INSIDE TRACK

from Ulster Tatler September 2021

by Ulster Tatler

FOCUS ON: EAST BELFAST

InsideTrack

This month Ulster Tatler gives you our top picks of local attractions and things to do out & about in Northern Ireland.

ARMAGH OBSERVATORY AND PLANETARIUM

Armagh Observatory and

Planetarium is the perfect place for an out of this world family day out. Brand new, state-of-theart facilities boasts the world’s most advanced Planetarium system, Digistar 7, transporting guests anywhere in the Solar System and beyond! The latest technology allows visitors of all ages to immerse themselves in a 360-degree dome experience where shows are played on the roof, using its new projection equipment. The cleverly designed interactive exhibition area allows little ones to explore outer space and broaden their curiosity for the intergalactic phenomena. The sensory room, improved shop and café make for a great day out.

Tickets for the dome shows are available to purchase online via www.armagh.space

SUNRISE & SUNSET

With a dramatic coastline, cityscape and peaks that outline its immense beauty, Northern Ireland’s landscape is picturesque during rain, snow or sunshine. However, there is something magical watching the sky come to life during dawn or dusk, the colours become vivid and the skyline makes for the perfect picture – it’s not called golden hour for nothing. Discover Northern Ireland have put together some of the most spectacular spots to watch the

sunrise and sunset in Northern

Ireland. The adventure awaits, just don’t forget to bring your camera! Top spots to check out are; Divis, Cavehill, Lagan Tow Path, Bangor Coastal Path, Slieve Binnian, Lough Navar Forest, Sawel Mountain, Mussenden Temple and Slieve Gullion.

For more information on the walks available, other great places to visit and for things to see and do - check out: discovernorthernireland.com.

CANOE AND CAKE

Combine two experiences into one! Explore the sights of Strangford Lough on board a canoe before heading ashore to indulge in some tasty treats in a traditional Irish thatched cottage. Your adventure starts on beautiful Ballymoran Bay, where you and your guide John will set off on the water to paddle around the little islands dotted around the lough. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of your surroundings and look out for some marine life along the way. Once you have worked up an appetite you will return to land, where Tracey will be waiting as you disembark. You’ll take a twominute walk to her home, where she will have delicious warm breads with homemade jams and butters waiting for you to tuck into. Your host will also demonstrate how to make your own soda bread.

Tickets are priced at £65. Book now at www. mobileadventureteam.co.uk

Whether you are searching for a quiet cup of coffee, that special gift or simply an afternoon to treat yourself, come on down and check out the cosy little community that is THE COURTYARD!

Back Garden

Our selection includes:

FRONT COURTYARD

Through the black door, immediately on your left upon entering, and up the stairs, you will fi nd Men’s Lodge Room! Jack, Jai and the guys are friendly and hard-working, providing a funky, fresh atmosphere where you are guaranteed to get your next favourite fade.

Local artist Tom Stephenson - from local scenery to his pun-fi lled sheep collection, The Whimsical World of Thomas Joseph, Tom can often be found in his gallery working on his latest piece and is always happy to share a bit of his knowledge on any of his art.

The Silver Store is a unique jeweller holding a beautiful selection including a wide variety of gold, silver and platinum pieces along with the unusual and stunning Alchemy range, so there is something for everyone.

Baked By Bap

bakery is a new addition to the team, who’s tasty treats really do taste as good as they look! Sabrina provides a whole range of cakes and bakes that can easily be designed to suit any occasion.

Operated by father and son team, Gary and Warren, Mount 10 Gallery is a wonderful mixed genre gallery. They exhibit a range of different artwork (including our very own Tom Stephenson), stunning photography, ceramics and local handcrafted pieces. Next door is The Mulberry Bush, a beautiful children’s boutique. Whether it’s a special outfi t, some comfy garments, or a unique present for your little one, Anita is more than happy to help you fi nd what you’re looking for.

Baked by Bap

Dreamy Gifts

The Mullberry Bush

REAR COURTYARD WHICH HOUSES OUR BEAUTIFUL GARDEN

Here you can fi nd The Secret Bookshelf, housing a selection of new and pre-loved books, literary gifts and local artwork. Not fi nding what you want? Don’t worry! Speak to Chris and Jo to see what magic they can work!

Why not enjoy an afternoon of pampering between Kellie Courtney Hair Design and The Nail Room? Home to an array of professionals, you can experience all types of hair/nail treatments and styles, along with fabulous and friendly service.

Next door, there is Dreamy Gifts and Crafts. Lucinda specialises in a large range of personalised balloon displays and arches to brighten up a special day, and she also hosts children’s events throughout the year. Her next exciting event is a pumpkin patch on Halloween, check out her socials for more information @dreamybackdrops! JAVART provides an eclectic mix of homeware and giftware, where you can easily fi nd that perfect present. As only one of four Annie Sloan Chalk Paint stockists in Northern Ireland, Alison is full of experience and ready assist you with your latest upcycle project.

Up the stairs, there is Bath-A-Licious Bath Bombs! Both the factory and the shop, all products are hand-made right here. Using all responsibly sourced materials, they provide amazing bath bombs full of fabulous bath art and with a full range of not only bath bombs, but also shower steamers, it is well worth a visit.

Another new addition to the team is Angie’s Corner. This comfy café serves a choice of vegan, vegetarian, gluten free, healthy choice and traditional fayre, with all food freshly prepared and cooked daily in house. Always served with a smile, it is worth the visit!

Completing our rear courtyard, we have Lee in The Talking Shop. Set up by Positive Carrickfergus to host a project exploring the future of Carrickfergus with the people who live here, The Talking Shop invites innovative thinking and imagination, while providing an encouraging space for community-orientated ideas and experiments.

The Courtyard 38 Scotch Quarter, Carrickfergus, BT38 7DP

E: courtyardcarrickfergus@gmail.com W: www.thecourtyardcarrickfergus.com

Gerard Campbell, Paul McCurry and Eamon McGlinchey.

Diane Mulholland, Kelly Foster, Martina McCann and Julie-Ann Stagg from the Hat House, Glenavy.

DOWN ROYAL

There was another great turnout at Down Royal for the recent race meeting on Friday 27th August. The sun shone all day for guests to enjoy a day out at the races.

.Francis and Anne Donnelly, Marie and John Morrison.