Wrap up your winter in style with cosy hotspots in Northern Ireland to explore as part of Electric Ireland’s Smarter Living series.
Big coats, roaring fires, early nights and cosy coastal walks – just a few reasons we can’t get enough of winter in Northern Ireland. With the cosy season coming to an end, let’s make the most of the next month or two with a few last-minute activities before spring kicks in.
FOOD, DRINKS & DANDERS
FODDER FARM SHOP & CAFÉ
Deep in the Finnebrogue Woods you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find the Fodder Farm Shop & Café. This unique and totally toasty outdoor venue sells local produce and hot drinks from their quirky little tepee tent. With fire pits, a farm shop and scenic walking trails you can spend hours relaxing with those you love most.
COMMON MARKET
Vegans, meat-lovers and flexitarians can all get together to enjoy a winter feast at Common Market. With endless street food varieties, heaters and live music, it’s the perfect spot for a cosy night out with your friends. Our personal favourite food stall is Hey Chick – the fried chicken enthusiasts!
BABUSHKA COFFEE
Live life on the edge – literally. Right on the edge of Portrush Pier is Babushka Coffee, an art-obsessed cafe and gallery serving up good vibes and great coffee on the daily. When visiting Babushka, you’ll have two dining options; chill outside soaking up the waves or stay cosy inside their vibrant café.
STAYCATION LOCATIONS
THE BLACK SHACK
If you fancy a cosy retreat that’s off the beaten track, then The Black Shack is the place to visit. Situated at the heart of The Sperrin Mountains near Magherafelt, it features a relaxed open plan living space, a wood burning stove and a private hot tub. Everything you could possibly need for a wholesome winter getaway with that special someone.
LET’S GO HYDRO
Choose from over 15 styles of weird, wonderful and wintry staycation styles at Let’s Go Hydro in Carryduff. From tree and lake pods to Viking huts. Belle tepees and safari tents to house boats – you’ll find it here. For the adrenaline junkies in the group, you can wakeboard, swim in open water or take the kids for a splash around in the aqua park.
FURTHER SPACE
Wherever you are in Northern Ireland, you’ll find a delightfully quaint place to stay courtesy of Further Space. With the idea of bringing ‘unique spaces to unexpected places’, they want to connect people to nature in a way they’ve never experienced it before. For an idea of what to expect, visit their Instagram page for scenic sunsets, snowy landscapes and seaside snaps.
With a world of amazing and unique winter adventures right on our doorstep, it’s time to get out there and explore. For those who’re already prepping for the change of season, get ready for spring with some #SmarterLiving cleaning tips from Electric Ireland.