8 NI Activities for a Rainy Day
Finding something to do on a rainy day is not always easy, especially during the summer months and its longer days. To help you prepare for the inevitable rainy day or two over summer, below we have listed 8 great activities for a rainy day in Northern Ireland.
1) W5
With its diverse number of fun and interactive activities for children of all ages (and even adults), W5 is an excellent option for a rainy day. The popular venue has permanent exhibitions and a regular selection of temporary activities that range from scientific demonstrations to live performances. Based off the M3 in Belfast, W5’s location is easily accessible and has ample parking available on site.
2) Cinema
A rainy day is the perfect excuse to take a trip to the cinema, with some popcorn and treats thrown in for good measure! Most cinemas have matinee performances for those looking for a budget-friendly option and there might also be discounts for larger groups or families.
3) Homeplace
Only opening in 2016, Homeplace, an exhibition and theatre space dedicated to the Irish writer Seamus Heaney, is a wonderful place to hide away from the rain. Visitors are transported into another world by Heaney’s poetry and writings, and there are various exhibition spaces to find out more about the writer’s life. There is also a café, library and kids’ learning zone to keep everyone happy during a visit.
4) Tower Museum
With its permanent display of the Armada Shipwreck – La Trinidad Valencera, and various temporary exhibitions, the award-winning Tower Museum in Derry City makes for a fascinating and enjoyable visit. The museum also displays exhibitions dedicated to Derry’s intriguing past and has panoramic views over the city from its open air viewpoint.
5) We are Vertigo
For an action packed day inside, We are Vertigo is a hard place to beat. The Belfast-based activity centre has indoor activities that include a trampoline park, soft play area and a 30 ft climbing wall. It is an ideal place for parents looking to get children out of the house for the day and away from TV or video games.
6) Jumping Clay
For a creative rainy day activity, Jumping Clay, clay workshops based at different sites across Northern Ireland, is sure to be a hit. The workshops, led by friendly and experienced staff, allow young children to craft designs of all shapes and sizes using their soft and safe clay.
7) Ulster Museum
Set within Botanic Gardens, the Ulster Museum is a perfect place to take cover during any downpour. The museum’s permanent collection of historical artefacts, ever-changing temporary exhibitions and Discovery Zones (various learning areas for children) will easily fill up a long afternoon.
8) Swimming Pool
A trip to an indoor swimming pool is a popular rainy day activity and one that will provide hours of entertainment for all the family. For example, the new state of the art Better Olympia in Belfast is well equipped with a swimming pool and café. Plus, this particular venue has a Spa onsite should any adults need some pampering!
If all else fails, throw on some wellies and a raincoat and have a splash around in the rain!
Have any other great NI activities for a rainy day? Share them on the Electric Ireland NI Facebook and Twitter page.