The provincial players put on several plays throughout the year here with the biggest being the…read morepantomime. They spend months rehearsing and designing and building the sets. It shows performances being second to none. They never fail to entertain year in year out. the ticket prices do vary depending on the performances but they are never excessive and OAP'S and children are less.

History and modern clash here in the Cathedral Quarter which is in the shadow of Belfast's Saint…read moreAnne's Cathedral. I spent most of my time along Hill Street but there's more. The narrow cobblestone alleyways are lined with classic pubs, fashionable bars and a spectrum of restaurants for different tastes and budgets. Many of the walls here are covered with street art, either sanctioned or unsanctioned. This makes for a colorful (colourful?) tour as you stumble from one drinking establishment to the next. Thankfully, my hotel was not too far away from Hill Street so I didn't have to stumble too far after enjoying drinks in the Dirty Onion and the Dark Horse the Garrick bar and the Duke of York. Lots of traditional Irish music, some whiskey, some Guinness and more. Don't miss the Yardbird which smelled amazing with their rotisserie chicken cooking. [Review 1994 of 2024 - 896 in United Kingdom - 23016 overall]

It has become a trend of modern times to quarter off cities into distinct areas. A technique to…read moreimprove the tourist experience and enhance city environments for locals. Some commentators criticise this, pointing to gentrification as a side effect of such urban planning. However, Belfast as a city emerging from decades of turmoil due to The Troubles, needed urban improvement more than any other UK city. The Cathedral Quarter has given Belfast an area to be proud of and I personally think it's brilliant. With cobbled streets, the continental feel of St Anne's Square, street art, The MAC, Black Box, Oh Yeah Music Centre, Belfast Print Workshop, Duke of York, 2Taps, Coppi, The Merchant and many more pubs, restaurants, independent shops and galleries the Cathedral Quarter brings a long awaited vibrancy to Belfast. It's my favourite area in Belfast to hang out and relax with friends and family. An area buzzing with people, music and culture which makes me proud of my city. Also don't miss it on Culture Night which is an event occurring annually in September. On this one night, the best night of the year for Culture Vultures, Cathedral Quarter abounds with live art, music, performance, dance, fire, colour and entertainment that will make you glad to be alive. You would be a fool to miss it - and bring the kids as it's family friendly up until 9pm.

Great selection of classes, and some interesting exhibitions.read more

I've been staying with my sister whom currently lives in Carrickfergus. This afternoon, I walked…read moreinto town to just entertain myself. I had intended to stop into a small art gallery that was closed the first time I went by... just for a few minutes to see what I could see... then I was off for some tea before heading back and starting dinner. Well then I met Thomas. Thomas is the local artist and proprietor of The Courtyard Gallery. His work is stunning. He specializes in watercolors of seascapes in that capture the bold and sometimes stark Northern Ireland coast as well as bright, vibrant and whimsical farm life. I was drawn into the gallery by the art but stayed over an hour making a new friend in Thomas. He's a fascinating gentleman that gives willingly of his time to discuss his art or any other topic that happens to come up between you. He is warm. He loves his dog, whom stays at the shop with him. He loves golf. He paints because he loves it and it shows. I purchased one piece today and will return after I've completed some measurements for my suitcase for some larger works. Carrickfergus is a quaint little town and I was so pleased to find such a treasure in both Thomas and his work. Do not miss this amazing opportunity to take home such creative and stunning impressions of Northern Ireland with you while meeting the creator in the process. The experience has easily been on of my favorite parts of my trip. Thank you, Thomas! I'll see you soon!

Unique by name and character, this art shop is a treasury of beautiful items including paintings,…read moreillustrations, prints, photos, ceramics, jewellery, scarves, soft furnishings and gifts. Displaying distinctive pieces by established artists and students of Ulster University's Art School, where it is located, this is the place to go if you want to purchase something special. All creations on display are for sale, plus there's the option to commission bespoke artwork. Unique also run occasional art workshops and events, so it's worthwhile keeping an eye on their website/ social media accounts.

The Somme heritage centre is an experience you will not forget celebrating the glorious history of…read moreIrelands war effort during the Battle of the Somme in 1916. The centre is educational and informative and hosts many school visits throughout the year. You will feel your brain expand upon entering the building and you will be left with a sense of pride as you march out of the Somme Heritage Centre. "The battle of the Somme resulted in 25,000 casualties and many of those casualties were Northern Irish and from 3 local volunteer Divisions: the 10th and 16th (Irish) Divisions and the 36th (Ulster) Division. Tour guides will bring the visitor back in time to 1910 where they learn about the Home Rule Crisis, recruiting and training of men and life in the trenches. Reconstructed trenches of the Battle of the Somme in 1916. The Great war is discussed and every aspect will be analysed. The tours are extremely interactive, this is not your normal museum. After visiting I felt appreciative of the war effort and educated as to what those involved went through on a daily basis. If this is the only function of the Somme heritage centre then it is a good thing. There is a café and a Somme Heritage centre gift shop on site, you could easily get caught up in the history and spend the whole day at the centre.

I've lived in Northern Ireland for 17 years and never visited here before however as it's the 100…read moreyear anniversary and I had family visiting I thought I would give it a go The entrance fee for an adult is £6.50 with the option of a guided tour, as this doesn't cost any extra I would highly recommend that you go around with the guide rather than on your own It's not the largest of exhibitions however the guides are knowledgeable and give you a great insight into the history Whether you live in Northern Ireland or you're visiting this is a great place to visit although there is a bus stop close by its much more accessible by car and there is plenty of free parking

The new town hall is a very welcome addition to ballymena. The centre offers lots of various…read moreperformances usually at very reasonable prices. The centre is really well decorated with some excellent art work. The acoustics are really good as well. In my opinion this is a really positive change for ballymena and improves the image of the area.

The Royal British Legion is a small, popular social club along the Shore Road. Acting as a meeting…read moreplace for members of the Legion it also doubles as an establishment. For a bit of background info, the British Legion safeguards the welfare, interests and memory of those who are serving or who have served in the Armed Forces and they help serving and ex-Service personnel and their families. Not just those who fought in the two World Wars, but also those involved in the many conflicts since 1945 and those still fighting today. As to the bar, well, you get all types coming in here, it's mainly the locals and the students from NRC or UUJ or the strays wandering in, wondering what the place is like. Well, if you didn't make it you're not missing much. If you're a history fan and enjoy old men talking about the topic for a good few pints then come on down. I'm sure you'll be more than welcome. Again note, you have to sign in. It's not up to much but everyone's different so it could be your thing. Adorning the walls are memorabilia of past wars and events from the club. A lot of these are really interesting pictures so have a look. The prices are great and it's probably a great bar if you are a member. If interested then call in for more information to see for yourself. If you're out for a walk and fancy a little pick me up, then I'd have to recommend either The Lighthouse or Bureau a little while on down the road in Whiteabbey Village.

Was at a private party here in the upstairs room…read more Would be worthwhile place to hire for a birthday party ... Engagement party etc as you can bring your own entertainment. Staff were friendly and the drink was reasonably priced ... Members get 20% off but unfortunately I'm not one of them :(