Summer isn’t completely cancelled as we begin to return to a new kind of normal here in Northern Ireland. After numerous weeks of staying home, some outdoor activities have begun to resume which means it’s time to take your family on a day out!
5 Family Activities in Northern Ireland
1. Let’s go Hydro Outdoor Cinema, Belfast
No cinema, no problem as Let’s Go Hydro have opened their outdoor cinema where you can enjoy different films every weekend from the comfort of your own car. With 4 screenings a day your kids won’t be stuck for choice on what to watch with films like the Jungle Book or Beauty and the Beast - and if it’s the popcorn and nachos that you miss, there are different food options available too so that you have the full experience. Tickets are £24 per car but there are only a limited amount available so make sure you book ahead.
2. Rosepark Farm, Ballymoney
Rosepark Farm recently reopened their walkway to the public with safety precautions in place to ensure it meets Health and Safety Guidelines. The 2km of rose lined walkways gives your kids the chance to see various animals in their paddocks and enjoy the beautiful blue lagoon beach. The facility is open 7 days a week and operates on a booking only basis, you can check out how they have adapted to Health and Safety guidelines here. Ruby’s tearoom is also open for takeaway or, if you’d prefer to bring your own picnic, the North Coast is only a few miles away with various picnic spots, the perfect chance to make a day of it!
3. Lissan House and Estate, Cookstown
Lissan is an enchanting country house set at the heart of a 267-acre estate and nestling in a prime location in the valley of the Lissan Water. Lissan House in Cookstown remains closed for tours however, their gardens and walkways are open for families to explore. Take a socially distanced walk through the wood land, wildflower meadow or along the river or enjoy a picnic in one of their stunning locations across the estate. You can view more details about their gardens on the Lissan House website.
4. Slemish Mountain, Ballymena
With the Northern Irish summer weather finally breaking through, it’s the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and take a family hike up Slemish Mountain situated in the rural plains of Ballymena, County Antrim. This hike is perfect for younger children and teenagers as it is only a 1.5km walk which takes approximately 1 hour so it is not too hard! The short but steep walk is a popular location and offers spectacular panoramic views west to the Bann Valley, north to the Glens of Antrim and east to the distant coast of Scotland.
5. Plan ahead for a Camping or Caravan trip
Following the Governments latest announcement, Camping sites and Caravan sites are set to reopen from the 26th June so if you are a Caravan owner, why not get prepared for a staycation in your mobile home? Camping is also a new activity we will soon be able to enjoy again so get ready to sleep under the stars and toast some marshmallows! Check out which campsites are open and how they are adapting to social distancing measures.
Please remember to follow social distancing guidelines when you are out and about to keep your family and others safe.
What outdoor family activities are open near you? Let us know using the hashtag #SmarterLiving on our Facebook and Twitter pages.
