The 'Travel' Life of Brian

1. Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne Guided Tour, Castlerock, County Londonderry, 6 April. Join the team at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne on a guided historical tour around the Earl Bishop Hervey’s Estate – one of the true jewels of the Causeway Coast. Discover the history, ambition and character of Earl Bishop Hervey as you explore the landscaped gardens, the dramatic clifftop ruins of his once-grand residence, and enjoy special access to the iconic Mussenden Temple. Along the way, stories of the estate will be brought to life, from its remarkable architectural features to its breath-taking coastal setting.
   
2. Walking Bogside History Tour in Guildhall, Derry~Londonderry, until 29 April. Trace the footsteps of the Bloody Sunday march with stories from survivors. Dive into the history behind the world-famous Bogside Murals. End at the iconic Free Derry Corner and the moving Bloody Sunday monument. Walking and driving tours available.
   
3. Dance of the Dragons at Game of Thrones Studio Tours, Banbridge, County Down, 1 – 12 April. This Easter, step into a world where fantasy, adventure and family fun collide as the Game of Thrones Studio Tour transforms into an unforgettable seasonal destination. The Dance of the Dragons is a spectacular two-week celebration that goes far beyond a traditional day out, offering an immersive experience packed with interactive activities, live encounters, and magical moments for visitors of all ages.
   
4. Easter Monday at Montalto, Ballynahinch, County Down, 6 April. Montalto comes alive with colour, live music, and festive excitement this Easter Monday. With 400 acres to explore, they’ve packed the day with outdoor adventures and games, Granda Gordy’s Farm Adventure Tractor Ride, live entertainment and delicious local food.
   
5. Golden Hour Alpaca Trekking Experience, Ballynahinch, County Down, 3 – 25 April. Discover the ultimate blend of adventure and indulgence with a brand-new activity: Golden Hour Alpaca Trekking & Luxury Charcuterie Board. Exclusively designed for adults, this unique experience combines the serene beauty of a guided alpaca trek along Ireland’s only purpose-built scenic alpaca trekking trail with the gourmet delight of a specially curated charcuterie board, all set against the enchanting backdrop of the golden hour.
   
6. Under the Hawthorn Tree at the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, check website for dates and times. A powerful story of hardship, loss and survival, this exhibition brings to life Marita Conlon-McKenna’s much-loved children’s novel, Under the Hawthorn Tree. The exhibition uses objects, sounds, smells, interactives and illustrations to tell the story, inviting visitors, young and old, to experience the story in a new and immersive way. Opens on Tuesday 31st March and is included in general admission.
   
7. Sound Spa Experience at Templemore Baths Heritage Space, Belfast, 9 April. Step into a journey of tranquillity and rejuvenation within the walls of the former Minor Pool at Templemore Baths Heritage Space, a testament to the rich Victorian history of Belfast. Tessa Ann brings her Sound Spa Experience to this former aquatic space, under her theme of Sound Space Connect, ‘Connecting People, Places and Spaces through Sound’.
   
8. Orchard/Cider Tour Experience with Tastings, Tea/Coffee, Apple Tart & Fresh Cream at Long Meadow Cider, Portadown, County Armagh, 11 April. Join a fully immersive orchard and cider experience in the company of the McKeever family. Enjoy an orchard walk explaining the various orchard plantations in place followed by a tasting experience. Then it’s time to relax in their new glass fronted Bramley Barn and enjoy a hot cuppa with delicious apple tart & fresh cream.
   
9. Martel’s Candlelight Tour at Marble Arch Caves, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 12 April. Experience the thrill of this historic exploration first-hand as you accompany Martel in an authentic re-enactment of his groundbreaking discovery of the show cave, as it was over 130 years ago. With the electric lights switched off, you’ll journey underground through the cave’s natural darkness, guided solely by candlelight and lanterns, during this 2-hour 30-minute guided tour.
10. Scarva Band Concerts, County Down, every Sunday until September 27. Scarva Bandstand concerts take place each Sunday from 3-4pm starting Sunday 12 April with the Castlewellan Victoria Accordion Band and running weekly until Sunday 27 September. Admission is free, and limited seating will be provided. It is advisable to bring your own fold up seat. Enjoy a varied programme of musical entertainment.

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit: discovernorthernireland.com.

• Subject to availabilities with select dates.

…… ABTA MEMBERS SUPPORT CUSTOMERS WITH ENTRY/EXIT SYSTEM AND MIDDLE EAST CHALLENGES

ABTA – The Travel Association estimates that over two million British holidaymakers are set to head overseas over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend of April 3-6, with Good Friday and Easter Sunday the busiest days for travel.

Continue reading “EASTER PERIOD SET TO BE AS BUSY AS EVER FOR TRAVEL…” →

By David Pettitt, Head of Product, Pettitts Travel

NESTLED between India and China, Bhutan is one of the world’s leading up-and-coming travel destinations.

Continue reading “ON TOP OF THE WORLD: TRAVEL TO BHUTAN SURGES AS TOURISTS SEEK NEW, MORE MEANINGFUL DESTINATIONS” →

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AER Lingus will introduce five brand-new routes from Dublin this summer, offering flights to some of Europe’s most charming destinations.

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1. The Easter Eggspress at Downpatrick & County Down Railway, Downpatrick, County Down, 5 and 6 April. The Easter Bunny is visiting the Downpatrick & County Down Railway on Easter Sunday and Monday, and his goal is simple: make sure all the children have a great day with their trains and come away with a chocolate Easter Egg. There’s also a fun word hunt, and face painting in the station included in your ticket price.
   
2. Easter at the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 5 – 7 April. Discover Easter traditions like the custom of cross-roads dancing, learn about the history of the Easter egg, and leave a message on the Easter Tree. Listen to live music in rural Ulster and America, and take part in traditional games including the classic egg and spoon race. Take a horse and carriage ride and watch an exciting magic show. Try tasty samples of barnbrack and hot-cross buns, plus get some Easter treats from the café.
   
3. Easter at the Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra, County Down, 5 – 7 April. Discover Easter traditions, have a go at nature-based activities and meet their talented makers as they demonstrate heritage skills – including Easter card making in the Print Shop. Get involved with traditional games, watch baking and butter making demos, try tasty cake samples and listen to traditional music. Meet costumed characters and learn all about the history of egg production in Ireland and the connections to the Easter traditions we know today.
   
4. Easter at Glenarm Castle, Glenarm, County Antrim, 5 and 6 April. Join Glenarm Castle for a fun-filled adventure in the fresh spring air. Explore the Walled Garden and Woodland Walk, let the kids burn off some energy in the Woodland Adventure Play Area, or hop into the driver’s seat with the Mini Land Rover Experience. Take part in their much-loved Easter Eye Spy & activity sheet while exploring the estate and enjoy great food, shopping, and even a dedicated dog park for your four-legged friends.
   
5. Slow Art Sunday at Ulster Museum, Belfast, 5 April. Join the Ulster Museum on the first Sunday of every month for Slow Art Sunday, an opportunity to explore their art collections in more detail. Explore the influences and inspirations that contributed to the artwork and find out the guide’s favourite pieces. Feel free to sketch or bring your own interpretations as the guides bring the artwork to life.
   
6. Easter at Florence Court, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 30 March – 7 April. Join in on Easter Monday for the annual Easter celebration at Florence Court. With lots of activities for kids to enjoy, live music, treats and of course the ‘Grand Tour’ Easter trail to explore, you are sure for a fun filled day out.
   
7. Easter Adventures at WWT Castle Espie, Comber, County Down, 31 March – 12 April. Spring has arrived and there is plenty of family fun waiting for you at WWT Castle Espie this Easter. Have fun at the Easter Egg Trail, Pond Dipping Adventures and Easter themed arts and crafts sessions.
   
8. Easter Trail at The Jungle NI, Moneymore, County Londonderry, 4 –7 April. Join this Easter for a fun-filled outdoor adventure, where families can follow a woodland Easter Trail, meet colourful characters, enjoy marshmallow toasting, and dance along at our lively Easter disco.
   
9. Easter Adventures At The Argory, Moy, County Armagh, 30 March – 7 April. Explore the stunning grounds of The Argory as you follow the ten points of the Easter Activity Trail. The trail takes you through the beautiful River Walk, offering scenic views and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy nature in full bloom. Join for a fun-filled, family-friendly day out with plenty of activities for all ages to enjoy together.
   
10. A Puffin Rock Easter at W5, Belfast, 1 – 11 April. Calling all little explorers and grown-ups. Now is your chance to join the Puffin Rock inhabitants and discover more from this beautiful island. Puffin Rock activities are free with general admission to W5.

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit: discovernorthernireland.com.

Subject to availabilities with select dates.

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PET travel is here to stay as one of tourism’s biggest trends, with huge numbers of owners opting to take their four-legged friend on holiday instead of experiencing the heartbreak of separation.

Continue reading “SIT, STAY, SAIL! ALL ABOARD FOR PET TRAVEL WITH STENA LINE” →

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LOOKING for something different to do with the kids this Easter? 

Continue reading “HOP ONBOARD FOR AN EASTER FAMILY CRUISE WITH STENA LINE” →

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STENA Line’s enchanting Pirates & Princesses Day Cruises are back for 2026 with a series of 10 new dates announced for the hugely popular trips.

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1. Garden History Tour at Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch, County Down, 28 March. Explore the stories behind the landscape, historic features and the dynasties that have shaped the estate over the years. A fascinating guided walk led by Ken Dawson, this tour is for anyone who loves gardens, history and the beauty of the past brought to life.
   
2. Easter Egg Hunt at Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down, 28 March – 7 April. Make your way along the trail and find nature-inspired activities for the whole family. The trail takes place from 10am to 5pm. Prices are £3.50 per trail which includes an Easter trail sheet, bunny ears and dairy or vegan and Free From* chocolate egg. Weave in and out, solve some puzzles, create some art and race your friends on a trail exploring the areas around the house and Stableyard.
   
3. Newry Arts Festival, Newry, County Down, 19 – 29 March. Newry Arts Festival is a celebratory mix of exhibitions, comedy, music and drama, and will shine a light on Newry City’s arts scene. Newry Arts Festival will welcome renowned acts from the Newry City area.
   
4. Dome Shows at Armagh Planetarium, Armagh, County Armagh, visit website for open dates and times. The main attraction at Armagh Planetarium is a 360-degree digital theatre, where they present immersive dome shows on a wide range of topics. With programmes designed for toddlers, families, and adults, there’s something for every visitor.
   
5. OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, Davagh Forest, County Tyrone, visit website for open dates and times. Star hop across the universe on one of their daily guided tours. Their interactive exhibition links the landscape with the astronomical and archaeological heritage of the Sperrins, featuring holographic installations. OM guided exhibition tours run throughout the day and last approximately 1 hour.
   
6. Derry By Fork, Various locations across Derry~Londonderry, 28 March (future dates available). Derry by Fork food and drink tours offer the ultimate way to discover the city’s thriving food scene. Blending history, culture, and exceptional flavours, these tours are led by passionate locals who reveal hidden culinary gems and share the stories behind Derry~Londonderry’s most iconic landmarks.
   
7. National Trust’s Florence Court, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, visit website for open dates and times. Surrounded by lush parkland and thick woodland with Benaughlin mountain rising in the background, Florence Court enjoys a majestic countryside setting in West Fermanagh. There is something for everyone to enjoy at this extensive and welcoming place.
   
8. Easter Egg Hunt at Mount Stewart, Newtownards, County Down, 28 March – 7 April. Make your way along the trail and find nature-inspired activities for the whole family. The trail takes place from 10am to 5pm, with last trails being sold at 4pm. Come along and explore the beautiful gardens of Mount Stewart. Prices are £3.50 per trail which includes an Easter trail sheet, bunny ears and dairy or vegan and Free From* chocolate egg.
   
9. Joinery Taster Workshop at Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra, County Down, 26 March. Create your own redwood miniature sheeted door with a mortise and tenon frame to take home. Guided by experts from the Historic Environment Division, you’ll learn about heritage joinery, approaches to conservation and repair, and try practical techniques for yourself. This workshop is ideal for enthusiasts, those considering training in joinery, or professionals interested in incorporating traditional techniques into their work.
   
10. Ashes to Fashion at Ulster Museum, Belfast, until 13 September. A collection reborn through significant acquisitions, a future-proof collecting policy and generous donations, making it one of the most important collections in Western Europe. ‘Ashes to Fashion’ marks this extraordinary milestone with a stunning showcase of fashion from the eighteenth century to today, from historic garments to contemporary pieces by Chanel and Versace.

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit: discovernorthernireland.com.

Subject to availabilities with select dates.

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ABTA’s advice on navigating travel during the Middle East conflict has been reaching its members and their customers with significant uplift in traffic to ABTA’s website and engagement on its social media channels. 

Continue reading “ABTA’S MIDDLE EAST CRISIS ADVICE REACHES GROWING NUMBER OF MEMBERS AND CONSUMERS” →