Ulster Tatler Holiday's At Home May 2026

UlsterTatler

Holidays

AT HOME

YOUR LAKESIDE ESCAPE AWAITS

Unwind, explore, and reconnect at Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel & Lodges. A place to slow down, switch off and enjoy exceptional hospitality in one of Fermanagh’s most beautiful Lough-side settings.

Set on the peaceful shores of Lough Erne, Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel & Lodges offers a refined escape where relaxation, comfort, and natural beauty come together. Surrounded by rolling countryside and tranquil water views, the hotel is perfectly positioned for guests seeking a break that feels both restorative and memorable.

Whether visiting as a couple, family, or group of friends, Killyhevlin provides a setting that adapts to every style of stay. Guests can unwind in the hotel’s spa and leisure facilities, enjoy carefully prepared dining, or simply slow down and take in the calm of the lakeside surroundings.

For those who like to stay active, the location offers easy access to outdoor pursuits, scenic walks, and everything the Fermanagh countryside has to offer. The hotel’s accommodation combines contemporary comfort with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal base for short escapes or longer stays throughout the year.

From indulgent spa breaks to relaxed family getaways, every detail is designed to help guests switch off and feel looked after from the moment they arrive.

Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel & Lodges is more than just a place to stay. It’s a destination, inviting guests to relax, recharge, and enjoy the very best of lakeside living.

Lawlors of Naas, Co Kilare page 73

70 Put your feet up at Portrush’s Adelphi Hotel

71 A lakeside escape awaits at Killyhevlin

73 The perfect getaway for fashion lovers at Lawlor’s of Naas

74 Family fun at The Wee Village

75 Restoration calls from the Johnstown Estate

76 Summer fun in Carlingford

79 Kingfisher Country Estate has it all

81 Stay in the heart of the city at Ten Square Hotel

82 Theatrical storytelling from Portrush Music Society

83 Causeway coastal haven at the Bayview Hotel

84 Home & Garden Show at Antrim Castle Gardens

85 Sea views from the Arklow Bay Hotel

86 NI Hospice turns the city purple

87 A warm welcome from the Scenic Inn

88 Transform your garden with Greenthumb

90 Photography exhibition at Belfast Exposed

124 Holiday homes by the sea from Milne Holiday Parks

124 Luxury relaxation at the Crowne Plaza

Shop, Dine & Unwind in Style

Lawlor’s of Naas is the perfect getaway for fashion lovers this summer...

Take a well-deserved break and escape to Lawlor’s of Naas, where boutique shopping and indulgent dining go hand in hand. Located in the heart of Naas town centre, you’ll be just moments from chic local gems like Nicola Ross, Aria Boutique, and Fabucci Footwear.

Extend your spree with savings at Kildare Village and Newbridge Silverware – both within easy reach. After a day of shopping, unwind with a two-course dinner at Vi’s Restaurant and enjoy a restful overnight stay with breakfast included.

Poplar Square, Naas, Co. Kildare, Ireland, W91Y65N

045 906 444 reservations@lawlors.ie

Book your escape today at www.lawlors.ie

Summer Escape Carlingford

Discover the magic of Carlingford, one of Ireland’s most captivating destinations. The scenic drive along the coast sets the tone for a getaway filled with fresh sea air, vibrant energy, and breathtaking views. This charming corner of Ireland’s Ancient East comes alive in the warmer months, with colourful streets, outdoor dining, and a welcoming buzz as visitors soak up long, bright evenings.

Enjoy a pint in a pub with live music spilling out onto the streets, browse local shops, or simply take in the relaxed holiday atmosphere that makes Carlingford a favourite year after year.

For those looking to make the most of the summer outdoors, Carlingford is packed with activities. From coastal walks and hiking in the Cooley Mountains to kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat trips on the lough, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the longer days.

The Four Seasons Hotel Carlingford is the perfect summer escape for holidaymakers, set beneath the stunning Cooley Mountains and overlooking the sparkling waters of Carlingford Lough. Just a short stroll from the lively, winding streets of Carlingford village, it’s an ideal base for making the most of a sunny staycation.

Guests enjoy complimentary access to the Leisure Club during their stay, which features an 18m swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi, steam room, and recovery ice bath.

1 night bed and breakfast, a 2-course evening meal, and a complimentary bottle of wine to share.

From €255 per couple

Farnham Estate Summer Staycations

Tucked away in the heart of County Cavan, Farnham Estate Spa & Golf Resort is where tranquillity, comfort and countryside charm combine to create the perfect Irish staycation. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing weekend escape, a wellness-inspired break, a midweek catch-up with friends or a family getaway in the great outdoors, Farnham Estate offers something for everyone. Surrounded by 1,300 acres of rolling countryside, ancient woodlands and sparkling lakes, the resort is built for rest, reconnection and recreation. Farnham Estate has long been known for its exceptional spa experiences and whether you try a treatment of simply relax in the serene indoor-outdoor infinity pool and thermal suite, this adult only spa is a haven of wellness. Golf lovers can enjoy the 18-hole championship course, designed by Jeff Howes, that winds through the estate’s breathtaking scenery.There are over 11 kms of walking and cycling trails within the estate with loads to explore and Irelands Hidden Heartlands is on your doorstep with everything County Cavan has to offer within an easy driving distance!

The hotel offers a choice of diningMaxwell’s Restaurant serves up deliciously seasonal dishes in a stylish yet relaxed setting, while the award-winning Cedars Steakhouse offers prime cuts and locally inspired menus perfect for an indulgent night out.

Guests can choose to stay in the hotel, with its stylishly appointed rooms and direct access to the award-winning spa and thermal suite, or opt for the comfort and freedom of one of the luxurious Resort Houses. These spacious homes, ideal for families or groups of friends, offer the perfect mix of privacy and self catering

along with access to everything the estate has to offer and they are also dog friendly - a real home away from home. The estate also offers a selection of tailor-made packages (opt for a Girls Getaway in one of our resort houses with DIY cocktails and a pizza night, or choose a Golfers’ Getaway package including bacon baps on arrival to beers in the fridge)

So this summer, skip the airports and treat yourself to a staycationless than 2 hours from both Derry and Belfast and a world away from the everyday. Come to Farnham Estate, where comfort, calm, and countryside magic await. “

EXPERIENCE EXCEPTIONAL

Stay - Spa - Golf - Conference

Mount Congreve Gardens Set to Host Garden Festival This May

Mount Congreve Gardens, Co Waterford, is delighted to announce a new Garden Festival, taking place on Sunday, May 10th, 2026, from 9 am to 5 pm. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of Ireland’s most celebrated horticultural destinations, this vibrant annual event promises an inspiring day out for gardeners, plant collectors, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Speaking ahead of the event, Ray Sinnott, Estate Director at Mount Congreve Gardens, said: “We are excited to welcome visitors for what promises to be a fantastic day. It’s a unique chance to discover truly special plants, connect with expert growers, and enjoy the gardens at one of the most beautiful times of the year. The atmosphere is always lively, inspiring, and full of enthusiasm for gardening. For those wishing to extend their visit, we are delighted to share that several gardens across Waterford will offer a coordinated visitor experience during the weekend, including Mount Congreve Gardens, Lismore Castle Gardens, Cappoquin House & Gardens, Dromana House Gardens, Tourin House & Gardens, and the Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens, with special admission offers available on the day.”

This event continues to build on Mount Congreve’s long-standing reputation

as a centre of horticultural excellence, attracting plant enthusiasts from across Ireland and beyond. Guests are invited to explore the spectacular grounds of Mount Congreve Gardens, which will be in full spring splendour. The day will also feature a programme of talks and experiences, including a 12 noon headline talk, ‘The Making of a Great Garden with Elmer Dool’, offering a rare insight into the vision, planting philosophy and legacy behind Mount Congreve and the collaboration between Herman Dool and Ambrose Congreve.

The Plant Fair will showcase up to 23 of Ireland’s leading specialist nurseries, offering rare and unusual plants, expert guidance, and direct-from-grower purchasing opportunities. Visitors can explore a carefully curated selection of rare and unusual plants, from striking perennials and heritage varieties to distinctive shrubs and hard-to-find bulbs, many of which are not typically available in garden centres.

A key highlight of the event is the opportunity to meet the growers themselves, offering an opportunity to discover exceptional plants not commonly found in garden centres and gain expert advice directly from specialists.

Dining will be available at the Stables Café, featuring a seasonal Estate-to-Plate menu

inspired by the gardens, with ingredients sourced directly from the estate.

Highlights across the site include the new Herman Dool exhibition at Mount Congreve House, richly planted woodland walks, vibrant displays, and sweeping views over the River Suir. Visitors can also relax and enjoy a selection of seasonal refreshments throughout the day.

For those wishing to enjoy the keys to the gardens, Mount Congreve Gardens offers a selection of accommodation options, including cabins and gate lodges, providing an opportunity to fully immerse oneself in the estate and enjoy the gardens at leisure.

Admission to the Garden Festival is free, with garden entry tickets available on the day at a 20% discount. For more information and to plan your visit, see www. mountcongreve.com. The event is supported by Waterford City and County Council, along with Visit Waterford.

TOUCHING DOWN IN PORTRUSH

A Story of Humanity Takes Flight on Stage

Portrush Music Society is set to captivate audiences this summer with its highly anticipated production of Come From Away, running at The Playhouse Portrush from 28th May to 6th June. This powerful and uplifting musical tells the remarkable true story of 7,000 airline passengers who found themselves unexpectedly grounded in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland in the wake of 9/11, and the extraordinary kindness that followed.

Known for its fast-paced storytelling, touching music and impactful message, Come From Away has become a global sensation. Now, Portrush Music Society is bringing this moving production to local audiences, promising an unforgettable theatrical experience filled with heart, humour and hope.

Director Kerry Kane shared her excitement about the production: “This show is unlike anything we’ve done before. It’s a story about humanity at its best; about strangers becoming friends and compassion in the face of uncertainty. Our cast has embraced that spirit completely, and it’s been incredible to watch the story come to life in rehearsals.”

in THE PLAYHOUSE, PORTRUSH MAY 28th to JUNE 6th Matinees 2.30pm. Evenings 7.30pm

Featuring a talented local cast and a live band, the production highlights the society’s commitment to high quality musical theatre. The dynamic nature of the show means that the small main cast of 12 performers take on multiple roles, seamlessly transitioning between characters and perspectives telling the stories of both the stranded passengers and those who took them in.

Kindly Sponsored by

TICKETS £20 plus booking fee Available from ticketsource.co.uk/portrush-music-society OR SCAN THE

12 ‒ 14 JUNE 2026

FEATURING SPECIAL GUESTS:

NI Hospice wants you to dash for a cause – to help turn June purple!

This summer, Northern Ireland Hospice is turning the month of June entirely purple – the charity’s iconic colour branding – to celebrate 25 years of Children’s Hospice.

June will see a month of awarenessraising activities, including the UK-wide Children’s Hospice Week initiative, and street collections, capped off by something brand new… a fun, family-friendly 5K Colour Dash, at Titanic Slipways on Saturday 27th June 2026.

The local palliative care charity is inviting families, friends and supporters from across Northern Ireland to ‘dash for a cause’ by taking part in the colourful celebration to mark the very special 25-year milestone.

The Purple Dash event has the backing of Paralympian runner Michael McKillop, who is an Ambassador for NI Children’s Hospice, and Miss Northern Ireland Carly Wilson.

Four-time gold medal winner, Michael McKillop, said: “You can run the Purple Dash, walk it, or take your time and enjoy it, but it’s all about getting involved, having a laugh, and doing something meaningful. Every step helps support local babies, children and families when they need it most.

“The Purple Dash will be a fun and vibrant celebration of the amazing children and families supported by the Hospice every single day. The 5k route will be wheelchair accessible, so I’m looking forward to being joined by some of the Little Stars themselves and their families. Whether you choose to run, jog, walk or dance your way around the course, everyone is welcome to take part and enjoy the day together.

“There will also be plenty happening off the course too, with live entertainment from local radio, inflatables for kids, a buzzing market of food and craft stalls, and even special appearances from favourite characters and superheroes. With colour, laughter and entertainment throughout the

day, it promises to be a fantastic family event. Hospice is hitting a purple patch and it’s going to be a great day!”

Conal Duffy, NI Hospice’s Chief Income Officer, said: “While the event promises plenty of fun, it also has an important goal to raise £150,000 towards funding specialist nursing, family support, short breaks, symptom management and precious moments of joy for local children with lifelimiting conditions and their families.

“While this funding target will make a vital difference, it represents just a fraction of the true cost of running Children’s Hospice services. It costs approximately £5.3 million each year to operate the service, with only 38.5% funded by government. This leaves Hospice needing to raise £3.26 million annually from the local community simply to maintain current services, including operating just six of the ten available beds at Horizon House.

“So we really hope the amazing people here will continue to show their fabulous support for Hospice, by now signing up to join us at our Purple Dash event in June.”

A WELCOME INN...

The family-run Scenic Inn outside Armoy offers food, fun, live music and the warmest of welcomes

“I would say what people love about us is the cosy, homely, friendly atmosphere,” says Pamela McFetridge, owner of The Scenic Inn just outside Armoy, a perfect spot that can truthfully be described as a hidden gem.

Offering great food daily, live music every weekend and a warm welcome from Pamela, her husband and the team, there’s so much that makes the awardwinning Scenic Inn endearing to its patrons.

A recent refurbishment has enhanced the homely, hospitable and relaxed feeling, and that warm welcome they are famed for. An extensive outdoor area, complete with comfortable seating and twinkling lights, makes this the perfect place for warm summer evenings.

Offering locally sourced, fresh food is a passion, and they create exciting lunch and evening menus, as well as offering a traditional Sunday lunch. The Inn caterers for parties and welcome groups for any special occasions they might wish to celebrate. Staff can help with everything from the organisation to bespoke menus, making your special day one to remember.

Every weekend, the Inn kicks back with live music from a range of local bands and musicians, with no cover charge.

Its rural location means it’s the perfect spot for those exploring Northern Ireland to stop, refuel and relax. “We’re close to Ballycastle,” says Pamela, “and we’re close to the Dark Hedges, and it’s massive, the amount of tourists we get from that alone.”

This is a true family-run business, with Pamela behind the bar. “I’m hands on,” she says, “I don’t like to be in the background. I love being in the bar, I love serving the food.”

She took over The Scenic Inn after the passing of her mother Shirley McKinley in 2022. Shirley had owned the Inn since 2010 and was a tireless fundraiser during her tenure, raising more than £240,000 for various Northern Irish charities. Her legacy lives on, as Pamela explains that she is keen to continue her mum’s great work with Shirley’s Summer Sesh, a two-day music festival named for her late mum.

This year, the event takes place on June 27 and 28 and aims to raise money for Northern Ireland Hospice and PIPS. Acts on the bill include Nathan Carter, Lisa McHugh, The Whistlin’ Donkeys, Johnny Brady and more, with tickets priced from £29.70. With last year’s event raising in excess of £14,000, Pamela says she is keen to make this year’s weekend their biggest yet. “It’s a whole year of planning,” she says, “We did it last year and again it was a success, so everyone said, ‘you have to do it next year’ and here we are!”

“I would say what people love about us is the cosy, homely, friendly atmosphere”

- Pamela McFetridge, owner of The Scenic Inn

Life’s Always Greener with GreenThumb

For many of us, a lawn is far more than just grass. It’s the place where memories are made, where friends gather for summer BBQs, children play freely and you can simply relax. It’s where long summer evenings are spent with a drink in hand and good company. But a lawn like that doesn’t happen by accident. It happens with GreenThumb. And the secret to a vibrant, welcoming outdoor space in summer is giving your lawn the right start in spring.

With nearly 40 years of expertise and a programme of seasonal treatments tailored to the needs of your lawn, GreenThumb helps homeowners create and maintain outdoor spaces that don’t just look good, they feel right for everyday life.

Our approach is simple: care for your lawn throughout the year. Spring isn’t just when grass begins to grow again, it’s when your lawn’s health is set for the months ahead. It’s

the season to deal with underlying issues that hold your lawn back: weeds, compacted soil, thatch build-up, bare patches and the lingering effects of winter. GreenThumb handles it all. Our seasonal treatments focus on building strong roots, encouraging fresh growth and preventing problems before they start.

Our programmes are backed by decades of experience. From targeted fertilisation that gives your grass exactly what it needs, to aeration and scarification that improve soil airflow and root development, every treatment is designed to strengthen and revitalise your lawn from the ground up.

Gardens also face the challenges of increasing dry spells. Innovations such as GreenThumb’s Oasis treatment help lawns retain moisture more effectively, reducing the need for constant watering, while ensuring nutrients are properly absorbed. During peak summer months, this added resilience makes

all the difference. And for lawns showing signs of stress, the NutraBooster treatment provides an intensive liquid feed that restores strength and encourages healthy, robust growth throughout the grass.

Of course, professional care works best alongside a few simple seasonal habits. Avoid cutting your lawn too short, slightly longer blades help shade the soil and retain moisture during warmer months. Where possible, reduce heavy shade from overhanging trees to allow sunlight and airflow to reach the grass. And regularly clear away leaves, toys or furniture that may block light or trap moisture. Small steps like this support the professional care your lawn receives and help maintain that lush, healthy finish all summer long.

With GreenThumb, your lawn becomes more than just a patch of grass. It’s about what it allows you to do. Picture your garden on a warm summer evening: chairs set out, music playing softly, drinks flowing and laughter between friends. That’s the kind of space people want. A backdrop to celebrations, quiet moments and simply being outdoors with family, from the first spring sunshine through the long summer nights, and all year-round.

Because life is always greener, with GreenThumb.

BELFAST EXPOSED ‘BIEN’ EXHIBITION

Belfast Exposed partnered with the Office of Identity and Cultural Expression to culminate with the ‘BIEN’ (British? Irish? Either? Neither?) photography exhibition and an accompanying programme of readings, performances and talks exploring identity, cultural heritage and belonging in Northern Ireland. The exhibition is running from 15th April - 25th May 2026 and is free and open to the public. The showcase brings together acclaimed photographers, whose works explore identity, heritage, landscape and belonging across the cultural spectrum of Northern Ireland.

Cranfield Bay: 028 417 65242

Mourneview: 028 437 23327

Silvercove: 028 417 63136

Pebble Beach: 028 417 631 36

Shanlieve: 028 417 64344

Cranfield House: 028 417 64344

Groomsport Bay: 028 9146 4323