Life

What's On: Antrim Eye the star attraction in castle gardens this winter

Jacqueline McGonigle of whatsonni.com shares her pick of family events this week across Northern Ireland

The Argory Estate in Moy, Co Armagh, is the place to see Santa by train this weekend
The Argory Estate in Moy, Co Armagh, is the place to see Santa by train this weekend The Argory Estate in Moy, Co Armagh, is the place to see Santa by train this weekend

ANTRIM

Enchanted Winter Garden returns to Antrim Castle Gardens bigger and better than ever before from this Saturday until December 19. This year’s new features include the star attraction, Antrim Eye – a 40m Ferris wheel where star gazing over Antrim Town and beyond will be one of the highlights of your visit.

ARMAGH

Take a magical train journey around the Argory Estate in Moy to see Santa in his grotto and meet his team of helpers from the North Pole. Includes complimentary festive refreshments. Booking Essential. December 7-10 and 13-17 from 4pm-8pm. Adult £7, child £15, member adult £7, member child £15.

BELFAST

Christmas Supper (a two course traditional Christmas dinner followed by Tea and Coffee) with a live performance from the fabulous Belfast Community Gospel Choir this Thursday December 7 at the Stormont Hotel from 7pm. Visit hastingshotels.com to book.

DERRY

Step back in time to Westeros this Christmas and enjoy a Game of Thrones-themed medieval banquet this Friday at the Waterfoot Hotel. The banquet will have Game of Thrones-themed props and music. Mulled cider reception, then a three-course meal plus live entertainment by The Hit Men & Silver Fox DJ.

DOWN

Take some time to leave the hustle and bustle of the high street behind and explore the candlelit Ballycultra village to experience Christmas from 100 years ago at the Ulster Folk & Transport Museum this Friday, December 8. Visit beautiful festive homes, sample seasonal treats by a cosy peat fire, and listen to the rousing, seasonal anthems performed by brass bands and carol singers. Opening hours 6pm – 9pm.

FERMANAGH

Join SHARE for a special, festive cruise of Upper Lough Erne on board the Inishcruiser on Saturday. Christmas High Tea cruise tasty festive treats including mulled wine, shortbread and mince pies, alongside other traditional high tea treats. These can be enjoyed as you cruise beautiful Upper Lough Erne towards Crom Estate. The cruise lasts approx 1.5-two hours. Booking essential.

TYRONE

Join the Silverbirch Hotel in Omagh this Christmas for a festive celebration for the whole family with their Santa Sunday Lunch. The children will be thoroughly entertained with the kids Christmas party and disco from 2pm-4pm. Contact the Christmas co-ordinator to book: 028 8224 2520.

:: For more details on these events and to add your events free go to whatsonni.com. Follow us on twitter @whatsonNI and on facebook at fb.com/www.whatsonni.com for news, competitions and what’s on near you.