booking Essential Join our Rangers for a morning of fun and adventure. 9am–12noon ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 3’. Contact 028 6773 8118 We will help you to complete some of your ‘50 things Car £5, Van £10, Trailer £15 Booking Essential 7–10pm to do before you’re 11 3’. Contact 028 2073 3419 Adult £10 Member Adult £10 Booking Essential Murlough NNR 10am–12noon Contact 028 2073 3419 2 July Normal Admission Members Free Strangford Lough 10am–12noon It’s Only Natural 9 July No Charge Donations Welcome Go wild with the rangers at places around the north coast Interested in wild flowers, buzzing bees, creepy Butterfly Walk crawlies or why birdies sing? Then join our experts A walk along unspoilt tracks and across hidden stiles Castle Coole who will share, show, inform and inspire you to want at Ballyquintin Farm on the lower Ards Penisula with 17 July to know more. Local naturalists will take you on a our Ranger. This ramble will be packed with beautiful Music in the Drying Green journey of wildlife discovery at Murlough. scenery, tales and wildlife. Suitable for age 8 years Sit back and relax as the music plays in the beautiful Meet at Keel Point entrance. plus with accompanying adult. Not suitable for dogs. Drying Green at Castle Coole. Bring a picnic or enjoy Meet at Ballyquintin Farm car park. Booking Essential some tasty treats from the Tallow House tea-room. Contact 028 4375 1467 Booking Essential 2–4pm or email [email protected] Contact 028 4278 7769 Normal Admission Members Free Dawn–Dusk 11am–1pm Normal Admission Members Free No Charge Donations Welcome

26 27 Mount Stewart The Argory Murlough NNR 27 July 31 July 18–22 July Wildlife Trackers Afternoon Tea 50 Things—A Week on the Wildside Murlough goes wild this week with plenty of activities Explore the many habitats to be found around the Enjoy a delightful afternoon tea; finger sandwiches, for children to take part in. Learn all about butterflies, grounds of Mount Stewart. Through games and Victoria sponge, homemade scones and other build sandcastles and go on an archaeological dig. A interactive activities, learn tracking skills and how to seasonal delights. look for tell-tale signs of wildlife. If we are lucky you Booking Essential

July great way to get some of your ‘50 things’ completed. August Booking Essential may even spot some red squirrels. Contact 028 8778 4753 Contact 028 4375 1467 This is a drop off activity for children aged 5–11 years. Afternoon tea sittings: 1pm, 2.30pm, 4pm or email [email protected] Booking Essential Adult £20 (includes estate admission) 2–3pm Contact 028 4278 8387 Child £10 (includes estate admission) Normal Admission Members Free 1.30–3.30pm Member Adult £15 Child £7.50 £7.50 per participant Mount Stewart Springhill 20 July Join us for an overnight camping experience Carrick-a-Rede August Summer Sundays Bug Detectives at Florence Court 29 July Join us every Sunday in August for laid back tunes Join in as we get out our magnifying glasses and Go Wild with the Rangers and relaxation. Chill in the Laundry Yard while the discover a whole world of bugs and beasties... just Portstewart Strand Join our Rangers for a morning of fun and adventure. kids are entertained and soak up the atmosphere where could those little critters be hiding? 23 July We will help you to complete some of your ‘50 things of Springhill. This is a drop off activity for children aged 5–11 years. Butterfly Safari to do before you’re 11 3’. 1–4pm Booking Essential Great for kids—it’s the season of butterflies and Booking Essential Normal Admission Members Free Contact 028 4278 8387 moths. Do you know what a Cinnabar moth looks Contact 028 2073 3419 1.30–3.30pm like? Join our Rangers on the hunt to catch and 10am–12noon The Argory £7.50 per participant identify the dunes fluttering residents. No Charge Donations Welcome August Lazy Sundays Booking Essential Florence Court Come and join us every Sunday in August for laid Contact 028 7083 6396 23 July Castle Ward back tunes and relaxation. Chill in the Courtyard 2–4pm Pop up Camping 31 July while the kids are entertained and feast on our Adult £2 Child £1 Join us for an overnight camping experience on Summer Jazz Series summer BBQ. Member Adult £2 Child £1 the front lawn at Florence Court. A campfire with The summer is here and that can only mean one 1–4pm entertainment and an estate walk is included. thing—the annual Jazz Sunday series starts. Get Normal Admission Members Free Murlough NNR Booking Essential your toes tapping as you relax while listening to the Contact 028 6634 8249 24 July sounds of jazz as it fills the air. A perfect way to spend Castle Ward Check in time 6pm Beautiful Butterflies a Sunday afternoon. 1–5 August and 8–12 August Two person tent £30 Learn about the management and conservation of 2.30–5pm Kids Summer Adventure Camp Murlough’s amazing range of butterflies and moths. Normal Admission Members Free Activities galore for a fun-filled and exciting week Mount Stewart Over 620 species of these wonderful creatures have designed to entertain the kids this summer. Archery, 23 July been recorded at Murlough making it one of the Florence Court rock hopping, canoeing, climbing and more. Single Summer Garden Walk most important sites in the British Isles. 31 July day attendance also possible. Suitable for age 8–15 The gardens at Mount Stewart were recently Weather dependant. Summer Fun Day years. Free bus service from Newcastle, Downpatrick described as one of the Top Ten Gardens in the World Meet at main car park. A fun day out for all the family. Enjoy live music, and Strangford. and they look stunning at this time of year. Enjoy a Booking Essential games and more in the beautiful surroundings of Booking Essential tour of the gardens with our gardening experts. Contact 028 4375 1467 Florence Court Contact Clearsky Adventure Centre on Booking Essential or email [email protected] 12noon–5pm 028 4372 3933 or email [email protected] Contact 028 4278 8387 10am–12noon Normal Admission Members Free 10am–4pm 11am–1pm Normal Admission Members Free Adult £10 Child £5 Relax and listen to laid back tunes at Castle Ward, Member Adult £10 Child £5 Mount Stewart Giant’s Causeway 31 July Mount Stewart, Springhill and The Argory 25–29 July Find out more about Portstewart Strand and Jazz in the Gardens Murlough’s fluttering residents 50 Things North Coast Summer Scheme Bring your picnic and settle down on the lawn with Join us for a fun packed week of activities to delight your family and friends to enjoy an afternoon of jazz and inspire your pre-teens on the North Coast. in the beautiful gardens at Mount Stewart. Suitable for age 7–11 years. Sorry no BBQ’s. Booking Essential 2–4.30pm Contact 028 2073 3419 Normal Admission Members Free 10am–3pm daily Child £75 Member Child £75

28 29 Springhill Castle Ward 12 August 1–31 August Batty Bonanza Sculpture Trail An exciting night of fun for all the family. Learn more To celebrate National Craft Month, Castle Ward’s about the bats that make their home in and around very own crafters will be displaying some of their Springhill and make something batty to take home. creations for you to enjoy. Make your way along 7.30–10pm

August Laurel Walk from the Stableyard and enjoy some Normal Admission Members Free August of the beautiful pieces of artwork. Don’t forget to look out for surprises hidden amongst the trees or Kearney hanging overhead. 13 August 11am–4.30pm Rock Pool Extravaganza Normal Admission Members Free Young wildlife enthusiasts will love this day out at Go batty at Ardress House and Crom magical Kearney Village on the outer . Ardress House Discover the amazing creatures lurking beneath Go fly your kite at Downhill Demesne’s Kite Festival the seaweed and slithering through the pools. This 5 August Mount Stewart promises to be a great day out for all the family. Go Batty 6 August Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House Wellingtons recommended. Help identify all eight of Northern Ireland’s bat Car Boot Sale 14 August Meet at Kearney Village. species that live at Ardress House and make some Come along and sell your unwanted items or browse Kite Festival 11am–1pm batty crafts to take home. around the many stalls and pick up a few treasures. This high-flying spectacle will offer fun for all the 7.30–10pm Adult Free Child £3 family as a kaleidoscope of kites of all sizes fly Traders can arrive from 7am for set up. Member Adult Free Child £3 Normal Admission Members Free 9am–12noon over the stunning coastal estate. Kite performers, kite making, education activities and Wild Geese Car £5, Van £10, Trailer £15 Portstewart Strand White Park Bay parachute display. To add to the festive atmosphere 13 August 5 August there will be a kids craft area, inflatables, Quad-Pod Castle Ward Butterfly Safari Go Wild with the Rangers rides, Segways, craft and food stalls and much more. 7, 14, 21, 28 August Great for kids—it’s the season of butterflies and A morning of fun and adventure with our Rangers. 12noon–5pm Summer Jazz Series moths. Do you know what a Cinnabar moth looks We will help you to complete some of your ‘50 things Castle Ward’s annual Jazz Series continues like? Join our Rangers on the hunt to catch and Normal Admission Members Free to do before you’re 11 3’. throughout August. Bring a rug and a picnic and identify the dunes fluttering residents. Booking Essential enjoy a relaxing afternoon in a tranquil and beautiful Booking Essential Mount Stewart Contact 028 2073 3419 setting listening to the sounds of jazz. The perfect Contact 028 7083 6396 17 August 10am–12noon way to spend a Sunday afternoon. 2–4pm Wildlife Trackers No Charge Donations Welcome 2.30–5pm Adult £2 Child £1 Explore the many habitats to be found around the Normal Admission Members Free Member Adult £2 Child £1 grounds of Mount Stewart. Through games and Crom interactive activities, learn tracking skills and how to 6 August Mount Stewart Castle Ward look for tell-tale signs of wildlife. If we are lucky you Music by the Lake 10 August 13–14 August may even spot some red squirrels. Join us for a relaxing evening and listen to local Bug Detectives CraftFest 2016 This is a drop off activity for children aged 5–11 years. musicians by the shores of Lough Erne. Join in as we get out our magnifying glasses and CraftFest is a must see event for those who love Booking Essential craft. With craft exhibitions in the house and the Booking Essential discover a whole world of bugs and beasties... just Contact 028 4278 8387 stableyard, as well as the opportunity to take part Contact 029 6773 8118 where could those little critters be hiding? 1.30–3.30pm in workshops, watch demonstrations or have a go 7–10pm This is a drop off activity for children aged 5–11 years. £7.50 per participant Adult £10 Member Adult £10 yourself. An annual celebration of craft, applied Booking Essential art and design organised by the Craft and Design Contact 028 4278 8387 Crom Discover a world of bugs and beasties at Mount Stewart Collective in partnership with the National Trust at 18 August 1.30–3.30pm Castle Ward. £7.50 per participant Batty Chat 10.30am–5.30pm Crom is home to all eight of the bat species found in Normal Admission Members Free Cushendun Northern Ireland. Learn more first hand about these 12 August Enjoy the annual celebration of craft at Castle Ward fascinating nocturnal creatures. Go Wild with the Rangers Booking Essential Join our Rangers for a morning of fun and adventure. Contact 028 6773 8118 We will help you to complete some of your 8pm ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 3’. Adult £8 Child £4 Family £20 Booking Essential Member Adult £8 Child £4 Family £20 Contact 028 2073 3419 10am–12noon No Charge Donations Welcome

30 31 Mount Stewart Strangford Lough 28 August 17 September Jazz in the Gardens Ards Beach Clean Bring your picnic and settle down on the lawn with As part of the Marine Conservation Society annual your family and friends to enjoy an afternoon of jazz beachwatch join us to tidy up the shoreline from in the beautiful gardens at Mount Stewart. Portaferry to Ballyhenry. Come along and pick litter Sorry no BBQ’s. while you learn how our ancestors foraged on the

August 2–4.30pm coast and what they salvaged. September Normal Admission Members Free Meet at Portaferry. For more information contact the The Argory Rangers Office on 028 4278 7769 28 August 10am–12noon Enjoy the sizzling summer BBQ at Rowallane Garden Afternoon Tea Enjoy a delightful afternoon tea; finger sandwiches, Rowallane Garden Rowallane Garden Victoria sponge, homemade scones and other 17 September Taste and buy honey at the Florence Court Honey Show 30 August seasonal delights. Sizzling Summer BBQ Day Griddle Baking Day To celebrate Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House Booking Essential To celebrate Northern Ireland’s Year of Food Contact 028 8778 4753 Drink join our cook for taster sesssions. We will 19 August and Drink join us for a sizzling BBQ. Enjoy our Afternoon tea sittings: 1pm, 2.30pm, 4pm showcase the traditional art of griddle bread making. Go Wild with the Rangers local dexter meat from Rowallane and other Adult £20 (includes estate admission) 11am, 2pm A morning of fun and adventure with our sizzling delights. BBQ prices apply. Child £10 (includes estate admission) Normal Admission Members Free Rangers. We will help you to complete some of your 12noon–3pm Member Adult £15 Child £7.50 ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 3’. Suitable clothing Normal Admission Members Free The Argory and footwear essential. Florence Court Mount Stewart 17 September Booking Essential 28 August 3 September Good Food Market Contact 028 2073 3419 Honey Show Car Boot Sale In celebration of Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and 10am–12noon Come along and speak to members of the Fermanagh Come along and sell your unwanted items or browse Drink, come along to taste and buy a range of locally No Charge Donations Welcome Beekeepers as they hold their annual Honey Show at around the many stalls and pick up a few treasures. sourced produce. The once bustling Courtyard at The Florence Court. See bees at work in the observation Traders can arrive from 7am for set up. Argory will come alive with cookery demonstrations, hive and taste and buy some of the honey on display. 9am–12noon music and country activities. Food and drink vendor 21 August 1–4pm Car £5, Van £10, Trailer £15 enquiries contact 028 8778 9014. Whale Watch Normal Admission Members Free 11am–4pm With an outstanding panorama across the The Argory Normal Admission Members Free North Channel to Scotland, the Portmuck 3–4 September Crom clifftop path is an ideal place to go whale watching. Autumn Book Fair 29 August Bring binoculars and telescopes if you have them. Calling all bookworms. Browse through hundreds of Celebrate Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Drink Cruise the Lough Experts from the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group will second hand books in our Courtyard and stock up at The Argory’s Good Food Market See a different side to Crom from the water as you be on hand to offer tips. on your winter reads. There’s sure to be something cruise around the lough in Crom’s 100 year old Meet at Portmuck car park. for everyone with live music and children’s activities traditional craft. Weather dependant. 2–5pm on Sunday. Donations of unwanted books, CDs and No Charge Donations Welcome Booking Essential DVDs are welcome prior to the event. Contact 028 6773 8118 12noon–5pm 1–5pm Strangord Lough Normal Admission Members Free Adult £4 Child £2 26–27 August Member Adult £4 Child £2 Outdoor Explorers Murlough NNR This two day bush craft event is perfect for families 4 September Cruise around Lough Erne in Crom’s 100 year old cot looking for their first wildlife adventures. Our Rangers Get Stuck In at Murlough will show you how to safely build shelters, light camp The Rangers at Murlough work extremely hard at fires, explore countryside and track some of our most conserving this precious and delicate heathland for mysterious animals. everyone to enjoy. Come along and discover what it Suitable for age 8 years plus with accompanying takes to manage the nature reserve and help them with a day’s essential habitat management. Physical adult. Wellingtons essential. work involved. Suitable clothing and footwear Meet at Greyabbey car park, Portaferry Road. essential. Booking Essential Meet at main car park. Contact 028 4278 8387 Booking Essential Friday 11am–4pm, Saturday 12noon–5pm Contact 028 4375 1467 1 Adult plus 1 Child £30 (including members) or email [email protected] 1–2 Adults plus 2 Children £45 (including members) 10.30am–3.30pm 32 33 Minnowburn 24 September Who we are Hedge Fun Come along for a foraging morning on the outskirts of the city with one of our Rangers. Bring a basket and what we do or plastic container to gather some delicious autumn fruits. We’re a charity founded in 1895 by three people September Meet at Minnowburn car park. who saw the importance of our nation’s heritage 11am–1pm and open spaces and wanted to preserve them No Charge Donations Welcome for everyone to enjoy. Over 100 years later these Mount Stewart values are still at the heart of everything we do. 24 September Red Squirrel Day Join us for a guided walk around the Red Squirrel Join us for a guided red squirrel walk at Mount Stewart Trail and learn all about the work of the Trust to save Members help keep special these endangered animals. Families can also enjoy red places special squirrel themed activity sessions led by the education Murlough NNR We are supported by over 72,000 18 September team. Guided walks and activity sessions at 10am and 12noon. members in Northern Ireland with a MCS Beachwatch total membership of over four million. Lend a helping hand at Ireland’s first National Nature Booking Essential Contact 028 4278 8387 Reserve, as the National Trust in conjunction with the For details on how to become a member 10am–2pm Marine Conservation Society take part in the annual or to find out more about the work of the Normal Admission Members Free clean up of our shorelines. A great excuse to bring National Trust visit nationaltrust.org.uk your family and friends along and help do your bit in Divis and the Black Mountain In Northern Ireland, 3 out of 4 places maintaining our heritage. 25 September cannot fund their own conservation Meet at main car park. Walk and Talk Booking Essential Enjoy a guided walk on Divis Mountain with our Contact 028 4375 1467 knowledgable Ranger and learn more about the or email [email protected] heritage of this spectacular landscape. Experience 10am–12noon the network of walking trails and hear about our exciting plans for the future. Slieve Donard and Slieve Comedagh Meet at The Barn. Volunteer and 18 September 1–2pm A Wee Dander on Donard No Charge Donations Welcome make a difference Join us on a guided challenge to ascend the two peaks of Slieve Comedagh and Slieve Mount Stewart As an independent charity we rely on the support Donard—not for the faint-hearted. Discover the Ice 25 September of volunteers to help care for Northern Ireland’s House, stone pitching and once eagle lairs. Suitable Jazz in the Gardens clothing and footwear essential. Bring your picnic and settle down on the lawn with coast, countryside, mansions and gardens. Meet at Donard Car Park. your family and friends to enjoy an afternoon of jazz in the beautiful gardens at Mount Stewart. From protecting wildlife habitats to welcoming visitors, helping Booking Essential in our shops and tea-rooms or providing administrative Contact 028 4375 1467 Sorry no BBQ’s. 2–4.30pm support, we’ve lots of opportunities to get involved. or email [email protected] Normal Admission Members Free 9.30am–4.30pm No Charge Donations Welcome Over 6,200 people volunteer for the National The Argory Trust in Northern Ireland—gifting almost a 25 September quarter of a million hours annually. Castle Ward Afternoon Tea 24 September Enjoy a delightful afternoon tea; finger sandwiches, If you want to make a difference—for an hour, 50 Things—Autumn Fun Victoria sponge, homemade scones and other a day, or maybe more—just get in touch with Another chance to get a few more of the ‘50 things’ seasonal delights. your nearest National Trust place. We would ticked off your list as we enjoy autumn activities. Booking Essential love to hear from you. From picking blackberries to catching falling leaves, Contact 028 8778 4753 this will be a fun filled day for everyone to take Afternoon tea sittings: 1pm, 2.30pm, 4pm Your skills, help and time are welcome. part in. Adult £20 (includes estate admission) Thank you for your support 12noon–4pm Child £10 (includes estate admission) Normal Admission Members Free Member Adult £15 Child £7.50 Registered charity number 205846

34 35 Time to get away Camp and caravan

If you're looking for an excuse to go somewhere When it comes to camping there can be different for family parties or hidden-away breaks few sites to rival the special places we our holiday cottages offer a home away from home. look after. Our campsites are set in some Each one is characterised by its quirky history, fantastic locations, ideal for exploring the unique architecture or beautiful landscape setting. surrounding countryside. Be inspired by nature and wake up to the great outdoors. Every booking helps us look after Crom Cottages

special places for ever, for everyone Crom Crom is one of Ireland’s most important nature conservation areas with rare and spectacular wildlife, inspirational woodland walks and nature trails—the perfect place to your tent. The estate is a well-known Castle Ward POD camping destination, but for those who want to enjoy a little more luxury, we’ve introduced new ‘glamping’ PODS. They Castle Ward were originally used to house pigs, but Tucked away in the stunning 820 acre demesne they’ve certainly had an upgrade since then! there are 28 hard stand sites, space for up to ten Bookings: contact 028 6773 8118. tents and four eco-friendly continental camping Portbraddan Cottage PODS. The Bunkhouse, a two-storey former game-keepers cottage is also ideally suited for Portbraddan Cottage, Antrim groups of up to 14 people. Surrounded by 34 km Nestled in an idyllic harbour on the North of trails there is plenty of space for walking, cycling Antrim Coast, this three bedroom cottage is an and other outdoor activities all year round. inspirational location from which to explore the Bookings: contact 028 4488 1204 or email North Coast of Northern Ireland—sleeps six people. Crom Cottages [email protected] Crom Cottages, Fermanagh At Crom there are seven cottages around two sides Potter’s Cottage, Castle Ward, Down Springhill of a large open courtyard, right on the tranquil This quaint stone cottage is in the heart Springhill has space for 20 touring pitches. With shores of Upper Lough Erne. Erne view is the largest of the Old Castle Ward farmyard near the its walled garden, charming house and parklands cottage and accommodates six people. Alder peaceful and tranquil shores of Strangford full of tempting paths and trails, there’s something Cottage is the smallest with one double bedroom. Lough—sleeps four people. for all the family. (Note: no hook up available). Bookings: contact 028 8674 8210. Butler’s Apartment, Florence Court, Fermanagh Holiday cottage bookings Butler’s Apartment provides an unforgettable For further details and bookings contact: Crom POD country house experience at Florence Court. T: 0344 800 2070 Situated in the south wing, this unique and E: [email protected] atmospheric apartment retains its original features W: www.nationaltrustholidays.org.uk Causeway Hotel and character, and is enhanced with luxurious additions—sleeps four people. Some cottages are adapted for visitors with A warm welcome followed by exceptional special requirements. hospitality, comfort and cuisine are what you can expect from a visit to the Causeway Hotel. Butler’s Apartment Situated at the entrance to the world famous Potter’s Cottage Giant’s Causeway, with views over the beautiful Antrim coast, there are 28 ensuite bedrooms and conference facilities for up to 60 delegates. Bookings: 028 2073 1210 or [email protected]

36 Causeway Hotel 37 Ardress House Downhill Demesne Portstewart Strand 64 Ardress Road and Hezlett House and Barmouth National Trust Portadown 107 Sea Road Portstewart BT62 1SQ BT55 7PG T: 028 8778 4753 BT51 4RP T: 028 7083 6396 Northern Ireland E: [email protected] T: 028 7084 8728 E: [email protected] Location E: [email protected]

Contact Details Contact The Argory Rowallane Garden 144 Derrycaw Road Florence Court Saintfield Moy BT24 7LH Dungannon BT92 1DB T: 028 9751 0131 Carrick-a-Rede BT71 6NA T: 028 6634 8249 E: [email protected] and Larrybane White Park Bay T:028 8778 4753 E: @nationaltrust.org.uk E: [email protected] Springhill North Antrim Cliff Path Ballyconagan Giant’s Causeway 20 Springhill Road Castle Belmont Tower North Coast Office Giant’s Causeway The Manor House 82 Belmont Chruch Road 60 Causeway Road BT45 7NQ Portstewart Strand and Belfast T: 028 8674 8210 Downhill Demesne Barmouth and Ballycastle and Hezlett House BT4 3FG BT57 8SU E: [email protected] Grangemore Dunes Cushleake Mountain T: 028 9065 3338 T: 028 2073 1855 Cushendun E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Strangford Lough Mount Stewart LONDONDERRY Letterkenny Carrick-a-Rede Gray’s Printing Press Portaferry Road 119a White Park Road 49 Main Street Strabane BT22 2AD Ballycastle BT82 8AU T: 028 4278 7769 Lifford Gray’s Printing Press Strabane Skernaghan Point BT54 6LS T: 028 7188 0055 E: [email protected] T: 028 2076 9839 E: [email protected] Portmuck E: [email protected] Wellbrook Mullaghdoo and Ballykeel Minnowburn Beetling Mill Donegal Antrim Patterson’s Castle Coole Minnowburn Warden’s Office 20 Wellbrook Road Springhill Spade Mill Wellbrook Lighthouse Island Enniskillen Ballynahatty Road Corkhill Beetling Mill Divis and Omagh Bangor the Black Holywood BT74 6JY Belfast BT80 9RY Lough Crumlin Mountain Ballymacormick Point Neagh BELFAST and Orlock Point T: 028 6632 2690 BT8 8LE T: 028 8674 8210 The Crown Bar Belmont Collin Glen Newtownards E: [email protected] T: 028 9064 7787 E: [email protected] Tower Coney Lisnabreeny Mount Stewart Dungannon Island Minnowburn E: [email protected] Castle Ward Strangford Lough Craigavon The Argory Rowallane Nr Strangford Mount Stewart Northern Ireland Regional Office Ardress House Garden Enniskillen Downpatrick Portaferry Road Rowallane Stableyard Coole BT30 7LS Newtownards Saintfield Armagh Kearney and SLIGO Castle Ward Knockinelder T: 028 4488 1204 BT22 2AD BT24 7LH Florence Court Ballyquintin Farm E: [email protected] T: 028 4278 8387 T: 028 9751 0721 Monaghan E: [email protected] E: ni.customerenquiries@ Murlough Nature nationaltrust.org.uk Crom Ballymoyer Reserve Crom N2 Newcastle Murlough National Newry Slieve Donard Mourne BT92 8AJ Nature Reserve Derry-Londonderry Office p Coastal Path T: 028 6773 8118 South Down Office No 1 St Columb’s Court E: [email protected] Dundrum Derry-Londonderry Kilkeel Cavan Dundalk BT33 0NQ BT48 6PT Carrick on Blockhouse and Shannon Green Islands Derrymore T: 028 4375 1467 T: 07919 110267 E: [email protected] E: [email protected]

Newry Design: www.darraghneely.com BT35 7EF Patterson’s Spade Mill Places of Interest T: 028 8778 4753 751 Antrim Road nationaltrust.org.uk/ni National Trust E: [email protected] Coast and Countryside BT39 0AP facebook.com/nationaltrustni National Trust Divis and the Black T: 028 9443 3619 Buildings and Gardens Mountain E: [email protected] @nationaltrustni Towns and Cities 12 Divis Road Hannahstown Belfast BT17 0NG Photo credits: National Trust Images / Joe Cornish, Rod Edwards, Andreas von Einsiedel, For alternative formats please call us on 028 9751 0721 T: 028 9082 5434 Naomi Goggin, Paul Harris, Chris Lacey, John Millar, Arnhel de Serra. E: [email protected] National Trust / Bernie Brown, Paul Canning, Rob Durston, Chris Hill, Elaine Hill, or email [email protected] Jonathan Howe, John Lennon, Dermot McCann, Peter Nash, Peter Muhly, Brian Rutledge, 38 Craig Somerville, David Thompson, Art Ward, Stephanie Wiggins, northeastwildlife.co.uk. www.gpscolour.co.uk Explore again and again

Become a member and enjoy National Trust special places, as often as you like. Together we can protect Northern Ireland’s natural and built heritage. Join today at your favourite place.

Registered charity number 205846