Poots launches European Heritage Open Days

This weekend, the 12-13 September, Northern Ireland will see over 260 events taking place as part of European Heritage Open Days.

This festival of culture and built heritage, which is organised by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA), is designed to encourage people of all ages to discover Northern Ireland’s rich architecture, which is part of our wider European Heritage.

Environment Minister Edwin Poots said: “During the weekend over 260 events will take place across Northern Ireland, which include the opening of many buildings which are otherwise closed throughout the rest of the year.

“We are fortunate to have a rich built heritage and its diversity is reflected in the range of buildings whose doors will be open, free of charge, this weekend.”

Some of the events and properties to visit over the weekend include:

• A walking tour of Carrickfergus with author and historian Ruairi O’Baoill.
• Dunluce Castle will be brought to life with musicians and storytellers.
• A 100km bike ride along the course of the Blackwater, passing through 3 counties and 3 historic estates – Castle Leslie, Caledon and Favour Royal.
• A walking tour highlighting the history under Belfast’s streets.
• A chance to visit Stormont Castle and Parliament Buildings.
• Armagh Planetarium where visitors can experience the splendour of our night sky, see the constellations, and touch Ireland’s biggest meteorite.
• Heritage workshops at Bagenal’s Castle, Newry which was built in the 1560s on a site of a Cistercian Abbey.
• Operating signalling equipment and sending messages by Morse Code at Headhunters Railway Museum, Enniskillen.
• An opportunity to view the recently conserved Playhouse in Derry, which featured in BBC’s ‘Restoration’ programme.

The Minister added: "European Heritage Open Days are about people and places; it celebrates community and reflects the importance of the built environment in our lives and to our quality of life. It is organised by local people who dedicate their spare time to opening properties and staging activities, and it is their knowledge and enthusiasm that makes European Heritage Open Days happen.

“I wish to offer my particular thanks to all the owners who are, so generously, opening their buildings to the public."

European Heritage Open Days brochures are available from your local library or Tourist Information Centre, alternatively log on to www.wonderfulni.info to find out about more properties opening near you.

Notes to editors:

1. EHOD is now in its twelfth year in Northern Ireland and last year attracted over 52, 000 visitors.

2. All media inquiries should be directed to the Department of the Environment Press Office on 028 9054 0003. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned