The Wickerman Gathering
Navan Centre & Fort
1st August 2015
6.00pm- 10.00pm
Cost: Family (2adults & up to 3 children) £25.00, Adult £8.00, Child £5.00
An evening where fire, storytelling, dance and music celebrate the ancient festival of Lunasa.
Activities include:
Live music, traditional dance lessons, storytelling, kids activities & crafts, Armagh Rhymers, feasting, ceili and Wickerman fire ceremony.
Bring a picnic or try our Celtic BBQ for an additional cost.
Event not suitable for under 4 year olds. Pre-booking is essential. Book before 24th July & receive 10% discount on admission charges.
81 Killylea Road
Armagh
BT60 4LD
Tel: 028 37529644
Web: www.navan.com
Navan Centre & Fort
Daily throughout July
Monday – Saturday 10am -6:30pm
(Last admission 5pm)
COST: Adult £6.40, Child £4.25, Concession £5.30, Family £17.50
As one of Ireland’s most famous and important archaeological sites,
the legendary Emain Macha, home of the famous Red Branch Knights
and Ulster Cycle of tales’, is a place where myth and reality meets – a
must see on any visit to Armagh!
The Centre offers visitors a unique appreciation of the history of the
area.
Exhibition hall on the site and its archaeological history
Living History
Guided tour to the great Navan Fort
Learn about the mystical characters of the site such as
Cu Chulainn and the Red Branch Knights
April – September children’s fun…daily admission includes face painting, dressing up, craft activities, quest trail, eco trail and eco warrior.
Exhibition has a restaurant/café and is multi-lingual French, German, Spanish and Italian.
81 Killylea Road
Armagh
BT60 4LD
Tel: 028 37529644
Web: www.navan.com
Day Tours from Belfast to Armagh, Ireland’s Ancient Cathedral City.
Every Friday & Saturday until Saturday 29th August 2015.
Departs 10.00am from Visit Belfast Welcome Centre.
£15.00 return coach trip. (Discounted entry rates are available at a
number of attractions upon presentation of the tour ticket.)
Armagh has a significance that has been felt across the island of Ireland for over 6500 years. There are many special things to experience in the Ancient Cathedral City, ranging from the historically unique Navan Fort, Ireland’s only Planetarium, two Saint Patrick’s Cathedrals, stunning architecture and the chance to enjoy the rural ambience of over 4,000 acres of apple orchards. Book a day tour to Armagh and choose what you want to see!
Itinerary:
10:00am: Depart Visit Belfast
10:30am: Drop off – Lough Neagh Discovery Centre
10:45am: Drop off – Rushmere Shopping Centre
11:00am: Drop off – Apple Juice & Cider Tour @ Armagh Cider Company
11:15am: Arrive in Armagh. Stops at:
1. Armagh Planetarium
2. Armagh County Museum
3. Armagh Gaol
4. Navan Centre & Fort
5. Saint Patrick’s Catholic Cathedral
6. Saint Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral
12:00pm: Collection – Armagh Cider Company
12:15pm: Collection/Drop off – Rushmere Shopping Centre
12:30pm: Collection/Drop off – Lough Neagh Discovery Centre
1:00pm: Arrive in Armagh. Stops at
1. Armagh Planetarium
2. Armagh County Museum
3. Armagh Gaol
4. Navan Centre & Fort
5. Saint Patrick’s Catholic Cathedral
6. Saint Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral
4:00pm: Collections at
Armagh Planetarium
Armagh County Museum
Armagh Gaol
Navan Centre & Fort
Saint Patrick’s Catholic Cathedral
Saint Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral
4:15pm: Depart Armagh
4:45pm: Collection – Rushmere Shopping Centre
5:00pm: Collection – Lough Neagh Discovery Centre
5.30pm: Drop off – Visit Belfast Welcome Centre
Tickets bookable via Visit Belfast Welcome Centre on
+44 (0) 28 9024 6609
Tickets purchased for a Friday are valid for Saturday return. For a list of accommodation available in Armagh please visit www.armagh.com
Guided Armagh Gaol Tours
1st, 2nd, 8th, 9th, 15th & 16th August
11am, 12:30pm, 2pm and 3:30pm
Adults £7.00, Conc £6.00, Children (5-16years) £5.50, Family (2A & 2C)
£20.00, Group Rates (15+) £5.00
Armagh Gaol is one of Northern Ireland’s most important landmark buildings. Steeped in history, for most of its working life Armagh Gaol was the primary women’s prison in Northern Ireland until its closure in 1986. The Gaol is Grade B+ listed and has been vacant for over 20 years. The construction of the prison began in the 1780’s and it was extended in the style of Pentonville Prison in the 1840 and 1850s. The Gaol was largely designed by two of Ireland’s most renowned architects, Francis Cooley and William Murray.
Armagh Gaol consisted of three prisons – one for women, one for debtors and one for felons. Executions were common, taking place in the Gaol square, but were later moved behind the prison walls. The last man to be executed at Armagh gaol was Joseph Fee in 1904.
In the latter half of the 20th century, the Gaol accommodated high-profile political prisoners. Although the prison is often described as Armagh women’s Gaol, at various points in its history, various wings in the prison were used to hold male prisoners. Due to the growing prison population during the Troubles, Armagh also housed male remand and sentenced prisoners.
In 2009 it was announced that the prison was part of plans for major redevelopment including the construction of a hotel and accommodation. Today the Gaol is opened on a temporary basis, giving the public the opportunity to see the Gaol in its original state before work commences. This tour informs you about the Gaol’s history that includes women and children imprisonment and the executions that took place in the grounds
Due to the popularity of these tours, it is advisable to book in advance.
Tel: 028 9035 7527 or book online at www.armaghgaoltours.com
Armagh City Walking Tours
Departs Armagh Visitor Information Centre
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday throughout August
11.00am - 12.15pm & 12.30pm - 1.45pm (each day)
£3.00 per person
As Ireland’s Ecclesiastical capital, many impressive sites and attractions can be found in Armagh. From pre-historic Ireland to an unmatched Georgian architecture, modern day Armagh is built against a rich backdrop of history, clearly visible through its historic buildings and open spaces. For those who want to explore everything the City has to offer, a guided walking tour is a must. You’ll walk through Armagh’s rich history as you hear stories and anecdotes about the area, learn about the City’s renowned Georgian architecture and stroll along the distinct cobbled streets as you unearth some of the City’s hidden gems along the way.
DEPARTURE POINT: Armagh Visitor Information Centre
OTHER INFORMATION: Suitable footwear recommended. Please be aware that tours may contain steps, slopes and hills.
BOOKING DETAILS: Book online or at Armagh Visitor Information Centre.
Armagh Visitor Information Centre
40 English Street
Armagh
BT61 7BA
Tel: 028 37521800
Email: vic@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk
Web: www.armagh.co.uk
Guided Tours – Saint Patrick’s Cathedral [Catholic]
Every Friday and Saturday throughout August
3.00pm (each day)
£2.00 per person
Public guided tours of Saint Patrick’s Catholic Cathedral are now available at 3.00pm every Friday and Saturday. Come and see the architecture and stained glass windows, and hear the history of this beautiful building which took over 60 years to complete and now dominates the skyline of Armagh City. Tours cost £2.00 per person and tickets can be purchased from the Cathedral shop.
*Please note, there may be a small number of occasions, due to masses and services, where scheduled guided tours may not be possible. Private group tours are also available by arrangement on 028 37522813.
Saint Patrick's Catholic Cathedral,
Cathedral Road,
Armagh
Tel: 028 37522813
Email: armaghparish@btinernet.com
Web: www.armagharchdiocese.org
Apple Juice & Cider Tours
Armagh Apple Farm
Friday and Saturday throughout August
11:00am
£5.00 per person (Pre-booking essential)
As the Orchard County of Ireland, Armagh is home to many artisan apple juice and cider producers. Visitors can take a tour of the Troughton’s family orchard; home to Armagh Cider Company. On the tour you will get a chance to stroll through the orchard, learn about the history of apple growing in the region and get a “behind the scenes” glimpse into the production method of artisan juice and cider. You will also have the chance to make your own apple juice before sampling some of the juice and cider produce. Tours include a ‘goodie’ bag to take home.
Tours take place each Friday and Saturday at 11.00am and last approximately one hour.
(Pre-booking essential with Armagh Cider Company on +44 (0) 28 3833 4268. Minimum 6 per group)
Ballinteggart House
73 Drumnasoo Road
Armagh
Tel: 028 3833 4268
Music on the Mall
The Mall, Armagh
Saturday 1st August
6.15pm – 7.30pm: Commons Silver Band
Armagh’s iconic Mall will come alive with the sound of music throughout August as it plays host to a series of musical performances on the bandstand each Friday and Saturday. The free musical events will showcase a wide selection of local musicians ranging from the world-famous Armagh Rhymers to easy listening jazz music, Irish folk music, silver bands, classical brass ensembles and traditional music. Two performances will take place each day with the afternoon performance from 4.30pm – 5.45pm and the evening music commencing at 6.15pm – 7.30pm.
Gather your friends and family, pack up a picnic hamper and enjoy an afternoon/evening of entertainment on the bandstand. Visitors are welcome to bring along their chairs, blankets and games to enjoy.
NEW DIGITAL THEATRE SHOWS
Armagh Planetarium
Open 7 days per week throughout August
Shows run on the hour – first show at 11am, last show 4pm
Adult £6, Child/Concession £5, Family Ticket £20
Armagh Planetarium is open 7 days a week throughout August with 6 Digital Theatre Shows playing each day. This summer sees two brand new shows make a debut in Armagh.
“Exploding Universe”: Out of devastating events in the cosmos comes new creation. Find out how explosive phenomena are responsible for the way we see the Universe today.
“Accidental Astronauts”: Follow the adventures of Sy and Annie and their dog Armstrong as they embark on an unexpected journey into space! Explore the Earth, Sun and Moon system in this space adventure for the whole family.
College Hill
Armagh
BT61 9DB
Tel: 028 3752 3689
Shambles Artisan Food and Craft Market
Shambles Yard, Cathedral Road, Armagh
Saturday 15th August
10:30am – 4:30pm
Free Entry
The Shambles Yard will host a monthly Artisan Food & Craft Market in the newly redeveloped Shambles Yard, from May through to August on, Saturday 9th May, Saturday 20th June, Saturday 18th July and Saturday 15th August, from 10:30am-4pm. A feast for the senses the Shambles Artisan Food and Craft Markets will offer a range of food, drinks and crafts from local and regional producers and crafters; which are home grown, reared, brewed, baked, processed, made and carved by the stall holders themselves. Budding crafters and chefs can learn the secrets of the crafts and pick up a few culinary tips at one of the many demonstrations and be entertained by the musical talent of our local musicians.
Are you a crafter or producer interested in taking a stall or demonstrating, please contact Joleen McColgan, Development Officer (Markets & Open Spaces), Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, T: 028 3752 9600.
The Shambles Yard
Cathedral Road
Armagh
BT61 7QX
Tel: 028 37529600
E: joleenmccolgan@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk
Shambles Variety Market
Shambles Yard, Cathedral Road, Armagh
Every Tuesday and Friday throughout August
8:00am – 4:00pm
Free Entry
Shambles Variety Market is held every Tuesday and Friday, 8am-4pm, at the Shambles Yard, Cathedral Road, Armagh City.
The Shambles Yard with its unique position between Armagh City’s two Cathedrals, has a long tradition of hosting markets. Having market rights since the 15th Century, a Corn market was established in 1827, selling a wide range of goods including grain, grass seed, hay, straw and pork. The market evolved into a cattle market until the 1970’s and in 1990 it became today’s weekly variety market, where stalls can be found not only in the open trading space but also inside the listed Johnston Building.
Today’s market hosts a variety of stalls selling local fruit and vegetables, freshly caught fish and a speciality bakery catering for our ever changing dietary needs selling spelt, gluten, wheat and sugar free goods. You will find an extensive range of pies and oven ready meals made using the finest local ingredients and delicious homemade jams. Not all about food, the market has a vibrant display of flowers and plants, handmade greeting cards, giftware, pictures to brighten your home and a bespoke picture framing service. As well as gents clothing, work wear, ladies and men’s shoes, a wide selection of household goods, haberdashery and a watch repair service.
If you are interested in becoming a trader at the market or utilising the performance and display space, please contact Joleen Mc Colgan, Development Officer (Markets & Open Spaces), Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, T: 028 3752 9600
Visitor Information Centre
40 English Street
Armagh
BT61 7BA
Tel: 028 3752 1800
Armagh parkrun – Weekly Free 5km Timed Run
Palace Demesne Public Park, Armagh
Every Saturday throughout August
9:30am
Free (Please register)
What is Armagh parkrun?
It is a 5km run – it’s you against the clock.
When is it?
Every Saturday at 9:30am.
Where is it?
It’s run in Palace Demesne Public Park, Armagh. See Course page for more details.
What does it cost to join in?
Nothing – it’s free! But please register before your first run. Only ever register with parkrun once. Don’t forget to bring a printed copy of your barcode (request a reminder). If you forget it, you won’t get a time.
How fast do I have to be?
We all run for our own enjoyment. Please come along and join in whatever your pace!
Armagh parkrun needs you!
Email: armaghhelpers@parkrun.com to help.
We’re friendly!
Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in The Moody Boar restaurant onsite within the stables courtyard offering fresh homemade food – please come and join us!
Tel: 028 3752 1800
Bookplates Exhibition
Armagh Public Library
Monday – Friday: 10am-1pm and 2pm – 4pm throughout August
(Other times available on request)
Free
Originating in Germany in the fifteenth century, bookplates became popular in Ireland from the eighteenth-century. A unique decorative plate or stamp was inserted into the inside cover of a book to show that it was part of a person’s collection. Usually this comprised an ornate composition of a family’s crest and coat of arms, and often included other motifs and mottos unique to the owner’s occupation or interests. For bookplates without an accompanying signature, such symbolism was designed to be specific enough to identify the owner.
In more recent times, bookplates have become an area of study for those interested in the history of books, art and the families that owned them. They show clearly how the artistry involved developed, and how they became more elaborate and unique to the owner as the practice became more popular.
The exhibition has been produced by the Library’s Archivist, Thirza Mulder and Shannon Devlin, an MA intern from Queen’s University, Belfast. Keeper of the Library, the Very Revd Gregory Dunstan, said, “Books, once published, acquire a history of their own, of those who owned them, read them, and made notes in them. Bookplates record the acquisition of great libraries in good times and the sale and dispersal of those libraries as family fortunes waned. They are a personal and tangible link with previous generations of scholars and lovers of learning.”
43 Abbey Street
Armagh
BT61 7DY
Tel: 028 37523142
E: admin@armaghpubliclibrary.co.uk
Web: www.armaghpubliclibrary.arm.ac.uk
Holding the Line’ Exhibition
Royal Irish Fusiliers Museum
Normal Opening hours throughout August
Monday – Friday 10am – 12:20pm and 1:30 – 4pm and the
first Saturday of each Month (May to September)
Free
As World War One raged through 1915, the regular army was close to decimation! They were holding the line in anticipation of Kitchener’s Volunteers and the relief they would bring!
This new exhibition portrays the part played by the Royal Irish Fusiliers in the campaigns of Gallipoli, Salonika and the Western Front.
One man’s fate would inspire his Commander to write “under fire he was one of those who did not know what fear was”.
Sovereigns House
Mall East
Armagh
BT61 9DL
Tel: 028 3752 2911
E: fusiliersmuseum@yahoo.co.uk
Children’s Festival Day
Ardmore Recreation Grounds, Armagh
1st August 2015
10.30am – 2.30pm
Free
A great day out for children, everyone welcome to come along and join in the fun!
Bouncy Castles
Obstacle Course
Balloon Modelling & Magic Man
Face Painting
The Fun Bus
BBQ
Plus: Girls 5-a-Side Football Tournament (Teams aged 11-13 and 5-11 years)
Tug of War Competition
For further information and registration pack for football tournament
Email: armaghboysandgirlsclub@yahoo.co.uk
Telephone: 07960272389
All Ireland Road Bowls Final
Blackwatertown Road
1st & 2nd August
11.00am
According to the rules of the Bol Chumann na hEireann, the Irish Road Bowling Association, the road bowler throws a 28 ounce (1.75 pounds or 800 grams) cast-iron sphere that looks like a small cannonball.
It’s called a ‘bowl’ in County Cork, but in County Armagh fans call it a ‘bullet’. The road bowler tries to move the bullet from the start to the finish of a pre-determined course in as few drives or throws as possible.
Today road bowling is a popular competitive sport where it is played, but the most vigorous competitions are in two Irish counties: Armagh and Cork.
The All Ireland Road Bowls Finals take place on the Blackwatertown Road on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd August, commencing at 11.00am.
Tel: 028 3756 8691
Blackwatertown Road
Armagh
BT61 8EZ
Ranger Round-Up at the Argory
The Argory
2nd 9th & 16th August 2015
2:00pm – 4.00pm
Adult £5.25, Child £2.50, Family £13.00
Join Rudy-Ranger on an all-weather exploration of The Argory. Make mud pies, set up a snail race, find a mini-beast, explore in our play area and toast marshmallows on the campfire. Additional charge for ranger activity, £5 per child.
Tel: 028 8778 4753
Email: argory@nationaltrust.org.uk
Web: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/argory
144 Derrycaw Road
Moy
Co Armagh
BT71 6NA
Hackathon
The Amma Centre
6th August 2015
10.00am – 3.00pm
£5:00
Overload yourself with the coolest new technology and gadgets! Explore robotics, programming, mini-drones and much more in the 1-day jam packed event. No previous experience required but if you have something you want to share or show off, this is your chance!
1-day workshop
Number of Places: 20
Age: 10 – 15
For any enquiries please contact
Roberta Morton at AmmA on [028] 3751 2920.
Market House
Market Street
Armagh
BT61 7BU
Rhythm Collision (2-day Workshop)
6th – 7th August 2015
3:00pm (Daily)
£5.00 per day
In this 2-day workshop participants will work with a professional drummer, exploring rhythms and styles using not just professional equipment but using everyday objects to create rhythms and textures. This workshop will give students the opportunity to record their performances in the AmmA recording studio.
Number of Places: 6 Age: 13 – 17
For any enquiries please contact
Roberta Morton at AmmA on [028] 3751 2920.
Market House
Market Street
Armagh
BT61 7BU
7 Hills Blues Fest
Various Locations in Armagh City
6th – 9th August 2015
Already an established event on the Blues calendar, this event grows each year providing musical therapy for all ages. From Chicago Rhythm to Funk Style, this festival brings some the finest Blues bands to the atmospheric streets of Armagh. Local bands take their place amongst top class international acts from across Europe, USA and further afield, ensuring that The 7 Hills Festival goers are in for a real treat! Fringe events add an artistic and family-orientated buzz to the Festival, with eateries and shops getting involved to bring a real Blues feel to the whole City Centre. A weekend not to be missed…..
Over 60 free Gigs plus:
Art On The Rails
Blues 4 Kids Workshops
Blues Picnic In The Palace Park
Blues Supper Club
Busking Competition
Shambles Sunday Blues-Family Fun, Food & Local Cider Market
Shop To The beat Of The Blues
Tel: 028 3752 1800
Email: vic@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk
40 English Street
Armagh
BT61 7BA
Introduction to Game Design with Unity3D
The Amma Centre
7th August 2015
10.00am-3.00pm
Cost: £5:00
An introduction to the powerful Unity3D game engine which has been used to create countless games for all the major game consoles and mobile devices. Students will learn how to :
Understand the basics of the Unity3D game engine;
Create 3D game levels with geometry, textures, lighting and particle systems;
Create advanced particles and effects;
Create first and third person game controllers;
Publish games to the iPhone, iPad, Android, and desktop.
1-day workshop
Number of Places: 10
Age: 13 – 16
For any enquiries please contact
Roberta Morton at AmmA on [028] 3751 2920.
Market House
Market Street
Armagh
BT61 7BU
Go Batty – Ardress House
Ardress House
7.30pm-late
7th August
Adult £5.25 Child £2.50 Family £13 Members Free Admission
Help identify all eight of Northern Ireland’s bat species that live at Ardress House and make some batty crafts to take home.
Tel: 028 8778 4753
Email: ardress@nationaltrust.org.uk
Web: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ardress-house
Annaghmore
County Armagh
BT62 1SQ
August Summer Music in Market Square
Market Square Armagh
3.00pm
8th & 15th August 2015
Market Square will come alive during the month of August with music on the bandstand in Market Square, showcasing a range of local talent. From toe tapping your feet to the best of the Blues to the traditional sounds of the award winning Armagh Pipers you’re sure to be entertained
Music in Market Square Programme:
Saturday 8th August
3pm-5pm: Crow Catz
Saturday 15th
9am-5pm: Students from the Marty Rafferty School of Music
Tel: 028 3752 1800
Email: vic@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk
40 English Street
Armagh
BT61 7BA
Photography - 2-day workshop
The Amma Centre
10th & 11th August 2015
£5:00 per day
Take your photo skills beyond selfies and food pics on your smartphone! Working with either your own camera or one of AmmA’s, you’ll learn the tricks and techniques behind award winning photos. You’ll be challenged to capture and edit your own creative images to be showcased at our very own exhibition.
For any enquiries please contact Roberta Morton at AmmA on [028] 3751 2920.
2-day workshop
Number of Places: 12
Age: 14 – 18
Market House
Market Street
Armagh
BT61 7BU
Cinematography
The Amma Centre
12th August 2015
10.00am-3.00pm
Cost: £5:00
Digital SLR cameras are becoming more and more popular and available, in part due to the amazing quality video that they can capture. Many people are using these cameras to create professional, cinematic films. Using AmmA Centre equipment, this course will look at how to get the best out of the video capabilities of a DSLR, from settings to accessories, filming and editing.
1-day workshop
Number of Places: 12
Age: 14 – 18
For any enquiries please contact Roberta Morton at AmmA on [028] 3751 2920.
Market House
Market Street
Armagh
BT61 7BU
Equipment for Creative Filmmaking
The Amma Centre
14th August 2015
10.00 am-3.00pm
Cost: £5:00
Jib. Crane. Dolly. Gimbal. Not characters from a popular fantasy TV series or film, but the equipment that’s used in their productions. Using the AmmA Centre’s equipment, you’ll get hands on experience with industry quality equipment, to achieve shots that just aren’t possible with a camera and tripod. A great learning experience and introduction to one of the most exciting departments in filmmaking – “The Grip and Camera Department”.
1-day workshop
Number of Places: 12
Age: 14 – 18
For any enquiries please contact Roberta Morton at AmmA on [028] 3751 2920.
Market House
Market Street
Armagh
BT61 7BU
Special Service of Choral Evensong
Saint Patrick's Church of Ireland Cathedral
14th August 2015
5.00pm
Armagh Special Service of Choral Evensong sung by the choir of Fitzwilliam College Cambridge takes place in Saint Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral on Friday 14th August at 5.00pm
Responses – Smith; Setting – Sumsion in G; Anthem – ‘Holy is the true light’ (Harris).
Cathedral Close
Armagh
BT61 7EE
Tel: 028 3752 3142
Email: admin@armaghpubliclibrary.co.uk
Web: www.stpatricks-cathedral.org
The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre
The Market Place Theatre’s summer programme continues, presenting a wide variety of shows featuring the very best in music, drama and comedy.
You are sure to find something to appeal!
For further information or to book any of the shows please
telephone the box office on 028 3752 1821 or online at