Summer Newsletter 2019 Northern

Ploughman's Hill at last summer Take a walk on the wild side this summer More than just pretty to the eye, wildflower meadows play an important role in maintaining a healthy eco-system, providing food and a home for a variety of wildlife. n the last few years we have make a big contribution to the health of steps you can turn your into a haven including the rare greater butterfly grasses that can be found, providing created 15 extra hectares of other wildlife too. They attract a huge for wildlife. Try planting pollinator-friendly orchid. These wildflowers have thrived a home for moths, flies, bees and I variety and number of pollinating insects flowers, trees and shrubs in your garden following a change in the way the butterflies and a host of other wildflower meadows and verges in including butterflies, such as meadow flowerbeds, planters or window boxes. land is managed. Instead of being wildlife. , Fermanagh, Cushendun, browns, small coppers and common Check out the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan maintained as , the meadows in and , bringing our total blues, as well as hoverflies and bees. guide for at www.pollinators.ie front of the house and along the drive North Coast – White Park Bay and meadows to over 40 hectares – The has signed up to which has great tips and recommended are now cut just once a year, giving Giant’s Causeway are also home to the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan and are plant lists. Make simple bug hotels to attract the flowers a chance to flourish and species rich grasslands with a diverse that’s about 80 football pitches of dedicated to making our outdoor spaces insects into your garden and leave part of set seed. range of wildflowers such as frog meadows in ! pollinator friendly. your lawn uncut and see what wildflowers orchid, meadow cranesbill, devil’s- appear – you may be pleasantly surprised!’ Castle Ward – we'll be leaving bit scabious, twayblade, meadow As well as meadows, we manage wildflower ‘Unfortunately our pollinators and other unmown areas across Castle Ward vetchling, harebell, kidney vetch, rich dune systems, peatlands, woodlands, insects are not faring well in today’s Take time this summer to celebrate our this summer to provide food and lady’s bedstraw, pyramidal orchid and wetlands, gardens, hedgerows and orchards environment. Several high-profile wildflower meadows and enjoy some of shelter for our native pollinators. Why the common spotted-orchid. - all important for the survival of pollinators scientific reports, based on long-term these special places throughout the season. not spend some time in our recently like bees, moths and butterflies. surveys show catastrophic declines; the created ‘Broad Meadow’ where yellow Mount Stewart – once a potato field, term ‘Insectageddon’ has been coined to Rowallane Garden – bluebells are followed rattle and common orchid are already the 14-acre site at Ploughman’s Hill Our Wildlife Adviser, Melina Quinn is capture the seriousness of the problem. by splashes of yellow in kidney vetch and beginning to flourish, and see how was seeded with a meadow mix of encouraging everyone to discover one of Insects are critical to the survival of the bird’s-foot trefoil. Then starry whites of many varieties of butterfly and bee 21 varieties creating an impressive our wildflower meadows this summer and if rest of the living world; they pollinate eyebright and chickweeds appear, with the species you can spot. Alternatively, pictorial meadow including poppies, possible, create your own wildflower space our crops and wild plants, control pests, pale pink spikes of the common spotted- come along and join our ranger cornflowers, corn marigolds and at home too. decompose and recycle organic matter orchid appearing in July and the purple team in some of their survey and ox-eyed daisies. The mix contains and provide food for many of our birds, haze of devil’s-bit scabious blossoming in monitoring tasks. annuals for an exceptional display in ‘A walk through a meadow to see our native fish, amphibians and mammals. late summer. the first year with perennials which grasses and wildflowers in bloom can really Minnowburn – meadowsweet, get better and better from year two lift the spirits,’ Melina explains. ‘Wildflowers ‘This is where you can do your bit to – look out for knapweed, orchids, buttercups, yellow rattle and onwards, so we should be in for a however are not simply pretty to look at but help nature too. By taking a few simple self-heal, oxeye daisy, plantain and orchids, vetches are among the flowers and treat this summer!

Page 02 Page 03 Page 06 Page 07 Page 08 Fundraising for Dog-friendly café at Castle Ward Meet our Rangers Holiday ideas at home Dates for your diary

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni Summer 2019 01 Local craft: In the picture A GIANT success Dr Bob Brown OBE The retail team at the Giant's Causeway Regional Chairman have once again smashed their sales targets for 2018 and have attributed The world is littered with committees and their success, in no small part, to boards that work away almost unseen, their strong focus on local craft. but do important jobs none the less. Well, here’s one for you - the Northern Ireland The Giant's Causeway retail offer Regional Advisory Board (RAB to its provides a unique landscape where friends) is a group of volunteers who have Northern Ireland's artisans and agreed, as the name suggests, to give Connecting People and Places Sustainably crafters can showcase their range of advice to our team in Northern Ireland beautiful gifts, imagined, designed about issues, challenges and of course Stunning and staggeringly beautiful the large numbers coming to their towns I am delighted that later this year we opportunities, lying before the Trust. and uniquely made in Northern Ireland, landscapes, majestic mountains, rugged and villages. This sometimes hidden and will be jointly hosting an international to a broad range of international coastlines, and the most friendly and unseen impact can be positive, but we conference to consider further how visitors. Visitors are guaranteed to find The National Trust wouldn’t be the passionate people you will ever meet. know this isn’t always the case. best to do that. We will be learning healthy and vital organisation it is without an extra special souvenir to treasure That’s how I hear visitors to Northern from others, as well as sharing our their trip to the Causeway Coast. volunteers. Their efforts permeate Ireland describing ‘our wee country’. Being aware of this, the National Trust experiences, to make sure that almost every area of our operations, be in Northern Ireland has taken a number Northern Ireland continues to be Alastair Walker, Operations Manager it telling stories in fine houses, repairing The appeal of our amazing places are of actions. While not set up as a tourism a must-see destination, but not at said: 'This is a tremendous achievement dry stone walls in the hills, encouraging no longer the preserve of those who live organisation, we find ourselves through the cost of the people, heritage and for the retail team here at the Causeway. new members, and just about anything here. Over the last five years Northern our conservation work and ownership, experiences we offer. else. In essence the members of the Ireland has seen consistently increasing managing some of the most most popular ‘The team have a very clear RAB are pretty much the same – they’re numbers of international visitors natural, built and cultural heritage sites Will we ever go back to a few understanding about the part they volunteers. For them, the task is to act wanting to experience it for themselves here. Working with our partners in thousand people visiting the Giant’s as critical friends for the whole Northern and that is likely to continue. Our Tourism NI, Tourism Ireland, government, Causeway each year having welcomed play in helping to look after special Ireland team. So, in the next couple of confidence and pride in our heritage Council representatives and key tourism 1.1 million last year? I doubt it. Can places and they are driven and paragraphs I’ll try to share what we are has blossomed. Economically it has partners we have started the conversation we manage the numbers visiting and passionate about coming up with not, and more importantly, what we are. given us a boost and tourism is now our about the need to look ahead, and give those visitors the best possible innovative ways to constantly achieve. largest contributor to GDP. manage our sites in a responsible way. experience, while sharing the economic Firstly, we aren’t a bunch of isolated benefit with others? Absolutely! Can 'Year on year, since the new Visitor boffins directing the actions of the However, the growth in numbers Collectively we have recognised that we we ensure that visits to National Trust Centre opened in 2012, the team have various National Trust teams about the visiting Northern Ireland and National don’t want to end up in a situation like places continue to grow and do so honed the commercial offer, with a country. We can’t, and don’t want to, Trust sites brings with it the challenge Venice where over tourism is now a big sustainably without damaging the strong focus on local craft. We are very have any executive function at all – the of how to ensure those who visits issue, so we have to plan now. We have places that poets like Heaney were proud that 80% of our craft range is key is in the word ‘advisory’! In a sense continue to have great experiences. developed a clear policy for sustainable inspired to write about? We must! now made in Northern Ireland. This that’s the way we like it, because it Increasing numbers visiting some of our tourism and started the debate with our success means that almost £600,000 allows us to think freely, as the saying most sensitive sites has impacted the partners on what that means in terms of our Made in Northern Ireland goes, ‘outside the box’. This is really very structure of these places as can be of developing tourism here differently. range was sold in 2018, generating important, because the Northern Ireland seen in the erosion of the paths leading If we can put in place the right strategic significant income for local businesses. teams are working flat out, getting up to and on the island tourism management structure in We have had the privilege of helping stuck into work programmes of all sorts at Carrick-a-Rede. People who live Northern Ireland, we will be able to local craftspeople turn their vision (especially at the time of writing this, close to some of our busiest sites are protect the places we hold dear for future Heather McLachlan into a reality and to help them sustain preparing for summer). RAB’s task is to finding their way of life changed due to generations. Regional Director and grow their small businesses.’ lift our heads up, take a sideways look at what lies before the Trust, how it is working, scan the horizon for challenges and opportunities, spot weaknesses, build strengths, and help the Trust to steer a course through all of these.

What does this actually mean in practice? In recent years we’ve advised on fundraising opportunities, resolving the pressures on the Giant’s Causeway and North Coast, nature conservation all over the Trust’s lands (especially in relation to farming), coastal erosion and how to increase access to our coasts, issues emerging from Brexit (OK, a fair bit of guesswork here), how to ease traffic in Castle Ward, suggest potential acquisitions around the country, general staffing issues, and even how to look after that fabulous Norman motte in Mount Stewart. Restoring Mussenden Temple's floor The RAB draws its members from a diverse range of interests Restoration work on the floor at and Mussenden Temple’s floor is now – farming, finance, museum and Mussenden Temple is due to begin in in urgent need of repair. Around half tourism experience, gardens, nature autumn 2019 with the project expected of the original limestone flagstones New Queen Anne tour reveals conservation, countryside access, to cost £20,000. remain, the vast majority of which local knowledge, digital interpretation, are cracked, and many of the newer Castle Coole’s historic past planning, Government issues, and so The domed Temple was originally replacement stones are in need of on. Members are appointed for three designed and built for the niece of the cleaning and repair. Learn more about Castle Coole and the with a canal, parts of years, with another three if agreed. 4th Earl of Bristol and Bishop of history hidden beneath your feet on a which can still be seen in the landscape. – Frideswide Bruce in 1785 and forms Due to the historic value of the guided walk of the original house built The double oak-lined avenue was added I’m delighted to say we have just added part of Downhill Demesne. Based on Temple, conservation experts on the estate, before Castle Coole as and remains the main entrance to the five new members to the Regional the Temple of Vesta in Italy, Mussenden Conservation will be carrying we see it today. estate today with several of the ancient Advisory Board, bringing us to 11, a Temple once held the Earl Bishop's out this intricate work for us in oaks still standing along the main drive. very healthy pool of experienced and library and today the Temple is a must- September/October. The restored The original estate in 1707 would have committed volunteers from which the see attraction on the North Coast, floor will cost approximately £20,000 been very different to the one you see The area of the Queen Anne site is Trust will benefit from their expertise welcoming over 50,000 visitors every and we have launched a fundraising today with major developments being highlighted on property maps and immensely. Speaking on behalf of year and playing host to numerous campaign to help us raise the money made by the owner, Col. James Corry, signage but during the summer you will RAB members old and new, we look weddings, concerts and events. needed. As a conservation charity, who inherited the land from his father. be able to enjoy guided walks of the forward to guiding the Trust through protecting special places for ever, for The Queen Anne House was built and grounds to learn about the history of a very successful 2019 and beyond. This iconic 17th-century building has everyone is at the very heart of what large additions made to the estate the estate before the current house was stood the test of time very well over we do and it’s thanks to the support including a large walled deer park built in the 1790s. the last few centuries with annual of our members and visitors that which has now mostly been lost. surveys and monitoring in place we are able to fund this important Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/castle-coole to assess its precarious cliff-edge maintenance work. For more Later in the mid-1700s came the formal or contact 028 6632 2690 for more position. However at some time all information visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ gardens, sunken bowling green and information. historic buildings require some TLC downhill-demesne-and-hezlett-house.

02 Summer 2019 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni Doing busy better

Q&A with Esther Dobbin Our first Responsible Tourism Manager in Northern Ireland

Q: What will your role involve? continue to grow exponentially without A: In Northern Ireland we are committed managing our success and making to helping look after the places where sure that tourism is used to benefit the people live and we have developed a environment and local community. The Sustainable Tourism policy as part of benefits can be economic, but there that. This role of Responsible Tourism must also be socio-cultural benefits, The Giant's Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Manager will operate at a property level such as training and development rope bridge are popular tourist attractions at the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a- opportunities and the use of the tourist Rede, two of our busiest sites, in order product to showcase local talent, such Tourism is one of the world’s fastest these special places which presents us place to visit. With government having to take that policy and implement it on as local craft or skill. It should be about growing industries and in recent years with both opportunities and challenges. set ambitious targets for continued the ground. We need to celebrate the raising the profile of the local area as a Northern Ireland has seen significant tourism growth, we will be working value of local heritage and green spaces whole, not just the tourist attraction growth in international visitors keen An increase of overseas visitors to with local communities and other and enable people to make a difference, that brings people there. to experience our warm welcome, our places provides income which agencies to make sure that this is looking after and protecting the local rich history and stunning landscapes. goes directly back into the ongoing done in a sustainable way. We want to places they love. Community is at the Q: What are your priorities now? Statistics from Tourism Ireland show conservation and restoration of the ensure that tourism growth benefits heart of responsible tourism, if you have A: The first thing we need is to better that in 2017 nearly 2.2 million visitors places you love; it also provides us with local communities; that visitors a tourist destination which is a happy understand what impact tourism is from overseas were welcomed to an opportunity to share our cause with a continue to have great experiences, place to live, it will also be a happy place having on our sites. We need to establish Northern Ireland, an increase of over global audience. More visitors also means and that our world renowned natural to visit. what the physical and environmental 40% since 2012. we need to look at how we manage busy environment is respected and impacts are; to consider the visitor periods at our sites, where appropriate protected. We recently introduced Q: Is tourism a bad thing for experience at the destination; and Many of Northern Ireland’s most introducing measures to ensure we online ticketing at Carrick-a-Rede rope Northern Ireland? the socio-cultural effects on the local iconic landmarks such as the Giant’s provide everyone with a great experience, bridge so visitors (and members) can A: Tourism can certainly cause adverse community. We want to have a clearer Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge whilst looking after these special places book a ticket weeks in advance, helping effects on the environment and create picture of the impact of our sites on the and Mussenden Temple are under for generations to come. to manage visitor numbers to the site many challenges for the host community. community and region in a holistic way our guardianship, and we have been and local area. We’ll also be looking at The success of the Giant’s Causeway and so that our decisions are best informed entrusted to look after these places for We recognise that the warm welcome other practical ways to improve your Carrick-a-Rede as a tourist destination to allow us to truly protect our special ever, for everyone. More international provided by our local communities in visitor experience, including traffic has certainly created challenges and places and provide opportunities tourists coming to Northern Ireland, Northern Ireland is one of the reasons management and parking solutions, issues for local people. This role has been for generations to come for the means more people wanting to visit this part of the world is such a special improved catering and better facilities. created as a recognition that we cannot communities they sit within.

New dog-friendly café at Castle Ward We now have over 95,000 members We have opened two new dog- in Northern Ireland – thank you for friendly areas at Castle Ward, so your whole family can enjoy a day out together. The Trailhead Café is our being one of them. new dog-friendly hub on the estate. Located in our historic farmyard A volunteer examines a box of glass plate negatives and beside the loughshore, it’s the perfect spot to pop in with your pooch for a coffee and sandwich on your walk. Alongside the café, we’re also introducing a dogs-off-leads area where your dog can run and play freely before you head to the Trailhead together for a treat. Mina Lenox- Find out more on our website. Conyngham The last lady of

We have introduced a new guided tour at Springhill designed to reveal more about the extraordinary life of Mina Lenox- Conyngham. Listen as our guides recite anecdotes about the life she led as the last Lady of Springhill House. Hear the music she wrote and see the style of clothing she would have worn in the early 1900’s.

Born in 1866 in Rockdale House near Sandholes, outside , Mina was a very talented and steadfast individual We're working to keep Strand free of plastics who had an overwhelming love for her family. She lived through the Great War and World War II and threw herself Tackling plastic pollution into helping others, finding strength to support her causes from home. Locally, at Portstewart Strand New light on she raised funds for supplies and huts to be built for the regiments during Our North Coast team are for tackling the problem together. Mount Stewart’s darkroom the Great War and she facilitated the embarking on a mission to rid Each primary school pupil is also US Army while they requisitioned the Portstewart Strand of single-use making an eco-brick which will then Mount Stewart, the glamorous neo- Over the next few months a team of grounds at Springhill some 30 years on. plastics. To help us achieve this be used by the pupils of Dominican classical home of the Londonderry volunteers will be carefully cataloguing, Strong-willed and never shy to speak momentous task we have teamed College to create thought provoking family underwent a huge restoration cleaning and digitising these negatives in up, Mina put pen to paper to write ‘Old up with three local schools – sea sculptures. These will be programme several years ago, view of visitors, and learning more about Ulster House’, now considered to be Portstewart Primary School, displayed on Porstewart Strand on and during this time we acquired the people and places they depict. the ‘go-to’ book on Springhill. She also St Colum’s Primary School and World Oceans Day, Saturday 8 June, hundreds of family objects from showed skills musically and penned Dominican College. We will be when the campaign will be officially the original collection. Among The project will be aiming to identify a number the song ‘ Fair’. Mina died working together with these schools launched. Why not come to the these was the darkroom collection of people shown in the images as well as in 1961 at Springhill, a life spanning at the heart of our community to talk beach on 8 June to see their eco- of avid photographer Theresa, subjects photographed by Lady Londonderry. over nine decades. She was the last of about the issue of plastic pollution brick creations and join us in a litter Lady Londonderry, with boxes Once the work is completed, an exhibition the Lenox-Conyngham’s to live in the in our oceans and discover solutions pick on the Strand. of her glass plate negatives. of some of the images is planned for 2020. house before it was placed in our care.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni Summer 2019 03 Ulster Gardens Scheme 2019

Photography: Brian Webb

Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May, 2–5pm over 140 rhododendrons, there are wonderful views across countryside Mr Michael and Mrs Geraldine Galloway, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 1 Ballytrustan Road, , BT30 7AQ Location: The garden is situated on the Ballynashee Road, half a mile This unique seven-acre garden lies in , four miles east of Downpatrick from the main Ballymena/Larne Road (A36). Approximately 10 miles and was created by the late Dr Magill over the last five decades of the from Ballymena and 10 miles from Larne. From Ballyclare: take the Colin twentieth century. He transformed a disused quarry into a large sheltered Road (B94) to the Five Corners pub. Take the second road on the right amphitheater surrounded by trees and shrubs. The present owners ((Sawmills Road). Drive approximately one mile to crossroads and turn have maintained and improved the garden, noted for its collection of left onto Ballynashee Road. Drive 2.8 miles to bridge, garden is on the rhododendrons. Views into the garden as well as the surrounding countryside left. From Broughshane: take Rathkeel Road (B94) towards Ballyclare. are obtained from a circular path through the trees around the quarry rim. After approximately six miles at T junction turn left onto A36. After Considerable peripheral planting of native trees has been carried out. The approximately three miles, turn right onto Ballynashee Road. House on garden is partially suitable for wheelchairs and children must be strictly right. (Please park on Ballynashee Road.) supervised due to the dangerous cliff faces. Plant stall/teas Location: From Downpatrick: follow the B1 Road. At the Downshire Hospital, continue straight ahead on the Road. At the next crossroads after Ballyalton, turn left into Ballytrustan Road and the garden is Please note these are private houses and on the right. gardens with no Public Disability Parking. Plant stall/teas June Ulster Gardens Scheme Review Evening Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 June, 2–5pm Dr Richard and Mrs Heather Burns, Thursday 14 November 2019 at 7.30pm 232 Windyhill Road, Macosquin, , BT51 4JN The Old Courthouse, Antrim An unmanicured, wildlife-friendly, woodland garden set on a hillside with a Join members of the Ulster Gardens Scheme Committee and garden level area close to the house. Partially suitable for wheelchairs. owners for our very popular annual review, when we look back at another Location: From Londonderry and Limavady: take A2 to Coleraine. At Killane successful season’s garden visiting on behalf of the National Trust, and and Windyhill roundabouts, continue on A2. Garden is approx. 7.5 miles from enjoy a light supper. Windyhill roundabout, on left. Watch for Ulster Gardens Scheme signs from Admission: A charge of £5 per person will be made, to avoid a drain on Windyhill roundabout. National Trust funds. From Ballymoney and Coleraine: At Lodge Road roundabout take ring road Pre-booking is essential, as numbers are strictly limited. west, signposted Cookstown A29. Cross river and at Strand Road roundabout, Contact The Old Courthouse on 028 9448 1338 to book. the dual carriage becomes three lanes, take centre lane and continue on Open gardens offer a rare opportunity to explore the secrets of hidden and A29 signposted Cookstown. At next roundabout (Greenmount) move into private gardens not usually open to the public. For 2019 the Ulster Gardens right lane and take third exit signposted . Continue on this road Scheme has brought together a spectacular array of gardens which are yours to Carthall roundabout and turn left. This is Windyhill Road. The garden is to explore this summer. Whether you’re a keen gardener eager for some approx. 3.4 miles from roundabout on right. Watch for Ulster Gardens Scheme helpful tips, or you simply enjoy discovering the splendour and beauty of signs from Greenmount roundabout. unusual plants, there is something for everyone to enjoy in these charming Note: Some off-road parking may be available. gardens. While you’re there, browse the plant stalls for a special plant to add Plant stall/teas to your garden at home, or relax with a cup of tea. Saturday 22 June, 2–5pm Mr T McCaw and Mr T Raju, Admission £4 Fernhill Cottage Gardens, 44 Dunmore Road, Spa, Ballynahinch, BT24 8PR All funds raised help support A new plant lover’s garden developed by the owners over the past 5 ½ years, overlooking Slieve Croob. The garden is on an exposed National Trust gardens in Northern Ireland windy site with themed island beds and borders having spring bulbs, woodland plants and colourful perennials, shrubs, trees and an orchard. It is regretted that dogs cannot be admitted even on a lead and that Thoughtful mix of planting extends the gardening year. Not suitable for National Trust Membership Cards are not valid for entry to private wheelchairs. gardens open under the scheme. Location: From Ballynahinch: take the A24 towards Newcastle. After the 30mph speed limit (leaving Ballynahinch), turn right onto Spa/ UlsterGardensScheme (Spa Road). Continue for 1.5 miles entering Spa crossroads. At the crossroads turn left onto Dunmore Road. The garden is on the left 0.6 miles after Spa @UlsterGardensScheme crossroads. Plant stall/teas www.ulstergardensscheme.org.uk Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 June, 2–5pm Joy and Maurice Parkinson, May 154 Ballyrobert Road, Ballyclare, BT39 9RT Maurice and Joy Parkinson have, over the past twenty years designed and Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 May, 2–5pm built this unique garden on the site of a 16-acre seventeenth-century farm, Mr Sam Harrison, steeped in local and national history. The original cottage, barn, and farmyard Beechgrove, 12 Castle Avenue, Castlewellan, BT31 9DX have been sensitively integrated within a six-acre, Robinsonian style garden A plantsman’s garden, developed over a period of 35 years. Year round containing one of the Province’s most extensive plant collections laid out interest is maintained through a wide range of colourful and unusual plants. in sweeping borders and intimate settings. Delightful features including The garden is arranged in peninsulas of trees and shrubs which jut onto the traditional entrance, a fairy tree, a ‘hole’ tree and a two-acre ‘spiral’, the , providing attractive vistas and shelter to many specimen plants. sit handsomely alongside a , lawns, lake, streams, orchard, Features include a summer house, pond, island beds, woodland walk and a meadows and woodland. This garden was selected by the BBC to demonstrate . Selected seating enhances the benefits of the scented plants. The high quality naturalistic gardening and by the Guardian newspaper as one of garden is wildlife friendly, with birds and butterflies in abundance. Mostly the top ten secret gardens in the UK. Tours and demonstrations on both days suitable for wheelchairs. will illustrate techniques of wildlife and ‘naturalistic’ gardening. Location: Located within . The garden entrance is See www.ballyrobertgardens.com. Partially suitable for wheelchairs. the first road on the left (approximately 200 metres) inside the main gates. Location: Situated on the edge of Ballyrobert village on the B59 between Castlewellan Forest Park is signposted in the centre of Castlewellan town. Corrs Corner roundabout at Glengormley and Ballyclare. Plant stall Plants stall/teas

Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May, 2–5pm

Mr Stephen and Mrs Pat Hey, August Riverside House, 7 Crevenish Road, Kesh, BT93 1RF Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 August, 2–5pm An informal, flower-filled garden that backs onto the Kesh River, located just moments from the centre of the village. The garden illustrates the Mr and Mrs J Rafferty, huge amount of interest that can be created in a relatively small space by The Mill House, 140 Ballynashee Road, Glenwherry, Ballymena, inventive owners through the planting of fruit, vegetables, , BT42 2EW summerhouse, herbaceous plantings, and a variety of flowering shrubs. New This serene five-acre country garden was featured in BBC’s ‘Greatest views and interesting items surprise the visitor at every turn, from a raised Gardens’ with Helen Dillon and Diarmuid Gavin in 2015. Woodland fish pond to re-used historic elements and a beehive. Not generally suitable plantings of beech, oak, spruce and silver birch are linked by stone paths, for wheelchairs due to grass paths and graveled areas. approximately half-a-mile in total, with seating at points of special interest. Location: 90 metres from the centre of Kesh. From : take the A47 The paths have been extended through a small copse of silver birch and join the A35 from Irvinestown to Kesh. From Omagh: take the A32 and under planted with mostly woodland plants including magnolias, azaleas, then the B4 into Kesh. Note: There is no parking available at the property. hydrangeas and hundreds of candelabra primulas. The shady riverside walk Parking is available on public roads and in car parks in the village. The area defines the area between the Glenwherry River and an old mill race which immediately outside the property can accommodate a very small number of feeds two ponds. The larger pond, approximately 0.5 acre, has an island disabled visitors and may be restricted to a drop off zone. and a boat jetty and is surrounded by raised beds on two levels filled with Plant stall/teas an eclectic choice of plants. From the top of the rhododendron walk, with

04 Summer 2019 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni Gardens Open by Appointment 2019

These gardens are open by appointment in aid of the National Trust gardens in Northern Ireland. This scheme is in addition to the established Ulster Gardens Scheme of fixed day openings. Admission £4

3 Ballyutoag Hill, Nutts Corner, Crumlin, BT29 4UH Old Balloo House and Barn, 15–17 Road, Balloo, , BT23 6PB

Antrim Holly House garden is an area of six acres created out of farmland over the past 17 Gardens of approximately one acre, developed around a late Georgian house years. The garden comprises woodlands, herbaceous borders and an iris garden and outbuildings, leading down to the River Blackwater. The garden immediately 10 Riverside Road, Bushmills, BT57 8TP where thousands of spring and summer bulbs have been planted. There is an alpine around the house, created in the mid-20th century, has been restored and A large garden with deep borders and unusual plants and shrubs. Woodland walk, bed, wildlife ponds and a newly planted shrub and woodland garden. Also, in extended by the current owners. A wide range of plants is placed artistically, snowdrops, primroses, bluebells, scillas etc. large lawn, facing south with country views. contrast to the traditional parts there is a modern contemporary garden. within the different spaces. Winding paths take you through the garden where Location: From Bushmills take the Castlecat Road. After approximately one mile, Location: From Belfast: go to Carlisle Circus and take the Crumlin Road and spring bulbs, especially daffodils, cherry and apple blossom, primula, flowering turn right onto Riverside Road. Continue for 0.75 miles and turn left at house on left follow signs for Crumlin/International Airport (A52). After three miles, reaching the shrubs, roses, clematis and specimen trees abound. The planting offers carefully onto drive. Garden at end of drive, approx. 200 yards. Horseshoe Bend, continue approximately four miles. Turn left onto Ballyutoag Hill framed views within the garden and to the surrounding farmland. Herbaceous Tel: Mrs Pam Traill for appointment on 028 2073 1219 or 0792 2795 6720 and the garden is the first entrance on the right. From the West: From Moira M1 material is used throughout the garden as under planting or in the New European Open all year roundabout follow signs to International Airport and after 11 miles come to Nutts Perennial style. Many of the plants have been propagated on site. The garden Corner roundabout. Take the road to Belfast (A52) and after four miles turn right includes many interesting features such as a water-trough cascade, feeding a rill, 17 Drumnamallaght Road, Ballymoney, BT53 7QX onto Ballyutoag Hill. The garden is the first entrance on the right. which empties into a pond. Please note that part of the garden is not accessible to An interesting garden with unusual plants, scree, crevice garden, stone troughs, Tel: Mr Will Hamilton for appointment 028 9082 5967 everyone due to the steep incline. Unsuitable for young children and wheelchairs. , pond and a stream. Featured in the Greenmount Gardens Open May – September Location: Between Comber and on the A22 (on crossroads opposite television programme and listed in Shirley Lanigan’s book, The 100 Best Gardens in Sofaland). Ireland. Plants for sale. Tel: Lesley Simpson 028 9754 1485 or Moira Concannon 078 1141 6642 for Tel: Mrs Dorothy Brown for an appointment and directions to the garden Armagh appointment. Maximum group of 6–8 people. on 028 2766 2923 Open April – June Open April – end September 7 Mount Charles North, Bessbrook, , BT35 7DW This garden is in the delightful eighteenth century village of Bessbrook. A 11 Sallagh Road, Cairncastle, Ballygally, Larne, BT40 2NE connoisseur’s garden with a superb collection of alpines and clematis, cleverly Londonderry A two-acre plantsman’s garden situated on the Antrim Coast, featuring a number of planted with herbaceous plants and shrubs. There are alpines in troughs and a paths that wind through maturing woodland. Includes several small ponds with an recently added crevice bed. ‘Hampstead Hall’, 40 Culmore Road, Londonderry, BT48 7RS extensive collection of herbaceous plants, bulbs, shrubs and trees, many of which Location: From Belfast: take the A1 for then take the A27 turn-off for Newry. A fascinating city garden in the suburbs of Derry. It is comprised of a Japanese have been propagated by the owner. Also a large collection of hellebores. Parking At the roundabout take the 3rd exit under the bridge (signposted A28 Markethill/ style garden, an Italian garden and a formal garden in front of an elegant Georgian limited. Not suitable for children. Partial wheelchair access. Armagh). At the 2nd roundabout take the 2nd exit (sign posted Craigmore/ House. A new area is under development. Described and illustrated in Shirley Location: From A8 Belfast to Larne Road: turn left on B148 for Cairncastle at new Bessbrook 2). At crossroads at Millvale Arms turn right onto B133, after 0.6 miles Lanigan’s ‘The 100 Best Gardens in Ireland’. Partially suitable for wheelchairs. Millbrook roundabout. After approximately four miles, leave B148 at ‘Old Dairy’ take first left past Vauxhall Garage, Bessbrook B112. 0.3 miles past the Gospel Hall Location: Follow the signs for the city centre after crossing the Foyle Bridge. After (yellow cottage), and fork left onto Sallagh Road. House is 0.75 miles on right, below turn left through the iron gates at railings. The garden is five minutes from the main double set of traffic lights take second right into . House is third road. From A2 Coast Road at Ballygally: from rear of Ballygally car park turn left and Belfast/Dublin A1. driveway on the right. drive approximately 1.75 miles to T junction. Turn left again onto B148 and then, Tel: Mr and Mrs W McKelvey for appointment on 028 3083 8006 Tel: Mr Liam Greene for appointment on 028 7135 4807 (evenings) shortly after, sharp right onto Sallagh Road access. Open May – August Groups only Tel: Mr and Mrs D Ledsham for appointment on 028 2858 3003 Open May – end September Open April – end October Down 13 Ballynagard Road, Ballyvoy, Ballycastle BT54 6PW Tyrone This country garden near Ballycastle, on a 0.5 acre site, is approximately 400ft 3 Brooklands Park, Manse Road, , BT23 4XY above sea level with a stunning view of the sea and Kenbane headland. The garden A compact garden with emphasis on trees, shrubs, roses and herbaceous perennials Tattykeel House, Doogary Road, Omagh, BT79 0BN is designed for the prevailing environmental conditions and to protect each section grown to attract birds, bees and butterflies. Showcasing an extensive range of A country garden of approximately 1.5 acres created over a 25 year period, planted from the severe winds, structured windbreaks have been created from ceanothus, plants and features aimed to enhance and intrigue. The garden has been artistically with conifers, shrubs, roses and perennials. There is a sheltered seating area, a potentilla, fuchsia, escallonia, weigela, cistus and conifers. From the first snowdrops, planted to give year-round interest and the colourful, broad herbaceous border is Japanese influenced area, interesting features and a collection of well grown daffodils and primulas in the main garden there is a continual mass of colour until an attractive feature at the front of the house. Partially suitable for wheelchairs. climbers on the house. The garden was featured on the BBC television series early autumn with lilies, agapanthus, alliums, azalea, hydrangea and many more. Location: From Dundonald follow the A20 to the roundabout at Shopping ‘Greenmount Gardens’. Mrs Ward runs a very interesting craft studio at the house. At the end of the garden a number of small paths lead through a large rockery of Centre. Take the first exit onto Blair Mayne Road North. Turn left into Manse Road. Partially suitable for wheelchairs. mature plants and rhododendrons to a fruit tree area. Another area of the garden Continue until you reach Brooklands Park on the left. Location: Tattykeel House is approximately 2.5 miles from Omagh on the south is planted with a wide variety of hostas, apple trees and other mature shrubs. Due Tel: Miss Gillian Downing for appointment on 028 9181 5263 side of the A5 Omagh to Ballygawley Road. There is a sign at the entrance gate. to limited car parking and narrow road, groups are limited to 10 and regrettably Open April – September Tel: Mr Hugh and Mrs Kathleen Ward for appointment on 028 8224 9801 unsuitable for wheelchairs. Open May – July Location: Drive through Ballycastle, pass the Marine Hotel on left, take second exit 77 Magheratimpany Road, Spa, Ballynahinch, BT24 8PA at the roundabout onto the A2 and follow signs for Cushendall. Two miles onto This delightful 25-acre garden includes a , woodland with shade Ballyvoy (Hunters Pub on corner) continue on A2 for 0.75 miles, Ballynagard Road is loving plants and a rock garden. There is a wonderful collection of trees and a on the right. Drive approximately 0.75 miles and arrive at first bungalow on the right. wildlife pond. Partially suitable for wheelchairs. Tel: Tom and Penny McNeill for appointment on 077 5419 0687 Location: South of Ballynahinch A24. 200 yards past the Millbrook Lodge Open late May – September Hotel turn right on to the Ballymaglave Road, towards Spa. Turn left on to Magheratimpany Road and Number 77 is on the left hand side. Tel: Dr and Mrs Colin Tindall for appointment on 028 9756 2812 Open May – September

‘Glenkeen’, 12 Dunevly Road, , BT22 1NB This is a 12-year-old, informal, half-acre garden with a variety of interesting plants. The delightfully colourful garden includes soft fruits and vegetables and is wildlife friendly with bee hives. Woodturning studio, dolls' houses and local crafts for sale. Open 10am to 4pm during Creative Peninsula Week with refreshments available. Location: From Newtownards: take the A20 main Newtownards to Portaferry Road. Approximately 6.5 miles from Kircubbin turn left into Dunevly Road (opposite Lough Cowey Lake sign) Number 12 is just over one mile on the left at a U bend. From Portaferry: take A20 road towards Newtownards. Dunevly Road is just over two miles on the right. Tel: Ann and Mike Miall for appointment on 028 4277 2418 Maximum group of 15 people Open June, July and August

‘Forth Cottage’, 67 Lisnacroppin Road, , BT34 5NZ This cottage garden has been extended and revamped over three generations of gardeners in the family. The changes reflect the greater variety of cottage type plants available in the 21st century and ideas inspired by many garden visits. The south facing rose garden, in front of the nineteenth-century part of the cottage, is planted for year-round interest and gravel mulched for ease of maintenance. On the terrace, inside the walled garden, crevice style alpine troughs give spring interest, and gravel paths wind through the beds. The middle lawn is original field grass, with curving beds and a west facing rock solar. The bottom garden is mostly wild flower planting, with the working area, compost bins and the ‘rompers and roamers bed’. The garden is largely wheelchair friendly with plenty of seating available. Car parking limited. Location: From the A1 take the B10 Rathfriland Road. Go 7.5 miles, then take a right turn up a steep hill onto Lisnacroppin Road. After two miles on Lisnacroppin Road, the garden is on the right. Parking on right after the cottage. From Rathfriland: go two miles on the B10 and turn left onto Lisnacroppin Road. Tel: Mrs Helen Harper for appointment on 028 4065 1649 Maximum group of 10 people Open May – July

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni Summer 2019 05 Barn Owl boxes installed at Castle Ward On a particularly wet Friday in late pairs based on sightings, so any we species rich grassland, we hope winter, Alan and Gavin from the can add to the total is fantastic. Their barn owls will be tempted to return Northern Ireland Raptor Study Group habitats have been lost over the years to Castle Ward in the next few (NIRSG) braved the elements to erect due to intensive farming, pesticide use years. Five boxes have now been new barn owl boxes in the West Park and the decline of native hedgerows put up around the estate and more at Castle Ward. The two met Danielle, but sites like Castle Ward with this kind are being built by local Downpatrick Mark and Paul from the Castle Ward of species-rich grassland are perfect Men’s Shed group later in the year. Kitchen Garden secures ranger team and took them through for barn owls to hunt and nest.’ the careful process of finding the Get in touch with the NIRSG if you: National Lottery funding perfect spot for the new boxes Barn owls were last thought to be - Have barn owls on your land supplied by Ulster Wildlife Trust. nesting at Castle Ward over 20 years - Know of a nesting site We’re delighted to announce that Commenting on the news Jim ago. This special place has been - Would like to get involved with has received a grant Chestnutt, General Manager at Alan and David explained the state selected as a prime site for their raptor surveying from The National Lottery Heritage Florence Court said: ‘We are absolutely of Northern Ireland’s barn owl reintroduction due to our ongoing Fund of £374,800 for an exciting delighted to have secured funding population: ‘There are only three commitment to improving the land in If you’d like to support the barn owl project to restore the Kitchen Garden from the National Lottery for this known nesting sites of barn owls in our care. With an emphasis on reduced population with your own box, or in the estate’s Walled Garden to its project which aims to attract and Northern Ireland. We estimate that grass mowing, habitat creation over would like to find out more visit 1930s character and atmosphere. involve the community and volunteers there are between 20 and 50 breeding the past four years and a return to www.barnowltrust.org.uk. with their heritage through the Made possible by money raised by restoration of Florence Court`s historic National Lottery players, the project will 2-acre kitchen garden by reinstating see the reinstatement of two glasshouses the two glasshouses demolished on the footprint of the two original glass in the 1970s and the horticultural structures revealed in archaeological restoration of the planting schemes. excavations carried out in 2014. ‘The funding will also provide One of the new glasshouses will vital support for the delivery of an be dedicated to horticultural exciting activities programme to production and the second will engage a far reaching and diverse provide a sheltered space for volunteer audience with this special place. I look learning and community use. The forward to welcoming everyone to garden will also be returned to full Florence Court during the delivery horticultural production in empathy of this two-year project as the with its historic planting schemes. glasshouses and garden take shape.’

The dream job with a view... Meet Katie and Marc, our two new Mourne Rangers... Imagine your working day started As visitor numbers to the Mournes As well as the difficult physical work of with a 4km hike to the top of continue to grow, the delicate repairing the paths and bringing the Northern Ireland’s tallest mountain. ecosystem of the mountains has materials to the site each day, the project That’s exactly the scenic commute started to show signs of wear and tear will face other challenges as Katie explains, two members of our South Down which is where the Mourne Rangers ‘Weather is going to be an issue, we can’t ranger team will be taking daily, in come in. Focused on the Saddle area, always guarantee perfect sunshine when their new roles as Mourne Rangers. the project will see the pair repairing we’re up here, and the path needs to be ‘braided’ trails, where walkers have repaired whether there’s a hailstorm Members of the National Trust Team at Mount Stewart, Nerve Marc Vinas Alcon and Katie Taylor created multiple routes and re- or snow.’ Belfast Creative Learning Centre, and Ards Rural Youth Forum have the best ‘office’ view in landscaping some of the areas around with the Mayor Richard Smart at the launch of the Woodland Trail Northern Ireland as they start a two- the paths to ensure protection of the It is a big job and Marc and Katie need help. year, £250,000 project to repair the surrounding environment. They are looking for a passionate team of eroded path ways on Slieve Donard volunteers who love the Mournes as much Giving a new voice to and . Marc began as a volunteer at as they do, to help them out. Murlough National Nature Reserve, Not only a source of literary and worked as a Boardwalk Ranger If this sounds like your dream job, give Mount Stewart’s trails inspiration, the Mournes are home there last year, but found himself Murlough National Nature Reserve a call on If you take a walk along the yellow Starting at the Shepherds Hut and to a varied range of rare plants and ‘keeping an eye on the mountain’ from 028 4375 1467 to chat about volunteering as woodland trail at Mount Stewart you turning left onto the woodland trail, habitats which we work hard to look his vantage point in the dunes. Katie a Mourne Ranger. will notice some new wooden signage you’ll find these thought provoking after. The delicate montane heath, already knows the area well, most created thanks to the work of the Ards installations along the way. bog pools and specialised species recently working on the Mourne Wall Follow the work of the Mourne Rangers Rural Youth Forum. which thrive there are part of why project with Mourne Heritage Trust on their Twitter account at Tammi Peek, Volunteering, Learning the mountains have been designated and appearing in the BBC programme @NTMournes and find out more about the Using the theme behind the Woman and Community Involvement Officer as a Special Area of Conservation. ‘The Chronicles of Mourne.’ project at nationaltrust.org.uk/the-mournes. and Power: Faces of Change at Mount Stewart said: ‘It has been exhibition, the group of teenagers fantastic working with Ards Rural worked with Nerve Belfast Creative Youth Forum and Nerve Belfast on Learning Centre to explore what it this project. Engaging young people Every time you visit and scan your membership card, means to have a voice, identity and with the work that we do and helping power. They then choose quotations them find ‘their place in our places’ is that place receives a credit that goes towards the around this theme which inspired or very important to us. They have added challenged them and designed and something new to Mount Stewart which laser-cut the words onto large discs of will surprise and delight our visitors as upkeep of the property. Thank you. tree trunk to be used along the trail. they walk out on the demesne.’

06 Summer 2019 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni THE New projects keeping us BIG busy in 2019 and beyond… In 2018 we spent £17 million on conservation, that’s £2,000 every hour and we plan on FIVE spending even more looking after the places in our care in 2019. As a result, you may notice a lot of activity at our places over the coming months as we invest in our properties to improve our conservation efforts, improve the experience for our visitors, and ensure they continue to remain open for people to enjoy.

2 Mount Stewart 4 Crom

Since the acquisition in 2014 of the At Crom, we are working with wider Demesne at Mount Stewart other organisations as part of we have already invested close to The Lough Erne Landscape £1million restoring the historic walks, Partnership (LELP). Just over stabilising existing structures and £2 million has been set aside Giant’s Causeway restoring features, but there’s much by The National Lottery 1 more to come. Heritage Fund to support LELP and Carrick-a-Rede deliver a range of strategic and After the completion of the Giant’s We have embarked on an exciting community based activities and Causeway Visitor Centre in 2012, millions journey to conserve, enhance and projects from 2018 to 2023. of people from over 150 countries have restore Mount Stewart’s built and Through this project we will be been drawn to the Giant’s Causeway and natural heritage, creating a world class reinstating 10.5km of historical Carrick-a-Rede. As we approach seven visitor experience for all to enjoy. pathways increasing public years since the Giant’s Causeway Visitor At its heart are the Walled Kitchen access to these 18th-century 5 Murlough National Centre opened we are looking at what Gardens and the Georgian Farm historical walking grounds. A Nature Reserve we need to do next. complex which will be the primary natural play area will be created focus of our project and will include and a programme of events will We are looking to create a visitor Firstly, we are commissioning an new visitor welcome facilities, retail 3 Florence Court take place to encourage the local experience and welcome that will independent study into the capacity of space and a new and welcoming tea- community to become involved inspire people to recognise how the sites and the surrounding area. The room offer. Beyond this, the project The original Kitchen Garden in heritage activities and a special Murlough is. As an Area of results will help us understand visitor will also develop the infrastructure is being redeveloped; bringing citizen science programme. Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) and numbers, behaviours and movements and facilities needed to support life and vibrancy back to this a National Nature Reserve, there into and within the surrounding our growth ambitions and will seek historic feature of the estate in a is so much to teach both young landscape, as well as measure the impact to increase the relevance of Mount project driven by the community and old about this unique place. visitors may or may not be having on Stewart within the community. and volunteers. Detailed plans Currently we are starting our design these spaces. and designs have been put stage, engaging with visitors and together to recreate how this drafting up options for how we can Secondly we are creating a masterplan garden would have looked in the make the most of this natural site. for the future, using the results as key 1930’s including the installation inputs. We’re not sure what this plan will of two lean-to glasshouses. Keep an eye on our website and look like just yet but we are excited to This is an ambitious project social media channels for regular work with the community, our members and we are delighted to have project updates throughout the and our visitors from around the world secured funding from The year, none of which would be to make sure we’re offering the best National Lottery Heritage Fund, possible without your support as possible experiences for everyone, one’s alongside much valued funds members, so thank you. that complement our conservation from a number of supporters to mission and protect these special places help us deliver this vision. for ever.

Fundraise for your Happy 10th favourite place anniversary to Mary Gorman at The Argory with Tina Springhill’s Community From wonderful family homes like McCrory, Commercial Support Consultant Springhill House, to the natural beauty of Allotments the and iconic built heritage such as Mussenden Temple, we Celebrating our successes Over the past ten years, the care for some of Northern Ireland’ s most walled garden at Springhill has precious places. Northern Ireland performed brilliantly grown into a community-led Holiday somewhere truly special in the National Trust Retail Awards for escape from the stresses and All of this is only possible thanks to the 2019, outshining other regions to pick up struggles of modern life. The passionate support of our members, Our new Strand House holiday ocean and the countryside, this two top awards and a runner-up prize. ethos of the allotments is that visitors, donors, supporters and pledgers. cottage in Cushendun is now cottage sleeps five people. Our winners were Mary Gorman at The of well-being, friendship and However, to ensure these special places available for bookings. Get away from Argory who won ‘Best Customer Service’ enrichment, with many local are still around for future generations to it all at this Cornish-style coastal The Bunk House at Castle Ward has award and Kirsty Brown and the Mount families growing within its enjoy, we rely on ongoing support. cottage right in the heart of the Glens had a makeover and is ideal for large Stewart shop who scooped ‘Winner walls, and going on to volunteer of Antrim. families or groups (sleeps 14) who want of the Best Overall Shop’ award. Bob with us. Originally the dream If you want to show your support and to get close to nature this summer. Kane and the team at Giant’s Causeway of Sophie Atkinson, Springhill’s help raise funds for the places you love, Step through the bold red stable door Visitor Centre shop were runners-up in Area Ranger, the Community our new fundraising pack is the perfect of this cottage to discover the quirky If you want something unique, why the ‘Best Shopping Experience’ award. Allotments at Springhill now place to start. internal layout. Take in the sea views not spend a night or two in our pods house 27 plots plus a polytunnel, from the bedroom or head outside at Crom, Fermanagh where you can shed and summerhouse. We will Whether through undertaking a personal to feel the sand between your toes wake up next to the marina and enjoy be running various events during challenge, running a quiz night or holding on the wide sandy beach. Families, the sun setting over Lough Erne in the the year to mark the occasion, so a coffee morning, your fundraising will history enthusiasts and walkers will evening. keep an eye on our website for make a difference. To order a pack visit love the secluded location. details of how you can help us nationaltrust.org.uk/features/fundraise- Search National Trust Holidays for celebrate this great achievement. for-us or call our fundraising team on Situated in the heart of Cushendun more inspiration on places to stay in 01793 817443. with majestic views of both the Northern Ireland.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni Summer 2019 07 Summer 2019 Highlights Northern Ireland

Event details are subject to change. For a full list of activities, please visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ni What's on Festivals, music and the arts Castle Ward Crom Not to be missed 21 June 6 July and 10 August Midsummer Music Music by the Lake Enjoy an evening of music at Castle Ward on Join us for a relaxing evening and listen to the longest day of the year. Watch the sun local musicians by the shores of Lough Erne. Mount Stewart setting over the shores of Lough Online Booking Essential 7–8 September as you while away the evening listening to Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/crom Mount Stewart Conversations Festival the music. 7–10pm This festival returns with a colourful Booking Essential Adult £12 Child £5 line-up of debates, performing arts, Contact 028 4488 1204 Member Adult £12 Child £5 musical activities and more. The two- 7.30–10pm day programme includes a series of Adult £10 Child £5 Castle Ward talks by BBCNI and an international Member Adult £10 Child £5 12–13 July line-up of culture, conversation and Pirates Picnic arts from partners Beyond Skin and The Argory ‘Ahoy me hearties’, we are back from sailing Seedhead Arts. Supported by Ards and Every Sunday in July and August the seven seas for another fun-filled day North Down Borough Council. Lazy Sundays at Castle Ward. Captain Ward is looking Free entry with a charge for some Come and join us for laid back tunes and for some swashbucklers to join him as events. See website for details. Mount Stewart Conversations Festival relaxation. Chill in the Courtyard while he makes you ‘Walk the Plank’. Come in the kids are entertained and feast on our pirate costume and prepare to seek out the summer BBQ. hidden treasure. Enjoy the spectacle of kites at Downhill Kite Festival BBQ is an additional cost. 1–5pm 1–4pm Normal Admission Members Free Normal Admission Members Free Downhill Demesne Mount Stewart 29 July–4 August Muck-in days Gardening 12–13 July Kite Festival Teddy Bears’ Picnic This high flying spectacle returns as a Murlough NNR Rowallane Garden Bring along your favourite teddy and join week-long event. Award-winning kite 29 June 15 June Little Red Riding Hood. Pack a picnic or displays, stunt kite performances and Ragwort Challenge Flower Pressing Session treat yourself to something delicious from synchronised kite teams make this a Get the whole family involved and crown Get ready to learn about the techniques of our caterers. Dress up and enjoy a day full festival not to missed. See website for the champion ragwort remover as our flower pressing. Our gardeners will show of activities for all ages. daily programme details. rangers try and remove as much ragwort you how and why it’s important to press 11am–4.30pm 12noon–5pm as possible in one day. Meet at Keel Point flowers, and share a few tips on how to Normal Admission Members Free Normal Admission Members Free concrete standing speed up the process. Booking Essential 11am–12noon Mount Stewart’s bears can’t wait to Contact 028 4375 1467 Normal Admission Members Free see you at the Teddy Bears’ Picnic 10.30am–1pm No Charge Donations Welcome Springhill 16 June Nature and wildlife Garden Fair A great opportunity to stock up on all Minnowburn Portmuck Florence Court your shrubs and plants, herbs and other 8 June 3 August 25–26 August specimens native to Springhill. Take a look Meadow in a Bottle Whale Watch Honey Show at our community allotments, enjoy a Join our ranger to create your very own With an outstanding panoramic view, the Come along and meet members of the tour of Springhill’s gardens and get some wildflower sensory bottle to take home and Portmuck clifftop path is an ideal place to Fermanagh Beekeepers as they hold their gardening tips from our rangers. learn all about the wildflower meadows at go whale watching. Bring binoculars and annual Honey Show. See bees at work in 11am–4pm Minnowburn. Meet at Minnowburn car park telescopes if you have them. Experts will the observation hive and taste and buy Normal Admission Members Free 11am–1pm be on hand to offer tips. some of the honey on display. No Charge Donations Welcome Meet at Portmuck car park 1–4pm 2–5pm Normal Admission Members Free No Charge Donations Welcome Help our rangers remove ragwort Springhill 16 August Batty Bonanza Learn more about the bats that make their Something White Park Bay home in and around Springhill and make 29 June something batty to take home. Picnic and Pulling 7.30pm–late different… Pack up a picnic and assist our ranger team Normal Admission Members Free with some ragwort pulling for an hour or Castle Coole more. Learn about why we need to remove Murlough NNR 14 June most of the ragwort but not all of it. Go on a butterfly safari at Portstewart Strand 17 August Queen Anne Afternoon Tea Experience Booking Essential Outdoor Adventures – Mini beasts Join us in the beautiful Breakfast Contact 028 7084 8728 Become a mini explorer for the day and 10am–4pm Room at Castle Coole for an exclusive Take a summer garden tour at Mount Stewart Portstewart Strand discover the many different insects at afternoon tea experience. Ticket No Charge Donations Welcome 6, 20 July and 10 August Murlough. Meet at Keel Point concrete includes admission. Butterfly Safari standing Booking Essential Join our rangers on the hunt to catch and Booking Essential Contact 028 6632 2690 7 September Mount Stewart identify the dunes’ fluttering residents. Contact 028 4375 1467 2pm Ards Beach Clean 21 July Nets provided. 2pm Adult £25 Member Adult £25 Lend us a hand and help clean marine Summer Garden Walk Booking Essential No Charge Donations Welcome litter. This will be a good opportunity to Enjoy a tour with our gardening experts Contact 028 7083 6396 Florence Court learn about local wildlife with a ranger. and discover the colours and scents of a 2–4pm White Park Bay 20 July Suitable for children aged 8 years plus with summer garden. Adult £2 Child £1 23 August Pop-up Camping accompanying adult. Wellingtons advisable Meet at Mount Stewart reception Member Adult £2 Child £1 Go Wild with the Rangers An overnight camping experience on Meet at the Floodgates car park, Booking Essential Join our rangers for a morning of fun and the front lawn at Florence Court. A Newtownards Contact 028 4278 8387 Murlough NNR adventure on White Park Bay. campfire with entertainment, BBQ and Contact 028 4278 7769 11am–1pm 6 July Booking Essential an estate walk is included. 1–2.30pm Adult £10 Child £5 Jo’s Walks – Duneland Flowers No Charge Donations Welcome Contact 028 7084 8728 Online Booking Essential Member Adult £10 Child £5 A walk in search of the specialised flowers 10am–12noon Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/florence-court Normal Admission Applies of Murlough’s duneland on a long ramble No Charge Donations Welcome Check in time 6pm through the coastal dunes. Adult £20 Child £15 Downhill Demesne Meet at Keel Point concrete standing. Member Adult £20 Child £15 17 August Booking Essential Downhill’s Secret Gardens Contact 028 4375 1467 Mount Stewart Ranger led tour of Downhill gardens. Learn 2pm 27 July more about the historic walled garden and No Charge Donations Welcome Family Bike and BBQ lost arboretum, now coming back to life. Bring the whole family for an evening Meet at Bishop’s Gate Mount Stewart of cycling and BBQ fun. Ticket price Booking Essential 17 July and 7 August includes one burger or hotdog plus a Contact 028 7084 8728 Bug Detectives soft drink. Please bring your own seating 2–4pm Join in as we get out our magnifying glasses or picnic blankets. Normal Admission Members Free and discover a whole world of bugs and Join us for a beach clean Booking Essential beasties… just where could those little Contact 028 4278 8387 critters be hiding? This is a drop off activity 5.30–9pm for children aged 5–11 years Photo credits: No arrivals after 7pm please National Trust Images / Shaun Boynes, William Shaw John Millar, Joe Cornish, Chris Lacey, Booking Essential Adult £8.50 Child £8.50 Ben Selway, Chris Heaney, Megan Taylor, Andrew Butler, Ross Hoddinott, Brian Clecknew, Contact 028 4278 8387 Member Adult £8.50 Child £8.50 Robert Norris, Mike Henton, Peter Hall 1.30–3.30pm See what bugs you can find National Trust / Sarah Burch, AA Kennedy, Brian Webb, Laura Laverty, Tammi Peek, Rob Flack, Child £8 Sophie Atkinson, Steven McCauley, John Murphy, Conor Edgell, Ronan McGrade, Neill Watt, Trustees of the Londonderry Settlement, Becky Ramsay, Brian Morrison, Ball&Wolf, John McVitty Alternative formats: telephone 028 9751 0721 or email [email protected] Published by the National Trust, Northern Ireland Regional Office, Rowallane Stableyard, , Ballynahinch, Co Down BT24 7LH. Printed on 60% recycled paper. Telephone: 028 9751 0721 Registered Charity No. 205846 Director: Heather McLachlan Editor: Tara Craig © National Trust 2019 Please recycle this leaflet after use.

08 Summer 2019 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ni