Out & About on the Causeway Coast

HANDY E NEW SIZ

Out & About 1

2 Out & About

Out & About 3

AUGUST 2012 Contents...

page 5 .. n. tio Introduc page 6 auseway Coast...

C e Th to e m co el W TOWNS page 10

... ne ai Coler page 20 Portrush... page 42 Portstewart... page 68 le...

Ballycastle & Moy page 80 Ballymoney... page 88 Limavady...

MAPS page 48

... st oa C ay w Cause page 50 . t.. ar ew st rt Po page 51 Portrush... page 52 Coleraine... page 53 Limavady... page 54 Ballycastle... page 55 Ballymoney...

FEATURE page 60 Surfing... to de ui G t’s io Id e Th ON GUIDE AUGUST WHAT’S page 17

... ne ai Coler page 40 Portrush... page 59 Portstewart... page 78 le...

Ballycastle & Moy page 87 Ballymoney... page 94 Limavady...

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Keeping Ali’s Dream Alive

A

FTER an absence of nearly two years, Out & About on the Causeway Coast is back and with a whole new look.

First published by Ali Fraser and Drew Mclean - two of the best ad men in the newspaper business - over ten years ago, Out & About wasn’t printed last year following the sad death of it’s co-founder, Ali, who passed away on May 22nd, 2011.

Known to just about everyone on the north coast and surrounding area, his passing was not only a huge blow to his wife, Dolores, his family and best friend, Drew, but also to Out & About which he saw

as his ‘baby’ and had great future plans for.

So it is with some trepidation that I take on the role of editor of Out & About in a bid to keep Ali’s dream alive.

Having worked as a reporter with Ali and Drew for ten years at Coleraine Chronicle, I hope I have learned a thing or two at the feet of the master!

This edition is dedicated to Ali, as a tribute not only to his hard work and vision in putting together Out & About for so many years but also because so many of us still miss him and this will always be his magazine.

Some of the plans Ali had for Out & About I have tried to implement in this new version including adding new town guides and a plethora of maps for newcomers to the area.

The size of Out & About has also changed from tabloid to A5 for easy handling but the number of pages has grown from 28 to 96!

Mainly to accommodate our fiercely loyal advertisers who make

Out & About possible.

But no self respecting tourist guide would be complete without an essential “what’s on” section so this is back in its full glory with the very best diary dates of events in every town and village along our 35 mile coastline and surrounding area.

So whether you are a foreign tourist on his or her first visit to the North Coast or a “Norn Irn” local on a day trip to the beach, thank you

for picking up this copy of Out & About on the Causeway Coast.

We hope you find it helpful and informative and should you be passing a few minutes in a local coffee shop or bar... take a few minutes to raise a glass (or cappuccino cup) to Ali. Gone but very far from forgotten.

Jeff Whyte Editor

Ali Fraser 02/02/60 - 22/05/11 Out & About 5

The Causeway Coast Rich in culture, heritage and natural beauty, the North Coast has something for everyone

BY ALI FRASER

6 Out & About

H

OLIDAYMAKERS to the Causeway Coast have their own reasons for staying her: some say the scenery is spectacular, others stay for the excellent nightlife; some stay for the world famous golf courses and others for the extensive range of outdoor activities and events.

All of these are valid reasons for holidaying here and a combination of each of these makes a visit to the North Coast a fantastic holiday for the whole family.

Visitors can choose a relaxing break, partake in adrenaline filled activities, visit historic buildings and attractions or spend time shopping in the bustling market towns of Coleraine, Limavady, Ballymoney or Ballycastle.

The Causeway Coast offers the complete holiday package.

Don’t waste a minute of your stay - there is so much to occupy your time in this - the most welcoming of regions.

From Limavady to Moyle, a mere 35 miles of coastline connects the beautiful Benone Strand to Ballycastle on the north east coast. Any number of beauty spots, forest walks, beaches and coastal paths can be found in which to have a leisurely stroll, a picnic or an exhilarating cycle ride.

For an alternative view of the area try a boat trip or a sub aqua dive with Aquaholics Dive Centre. Rent a car from Lindsay Ford in Coleraine and explore further inland - the towns of Ballymoney, Coleraine, Limavady and Bushmills each have attractions of their own - details of which can be found in this issue of Out & About.

Rathlin Island is worth a visit. Easily accessed from Ballycastle - a real step back in time to a more leisurely lifestyle. The stunning Glens of Antrim have been visited for centuries by travellers the world over and they are still as popular today as ever.

Search the pages of Out & About and make your holiday a more fulfilling one. We have many ideas for the perfect stay.

Don’t miss a thing - enjoy every minute! ______________________________________________ Stretching from Curran Strand to Dunluce Castle are the unique limestone cliffs of the White Rocks. These soft sedimentary rocks have been carved through centuries into a labyrinth of caves and arches, magical headlands of distinguishable forms rise out of the ocean with names like Shelagh’s Head, the Giant’s Head, the Wishing Arch, Elephant Rock and the Lion’s Paw, while underneath the road you drive upon, huge cavernous caves, accessible only from the sea are home to scores of seabirds and the hunting ground for hawks. The caves are exceptional and one of the hidden treasures to be discovered along the coast.

Image courtesy of NITB, copyright 2012.

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It’s a super summer at the

Jet Centre The Jet Centre in Coleraine is the place to be this summer – with loads of family friendly activities and great deals guaranteed to make for a fun day out.

The North Coast’s premiere entertainment centre boasts an eight screen Movie House cinema showing all the latest blockbusters, Super Strikes state of the art bowling lanes with glow in the dark bowling and Alley Cats indoor adventure play area with its new toddler attractions ‘boggle ball’ and kids drive through ‘car wash’ – the perfect place for little ones to burn off energy.

In addition families will love the relaxed atmosphere of the NY City Café serving a fantastic selection of great

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food at great prices. With loads of arcade games, you could spend hours at the Jet Centre.

Make sure to check the website for all the times and updates!

Family deal There are lots of great offers available across the Jet Centre all summer long. Including Crazy Tuesdays where all activities (bowling, indoor play and movies) are just £3 a head per activity and a family bowling deal at Super Strikes where a family of four can bowl for just £10 any day of the week.

With loads of great family movies showing all summer at the Jet Centre and events at Super Strikes bowling and Alley Cats indoor play centre. Make sure to check the web www.thejetcentre. co.uk to find out what’s happening!

BEST FUN EVER!

MOVIES! BOWLING! INDOOR ADVENTURE PLAY! ARCADE! CAFÉ!

It's all at the Jet Centre: Riverside Park South, Coleraine BT51 3AW Out & About 02870350001 www.thejetcentre.co.uk

9

Coleraine T

HE picturesque market town of Coleraine is known to many as the “capital of the Causeway Coast”. Situated on the banks of the beautiful River Bann, it has seen unprecedented growth in recent years and is the administrative centre for borough of the same name.

The town itself is a delightful mixture of old and new with a distinct emphasis on “family friendly”. It offers the best selection of shopping, leisure and eating out on the Causeway Coast.

History Coleraine is steeped in history… 9,000 years of it! The town is thought to be the oldest known settlement of man in Ireland with an Iron Age fort proving a must see attraction on the outskirts at Mounstandel.

Part of the town’s original defences – known as “The Ramparts” - still remain today. St. Patrick’s Church, in the heart of the town centre, dates from 1613 and is built on the original site of the early Christian Church founded by St. Patrick in the 8th century AD. Coleraine’s historical trail, written and illustrated by local people, traces the town’s history and is available from the Tourist Information Centre on Railway Road as well as local bookshops.

The town hall, situated in the heart of the town at “The Diamond” is over 150 years old and plays host to local and international exhibitions and events throughout the summer. Further details are available from Coleraine Borough Council’s museums department on 028 70347034.

Shopping Coleraine is renowned for its unique mix of family 10 Out & About

run business and top high street names. There are nearly 300 independently owned businesses within the town centre and approximately one hundred top high street names including a few award-winning brands.

Bishops of Coleraine was awarded “UK Footwear Retailer of the Year” and Moores of Coleraine is the largest independently run department stores in NI with 50,000sq ft of shopping space over three floors.

The Diamond Shopping Centre adds to the wealth of top high street names and boasts a top floor food court with fabulous view of the nearby river. There are also many select independent boutiques offering unique designer brands exclusive to Coleraine and well worth a visit.

But for something totally unique, the Causeway Speciality Food and Craft Market is a “must visit”. It is the largest outdoor market outside Belfast. Locally produced food and crafts are on offer from 9am to 2.30pm on the second Saturday of every month.

the capital of the Causeway Coast

Historical trail

Things to see and do Coleraine has plenty to see and do. Great for family entertainment, there really is something for everyone.

Kids will love the award-winning Anderson Park, situated just behind the main shopping street. The Superpool complex at Coleraine Leisure Centre is fun if the weather’s not great or check out the sixscreen multiplex cinema or bowling alley at the Jet Centre.

A cruise of the River Bann from Coleraine Marina is a firm favourite for young and old and boat rentals are available from private hire firm CarrickCraft during the summer months (contact: Wendy Newell on 028 3834 4993 or at sales@carrickcraft.com).

Visit the Tourist Information Office on Railway Road for more information on these and other river-based attractions..

Damhead Miniature Railway is open to the public twice a month in summer for rail enthusiasts (of all sizes)!

The Riverside Theatre at the University of Ulster offers a full programme of performances and exhibitions throughout the year. Coleraine is renowned for its street buskers and festivals. There is family street entertainment frequently throughout the summer.

For further information on everything that is going on check out our What’s On guide inside this edition or visit www.coleraine.co.uk

I

of Coleraine Borough

nteresting town and country based trails are located in and around Coleraine. These walks feature many sites of historical architectural or local significance. Maps can be obtained from the Council offices or at the Tourist Information Centre in Coleraine.

1. Ballycairn Mote and Bailey Thought by some to be an ancient burial cairn re-used as a Norman fort and signalling point. Best seen from the main Coleraine to Portstewart road although the views from its summit are very fine.

2. Ballyaghran Old Church and Flowerfield This is the most ancient part of Portstewart. The Church of Agherton (Ballyaghran) was founded on a Bronze Age ritual site before 1000 AD in the field beside it, towards the sea, are the remains of a court grave (c. 3500 BC) and an ancient signalling mound.

3. Tubber Patrick St. Patrick’s Well at the end of Portstewart strand was thought to be the fresh water supply for the Stone Age inhabitants of the sand hills. It was used as a source of holy water by the residents of Portstewart and locals sold the water to tourists until the 1940s.

4. Portstewart Cliff Walk A spectacular short walk around O’Hara’s castle (now Dominican College) which ends a the strand.

One of the unusual ice houses of the coast is also along this path. Ice houses were stone built turf roofed houses where ice was stored in winter in order to preserve salmon in the summer.

5. The White Wife A standing stone of the crest of a ridge off the ‘B’ road from Coleraine to Portrush. It is triangular and was whitewashed until recently, a throwback Out & About 11

continued from previous page...

to some ancient rite. A different coloured stone is placed on top to give it the appearance of a figure.

6. Lissanduff Ritual Site A pair of earthen concentric rings specially designed to retain water for ancient purposes of worship. As yet unexcavated but a fascinating place.

During the 1641 rising, captured rebels were massacred here by crown forces under Munro 7. Mountsandel The oldest dated site in Ireland. Excavation showed that the people who lived here around 7000 BC lived on a gourmet diet of salmon, suckling pig, duck and pigeon. Beside this site is Mountsandel Fort used from the earliest times until the 1600s.

8. Hezlett House A cruck-built tower house dating from 1691. Its unusual construction, well maintained by the National Trust , supports the traditional long thatched roof. Open to the public. Tel: 028 7084 8567.

9. The Bishop’s Castle The ‘Castle’ was built as a palace around 1780 by the Earl Bishop of Derry, Harvey Bruce. The grounds feature the famous Lion Gate and the neoclassical Mussenden Temple high on the cliff top, once decorated with marble statues brought from Greece and Rome. Walks around the landscaped wooded estate are a delight and attract hundreds of visitors every year.

For further information on any of the sites listed here, please contact the Tourist Information Office at Railway Road, Coleraine or inside The Dunluce Centre in the seaside resort of Portrush.

Published by Fraser, Mclean & Whyte Publications 80 Ballywillin Road, Portrush, County Antrim. BT56 8JN Tel: 07719472104 Email: FMWpublications@googlemail.com Printed in Northern Ireland by W&G Baird, Antrim Additional graphic design by GregWallace.co.uk

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C oleraine L eisure C entre Coleraine Leisure Centre at Railway Road offers customers an unrivalled range of facilities and activities ranging from its multi-purpose Sports Hall to its Superpools complex, Gallery Health Suite and “The Gym” Fitness Studio.

Superpools Complex - Whether you want to take your kids for a splash, learn to swim or fancy a quick dip on your lunch break, Coleraine Leisure Centre’s Superpools Complex has it all.

- simply the best The Gym - Coleraine Leisure Centre’s Fitness Studio has an extensive range of cardio vascular and weight station equipment that are both simple and effective to use.

Great Membership offers are available to those wishing to join for one month, three months or six months. Or if you wish you can ‘pay as you go’.

Gallery Health Suite – This self contained area has a Spa Pool, Steam Room and Scandinavian Sauna, plus two cold water needle showers. Great value passes are available for one month, three months, six months and one year.

With all this and much, much more like our sports hall, squash court, and a cafeteria, Coleraine Leisure Centre’s got it all.

Don’t forget to check out our Summer timetable for exercise classes!

Centre Opening times are as follows - Monday to Friday 8.00am - 10.30pm, Saturday 9.30am - 6.00 pm and Sunday 2.00pm - 6.00 pm. For further information on any of the facilities please call Coleraine Leisure Centre on (028) 7035 6432 or email clcreception@colerainebc. gov.uk Out & About 13

living life

Watersports photography

by Victor McAuley of VM Studio

on the

EDGE T

he Edge Watersports was established in 1996

by Rob & Joan Skelly. Since then they have become one of the premier retailers for Watersports equipment in Ireland and the UK. With top brands such as O'NeiII, Liquid Force, O'Brien, Jobe, Circle One and RTM the "Edge" can cater for almost everyone’s watersports needs.

The Staff are true water babies, with years of experience in all aspects of water sports. The Edge aims to offer the best and most extensive on/ine retail service of watersports goods in the UK and Ireland catering for both the beginner, intermediate and advanced participant alike.

At their premises at Loughan Road, between Coleraine and Ballymoney they offer all types of equipment including wake-board, waterski, wakeskate, knee board and jet ski - an adrenalin junkie’s dream.

Kayaks, canoes, wetsuits, waterskis, slalom skis, towables, inflatables

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and buoyancy aids are among the vast range on offer. With free delivery to anywhere in the UK or Ireland their website and their premises is worth a visit this summer, and with the staff on hand offering their wealth of knowledge you may pick up a few new tips as well as a bargain.

The Edge Watersports Warehouse at Hanna Boats, 233 Loughan Road, Coleraine. www.edgewatersports.co.uk

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16 Out & About

ust Aug 2 201

Diary Dates

what’s on in the COLERAINE area

Coleraine Summer Activity Scheme 23rd Jul -10th August Only for young people aged 8-12 years old. Activities include: football, sports, discos, rounders, arts and crafts etc. Enrolment is on the first day of the scheme.

Summer Music at St Patrick’s 9th August Concert at St Patrick’s, Church Street, Coleraine from 12.30 – 1.30pm.Come along and enjoy a recital – ‘Music for Two Clarinets’ by Paul Berry, Gillian McCutcheon and McGrath

Castlerock Summer Activity Scheme 30th July – 10th August Activities include: bus trips, football, team games, arts and crafts etc.

Concert: Stepping Out Friday 10 & Saturday 11 August, nightly at 8pm,Riverside Theatre, Coleraine Tickets: £10.00

Garvagh Summer Activity Scheme 30th July – 10th August Children’s Summer Scheme at Jim Watt Sports Centre, Garvagh Summer Music at St Patrick’s, Coleraine 2nd August Concert at St. Patrick’s, Church Street from 12.30 – 1.30 pm Come along and enjoy a piano/vocal recital by Gail Evans and Caroline Jones Music Sunday 5th August Mussenden Temple, Castlerock. 12pm to 4pm. Come along and hear the harpist play easy listening tunes. Admission: £4 adult, £2.25 child, £11.25 family. Tel: 028 7084 8728 Downhill Kit Festival 5th August Downhill Demesne 12pm to 5pm Admission: adult £4.50, child £2.25, family £11.25 National Trust members free.

Hugh Thomson - Circle of Friends 6th - 29th August Coleraine Town Hall Free admission 11am to 4pm Ladies’ Open Stableford 7th August Bushfoot Golf Club, Portballintrae.

8am to 6pm

New Horizon 11th - 17th August Coleraine University. Week of Christian teaching, worship and fellowship for all ages. Bible readings speaker – Calisto Odede.

Evening celebrations speakers – Malcolm Duncan & Simon Guillebaud Damhead Miniature Railway Off A26 Coleraine 11th August Fun for all the family with train rides on miniature steam or diesel locomotives.

Open Air Concert - A Mid Summer Nights Dream 11th August Location: Downhill Demesne at 2pm.

Admission: Adult £10 Child £5, Family £25 Causeway Speciality Market 11th August Coleraine town centre One of the largest outdoor markets in Northern Ireland with an eclectic mix of continental and local produce.

Waterways Ireland RiverFest 11th – 12th August River Bann, Coleraine.

All things aquatic are celebrated

and enjoyed at this annual family water sports event.

Yugioh Tournament 11th August Family entertainment in Coleraine Town Hall 11.15am to 5pm.

Admission £5

Summer Music at St Patrick’s 23rd August Concert at St Patrick’s, Church St, Coleraine, from 12.30 – 1.30 pm. Come along and enjoy a violin and piano recital by Jonathan and Lucy Drennan

New Horizon presents On the Edge 13th – 17th August Nightly family entertainment from 6.30pm, Riverside Theatre, Coleraine.

Damhead Miniature Railway Open Day 25th August Off A26 outside Coleraine.

A miniature steam or diesel train ride.

Summer Music at St Patrick’s 16th August Concert at St Patrick’s, Church St, Coleraine, from 12.30 – 1.30 pm Come along and enjoy a piano/ vocal recital by Anita Wilkinson and Audrey Gillian.

Yugioh Tournament 25th August Coleraine Town Hall 11.15am to 5pm Admission £5

Vineyard Car Boot Sale, Farmer’s Market & Craft Fair 18th August The Vineyard Complex at Hillman’s Way, off Ballycastle Road, Coleraine. 9am - 12 noon. Sellers can set up their stalls between 8.00am and 8.45am Portballintrae 4th Annual Art Show 18th – 19th August Portballintrae Village Hall- Free entry Saturday 18th August 11am to 5pm Sunday 19th August 12pm to 4pm Music Sunday 19th August Mussenden Temple, Downhill. 12 noon to 4pm.

Admission Adult £4.50, Child £2.25, Family £11.25 National Trust members free.

Absurd Person Singular 25th August Coleraine Arts and Crafts 8pm, Riverside Theatre, Coleraine.

Tickets £10, concession £8.

Downhill Trail Race 25th August.

Downhill Forest Admission: adult £4.50, child £2.25, family £11.25 (additional charge for trail race) Damhead Miniature Railway 27th August Miniature steam and diesel train rides for children and adults.

Summer Music at St Patrick’s 30th August Concert at St Patrick’s, Church St, Coleraine, from 12.30 – 1.30 pm Come along and enjoy an organ recital by Ian Mills

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Hill Farm Riding Centre is a family run business established in 1986 and celebrated twenty five years of business in 2011. Ideally situated between hills and sea, Hill Farm offers horse riding in the best of coastal and country scenery.

Approved by the British Horse Society (868)and licensed by the Department Of Agriculture, Hill Farm offers a riding experience that is both safe and enjoyable.

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Hill Farm welcomes riders of all abilities from 6 years of age. They offer lessons, group or private, with a fully qualified British Horse Society instructor. They have a structured schedule of lessons that are run every week, keeping riders of similar standard in the same group.

The centre also offers pony trekking for beginner and novice riders, hacking for the more competent and for experienced riders, their beach rides are a must. If you dream of cantering along the Atlantic surf then a Hill Farm Beach ride will fulfil your

every dream.

Hacks and treks are always escorted and the stable’s friendly qualified staff will match each rider to a horse or pony suitable for their experience.

Group rates are offered to Youth Clubs and Schools.

Birthday parties for children and Hen parties are a popular option, while their summer camps are filled to capacity every year so, get your booking in early!

If horse owners wish to place their animal in livery at Hill Farm, then you can be confident of 24 hr supervision with all year round turnout that guarantees happy equines. Horse owners find Hill Farm the ideal place to bring their horse on holiday too with its close proximity to the beach, hill rides and quiet country roads.

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Portrush

20 Out & About

The West Strand is one of two golden sandy beaches on the peninsula of Portrush and proudly displays its European Blue Flag for high standards of tourist infrastructure, cleanliness and water quality. Photograph courtesy of NITB, copyright 2012.

Out & About 21

P

ortrush, flanked on both sides by the sea, has a well-established reputation as Northern Ireland’s premier holiday resort.

Since the latter years of the nineteenth century, when steam trains arrived steadily at the newly built, mock-Tudor station and disembarked daily from steamships in the busy harbour, visitors have regarded Portrush as the top recreation spot of the Causeway Coast.

Portrush is a bustling resort which possesses ‘a bit of everything’ that the Causeway Coast has to offer and is the town where practically everything “happens” during the summer months.

There are funfairs, amusement arcades, water sports, tennis courts, bowling greens, concerts, beauty contests, boat tours and firework displays.

There is a summer theatre, cabaret, motorcycle racing, raft racing, go kart racing, sea fishing, nightlife, pipe band championships, steam train rides, bicycle hire, golf tournaments and of course ice cream and candy floss in abundance.

Whether you are the outdoor, energetic type or someone who prefers a laid-back sort of holiday, Portrush is the place for you.

Anglers, surfers, golfers and tennis players are all well catered for.

There is Royal Portrush Golf Club, which is still basking in the glory of it’s successful hosting of the Irish Open and Rathmore, an excellent links course backed by sand dunes which run parallel to the golden sands of the East Strand.

Beginners to the game of golf can develop their skills on the less demanding nine-hole course at Ballyreagh.

The Recreation Grounds at Ramore Head offer tennis, bowling and crazy golf. There is a huge inflatable slide or bouncy castle in the adjacent children’s adventure park. Horse-riding can be 22 Out & About

enjoyed at the nearby equestrian centres.

The Atlantic throws up excellent waves at all times of year accounting for the increase in the popular sport of surfing.

Sea fishing trips are organised from the harbour and boats can be chartered on a daily basis.

Water-sports enthusiasts can make use of the facilities around the harbour, the East Strand and West Bay where sail-boards and rowing boats are offered for hire alongside exhilarating motorboat tours.

After dark, Portrush refuses to rest with lively pubs and nightclubs catering for all ages and all tastes.

Theatres and live shows are held in The Playhouse and The Town Hall while many of the lounge bars feature live music all year round.

Clubbers can party the holiday nights away in any of the clubs in the resort of which there more than enough to offer choice to every age group.

Whatever the weather, get yourself Out and About in the Port.

The titanic structures that are the simulated tall ship masts at Station Square, Portrush.

Photograph by Jeff Whyte.

Out & About 23

A favourite with surfers, Portrush’s second beach, the East Strand stretches from the Arcadia to the White Rocks. A new multi-million pound development by central and local government has vastly improved the tourist infrastructure on this side of the peninsula providing a wide promenade with plaza style steps, additional seating, improved parking, floodlighting and modern toilet and changing facilities for watersports enthusiasts.

Photograph courtesy of the NITB, copyright 2012.

24 Out & About

Recessed LED lights evolve through a rainbow of colours in the covered amphitheatre of the new ÂŁ2M Station Square development, Portrush.

Professional, affordable design from one of the North Coast’s leading architects

D

avid J Lawrence Chartered Architects is a young R.I.B.A. Chartered Architectural Practice operating predominately in the North West of the Province although it continues to undertake commissions in Belfast and throughout the rest of Northern Ireland.

Established formerly in 2006 by Director David Lawrence R.I.B.A. who has over 25 years previous experience practicing Architecture, the Practice now has Offices in Portrush, Portstewart and Ballymoney This Practice specialises in contemporary and traditional residential design including extensions and conversions to dwelling houses, as well as modern and cost effective commercial development.

Our fees reflect the current economic climate.

Out & About 25

26 Out & About

Complete your holiday with a visit to

B

Barry’s

ARRY’S, the popular familyowned amusement park in Portrush, has been providing traditional seaside fun and entertainment for generations of holiday makers to the North Coast.

The popularity of Barry’s has increased over the years with visitors and townspeople alike. Speak to any long term resident in Portrush and they will recall fond memories of Barry’s during their childhood.

A holiday on the Causeway Coast means that Barry’s should be a definite stop for anyone looking for a great day of fun and excitement - no matter what your age.

There are outdoor rides and a great number of indoor attractions too, which is a definite advantage if you find that the Portrush weather catches you by surprise.

Dodgem cars are the best way to sort out any competitive spirit between male members of the family in complete

safety.

Each season, Barry’s introduces a new attraction. The latest addition is a free fall ride called “Jumpin’ Astro”, which calls for strong stomachs and nerves of steel (amongst parents anyway)!

Hobby Horses are a favourite with everyone.

The carousel is over 100 years old and has been superbly maintained, as are all of the attractions in Barry’s.

The horses have been a part of Barry’s for more than 50 years - possibly your parents or grandparents enjoyed the exact same hobby horses as you do today.

As well as the traditional favourites, Barry’s has always endeavoured to keep ahead on the latest technological

advances in thrill rides and every year they update the existing attractions and introduce new innovative ways of getting your adrenalin pumping.

Higher, faster, twistier rides than before, vertical, horizontal, diagonal - which way is up? - all sending your pulse sky high.

And with the advent of digital technology, all your memories can be recorded and taken home in a frame or in a key ring courtesy of the new photo booths at each of the main rides.

There is a cafeteria on site and so there isn’t any reason why you should miss any of the excitement by having to leave the establishment.

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YOGI’ BEAR The Wild Ride 4D Everyone’s favourite bear brings his meal-mooching ways to this zany new 4 – D Ride adventure. Determined to show that he is smarter that the average bear Yogi plots to swipe as many picnic baskets as he can from the unsuspecting visitors to Jellystone Park. Starring Dan Ahkroyd as the voice of Yogi Bear and JustineTimberlake as the voice of Yogi’s faithful pal, Boo Boo.

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s d i k e h t love it!

The

Dunluce Centre, Portrush

Opening Times July & August: Daily 10.30am to 5.30pm CENTRE IS AVAILABLE ALL YEAR ROUND FOR PRE-BOOKED GROUPS & ARENA HIRE Turbo Ride 4-D Experience Where you can RIDE THE MOVIES! Turbo Ride 4D delivers a thrilling adventure for the entire family. Using flight simulation technology, your seat will move in-sync with the action on-screen.

Turbo Ride 4D will immerse you right into the movies!

Now showing: Yogi Bear the Ride & Deep Sea 3D

Darklight Laser Drome Enter a dark misty world, let your imagination become a reality, and compete in a tag game where speed, stealth and accuracy must be matched by initiative, cunning and intellect. Strap on a light weight, high-tech suit and enter the huge multi arena for a sensorial effect unlike any other.Finn Mc Cool’s Indoor Playground We boast the largest climbing frame in the Northwest. Your kids can play in three floors of tube tunnels, giant snake slides, climbing walls, net climbs and swings, exciting fun and much much more.

Birthday Parties Have your Birthday Party at the Dunluce Centre and enjoy the excitement and challenges of our Multi-Level Play Frame in Finn Mc Cool’s, RIDE THE MOVIES! or have a blast in Laser Tag. Birthday Packages available from £7.95 per person.

Contact 028 7082 4444 www.dunlucecentre.co.uk dunlucecentre@colerainebc.gov.uk

Out & About 29

Great value activity discounts with

the new

Portrush Pass

GETTING active on Northern Ireland’s North Coast has just got a lot easier with even better value. The ‘Portrush Pass’ is basically your ticket to do anything and everything this spectacular coastline has to offer at discounted rates, including: - Surfing in Portrush with Alive Surf School - Stand-up-paddle boarding with SurfSupNI in Portballintrae - Coasteering with IrishC - Scuba-Diving and Boat trips with Aquaholics - Krav Maga (self-defence) with famous big-wave surfer Al Mennie - Hire a bike to go & explore at your leisure with Causeway Cycle Hire - Discount off all the gear you will ever need at Woodies Surf Shop - A well-deserved dinner at the Spinnaker after a tough day at sea!

- Family fun at the Dunluce Centre - Kayaking, coasteering and much more at Xplore Outdoors - RNLI safety information straight from the experts

ing in Portrush but have a real passion for life and being as active as possible.

Portrush Pass founder and local entrepreneur, Ricky Martin explains his vision for the pass:

He continued: “So, a few months ago I decided all the local activity providers needed to come together and make sure we can offer everyone the best deals possible and I started to make a few calls... the Portrush Pass was born!”

“Since taking over Alive Surf School four years ago I have also realised that there are lots of active and fun-loving people around who not only love surf-

The pass is valid until the end of October 2012 and you can use it again and again. Download it from outdoorNI.com or get your hands on one of the free 14,000 printed booklets.

30 Out & About

Portrush Summer Theatre 2012 PORTRUSH Summer Theatre is in its 56th season. From Wednesday to Saturday of each week Portrush Town Hall will be the venue for live comedy theatre featuring plays by many popular playwrights. The following shows should have you splitting your sides with laughter.

BIG BAD MOUSE

by King & Cary Mr. Bloome is a shy and downtrodden assistant in a factory office. He is mistakenly identified as a flasher and stalker, and suddenly he becomes very interesting to the female workers in the office. This boosts Bloome’s ego, so when the victim realises she has made a mistake, he becomes increasingly desperate to keep her quiet.

KINDLY KEEP IT COVERED

by Dave Freeman A frantic farce ensures on Roland and Julia’s health farm, bought with the insurance money from the death of Julia’s first husband, Sidney.

Unfortunately for Roland, Sidney decides to resurrect himself and cause havoc - just on the day when Vanessa, the wife of Roland’s ex-boss checks in for a healthy stay!

OFF THE HOOK

by Derek Benfield

Who would think there could have been two Harold Spooks in the same prison?

Well in this case there were, and between them a pair of shady characters managed to spring the wrong one to recover the hidden money he didn’t hide in the first place.

TIPTOE THROUGH THE TOMBSTONES

by Norman Robbins Mortimer Crayle, the lawyer, has gathered the last remaining Tomb family members at Monument House to inform them about their inheritance. But Crayle has designs on the inheritance which demands the death of all Tombs CUPID WORE SKIRTS

by Sam Cree Widower Andrew Coulter lives with his elderly father and son.

His married daughter comes in each day to take care of the men.

But when she becomes pregnant, she worries that they will not be able to cope. His sister-inlaw makes a wager with Andrew that he couldn’t find a wife within a week.

Andrew advertises for a wife and when the ‘suitors’ arrive, mayhem ensues.

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32 Out & About

“Stepping Out” at the Riverside Theatre

P

The Screaming Silence of the Wind An exhibition of paintings by Maurice Orr 6-23 August

A remarkable exhibition of paintings by the renowned Maurice Orr, encompassing powerful images, sound and fish skin textures to represent the coastal landscapes of Northern Ireland and Iceland. An Amazing sensory feast, which visitors are invited to touch, hear and see. Commissioned by the Cultural Olympiad ‘Unlimited’ programme, it celebrates disabled arts in culture and sport on an unprecedented scale. The exhibition completes its Northern Ireland tour at Flowerfield Arts Centre as part of Coleraine Borough Council’s celebration of the London Olympic and Paralympic games. This offers a last chance to experience the exhibition before it travels to the South Bank Centre in London to become part of the national celebration of London 2012.

UT a group of women and one man together in a dingy North London hall at a tap dance class and what do you get?

The hilarious comedy “Stepping Out” that’s what!

And you can enjoy the trials, tribulations, lives and loves of the trainee tappers and their long-suffering teacher in a fantastic production of the side-splitting show at the Riverside Theatre in Coleraine.

Portrush Music Society has embarked on a new venture and, as well as presenting their award-winning annual musical in the Coleraine theatre in April, they are producing this pithy comedy for two nights only on Friday and Saturday, August 10th and 11th.

Written by Richard Harris, this summer-fun comedy is directed by Andrew Donnell for Portrush Music Society.

The Society is delighted that Andrew, a former PMS member who is now at the London College of Music, has returned home this summer to direct the show Come and meet Mavis the teacher of the tap class and her “trusty” accompanist Mrs. Fraser as they battle to teach some moves to the motley crew of learners - Sylvia, Rose, Andy, Vera, Dorothy, Lynne, Maxine and the only man, Geoffrey.

As the play progresses, the group’s dancing improves to such an extent that they are invited to perform at a charity gala. Will they be ready in time?

Bookings are now open for this fun night out.

Ring the Riverside Theatre Box Office on (28) 70123123 or book online at www.riversidetheatre. org and let’s go Stepping Out! Out & About 33

34 Out & About

Waterworld

thrills and spills for all the family

W

aterworld, Portrush, is renowned as one of the North Coast’s most popular family venues, attracting thousands of visitors every summer – and noone leaves disappointed!

With two fantastic giant waterslides, two Jacuzzis, 12 water cannons and a host of features for younger children,

this fun filled pool, named The Pirates Cove, is adored by kids of all ages.

Families can enjoy all these fabulous thrills and spills, under the supervision of our fully qualified attendants, ensuring everyone has an incredible day to remember.

On top of all this Waterworld also offers visitors Pirate Bowl – a ten pin bowling alley with six lanes - always a firm family favourite. For the very young there are bumper rails and bowling ramps making sure everyone gets the chance to enjoy this fun activity. Each lane can accommodate six people and sessions

last 45 minutes.

Waterworld also boasts a fun beach themed photo area, located at the front of the building, with a giant deck chair and bucket and spade.

So what are you waiting for, come along and enjoy a fantastic and fun family day out!

Opening times for July and August are as follows Monday to Saturday 10am – 8pm and Sunday 12noon – 8pm, last ticket sold at 7pm.

For further information please call Waterworld, The Harbour, Portrush on: 028 7082 2001 or email: waterworld@colerainebc.gov.uk.

Out & About 35

Those magnificent men in their

N

flying machines

orthern Ireland’s biggest airshow returns to the beautiful seaside setting of Portrush, on the north coast for the eleventh time this September.

The spectacular West Bay of the bustling family resort is a natural amphitheatre for the two day programme of air displays, sea displays, ground

36 Out & About

shows, exhibitions and stalls.

The 2012 show, which runs over Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th of September, will feature the return of the crowd pleasing Red Arrows whose Portrush display will be the only one in Ireland this year.

The weekend regularly attracts crowds of over 100,000 and once again admission is completely free!

THE RED ARROWS with their inimitable coloured smoke display at the Northern Ireland International Airshow, Portrush, in 2010. Photograph by Francis Peacock. Prints available to order from francis@franispeacockphotography.co.uk.

Out & About 37

The

hot sounds

of at summer

B Friday 24th August Suckerfish Bar & Club @ Portrush Playhouse Proudly Presents a summer Reggae Special with....

NATTY WAILER & THE REGGAE VIBES

38 Out & About

ob Marley passed away just over 30 years ago on May 11th and 3 Decades after his untimely death at 36 years of age, his music still entertains and influences millions of people across the Globe. Bob’s greatest hits album ‘Legend’ has sold more than 10 million copies worldwide and has remained in the charts ever since it’s release in 1984.

‘Natty Wailer’ and the ‘Reggae Vibes’ will be doing a tribute to Marley with a series of special gigs around the country with Natty Wailer’s 7 Piece Band, Covering all Bob’s great songs, from the early days with Peter Tosh & Bunny Wailer calling on us to ‘Get Up, Stand Up ‘ to his break through as an international superstar asking us ”Could You Be Loved’. All of

Marley’s best known songs like ‘Jammin’ & ” I Shot The Sheriff’ are included in the 2 hour set as well as many fans favourites like ‘Exodus’ & ‘ Rat Race’.

Natty Wailer, years in the making, is from and inspired by the old school Reggae of the legendary Bob Marley and the Wailers.

Natty recorded and toured with Bob Marley and the Wailers as a keyboard player for over Ten years. He has recorded numerous albums and compilations with Bob, such as “Songs of freedom”.

During the same period, Natty was also playing and recording with Aston “Familyman” Barrett.

You will find his name Ian Wynter (often misspelt Winter) on some of his albums such as “Family man in Dub” and “Guided

Missile”. Ian Wynter wrote and voiced The Wailers Tuff Gong 7″ ‘Work’. This track was backed by The Wailers instrumentals’. Both sides produced by Family Man. Furthermore, Natty has recorded with many legendary artists such as Dennis Brown, Lival Thompson, Johnny Clarke, Chinna Smith and more.

You will also find his name on the superb “Bob Marley and the Wailers complete discography” by Roger Steffens, a Reggae bible for all of us! As a result, he has learnt the music trade to the extent of adapting the formula for making good music and for being a superb show man while spreading the importance of history and culture.

After leaving the Wailers in 2000, he founded his own entourage “Natty and the Reggae Vibes” with the main purpose of continuing this tradition.

Since he migrated to Ireland in 2000 after the launching of his then new CD “Lifted”, he has done numerous live performances including festivals with his band “Natty Wailer and the Reggae Vibes” and has done many workshops and charities with his acoustic Reggae. Moreover, Natty Wailer has worked with Irish local bands such as “Breag” (Belfast based reggae band).

He’s recently done some work with the multicultural group Sean Agus Noa who made the album Eagsulacht (2007) featuring 65 Galway based musicians from 20 diverse ethnic groups as a celebration of Ireland’s cultural diversity of which he composed and recorded a

track titled “Let’s come together”.

You can also hear Natty Wailer’s vocals on the song “Country Life”,

by Australian Dub/Reggae band “Secret Masters” from their album “Words, Power, Sound”.

Natty Wailer’s song “Lift Your Spirits” was also selected by reggae producerAdrian Sherwood for the soundtrack of the movie “Johnny Was” and also featured on the compilation of the Festival of World Cultures 2009!

Natty has been touring Ireland last year while playing at most well known Music venues such as the Roisin Dubh (Galway), the An Grianan Theatre (Letterkenny), the Cranelane Theatre (Cork) at the Cork Jazz festival, Sandinos (Derry) and at the Button Factory (Dublin) where he’s recently singing and playing keyboards on a few Bob Marley’s songs with the legendary Wailers and Aston “Family man” Barrett as their Special guest.

Catch Jake Live at Portrush Playhouse Theatre on Saturday 25th August // Tickets On Sale Now Tel:02870 824435

Doors 8:30pm // Adm:£10 Saturday 4th August Portrush Playhouse Theatre Presents..

Anthony Toner, Bap Kennedy & Ben Glover

This will be a very special ‘Songwriters in the Round’ evening with the outstanding talents of local singers and songwriters Anthony Toner, Bap Kennedy and Ben Glover. They will perform an intimate acoustic-based show ‘In the Round’ sharing songs, harmonies and stories from the road. Expect some great banter, top-drawer material and fine playing.

Catch Derek Acorah (TVs Most Haunted) for his Exclusive 3hr True Vision Tour at the Portrush Playhouse Theatre on September 3rd. Tickets on Sale Now £14 Tel:02870 824435 or go to www. ticketmaster.ie

Out & About 39

ust Aug 2 201

Diary Dates

Summer Bible Readings 31 Jul-2 August 8-9pm Glenmanus Reformed Presbyterian Church, Portrush Speaker Rev Knox Hyndman Portrush Summer Theatre 1-4 August Live comedy theatre at Portrush Town Hall Adrian Knight (comedy hypnotist) 1 August 8pm, Playhouse, Main St , Portrush. Tickets £8/£6 or £35 (Group of 5 people)

what’s on in PORTRUSH East Antrim Old Vehicle Club Cavalcade and Show 5 August Cavalcade comprising over 150 vehicles. 12.30-4.30pm Dunluce Centre Portrush where it is possible to get up close and personal to view these fantastic vehicles and chat with their enthusiastic owners.

Portrush Treasure Trail 5 August Treasure Trail starting at Dunluce Centre, Portrush.

Rage on Parade (RATM Tribute) 3 August 9pm, The Playhouse, Portrush. Tickets £6.00

Holiday Bible Club 6-10 August 10.30am to 11.45am each morning and 7.30pm to 8.45pm each evening Portrush Presbyterian Church, Main Street.

THE BIG YIN REVISITED (Billy Connolly Tribute) 3 August The Playhouse Portrush. Doors: 8:30pm / Show: 9pm / Tickets: £7

Summer Concert 7 August 7.30-8.30pm The Amphitheatre, Kerr Street, Portrush traditional music by Causeway Folk

Ulster Military Vehicle Show 4-5 August Main rd between Portrush & Portstewart A display of privately owned, restored vehicles dating from World War II Stalls, activities for children, battle re-enactments, static displays of historic military events & equipment. etc.

Dominic Grahams School of Irish Dance LIVE show.

7 August The Playhouse, Portrush.Doors: 8pm // Admission: Adults £5 / Kids £3 (Pay on the Door)

Summer Craft and Collectables Fair 4 August Portrush Town Hall Kids Summer Club 4 August 1pm to 3pm, The Playhouse, Portrush.(Every Saturday.) Contact 028 7082 4435.

Anthony Toner, Bap Kennedy and Ben Glover 4 August Concert 8pm, Portrush Playhouse. Tickets £12 plus booking fee.

40 Out & About

Portrush Summer Theatre 8-11 August Live comedy theatre at Portrush Town Hall Adrian Knight (comedy hypnotist) 8 August The Playhouse, Portrush, Doors 8pm // Adm:£8/£6 // or £35 (Group of 5 people) Summer Craft and Collectables Fair 10 August 2pm-8pm Portrush Town Hall The Mighty Shamrocks 10 August The Playhouse, Por-

trush.Doors 8pm // Tickets £10 Live Outdoor Show and Fireworks 11 August FREE Live band with children’s entertainment and a fireworks extravaganza at Portrush Recreation Grounds from 8-10pm Portrush Summer Theatre 15-18 August Live comedy theatre at Portrush Town Hall NW Pipe Band Championship Festival incorporating the Champion of Champion Competition 17-18 August Pipe Band Championships incorporating the Champion of Champions Competition returns to Portrush.

Recreation grounds.

Summer Craft and Collectables Fair 18 August 2-8pm Portrush Town Hall Kids Summer Club 18 August 1pm to 3pm, The Playhouse, Portrush. £7 per child including kids meal.

New Voices In & Around 19 August The Playhouse, Portrush.

Summer Concert 21 August 7.30-8.30pm The Amphitheatre, Kerr Street, Portrush with music by Coleraine Fife & Drum Dominic Graham School of Dance 21 August The Playhouse, Portrush.Doors: 8pm // Admission: Adults £5 / Kids £3 (Pay on the Door).Meal Deals Available, For more info Tel: 02870 824435 (Book Now!)

Portrush Summer Theatre 22-25 August Live comedy theatre at Portrush Town Hall Adrian Knight(Comedy Hypnotist) 22 August The Playhouse, Portrush. Doors 8pm // Adm:£8/£6 // or £35 (Group of 5 people) Tea Dance 23 August 2pm-5pm The Best Western Magherabuoy Hotel, Portrush Music by Ivan Kerr.

Admission £3.00 (to include light refreshments).

Andy Hamilton (Live Darts Exhibition) 23 August 8pm, The Playhouse Portrush.

Marley ( Bob Marley Movie) 24 August The Playhouse, Portrush. Doors 7pm // Movie 7:30pm.Adm £3 or Free (Natty Wailer Concert Ticket Holders) Natty Wailer & The Reggae Vibes 24 August The Playhouse, Portrush. Doors: 8pm // Tickets: £10 // Drinks Promos all Night .Box Office: 02870 824435 // Also Available From: www. ticketmaster Summer Craft and Collectables Fair 25 August 2-8pm Portrush Town Hall Kids Summer Club 25 August 1pm to 3pm, The Playhouse, Portrush. £7 per child (includes kids meal) JAKE O’KANE (Live Stand Up) 25 August 8pm, The Playhouse, Portrush.

Causeway Coast Mini

ust Aug 2 201

Diary Dates

Weekend Saturday 25th - JKC Mini ‘Nellys Dash of the Orish’ 6.30pm-10pm.

Vehicle cavalcade of Minis from The Old Bushmills Distillery to Portrush, via Portstewart, to celebrate the fabulous Mini in all its guises.

Sunday 26th - The Morelli Italian Ice Cream Job, 12noon-4pm.

Static show of 500 Minis at the Dunluce Centre Portrush, celebrating the fabulous Mini and Morelli’s Ice Cream, followed by a vehicle cavalcade through the streets of Portrush.

Credence Clearwater Revived

what’s on in PORTRUSH 26 August The Playhouse, Portrush. Doors 8pm // Advanced Tickets £10 or £12 pay on the Door (Subject to Availability).

Dominic Graham School of Dance 28 August 8pm, The Playhouse, Portrush. Doors: 8pm // Admission: Adults £5 / Kids £3 (Pay on the Door).Meal Deals Available, Adrian Knight (comedy hypnotist) 29 August The Playhouse, Portrush.Doors 8pm // Adm:£8/£6 // or £35 (Group of 5 people) White Collar Boxing

31 August The Playhouse, Portrush.

Triggerman 31 August 9pm, The Playhouse, Portrush.

NI International Airshow 8-9 September West Bay, Portrush, Co Antrim. Ireland’s biggest airshow - 2 days of jets, WW2 fighters, helicopters and tons of family entertainment.

Free admission.

The only display by The Red Arrows in Ireland this year. Also featuring RAF Typhoon, Hawk, King Air, Tucano, Belgian Air Force A109, The Blades, Sea King helicopters, Spitfire, Hur-

ricane...and many more.

The Airshow Evening Concert 8 September A special outdoor concert to raise funds for the NI International Airshow featuring a swing band and, for the first time in Ireland, a dusk air display with pyrotechnics.

European Heritage Open Days, various locations including Dunluce Castle, 8 – 9 September contact: (www.doeni.gov.uk/ wonderfulni for an updated list.

Out & About 41

Portstewart A genteel fishing village that comes...

alive in summer

42 Out & About

The former O’Hara’s Castle, now Dominican College, Portstewart, glows red in the evening sunshine.

In the foreground is the famous clifftop walk which links the former castle to the Crescent play area and busy main sea front known as The Promenade.Photograph by Maeve Henry. www. lostandfoundbymaeve. blogspot.com

Out & About 43

Fashions fade...

style is eternal!

T

hose immortal words of Yves St Laurent - emblazoned on the facade of Renaissance Boutique - give shoppers a clue to the passion that lies behind Portstewart’s newest fashion emporium.

This veritable treasure trove of new and vintage clothing, shoes and bags is the brainchild of local woman, Barbara Woods, whose love of all things fashion, inspired her to open a store with a difference new and nearly new designer and high-end high street clothing - without the designer price tag!

Individually sourced new dresses by Hunters and Gatherers and Kate Fearnley sit proudly along side, customers’ own top brands, which are cleverly sold on their behalf on a 50/50 basis through the Renaissance Dress Agency.

With all sizes and age ranges catered for, we think Renaissance is well worth a visit.

You & your pocket will be pleasantly surprised!

44 Out & About

P

ORTSTEWART, just four miles west of it’s big sister, Portrush, shares the same stunning coastline but has long been renowned for being the quieter of the two resorts.

A night scene of Portstewart’s bustling “prom”.

Photograph courtesy of Coleraine Borough Council.

Not so in summer, this now bustling mecca for tourists from all walks has changed dramatically since its creation in 1792 by local landlord John Crommie who is said to have named it after his mother’s family, the Stewarts of Ballylesse.

Initially just a fishing village, it resisted the growth in mass tourism enjoyed by Portrush in the Victorian era but has more than made up for its slow start.

Locals and tourists from all over the world have fallen in love with Portstewart, its unspoilt character, its tiny harbour and its busy promenade with amazing views that stretch out over the Atlantic ocean to Donegal and along the coast to the landmark Mussenden Temple at Downhill.

Portstewart’s renaissance of recent times has seen an explosion in summer dwellings, apartments, new businesses and well designed tourist facilities along its seafront.

This once quiet fishing village now has its own festival every July - The Red Sails Festival - named after the Jimmy Kennedy song, Red Sales in the Sunset, made famous by Nat King Cole in the 1950s.

Portstewart also regularly attracts thousands of visitors to its most famous landmark - a two mile long beach of golden sand known locally as The Strand.

The beach is owned and managed by the National Trust but visitors are invited to drive down onto the beach for a nominal fee which pays for its upkeep as well as the dramatic dunes that crown it.

The Strand is linked to the resort’s main centre by a dramatic cliff path which sweeps up past the former O’Hara’s Rock Castle, built in 1834 and later used as a convent. It is now better known as Dominican College after the order of nuns who first resided and later taught at the school. Along the way is a holy well from which St Patrick is reputed to have drunk (Tober Patrick).

Portstewart is an attractive town for shopping and eating out and has a flourishing arts and cultural scene based around Flowerfield Arts Centre.

But there is nothing better than winding away an afternoon drifting in an out of the many coffee shops, art galleries, boutiques and gift emporiums that dot the sea front and adjacent side streets.

Like Portrush, the town is famous for it’s ice cream.

Visitors can sample a variety of home-made flavours at a number of ice cream parlours, the award-winning ‘Morelli’s Ice Cream’ among them.

The renowned Italian family, who still make their own ice cream to a secret family recipe, won champion of champions in 2012 (or best vanilla ice cream in the UK and Ireland) just one year after they celebrated Out & About 45

100 years on the North Coast by smashing the world record for the number of people eating ice cream!

At the crescent - a tourist complex on the waterfront - youngsters and families can enjoy a superb play pool and outdoor entertainment complex, complete with shooting fountains, a bandstand and tiered seating. Idyllic artificial lakes have various motorised craft to hire, while active kids can expend their energies inside a “Zorb” ball or on climbing frames, slides and see-saws. A nearby cafe provides adults with an ideal vantage point with which to supervise their charges.

Other recreational facilities in Portstewart include bowls, tennis and football at The Warren and there is a 9-hole and two excellent 18-hole golf courses.

Like Portrush, the town comes alive at night and shrugs off its more sedate image.

The Diamond, end of town is home to numerous bars and nightclubs, even a boutique hotel, some of which quietly serve food during the day and then thrum to the sounds of live and DJ music once the sun goes down.

Whatever your reason for coming to the famous Causeway Coast, Portstewart is one stop you should not miss. Although it lacks a railway station, being only four miles from Coleraine in one direction and Portrush in the other, it is easily accessible by taxi or Ulsterbus which runs a regular service around the three “Triangle” towns.

Portstewart is part of the Causeway Coast Way - an exhilarating walking route following the dramatic north Ulster coastline from Portstewart to Ballycastle.

The 52km waymarked route incorporates the Port Path (Portstewart Strand to Whiterocks, Portrush) and the Causeway Coast footpath.

The route passes along sandy beaches, rocky bays, high cliffs, seaside resorts and small fishing villages, offering a great variety of coastal scenery within the designated Causeway Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Please see our map section for details of how to Out & About in Portstewart.

46 Out & About

Portstewart is famous for it’s dramatic sunsets and even inspired Jimmy Kennedy to write the Nat King Cole hit, Red Sails in the Sunset. Photograph

by Maeve Henry. www.lostandfoundbymaeve. blogspot.com

Out & About 47

48 Out & About

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Bonalston Caravans... the all round

holiday package

A change will do you good!

IF you are thinking that your caravan or holiday home is due for a change there has never been a better time than now.

Bonalston Caravans Ltd.. (established 1984) have many years experience in the leisure industry of caravanning, and with five Holiday Parks located in Portstewart, Castlerock and Tyrella Beach Co. Down they are well placed to offer some fantastic deals on new and used Holiday Homes.

Great Deals If you are staying anywhere on the North Coast between Limavady and Ballycastle you are less than half an hour away from a Bonalston Holiday Park and probably close to a bargain you cannot afford to miss.

If you are staying in Portstewart or Castlerock an excellent deal is right

56 Out & About

here on your doorstep. Whether you are an existing customer or a new client look no further than Bonalston for an excellent deal.

Well Insured There are a large selection of caravans available to view with no obligation or pressure to purchase. After choosing the Holiday home or caravan of your dreams let Bonalston relieve you of the aggravation of organising insurance, so that you can slip into holiday mode safe in the knowledge that you are covered immediately should the unexpected arise.

If you already have a caravan or Holiday Home and your insurance is due for renewal, remember that Bonalston are well positioned to offer competitive quotes due to the volume of insurance business they transact every year. Simply telephone 02870 833308 High Standards

Holiday Caravan rental is available on the Castlerock Park by telephoning 028 7084 8381. Caravans are of a very high standard with 3 bedrooms, central heating, double glazing and are fully equipped to cater for 6 - 8 persons. All the comforts of home while on the move.

On Tour Touring pitches are available on both Millfield Holiday Village and Ballyleese Town & Country Caravan Parks in Portstewart.

Fortunately there is no need to promote the merits of these well maintained caravan parks in this article, as being members of the National Caravan Council Limited the quality and popularity of the parks speak for themselves.

With their locations in close proximity to all amenities these parks offer variety and accessibility to the North Coast and all that the area has to offer. Call at any of the Parks to see what is available or visit online at www. bonalstoncaravans.com.

Bonalston are a Main Dealer and Distributor for the Award winning Pemberton Leisure Homes.

Lights - Music - Action! at

The Crescent

T

he Crescent in Portstewart is a beautiful open space situated at the seafront and set against the wonderful backdrop of the Dominican Convent building perched on the edge of the cliff overlooking Portstewart Bay. It is an ideal family-friendly area complete with small boating lake, swings, bouncy castles and a beach of golden sand.

During the summer the Crescent lends itself well to open air concerts, with the natural amphitheatre at the Promenade end.

In 2009 The Crescent underwent major renovations with the addition of open air music and dancing fountains.

Picture a summer evening having a coffee in the Crescent Cafe, looking across the open walkway as the sun sinks in the west, with the sound of pleasant music playing and the multi-coloured lights dancing on the water of the fountains and watching parents with their children as they enjoy an ice cream and take in the holiday atmosphere.

The café at the Crescent has been extended and is now serving a wide range of snacks, tea, coffee, ice cream and soft drinks. On-site facilities include washroom, toilets and changing area.

A council maintained facility, the Crescent is operated by Keith Davidson and his trusted team who have been instrumental in pushing for the upgrades at the Crescent.

The steady improvements over the years since Keith took tenure in 2000 show a firm commitment to improving this attraction which enhances the seafront of Portstewart.

There is no need to go to Barcelona to see the dancing fountains when it is right here at home on the Causeway Coast. And now that work has completed, the Crescent is fully operational this summer with Bouncy Castles, Slides, Swings , Water “Zorb” balls, children’s boating lake and of course the fountains.

See it for yourself and have a great day out with lots of action for the kids!

Out & About 57

Get hooked on something new A S recently as the mid 18th century, Portstewart was little more than a fishing village with the livelihoods of most of the towns-people depending on fishing.

Now that it has grown into a modest sized seaside resort the old skills have been abandoned by all but a few.

The waters around the North Coast are rich in fish and ideal for sea angling. Boats are available for hire for those of you

58 Out & About

who would like to try an activity or pastime which has been done for centuries — an activity which tests your skills and offers the opportunity of catching your own supper.

“Boy Matthew” is a 28ft approved fishing vessel operating trips from Portstewart harbour. It is licensed to carry individuals and groups up to a total of 12 passengers.

Skipper of “Boy Matthew” is Peter Boston, a Portstewart fisher-

man with over twenty years experience in the industry and a wealth of knowledge of these shores.

Peter operates fishing trips on Boy Matthew daily, with all tackle, rods and equipment available for hire.

There are 2 three hour fishing trips for families, groups and individuals departing 2pm and 6pm daily. Trips are open to anyone irrespective of experience or previous knowledge.

It’s a great day out and everyone is welcome.

Most visitors who have tried the angling trips in previous seasons have returned year after year.

Chances are - if you try it - you’ll probably be hooked yourself. Tight Lines!

For further details contact Peter Boston Tel: 028 70834734 or Mob: 07764514270. Boy Matthew is Code of Practice Approved vessel as certified by the M.C.A.

ust Aug 2 201

Diary Dates

what’s on in PORTSTEWART

Portstewart Summer Activity Scheme 23 July-10 August 10-2pm £2 admission Only for young people aged 7-10 years old. Activities include: Football, sports, disco’s, rounders and arts and crafts etc. Enrolment is on the first day of the scheme.

Summer Stars on the Prom 1 August 2.30pm Heat 3 of talent competition Crescent or Town hall if raining Summer Concert 2 August 7.30-8.30pm The Crescent Music by Riada Concert Group Finn MacCool - Global Architect 2 August 7.30pm Flowerfield Arts Centre Concert - A trip around the world to experience the handiwork of our most famous legend - Finn MacCool Causeway Sea Safari 4 August Portstewart Harbour 3pm to 5pm Admission £30 child £20 Style at the Port 4 August Arts and Crafts Town Hall 10.30am - 4.30pm £3 at the door, under 13’s free Maurice Orr - The Screaming Silence of the Wind 6-23 August 9-5pm M-F, 10-1pm Sat A wonderful multi-sensory exhibition of stunning landscapes from one of the north coast’s

most talented artists. Flowerfield Arts Centre

Acclaimed author Paul Charles reads from his latest novel ‘The Last Dance’, a ‘memoir’ of the showband days, at Flowerfield Arts Centre, in association with No Alibis Bookstore.

Lamp-working - make glass beads for jewellery 7-8 August A two day workshop in Lampworking, making glass beads for jewellery, with popular tutor Catherine Keenan, offered by Flowerfield Arts Centre as part of August Craft Month

Summer Stars on the Prom - The Final!

15 August 2.30pm The Crescent Popular kids talent show

Summer Stars on the Prom 8 August 2.30pm at the Crescent Town Hall if raining Outdoor talent contest continues

Summer Concert 16 August 7.30-8.30pm The Crescent, Portstewart with music by Limavady Big Band Sound

Causeway Sea Safari 8 August Portstewart Harbour 3pm to 5pm Admission £30 child£20

Seasons end in the Dunes 18 August Family Entertainment Portstewart Strand, 2pm to 4pm Admission: Adult £2, Child £1

Hat Fitz & Cara in Concert 8 August 8pm Flowerfield Concert Hill country blues meets old time folk in this performance by roots duo as they celebrate the launch of their debut album Wiley Ways a night not to be missed...

Making Jewellery from Recycled Plastic Bags 11 August 11-4pm £35 An exciting one day workshop in Flowerfield with crafts artist Lesley Frew, offering the chance to make beautiful jewellery from recycled plastic bags.

Paul Charles reads from ‘The Last Dance’ 13 August 8pm Flowerfield

Felt making workshop with Nicola Farrell 18 August 11-4pm £35 Join in the wool revival with this exciting one day workshop at Flowerfield - make a three dimensional felt bowl with tutor Nicola Farrell.

Four-day Ceramics master class with Adam Frew 21-24 August 10am-5pm £115 An exciting four day master class in the company of acclaimed Ceramics artist Adam Frew, offered by Flowerfield Arts Centre in partnership with Craft NI for August Craft month.

Pate de Verre Workshop with Alison Lowry 25 August 11-4pm £45

Flowerfield workshop.

Crushed glass mixed with glue - make your own exciting thin walled glass vessels in the company of tutor Alison Lowry Summer Concert 27 August 7.30-8.30pm The Crescent, Portstewart Music by Tamlaghtmore Silver Band Lamp-working - make glass beads for jewellery 28-29 August 10-4pm £85 An exciting two-day workshop with popular tutor Catherine Keenan, offering the chance to learn how to make glass beads for jewellery CDMC Karting Championship 8 September Kart racing from 10am-5pm.

NW200 paddock area, Coast Road, Portstewart Round 3 CDMC Karting Championships The Spirit of the Celts 8-29 September A stunning display at Flowerfield of quilts from some of the leading quilters in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

A not-to-be missed creative experience by 26 textile artists, a show to visit again and again.

9-5pm Mon-Fri 10-1pm Sat MCS Beachwatch 15 Sep 2012 Community Clean up Portstewart Strand , 10am to 12 noon.

Admission nominal charge

Out & About 59

The Idiot’s

guide to Surfing in Northern Ireland RICKY MARTIN GIVES US THE LOW DOWN ON THE MOST EXHILARATING WAY TO GET WET THIS SUMMER.

W

ell firstly let’s get one thing straight, if you are thinking of going surfing in Northern Ireland (probably Portrush!) then you are no idiot - far from it!

Portrush has probably the best waves for learning to surf anywhere in Europe and with an abundance of great surf schools and surf shops you would be an idiot not to get involved.

What better way to spend the summer than driving along the Causeway Coastal route checking the waves at every beach and lets face it.....looking cool?

What is involved exactly? OK, its no secret that we do not have the weather of Hawaii and you probably wont see the bronzed beauties of Australia prancing along out shoreline but what you maybe don’t realise 60 Out & About

is we have much, much more than that.

We have waves that are perfect for leaning to surf and we have beaches that rival anywhere else on the planet.

You can use our water until your hearts content without the fear of a shark attack (ha ha take that Sydney!) and 3rd de-

Attending a surf school is not only the most enjoyable way to learn, it is also the safest. gree burns from the sun worry me not!

You will need a wetsuit and a board (and maybe a surfing lesson!) but with 3 surf shops and 3 surf schools in the Portrush area this is a problem easily solved.

Who goes surfing? Simple answer, every-

one! Portrush has surf that can tame the wildest waterman but is also perfectly suited to the learner.

Kids camps abound and run throughout the summer holidays with nearly all of the surf schools and Alive Surf School recently played host to party goers enjoying a 70th Out & About 61

birthday party no less.

So come along - it really is for everyone.

Is it safe? Yes, surfing is a very safe sport if done properly; just follow a few basic rules.

1. Start with a lesson - having a surfing lesson is not only the safest option (all surfing instructors are also beach lifeguards) but also the most fun as you will actually learn how to do it properly!

2. Always ask for advice if you are unsure what beach to use (ask at a surf shop, surf school or one of the lifeguards) 3. Use our lifeguards! We are lucky enough to have these guys and girls keeping an eye out for us so if they are around please take advantage.

62 Out & About

Surf Instructor to the stars, Irish Team Surfer, Martin “TK” Kelly from Portrush Surf School has given lessons to TV presenter Gary Linekar and pop star Will Young.

4. Don’t go surfing alone, I have been surfing for 20 years and I still go surfing with someone else!

5. Remember your limits - as much as we would all love to be like the renowned Al Mennie (almennie.com) but we are not....go at your own pace 6. Use good equipment, if you are thinking of surfing for a reasonable length of time either hire a wetsuit or take a surfing lesson 7. Visit www.rnli.org.uk

S

o you have decided to take the plunge or at least dip your toe in the water. But which activity provider or school to sign up with? Out & About has done some surfing of its own (online of course) and come up with just a few of the top names on the North Coast. alivesurfschool.com Winner, ‘Best Family Activity Provider in Northern Ireland’ Outdoorni.com (NITB) awards 2011.

The longest running surf school in the country has recently launched its new website making it the only surf school where you can book and pay online. Check out the ‘our team’ section of the site to meet your instructors Ricky, Hanno and Jonny and click on the video to

see Hanno and Ricky catching some birthday waves! ‘Be safe and have fun’ is the motto by which everything in this school is operated and by their recent award the boys seem to excel at both!. All lessons are 2 hours long and include all equipment as well as a drink and snack not to mention the luxury of a free hot shower afterwards. All lessons are operated from the most consistent surf spot on the coast, West Strand, Portrush.

Out & About 63

almennie.com “Never let go of what you strive for”. Fabulous gallery of waves Al has had the privilege to enjoy. Profile on the champion featuring dozens of press cuttings of big Al’s astounding achievements. No CV reads like this one. Website gives an insight into Al Mennie and the surf scene which he has dominated for so long. Video clips showing among others - Al surfing at Mullaghmore on waves as high as a four storey building.

Don’t try this on your first day out. Check out Al’s book - ‘Surfing Mennie Waves’. Book Al for a talk - I’ve heard him on Alan Simpson’s Radio Ulster programme - it was an interesting interview with big Al by big Al! aquaholics.org Easy navigable website made all the more easy with a convenient drop-down menu which takes you immediately to the

64 Out & About

page of your choice. A marvellous gallery of shipwrecks superbly photographed around the North Coast with links to Flickr (a titanic achievement by the photographers). Aquaholics is a PADI dive centre and the website offers information on various dive sites worth getting to know. Link to facebook. Excellent online dive shop with more merchandise than an Argos catalogue. Images of accessories, prices and detailed information on the products. edgewatersports.co.uk Be sure that you type in .co. uk or you will open a different site with .com which is based in Devon (nowhere near the Causeway Coast)! The Edge Watersports Warehouse site is an online, one-stop shop for all types of watersports equipment. wetsuits, kayaks, buoyancy aids, wakeboards, waterskis and

A love affair with surf. The sheer volume of surf shops, schools and websites that have sprung up on the North Coast is testament to the popularity of surfing both for the beginner and the die hard adventurer. Picture courtesy of NITB, copyright 2012.

all accessories by the leading manufacturers. Too many to mention and all with free delivery with the UK and Ireland.

You are sure of a bargain buy. oceanwarriors.co.uk Live surf report. News items with an opportunity for surfers to blog. Gallery with pics of North Coast surfers and surfing events. A succinct description of surf spots in this area and again hints on beach safety. You can never have too many! A wellpenned article on why surfing

should be compulsory ie the fitness, comradshap and competitiveness should never be overlooked when considering on embarking this wonderful pastime. “Are ya comin’ out to play?” tksurfschool.com Home page for TK Portrush Surf School. Informative, easy to fol-

low website. All the information you need to employ the services of Irish Team Surfer, Martin “TK” Kelly and his team - pricing, info on classes, summer camps, and sessions. Interesting local information page which links to googlemaps and shows lesson locations - pity streetview is limited to streets! This is the only site in this review to feature past surf pupils - Will Young and Gary Linekar (such a name dropper Martin). There are hints on safety with a link to rnli.org giving a host of relevant information to keep you safe in the water, a surfing forecast linking to magicseaweed.com and even a live webcam so you can check out the surf before you leave the house. So far there is no link to Walker’s Crisps! troggs.com Where do I start? There’s a lot going on at troggs.com with three interlinking and interesting sites in one - troggs.com, which is an online surf store; troggssurfschool.com Out & About 65

and surfingireland.com, which features a fabulous gallery of surf pics updated regularly. The site boasts a comprehensive beach guide for the North Coast - very interesting even if you don’t surf, profiles of the surf instructors and plenty of surf advice giving beginners an understanding of this activity before they even get their feet wet. This is very useful for prevention of bad surfing habits and promotion of good etiquette. There is even a nice picture of Christine Bleakley without Adrian Chiles! To use the word comprehensive would be doing this website an injustice.

I’m no expert on website design but this impressive website takes user friendly to another level. FAQs on surf lessons is probably all you need if you are a lazy reader.

Jack Osborne Adrenalin Junkie rock climbing and abseiling. It might improve my confidence, but I think the overnight expedition is more suitable for me. Many other outdoor activities are on offer (is it really that good to have that much fresh air in one day)? I viewed the gallery and pictures reminded me of looking through National Geographic.

Click on the picture and the frame reverses to show the caption and a link to flickr photo-stream. National Geographic rocks.

There are many more great sites to surf on the web but for now the above should be enough to tempt you into the real surf.

Chris Portman

xploreoutdoors.co.uk A wide range of activities are on offer here and sea kayaking and canoeing has me interested straight away. Coasteering looks like a bit of an adrenalin rush in a team environment. I know because I’ve watched

66 Out & About

Surfs Up. The Causeway Coast is now recognised throughout the world as one of the prime locations for surfing. This photograph and page background by Gary McCall. www.garymccall.co.uk

Out & About 67

Moyle

Ballycastle

The conservation town of Ballycastle is a small rural seaside town placed on the most north-easterly tip of County Antrim. It is surrounded with breath-taking scenery and is steeped in cultural heritage. Ballycastle is awash with original buildings and architecture and has all the charm and character of a traditional Irish village. Ballycastle’s Heritage Trail will give you a chance to discover the history of Ballycastle past and present. There is a wealth of activities from golf, tennis, sailing and watersports or less challenging pursuits such as shopping or a leisurely stroll along the beach. Enjoy delicious homemade ice-cream or end the day with a meal or drink in one of the many relaxing restaurants and lively pubs. Tradition and culture run parallel with modern living in this unique town making Ballycastle a must to visit, any time of the year.

68 Out & About

Black Nun to Yellow Man

From the

Ballycastle has the best of both worlds – a charming town centre and a panoramic seafront.

B

allycastle town is at the heart of the district of Moyle.

A traditional seaside town it has a magnificent setting bounded by forest parks and glens and a spectacular coastline with views to the nearby craggy outcrop of Fairhead and the mysterious island of Rathlin.

It has a rich and interesting past stretching back to prehistoric times, with evidence of Neolithic settlements nearby and played a notable role in the history of the 20th century when Marconi transmitted the world’s first wireless message across the sea from Rathlin Island to here in 1898.

After a stroll through the commercial heart of this elegant little town, there‘s a pleasant surprise waiting as you head further north and come face to face with the Atlantic and the beautiful Promenade. Ballycastle is the main settlement in the District of Moyle and is in fact the seat of the local district council. The town and the surrounding area are at the northern mainland limit of the Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

With fabulous views across to Rathlin Island and the Mull of Kintyre, Ballycastle has long been a mecca for day-tripper and holldaymakers.

Its situation in the middle of the Antrim Coast road and the Causeway Coastal Route makes it a favourite stopping off point for those on a journey.

But it’s also a destination in itself, both for the beauty that the town and the seafront have to offer and the nearby attractions - Fair Head is an outstanding landmark, rising to a height of 196 metres and overlooking the bay. There’s a fantastic coastal walk, ‘The Grey Man’s Path’, with some stunning views over the coastline and countryside.

Torr Head

Ballycastle Golf Club is situated on the beautiful North Antrim coast of Northern Ireland between the world famous Causeway coast and the Glens of Antrim. Ballycastle Golf Club offers a full 18 hole, part links, part parkland, championship course open to both members and nonmembers all year round.

Photograph courtesy of NITB, copyright 2012.

Out & About 69

70 Out & About

Watch out for a crannog – a man-made iron Age island in the middle of one of the lakes, while you walk. lf you prefer to travel on two wheels, there is a marvellous cycle path that runs from Ballycastle to Cushendun by way of Torr Head, offering spectacular views and scenery. The whole of Moyle can be seen from the road above Torr Head. Torr Head also has a coastguard station with a difference - it was built on the site of Dunvarragh, the fort of Barach and made use of some of the materials of the original fort.

Giant’s Causeway A geological wonder steeped in legend and folklore. Discover the Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, Already famous the world over, if you haven’t yet been to walk in the footsteps of giants, then you have been missing out.

The Giant’s Causeway, just eleven miles along the road from Ballycastle, is home to a wealth of local history and legend. Explore the geological phenomenon of 40,000 basalt stone columns formed by volcanic eruptions over 60 million years ago. Discover the legend of the Giant Finn Mac Cool and search for the distinctive stone formations such as the Camel, Wishing Chair, Harp and Organ.

The iconic hexagonal stones of the Giant’s Causeway after which the entire coastline is named.

A world heritage site operated by the National Trust, this “eighth” wonder of the natural world opened the doors to a new £18M visitor’s centre in July of this year.

Photograph courtesy of NITB copyright 2012.

The National Trust has just completed work on the development of a new visitor facility at the Giant’s Causeway at a cost of £18.5 million.

The fabulous new Giant’s Causeway Visitor Experience is opened at the beginning of the summer 2012 and offers world class interpretation incorporating state of the art multi- lingual audio-guide technology, a

Out & About 71

Giant’s

Causeway

& Bushmills Railway Giant’s Causeway Station Runkerry Road Bushmills

72 Out & About

Opening times: Seasonal opening Admission charges: Adult Return £7.50 Adult Single £6.00 Child Return £5.50 Child Single £4.00 Concession Return (over 60’s) £6.50 Concession Single £4.50 Family Return £25.50 (2 adults and up to 3 children) Children under 3 free. t: (028) 2073 2844 e: infogcbr@btconnect.com www.freewebs.com/ giantscausewayrailway

refreshed retail and catering section, Tourist Information with Bureau de Change and upgraded paths and trails network including a new allaccessible trail to Runkerry Head.

Due to the popularity of this world-class attraction it is both wise and necessary in peak summer to plan ahead because of traffic disruption although you can use a park and ride facility that operates out of nearby Bushmills village (home of the oldest licensed whiskey in the world.

Opening times: Coastal stones and coastal path open all year.

Visitor facilities: 1 Jan – 29 Feb 9.30am – 4pm 1 Mar – 31 May 9.30am – 5pm 1 June – 30 June 9.30am – 6pm For information on extended opening hours during the summer months of July and August, please contact the visitor centre on: (028) 2073 1855 or e: causewaytic@nationaltrust.org.uk www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ giantscauseway

Another must see attraction in the Moyle area is the precariously perched Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge situated on the coast road between Ballycastle and Portrush. A National Trust property, the attraction has toilets, a cafe and car parking.

Being 85ft above the rocks and ocean below, you need a good head for heights! Photograph courtesy of Northern Ireland Tourist Board.

Copyright 2012.

Lammas Fair The most famous event of the year in Ballycastle is the Lammas Fair, which is held every year on the last Monday and Tuesday of August.

For these two days the town is alive with music, colour and spectacle as visitors from far and near flock to north Antrim to continue an ancient tradition of trading and celebration.

Out & About 73

Watertop FAMILY ACTIVITY CENTRE BALLYCASTLE

74 Out & About

FARM

A fabulous day out in the beautiful Glens of Antrim watertop farm, situated just outside Ballycastle, must be one of the most well-known farms in Northern Ireland. It is certainly one of the most visited by tourists from both here and across the world.

A 500 acre hill sheep unit, the farm is now firmly established as a popular tourist destination.

What makes Watertop stand out?

The range of activities on offer, the fantastic scenery and the McBride family welcome!

Lets start with the activities. Pony trekking, pony rides, boating, pedal go-karts, an assault course, farm tours on the Paddiwagon, the new Watertop quad train, play areas, restaurant, museum, walks and small animals in the petting zoo! Quite literally something for the whole family to enjoy.

On the subject of pony trekking, a new “mini trek� has been introduced. Just 30 minutes long, no booking is required and is ideal for an experience like no other.

This is where the fantastic scenery comes into play.

Green valleys, heather covered hills, meandering rivers wood land, green fields and panoramic views all within the farm boundary and with some 3 miles of gravel tracks on the farm, Pony trekking is a great

way to appreciate this beautiful part of the Glens of Antrim.

For those who would like to stay longer at Watertop, two small touring caravan sites and a small campsite are available. All caravan pitches are fully serviced with electric hook—up and spring water connection. Showers and laundry facilities complete the facilities.

So why not get yourself to Watertop Farm this summer for a fun day out with a difference! With the personal involvement of the two brothers, Patsy and Terry McBride you can be assured of a great day out with a personal touch.

The farm is open 30th June-2nd September 11.00am-5.30pm daily.

For information telephone 028 2076 2576, visit the website at www.watertopfarm.co.uk or email watartopfarm@aol.com.

Out & About 75

...continued On sale throughout the festival will be two particular delicacies that are synonymous with the Fair - Dulse, the edible seaweed that grows along the shore in the area, and Yellow Man, a crunchy, sugary honeycomb confection that will sweeten your day for sure.

Playing a major role in the promotion of peace and crosscommunity celebrations is the Corrymeela Community, based just outside Ballycastle. Founded in 1965, Corrymeela is a Christian organisation which has been promoting peace and reconciliation for over forty years Bonamargy Other landmarks worth visiting in the Ballycastle area include Bonamargy Friary, on the Cushendall Road just leaving the town. Established by Rory McQuillan in 1485, the Friary is a late Franciscan foundation - in which lie the remains (in a locked vault) of Sorley Boy MacDonnell, the famous north Antrim chieftain. Bonamargy also holds the remains of some of the earls of Antrim. But its most famous ‘resident’ is ‘The Black Nun`, the secretive 17th century prophet Julie McQuillan. Her grave is marked by a round holed cross, and it is believed that she asked to be buried at the entrance to the chapel, so that all who came into the chapel would walk across her remains.

76 Out & About

MYTHS & LEGENDS Finn MacCool

The legend tells us that the Irish Giant Finn MacCool had a rival – a Scottish giant named Benandonner. Finn MacCool decided to build a causeway to Scotland so that he could challenge his adversary in battle. When the work was completed, the causeway stretched from North Antrim to Staffa. Benandonner accepted the invitation to walk over to Ireland and fight for supremacy.

As Benandooner appeared over the horizon, Finn MacCool realised in horror that he had taken on a rival much bigger than himself. He ran home to his wife Oonagh who disguised Finn as a baby and made him curl up in an enormous cradle.

Benandonner, faced with the sight of his huge ‘child’, took fright at the thought of the size of his father and fled back to Scotland, tearing up the causeway on his way.

Crowds set to enjoy new pony shows at

Oul Lammas Fair

P

challenge competitors to come up with imaginative themes for themselves and their mounts and this should provide a really fun spectacle for everyone.

Moyle District Council has released a schedule of events for the Ballycastle Fair which takes place over two days - bank holiday Monday August 27th and Tuesday 28th. Following the controversial decision taken by the Council earlier this year to ban the trading of equines on the street as part of the Fair, Council staff have been putting all their efforts into planning for an event which is sure to be a great attraction and something that can be enjoyed by all the family, competitors and spectators alike.

There is also a unique opportunity for 10 of the competitors to take part in a ‘Horse Agility’ lesson on both days which will be given by the accomplished instructor Lesley Harvey from Armagh. Horse Agility is a new, fast growing and exciting equine sport. Most people will have seen Dog Agility on TV where dogs and their trainers negotiate a course of obstacles within a given time, well this is very similar only the courses have been adapted for ponies so this promises to be a lot of fun for everyone involved.

The pony shows will take place just off the town centre and there are competitions for all age groups from 3-year-olds upward, which include in-hand and leading rein classes, best turned out rider and pony and even a ‘veteran’ class for ponies that are 15 years and over. Tuesday’s Fancy-Dress class should

The Council’s Director of Development Services said: “The elected Councillors thought long and hard before voting to ban the trading of equines on the street as they were conscious that the Lammas Fair is a very old and integral part of seasonal traditions.

ony Shows will be on the entertainment programme at the Oul Lammas Fair this year for the first time.

“However the Fair has changed and adapted to suit the needs of its particular age. The last ten years has seen the complete demise of the livestock sales. So though some may be reluctant to let go of old ways the challenge is to ensure that the Fair survives and thrives for the enjoyment of future generations who will no doubt create their own traditions.

He added: “So we are now looking forward to a new era and pony shows that are going to be a great event for families who come to enjoy the Fair and especially the children as we have organised some great activities for them and their ponies” The programme and entry packs for the pony shows can be viewed or downloaded from Moyle District Councils website www. moyle-council.org or by emailing dev@moyle-council.org or for a hard copy can be posted out to you - please call the Development Services Department at 028207 62225.

Out & About 77

ust Aug 2 201

Diary Dates

what’s on in BALLYCASTLE & MOYLE

Moyle District Council Summer Scheme 1 August Tuesday – Friday 11am – 4pm t. 028 2076 3300 www.moyle-council.org Summer r Fun along the North Coast– Ardclinis Outdoor Adventure Every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday in August t. 028 217 71340 Email info@ardclinis.com www.ardclinis.com Family Fun Day– Ardclinis Outdoor Adventure Every Sunday in August t. 028 217 71340 Email info@ardclinis.com www.ardclinis.com Ballycastle Sea Fishing Monday to Saturday 1 August 11am & 7pm on Lord Moyle Contact Christopher on 07751 345791 Ballycastle Film Club 02 August Film Showing: Red Riding Hood (Cert 12) Venue: Ferry Terminal Time: 7.15pm Admission: Free It is important that parents check the classification for the film being shown each night and give their children permission to attend the screening.

All screenings will be supervised; however, parents must accompany any children under the age of 9.

78 Out & About

Bridge Classes 3 August and every Friday during August at Ballycastle Library Time 11.00 am - 1.00 pm Admission: Free For further information contact Maura O’Loan Tel: 0282076 2566 Email: Ballycastle.library@ librariesni.org.uk Website: www.librariesni.org.uk Summer Story Fest 3 August Ballycastle Seafront Time: 11.30am – 4.30pm Admission Free Age 4 – 11 Join BBC Northern Ireland’s Summer Story Fest where reading and stories are full of fun. Create a story with an illustrator, Interactive workshops with authors, Bring a book to our Book swap, Read to Pudsey, Consult the Book Doctor, Fun Storytelling Sessions.

For more information please contact Moyle District Council on 028 2076 2225 Brighter Nights Sharp Dressed Men 3 August Ballycastle Seafront Time: 7.45pm New comedy juggling act from this highly skilled duo who perform diabolo, unicycle and more (and they are very well dressed too!).

Expect audience participation!

All events are weather dependant and subject to change.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

For information please contact Moyle District Council on 028 2076 2225 Rocking Readers Book

Club 4 August & every first Saturday of every month at Ballycastle Library Time: 11.00 am - 12.00 noon Admission free. Age 8 - 12 For further information contact: Ingrid Bartlett 0282076 2566 Email: Ballycastle.library@ librariesni.org.uk Website: www.librariesni.org.uk Ballintoy Fun Day 4 August starting at 10.00am St Joseph’s Hall and adjacent field Heart of the Glens Festival - Cushendall 4-12 August t. 028 2177 1378 Una Rowan – Cushendall Development Group Marconi Festival Day 5 August Ballycastle Seafront Email: mail@ kevinmcauleyphotography.com Ballycastle Junior Tennis Tournament 5 - 11 August at Sheskburn Recreation Centre t. 028 2076 3300 www.moyle-council.org Ballycastle CSSM 6th - 10th August CSSM will return to Ballycastle.

Wondering how to occupy those long summer days! A large team of CSSM leaders will be running an activity packed week for 4 - 17 year-olds bringing much colour, buzz and excitement to the seaside town of Ballycastle.

Don’t miss this opportunity for kids and young people to get

involved, meet new friends and learn about Jesus in a fun and exciting way.

All events are free. Watch out for details displayed on posters.

For further information tel: 07743797005 E: jeff:suni.co.uk “The Gathering” 9-11 August Antrim Arms & McIlroy Guitars Workshop No booking is required for any of the sessions or the Saturday night concert.

Visit to guitar workshop by invitation to those who email dermot@mcilroyguitars.co.uk to express an interest.

Expect to meet foreign visitors from Canada, USA, Germany, Italy, Australia as well as UK and Ireland. This is an entirely free event paid for by the sponsors.

Additional information available from the facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ events/311174622253303 Ballycastle Film Club 9 August FREE A Monster in Paris (Cert U) at Ferry Terminal 7.15pm It is important that parents check the classification for the film being shown each night and give their children permission to attend the screening.

All screenings will be supervised; however, parents must accompany any children under the age of 9.

Brighter Nights Edwin Longbottom 10 August Venue: Ballycastle Seafront Time: 7.45pm

ust Aug 2 201

Diary Dates

what’s on in BALLYCASTLE & MOYLE

This charming, charismatic buffoon mixes physical dexterity and stupidity in a vaudevilleinspired act. His antics include football juggling, staff and hat manipulation, hand-stands and head-balancing.

Expect audience participation!

All events are weather dependant and subject to change.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

For information please contact Moyle District Council on 028 2076 2225 Glens Vintage Club Annual Family Fun Day 11 August Venue: Blaney’s Field, Cushendall Time: 10.30 am - 3.30 pm Admission: Small fee at the gate The day will include bouncy castles, toy tractor trails. blacksmith demonstration, pony rides and various other activities for vintage enthusiasts and young families. There is a small admission fee at the gate, however, all children’s activities are free once inside the field.

For further information contact Arthur McCormick: Tel: 0773637 3601 Rathlin Island Model Yacht Race 11 August Model Yacht Race - Greenhouse Shield Venue: Ushet Lough, Rathlin Island Time: 6.00 p.m.

(All races at Ushet Lough & all race dates and times subject to change) For further details visit www. rathlincommunity.org

Ballycastle Senior Tennis Tournament 13 18 August Sheskburn Recreation Centre t. 028 2076 3300 www.moyle-council.org

dependant and subject to change.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

For information please contact Moyle District Council on 028 2076 2225

Nutty Krust IFA Soccer Fun Week 13 17 August Moyle District Council t. 028 2076 3300 www.moyle-council.org

FLAGS at the Giant’s Causeway 20 August - 4 November Venue: Giant’s Causeway This is the year the Giant’s Causeway unveiled its new visitor centre worthy of its giant reputation as a must-see destination.

For more information visit www. ni2012.com.

Glens Vintage Club Annual Family Fun Day 14th August t. Arthur McCormick 07736373601 Ballycastle Film Club 16 August Film Showing: Cats and Dogs 2 (Cert U) Venue: Ferry Terminal Time: 7.15pm Admission: Free It is important that parents check the classification for the film being shown each night and give their children permission to attend the screening.

All screenings will be supervised; however, parents must accompany any children under the age of 9.

Brighter Nights Dr. Nick 17 August Ballycastle Seafront Time: 7.45pm Dr Nick’s solo show is a brilliant mix of high energy unicycling, tantalisingly dangerous fire-juggling, awe-inspiring plate spinning and masses of audience participation.

Expect audience participation!

All events are weather

Ballycastle Film Club 23 August Film Showing: High School Musical (Sing-a-long) (Cert U) Venue: Ferry Terminal Time: 7.15pm Admission: Free It is important that parents check the classification for the film being shown each night and give their children permission to attend the screening.

All screenings will be supervised; however, parents must accompany any children under the age of 9.

Brighter Nights Banzai Chess 24 August Venue: Ballycastle Seafront Time: 7.45pm Tremble with fear as the White Queen and Black King meet in a dual to the death. Will it be “checkmate” or “endgame”? Bitter separation and seething rivalry in this uproarious interactive street theatre performance.

Expect audience participation!

All events are weather dependant and subject to change.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

For information please contact Moyle District Council on 028 2076 2225 The Auld Lammas Fair Ballycastle 27 - 28 August Ballycastle’s busiest day in the summer calendar. A must see for locals and visitors alike.

For additional information please contact Moyle District Council on t. 028 2076 2024 www.moyle-council.org/events Brighter Nights Afrikan Warriors 31 August Ballycastle Seafront This traditional Tanzanian acrobat troupe combine pulsating music, good humour and breathtaking routiens.

Balancing acts contortionists, fire limbo and more.

For information please contact Moyle District Council on 028 2076 2225 Information on events in the Ballycastle and Moyle area supplied by Moyle District Council and subject to change.

Please visit www.moylecouncil.org for details.

Out & About 79

Ballymoney

Gateway to the

Causeway Coast

80 Out & About

At the

of the

Heart

North-East

East of the Bann, West of the Glens, South of the Causeway and North of Lough Neagh, Ballymoney nestles at the heart of the North East.

W

ant your holiday or short break in a charming place, full of the friendliest faces and where there’s plenty to do? Then Ballymoney is the place for you!

Situated just 15 miles from the breathtaking Causeway Coast, within easy reach of the fabled Glens of Antrim and with so many unique delights of its own, Ballymoney is perfectly situated for either a short break or a Northern Ireland adventure!

The town lies at the end of the motorway from Belfast, is easily accessible by road (A26) and rail, and is ideal as a retail or leisure destination for all the family. So whatever your plans this summer, Out & About recommends you come along and www.visitballymoney.com Explore the Hospitality Why not stop for a bite to eat at one of the town’s friendly and upmarket coffee shops and cosy pubs or even stock up for a family picnic. From morning coffee to an evening meal, Ballymoney is blessed with a myriad of cafes, restaurants and takeaways to suit every taste and pocket. Its eclectic mix of small independent boutiques and large high street chain stores makes gift buying a more unique and pleasurable experience. And if you are driving your family to the North Coast in a motor home, we will let you in on a secret – being so close to Northern Ireland’s main motorway, the M2, it’s quicker and easier to stock up on provisions on the way in Ballymoney than it is to fight your way through the heavy tourist traffic further north, especially on big event days.

Explore the Heritage The Borough of Ballymoney is renowned for its rich and colourful history. It has many famous sons including comedian Jimmy Young, playwright George Shiels and legendary road racing brothers Joey and Robert Dunlop. There’s also something to see from across the ages, from the ancient Craig’s Dolmen, to the Edwardian Charlotte Street, or how about the legend of the Dark Hedges and the ‘Grey Lady’.

Photograph: The Dark Hedges, Ballymoney.

A photographer’s favourite, The Dark Hedges is one of the most captured natural phenomena in Northern Ireland and a popular attraction for tourists from across the world. It has been painted by hundreds of visiting artists and is a favourite location for wedding photographs.

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The Dark Hedges is a beautiful avenue of beech trees planted by the Stuart family in the eighteenth century. It was intended as a compelling landscape feature to impress visitors as they approached the entrance to their home, Gracehill House. Two centuries later, the now protected trees remain a magnificent sight and have become known as the Dark Hedges for the mysterious tunnel the serpentine trees create.

The Bregagh Road where the trees are situated, is reputedly haunted by a spectral ‘Grey Lady’ who appears at dusk among the trees. She silently glides along the roadside and disappears as she passes the last beech tree.

Ballymoney is one of the oldest towns in Ireland with many buildings of historic note in the town centre. An old church tower dating from 1637 is the town’s oldest surviving building but one of the most striking is the town clock and Masonic hall (pictured). Situated in The Diamond, it was built in 1775 by the 6th Earl and 2nd Marquis of Antrim and used as a market house, courthouse, town hall and school.

Following the 1798 rebellion,local United Irishmen were hanged from gallows on the Clock tower. Photograph by Willie Duffin.

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From legends of the past to motorcycling legends of the modern day, whatever your favourite time period, Ballymoney has a colourful history connection to explore. Call in to the new purpose-built museum and the Tourist Information Centre to find out more.

Explore the Friendly Service Ballymoney has many unique family-run shops, boasting top brands, competitive prices and a friendly personal service. The town is home to a host of stylish boutiques as well as many popular names in family clothing. Shops pride themselves on giving you the service you deserve, at a pace that leaves you feeling relaxed and able to enjoy your holiday or day trip.

Explore the Great Outdoors Whether you enjoy a serene stroll or a strenuous ramble, whether you are a recreational cyclist or an enthusiast, you will enjoy exploring the highways and byways of Ballymoney. Discover the breathtaking, idyllic and scenic landscape and a myriad of wildlife in its natural habitat.

If you prefer water to land, take a leisurely river cruise or bring your own boat. If you are more interested in what‘s in the water rather than on the water, there is also something to suit the keen angler from game to course fishing. For an alternative fun day out Ballymoney offers a variety of family activities both indoors and outdoors .

And after all that! …stay a while and put your feet up A little R&R at a B&B’? A high quality self-catering establishment? How about some home baking, a home from home, or a President’s ancestral homestead? Ballymoney Borough has a variety of accommodation to match your mood and your purse, If staying away means bringing your own accommodation with you, there is also the 5* Drumaheglis Marina and Caravan Park for berthing, camping and caravanning,

Photograph of the Joey Dunlop Memorial Garden which was built in memory of Ballymoney’s famous son. The garden - a mecca for bikers from all over the world - is a fitting tribute to one of the region’s greatest ambassadors, who won five Formula One World Championships, 13 North West 200 races, 24 Ulster Grand Prix and a world record 26 wins in the Isle of man TT races. In this tranquil and much venerated setting, visitors have time to reflect and to pay their respects to the legendary Joey Dunlop MBE, OBE.

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TIME TO UNWIND & Pamper yourself with a little T.L.C. at J.D.L.C.

Forget everyday life; spoil yourself in our state of the art Health Suite complete with Bio Sauna, Spa Pool, Steam Room, Sauna, Heated Loungers and Experience Shower.

Begin your session with a shower to open up the pores of the skin then proceed to use the facilities in any order you choose.

The Bio-Sauna is somewhat gentler to its clients than the conventional Sauna. Aside from the physiological benefits of hydrotherapy on the body’s musculature, the spa pool is the perfect place to unwind and is the ideal way to end your day. As soon as you step into the steam room, warmth opens the pores of the skin creating a flow of perspiration that lifts out the grime of everyday life.

Your skin is cleansed and toned leaving it feeling soft, supple and healthy as you emerge rested and rejuvenated, ready to take on the world and all it can throw at you.

All heat treatments offer health and relaxation benefits and a sauna is particularly good for your skin and muscles.

Once your skin has released its toxins and your muscles have warmed and relaxed, you’ll feel much better in yourself too.

Traditionally, you would complete your sauna experience by running out and rolling in snow. But there‘s really no need for that when 84 Out & About

there are perfectly good showers and our swimming pool nearby!

There are two basic types of showers: the functional traditional shower, which is used to take a rinse before entering a spa area or a public pool, and the “Experience Shower.” The experience showers are starting to become popular in hotels, day spas, thermal spa areas and public pool facilities. The differences between an experience shower and a traditional shower are: the experience shower has more ‘water experience` features and they have different fragranced scents, coloured lighting effects

and various shower heads and nozzles. All shower features have a positive influence on the blood circulation.

To finish you can relax on the heated loungers and enjoy the warm feeling of the gentle radiant heat. Cramps and muscular tensions are released and rheumatic pain is calmed.

The designers have developed, together with therapists, the heated loungers for the modern spa rest area. The loungers are covered with an elegant ceramic mosaic tiles and a neck support cushion provides a relaxing position.

Leslie Hill Estate

Open Farm and Film Set

L

eslie Hill Open Farm and Estate has long been one of County Antrim’s treasures and aims to provide a healthy and fun-filled day of entertainment for the whole family.

For many it’s as much a part of a trip to the coast or a visit to the beach but this year this working farm has a plethora of added attractions.

For a start the unpredictable Northern Ireland weather – which is always an issue with such excursions - has been addressed by including indoor games. A covered outdoor children’s play area has also been added which allows kids to play in inclement weather conditions whilst Mum and Dad can watch from the immediately adjacent Coffee Bar. Diversity is the name of the game in farming nowadays but Leslie Hill has gone several steps further. Of course there are lots

more animals and attractions but perhaps bigger than all that is the fact that the Farm has become a film set and “Cup Cake”, a romantic comedy which held its premiere in Belfast in April 2010.

Critically acclaimed, visitors to the farm will see many of the props from the production and will be able to play in the very tree house featured in the film.

The estate hides many treasures.

Apart from the lovely parkland, lake, walled garden and farmyard full of animals there is a museum of farm implements giving visitors a fascinating insight to farming down the years.

Take time to spend a few moments of tranquillity in the colourful and intriguing walled garden - a fine example of an 18th century walled garden with many features including a fernery, a melon pit and the remnants of a peach house.

Leslie Hill is a working farm where participation is not only possible, it‘s actively encouraged.

Not only are there lambs, chickens, ducks, geese, pheasants, ponies, goats, rabbits and guinea pigs to be fed but a visit to the wallabies (with a new addition – aptly named Joey), the llamas (including Laura the llama), deer and Hetty the Highland cow are an essential part of the visit.

A pedal-kart track and a brand new barrel-train pulled by a vintage tractor have made their debut this year and with parents able to keep an eye on their fledglings playing in the covered playground there are ample opportunities for tea and homemade cupcakes!

Full details of all activities and facilities at: www.lesliehillopenfarm.co.uk

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Fun for

all ages in Ballymoney this August

W

ant something specifically for the younger generation? How about a family fun farm, an open farm, Riverside Park, or Treasure Island?

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At the Finvoy Fun Farm, your kids can visit the duck poind, see farm and exotic animals and take a donkey ride. For a wetter day there is a large indoor play area with trampoline, bouncy castle, sand pit, pedal karts and more. At Leslie Hill Open Farm, visit the farm museum and see items from a bygone era, visit the 1760 Bell Barn, take a stroll in the gardens and pick your own fruit, or take a horse and wagon through the wooded parkland to the peaceful lake.

Both farms also have their own tea rooms.

For a different experience make an appointment to visit Movanagher Fish Farm and maybe feed the fish. And for rainy days, the ‘wee pool’ and if you are not too late (limited spaces) why not try Ballymoney’s famous sum-

mer scheme or Treasure Island’s Indoor Play area at the local leisure centre to keep your little ones entertained.

Treasure Island at the Joey Dunlop Leisure Centre is a great place for the kids to spend a few hours in complete safety.

An indoor adventure play area with all the latest equipment will have the children burning up the calories and at the same time enjoying the experience with friends or other family members.

Children using the soft play area can enjoy the Twin Wavy Slide, 540 degree Spiral Slide, Ball Cannon area and various other items such as the rope bridge cargo net, etc.

Although Treasure Island is open to all children up to 12 years of age, there is an area specifically for children aged 5 years and under.

The facility is also capable of hosting children’s birthday parties complete with entertainment and food. To book your children’s party, simply pick up a booking form at reception or phone 028 2766 0260.

ust Aug 2 201

Diary Dates what’s on in BALLYMONEY

Armoy Motorcycle Road Race Festival 2012 Sunday 22nd - Saturday 28th July Armoy Road Races – The Race of Legends.

The event will take place on roads in and around the village of Armoy. Practice for the race will be held on Friday 27th July 2012 when roads will close from 2.30 pm until 9.30 pm. The race will be held on Saturday 28th July when roads will close from 10.00 am until 7.30 pm.

The Armoy Race Circuit is 3.03 miles long and Triangular in shape. It is ridden in an anti-clockwise direction.

Practice Day & Miss Armoy Competition Friday, 27th July Roads close from 2.30pm to allow for race practice and re-open no later than 9.30 pm.

Miss “Armoy” will be crowned in St. Olcans Hall (Glenshesk Road) Armoy from 9.30 pm. With guest Judges and entertainment provided by ‘The Banned’ (formerly known as Phoenix Rising), a bar and a host of beautiful ladies lining up to take the title of ‘Miss Armoy 2012’ this will be a great night’s entertainment, at a cost of only £2.50, what a way to finish off the day’s practice.

Altnahinch/Slieveanorra Half Day Ramble Saturday, 4th August Assemble at 10.30am at Townhead Street Car Park Vintage Parade Saturday, 4th August Annual Parade of Bands & Vintage Vehicles in aid of Cancer Research NI. Showgrounds BARK Open Day Saturday, 4th August 1.00pm Benvardin Animal Rescue Kennels Open Day – Dog Show and BBQ Ballybogey, Co. Antrim 13:00: Fun dog show. £2 per entry & all money goes to help the dogs…

Registration from 1pm, Classes begin at 1.30pm 1) Fancy dress 2) Cutest Puppy (under 12 months) 3) Prettiest Girl 4) Most Handsome Male 5) Best Veteran (Over 7 years old) 6) Dog most like its owner 7) Cleverest Dog (Training, trick etc) 8) Waggiest Tail 9) Best Junior Handler (under 16) 10) Best Rescue Dog Saturday 4th August 8.00pm Annual Parade of Bands & Vintage Vehicles in aid of Cancer Research NI

Leaves Ballymoney Showgrounds, North Road 8.00pm for parade through town centre. Street collection 10am-10pm. Contact Mervyn Ferris 07703 582 734.

Biodiversity Walks/ Talks Wednesday, 8th August Townhead Street Car Park at 7.30pm for talk commencing at 7.45pm in Ballymoney Town Hall.

AcroBATics Wednesday, 8th August Ballymoney Town Hall Benjy’s Rugby Summer Camps Monday 20th August – Friday 24th August Ballymoney Rugby Football Club Cost £50 per person Players receive a T-shirt and a Gilbert Rugby Ball.

Free BBQ on Friday for participants families!

The “Mammoth” Monday 27th August 11am-6pm 23rd Annual Antiques & Fine Art Fair 11am-6pm LISSANOURE CASTLE, Loughguile, Co. Antrim BT44 9JP 40 Dealers attending.

Admission £5 (accompanied Children Free) Contact Castle Antiques Phone +44 (0)28 9181

5710 / Mobile : +44 (0)79 8950 1666 Website: www. castleantiques.co.uk Road of Renown Exhibition April 6th until 22 Sept 9am5pm – Ballymoney Museum Ulster Grand Prix Motorcycle Race 90th Anniversary. This display reveals the history of this outstanding sporting spectacle, racing through 90 years of excitement and thrills.

Free Admission. Open Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm (Fridays close 4.30pm) Marathon Mac & Other Centenary Stories April 6th until 22 Sept.

9am-5pm Exhibition, Ballymoney Museum K.K. McArthur, a former Dervock postman, won the Gold Medal in the Marathon at the Olympic Games in 1912. See McArthur’s collection of Olympic memorabilia on load from Potechesfroom Museum, South Africa. Also discover other centenary stories such as the survivor the RMS Titanic and the famous events of Ulster Day. Free Admission. Open Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm (Fridays close 4.30pm)

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Limavady

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Seven Miles of Golden Sand a warm welcome awaits visitors to the stunning borough of Limavady and the most westerly point of the Causeway Coast

A

t the heart of the North West, “Limavady and the Roe Valley” is the perfect location for a touring holiday relaxing short break or a family day out.

Boasting some of Northern Ireland’s most tranquil and breathtaking scenery much of which is located within a designated Area of Outstanding and Natural Beauty, the Roe Valley encompasses the historic towns of Limavady and Dungiven, together with a diversity of villages and hamlets scattered throughout the mountains and valleys.

Those looking for a relaxing pastime will enjoy searching for gifts and souvenirs in Limavady and Dungiven towns or revel in a scenic tour of the region.

Bishop’s Road & Gortmore Viewing Point The Bishop’s Road provides a scenic route over Benevenagh Mountain, from Downhill to Limavady, and leads to Gortmore Viewing Point, where the visitor can picnic and enjoy panoramic views stretching over Magilligan, Lough Foyle and the north coast.

Benone Tourist Complex, Limavady In the shadow of breath-taking Benevenagh Mountain and adjacent to a European Blue Flag beach, approximately 12 miles from Limavady, Benone Tourist Complex is an ideal holiday park for all the family. Recipient of the Best Touring Caravan Park award, Benone Tourist Complex boasts family facilities and a welcome to rival any throughout Europe.

Holiday facilities, for use of residents and day visitors are provided for all age groups, with choices ranging from a 9 hole par three golf course, putting green, golf practice range, bowling green, tennis courts, outdoor heated splash pools (seasonal), activities area with inflatable

If the Giant’s Causeway is the destination, then Limavady and its North Coast beaches of Magilligan and Benone, must surely be the starting point. The region is populated with must see natural attractions and is ideally located next to NI’s second city as well as the Causeway Coast.Located in the Photograph courtesy of NITB. Copyright NITB 2012.

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Wednesday, August 1st Coastal Theme Mosaic with Rachel our Biodiversity Officer 10am - 12noon Contact Benone complex O2877750555 Thursday, August 2nd Family Flicks @Benone 7pm Movie Night £2pp Saturday, August 4th Golf Coaching (9-10am 12—16yrs) (10:30-11:30 8-11yrs) (12-1pm 5-8yrs) £4 pp.

Register at reception Archery with Philippe 12.00 noon - 1.30pm - £350 pp — everyone welcome Tennis Coaching 1:30pm - 2:30pm (6 - 10yrs) 2:30pm - 3:30pm(11-16yrs) £350 per child Register at reception Sunday, August 5th Zumba Dancing @ Benone 11am - 12noon £3.50per adult: £2.5O per primary school child Register at Benone Reception Benone Community Service Everyone welcome 8:00pm @ Benone Complex

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Monday, August 6th Kidzone Entertainment (47yrs) 10:00 — 11:00. £2 per child Kidzone Entertainment (8— 12yrs) 11:00- 12:00. £2 per child Tuesday, August 7th Junior Disco (Under 16’s) @ Benone complex 7pm — 8:45pm £2 per person Wednesday, August 8th Malabar Kids Entertainment with Bob Balloon modelling & magic show 2:30pm Thursday, August 9th Krafty Kidz (8-12yrs) With Catherine 10:30 » 11:30, £3 per child Saturday, August 11th Golf Coaching (9-10am 1216yrs) (10:30 - 11:30 8-11yrs) (121pm 5-Byrs) £4 pp. Register at reception Tennis Coaching 1:30pm - 2:30pm (6 — 10yrs) 2:30pm - 3:30pm(11- 16yrs) £3.5O per child Registration at Reception Sunday, August 12th Zumba Dancing @ Benone.

11am - 12noon £3.50per adult;

£2.50 per primary school child Register at Benone Reception Benone Community Service Everyone welcome 8:0Opm @Benone Complex Monday, August 13th Joe Jingles @ 2pm Movement to music for children under 7’s £3 per child - Admission by ticket only.

Tuesday, August 14th Grass Roots Football Development 10am - 12noon. £2.5O per child. Contact J oe Doherty for registration :O2877764775 Wednesday, Aug 15th Grass Roots Football Development 10am - 12noon. £2.5O per child.

Contact Joe Doherty for registration :O2877764775 Thursday, August 16th Grass Roots Football Development 10am —12noon. £2.5O per child Contact Joe Doherty for registration :O2877764775 Kids Flicks Movie Night 7pm £2per person Friday, August 17th Grass Roots Football Development 10am —12noon. £2,5O per child Contact Joe Doherty for registration: O2877764775 Saturday, August 18th Golf Coaching (9-10am 12 - 16yrs) (10:30 - 11:30 8-11yrs) (12-1pm 5-8yrs) £4 pp.

Register at reception Tennis Coaching 1:30pm - 2:30pm (6 - 10yrs) 2:30pm - 3:30pm (11 —16yrs) £350 per child Register at reception Car Boot Sale @ Benone Car Park Cars £5, Vans £10, Car with trailer £10 Register at reception Junior Disco (Under 16’s) 7pm — 8:45pm £2 per person Sunday, August 19th Zumba Dancing @ Benone.

11am - 12noon £3.50 per adult; £2.5O per primary school child Register at Benone Reception Benone Community Service Everyone welcome 8:00pm @Benone Complex Monday, August 20th Hockey School.

10:30am - 12noon. £2.5O per child Contact Gerald O2877764775 Tuesday, August 21st Hockey School 10:30am - 12noon. £2.50 per child Contact Gerald O2877764775 Wednesday, Aug 22nd Hockey School.

10:30am - 12noon. £2.50 per child Contact Benone complex O2877750555 Malabar Kids’ Entertainment with Bob Balloon modelling & magic show 2:30pm Thursday, August 23rd Hockey School 10:30cm 12noon. £2.5O per child Krafty Kidz with Catherine £ per child 10:30am — 11:30am (8-11 yrs) 11.30am - 12.3O pm (4-7yrs) Family Flicks 7pm Movie Night £2pp Friday, August 24th Hockey School 10:30am - 12noon. £2.5O per child Contact Benone complex O2877750555 Saturday, August 25th Crazy Kartz (5-10yrs) 12:45pm » 2:45pm £3 per race — book at Benone Reception Tennis Coaching 1:30pm - 2:30pm (6 — 10yrs) 2:30pm - 3:30pm (11 -16yrs) £3.50 Family Quiz Maximum table of 6 @ £1 pp 7:30pm. Prizes for winning tables and runners up register at reception Sunday, August 26th Zumba Dancing @ Benone.

11am - 12noon £3.50per adult; £2.5O per primary school child Register at Benone Reception Benone Community Service Everyone welcome 7:30pm @Benone Complex Monday, August 27th Joe Jingles @ 2pm Movement to music for children under 7 £3 per child — Admission by ticket only.

End of season Junior Disco (under 16’s) 7:00pm. £2pc Tuesday, August 28th Kidzone Entertainment (47yrs) 10:00 -11:00. £3 per child Kidzone Entertainment (8-12yrs) 11:00- 12:00, £3 per child Published by Benone Tourist Complex. Events are correct at time of printing but are subject to change without prior notice. Tent and Caravan reservations can be made online by visiting www. limavady.gov.uk and following the links to Benone Tourist Complex / Book On-line Benone Tourist Complex 53 Benone Avenue, Magilligan Limavady, Co. L’derry. BT49 OLQ Tel (028) 777 50555 Email benone.comp|ex@limavady. gov.uk www. limavady .gov. uk

bouncy castle, indoor games room and natural history exhibition. The complex also offers a seasonal cafe and a retail area, where the visitor can buy toys, souvenirs and postcards. Children will love the action packed events programme during July and August.

Benevenagh and Benbradagh The twin peaks of Benevenagh and Benbradagh Mountain dominate the scenery of Limavady Borough. With dramatic views, the mountains are prime locations for hill walking, orienteering and gliding. Benevenagh Lake, situated at the summit, is a man-made lake providing an excellent source of rainbow and brown trout.

Ballykelly Forest Designated as the first state forest in Northern Ireland in 1910 and located to the west of Ballykelly on the A2 to Londonderry, jogging trails and various walks are available within Ballykelly Forest.

Benone Beach Seven miles of golden sand with a backdrop of majestic cliffs and panoramic views across to Donegal, Benone Beach is the multiple recipient of the European Blue Flag and Seaside Resort awards. These prestigious awards were achieved due to Benone’s excellent water quality, beach management standards and environmental initiatives.

The beach falls within the Magilligan Special Area of Conservation, a site of European importance due to the extensive dune land system.

Beach personnel are on duty during the months of July and August.

Roe Valley Country Park Dogleap Road, Limavady The Roe Valley Country Park contains three miles of beautiful and tranquil scenery offering the visitor a variety of riverside and woodland walks within spectacular scenery. The River Roe flows through the park and fishing for salmon and trout proves popular. Canoeing, rock climbing and orienteering are also common activities within the park.

Call into Limavady Tourist Information Centre to obtain information on accommodation, attractions and activities in the area.

Telephone 028 7776 0307 Fax 028 7776 8107 E-mail tourism@limavady.gov.uk Web: www.limavady.gov.uk Out & About 91

Everything you could want...

from the Causeway Coast’s only Four Star Resort Hotel

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2 nights B&B and 4 course evening meal from only £154pps Kids under 4 stay free...

Away with the kids

S

tart the summer holidays as you mean to go on with a family break at the Roe Park Resort.

Spend two nights at the Roe Park with your kids and make the most of our resort facilities to include, spa, leisure and golf. Also choose to dine in a choice of two restaurants, the Coach House Brasserie or the newly designed menu in Greens Restaurant.

It’s the perfect short break in Northern Ireland and an ideal way to see the Giant’s Causeway, make sand castles on benone beach or explore the many wonders of the Causeway Coast.

This package includes: Two-nights accommodation in a tastefully furnished

Family Room Super Buffet Breakfast both mornings One four-course dinner in a choice of two restaurants Children under 4 stay free, children aged 5 - 12 stay £15 B&B (evening meal charged separately) Full access to the Fairways Health Club including indoor heated swimming pool, steamroom, jacuzzi and sauna.

Terms and conditions: Please check restaurant opening times with reception prior to arrival. Offer subject to availability Price is per person sharing General cancellation conditions apply

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ust Aug 2 201

Diary Dates what’s on in LIMAVADY Will you help him hide?

Film: Hugo Friday 10 August 2012 Throughout his extraordinary career, Academy Award-wining director Martin Scorsese has brought his unique vision and dazzling gifts to life in a series of unforgettable films. The legendary storyteller invites you to join him on a thrilling journey to a magical world, Based on Brian Selznick’s awardwinning, imaginative New York Times best-seller, The Invention of Hugo Cabret.

In this charming all-time classic family film based on the popular L. Frank Baum stories, Dorothy and her dog Toto are caught in a tornado’s path and somehow end up in the land of Oz.

Once Upon a Time Tuesday 14 August 2012 An unique interactive performance where children actively take part in the creation and telling of a new story under the guidance of the Story Tellers.

Lough Foyle Open Shore Saturday 25 August 2012 until Sunday 26 August 2012 Tel: (0) 28 71 342100 or email: general@loughs-agency.org www.loughs-agency.org

Stendhal Festival Friday 17 August 2012 until Saturday 18 August 2012 Limavady Hogfest Saturday 11 August 2012

Contact: Ross Parkhill Tel: 07834163108or email: rossparkhill@gmail.com www.stendhalfestival.com

Contact: (028) 77740552 or email: Kate@bmpromotions@sky.com Or North West Lifelong Learning Association Tel: 028 7776 4429 Nearly True Tours Saturday 11 August 2012

Young at Art present Baby Rave Friday 17 August 2012

Join us on a madcap meander through the local landmarks of Limavady town on these hilarious unique family tours, mixing historical fact with hysterical fiction. What did Jane Ross really get up to, who has dared hang their washing to dry in our Drumceatt Square and who is that bride running through our Centre looking for her husband-to-be?

Two sessions - 12noon or 2pm

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Film: the Wizard of Oz Friday 24 August 2012

Film: Up Friday 31 August 2012 By tying thousands of balloons to his home, 78-year-old Carl sets out to fulfil his lifelong dream to see the wilds of South America. Little does he know, he has a young stowaway called on-board. Together they embark on a wonderful adventure, encountering talking dogs, an evil villain and a rare bird named Kevin.

The contents of this list have been compiled in good faith on the basis of information provided to Limavady Borough Council. We do not accept any responsibility for the accuracy of information and advise you to check with the organisers of the individual events.

Demon’s Daughter is the first of an exciting fantasy trilogy from Portrush author and mother-of-two, Ashley McCook.

The former bookstore clerk and self-confessed bookworm has been overwhelmed by the response to her first novel, selling-out in Waterstones, Coleraine, after a gruelling two hour signing session.

Although the second and the third books in the “Emily Series” - “Demon’s Revenge” and “Demon’s Blood” - are already available for download, Demon’s Daughter is the first to be made available in paperback and an ideal holiday read.

Written in true Stephen King style (Ashley’s literary hero), the book follows the fortunes of Emily Carson - a teenage nerd with attitude!

Happy to spend her time revising for exams, making up new maths formulae with her best friends, Annie and Dylan, helping steer her twin, Seth, around the obstacles of hot girls and bad clothes choices or day-dreaming about the object of her desire, Adam Farlow; Emily is stunned when her mother, Joanna, confesses to Emily and Seth that

their dad is a demon named Asmodeus... and he wants to meet them!

Emily’s world changes overnight and instead of just dealing with the pains of growing up, she discovers that she has a few extra problems demons, werewolves and vampires crawling out of their hidey-holes, cults wanting to kidnap her and a fallen angel sending her already topsy-turvy hormones into overdrive.

Asmodeus seems like a fairly typical rich guy with fancy homes and well-connected friends but he has plans for his children and an evil side that Emily and Seth have yet to see. Then he shows his true colours and puts one of Emily’s friends in danger, will the little nerd be capable of taking on a Demon Lord?

Demon’s Daughter is currently available as an ebook from Smashwords, Amazon.co.uk; Amazon. com, Apple via your iTunes account, Sony via your ereader account and Barnes & Noble.

The paperback edition, priced £6.99, can be purchased from Barnes & Noble, Book Depository, Waterstones, Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com.

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