Northern Ireland's Outdoor Adventure Blog

Time 2021-10-21 22:03:51

Web Name: Northern Ireland's Outdoor Adventure Blog

WebSite: http://www.outdoorni.com

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Welcome to Northern Ireland's Outdoor Adventure Blog. This blog will keep readers up to speed with all things adventure in Northern Ireland this year. The OutdoorNI team will be posting up new and exciting information on the best ways to get out and enjoy the Northern Irish countryside whilst industry professionals will be letting us into their tips of the trade in order to get the best from Northern Irelands ultimate activity playground!

This blog is packed full of useful information for everybody looking to take part in outdoor activities from the hardcore adrenaline junkie to those simply looking for some fun ideas for all the family.

This outdoor adventure blog will cover a range of land, water and air based activities such as caving, coasteering, hover crafting, zorbing, surfing, sky diving and many more. You can also find more activity specific information by visiting the other three blog sections on cycling, canoeing and walking.

October 13, 2021

Riding Out in Northern Ireland

August 18, 2021

Open Day with Antrim Boat Club

June 9, 2021

Get Wet This Weekend

May 20, 2021

Get Ready to Get Wet in 2021!

May 6, 2021

Winners of the 2020 - 2021 MountainBikeNI Awards

October 2021

August 2021

June 2021

May 2021

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December 2020

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Riding Out in Northern IrelandPosted on October 13, 2021 @ 1:08 PM in

RIDING OUT IN NORTHERN IRELAND - Share the Space

The British Horse Society have launched a brand-new video aimed at educating users of shared space and multi-user* routes in Northern Ireland.

Enjoy, share and remember be polite, say hi! and stay on the #RightSideOfOutside

*Multi-user is defined as Walkers, Cyclists and Horse Riders

Top Tips for Mountain Bikers

Be nice, say hi be polite and respect othersEnsure you pass horses and others safely if youre unsure, stopKeep dogs on a lead and under close controlLook after the places you loveLeave no trace of litter

Did you know...

There are not enough safe off-road places for equestrians to access in Northern Ireland. Despite being Horse Country there is a staggering lack of legal Public Rights of Way which include equestrian rights. A total of under 1% of the Public Right of Way Network in Northern Ireland provides access for equestrians. This is considerably less than the neighbouring countries of England and Wales where 22% of the network is available, 5% of which is accessible to carriage drivers.Horse riders are vulnerable road users, just like walkers and cyclists. Sadly, there have been 4,140 incidents in the UK reported to the BHS since 201076% were in rural areas 89% involved vehicles passing too close or too fast to the horse.In 2020, there were 46 horses killed on rural roads, 118 horses and 130 riders injured as a result of a collision with a vehicle. The vast majority of equestrians use the road as they have no safe off-road alternative. Some hack to, or transport a horse to an access site such as a forest or beach; however these type of sites are not readily or sufficiently available throughout Northern Ireland.

What are The British Horse Society doing about it?

The BHS are working hard with the Northern Ireland government on a national and local level, engaging with key stakeholders including The Ramblers, The Disabled Ramblers, Sustrans, Cycling UK and landowners to open and protect safe off-road access for equestrians. The majority of these routes are multiuser and are therefore places that are also shared with and enjoyed by walkers and cyclists. Together, we have been making very positive progress. Watch this space.

To learn more about our work to improve access in Northern Ireland click here: www.bhs.org.uk/ireland

To support the great work achieved by the BHS, join as a member here from as little as 7/month: www.bhs.org.uk/membership

0 comments  •  Post a commentElizabeth Birtley  Executive Project Lead Communications at British Horse Society

Share on:TwitterFacebookDiggStumbleUponRedditDeliciousWhat's this?Open Day with Antrim Boat ClubPosted on August 18, 2021 @ 11:29 AM in

Arriving at a water sport open day can initially feel slightly daunting. Your mind tends to tell you that not only are you surrounded by seasoned pros, and you are literally the only person who wont be able to do the activity, but that the activity itself is going to be way beyond your capabilities.

In reality, an open day is literally for beginners. There are going to be plenty of people in the same boat as you (ha!), excited to dip their toe (ha!) and feeling like they havent a clue what to do.

Thats where clubs come into their own.

Water sports clubs have a structure that understands the needs of people that are trying a sport for the first time. So, when I arrived at Antrim Boat Clubwho were running an introductory open day as part of the #GetWet campaign, it took only a minute or two before a friendly member stopped to ask if they could help.

Im here to try the gig boat? I dont really know what a gig boat is, but the girl smiles and tells me where to wait.

A short time later weve met our crew. Katie, Michael, Fintan, Rachel and Deirdre are an amazing advertisement for their club. Theyre like the cast of a cool TV show, each with their own unique style and approach. After helping us on board, we pushed off from the dock and set out into the belly of Lough Neagh.

The departure was a lesson in itself the gig boat needs rowed, and at probably 30 feet long with a relatively small crew, that means a BIG row. Its a full body movement, synchronised by Katie who took the lead for this section of our trip.

Whilst a small part of me felt bad that I wasnt pulling my weight (again, literally water sports really lend themselves to these sayings) it was hard not to fall in love with the feeling of heading out into the water with a crew that really knew what they were doing.

A few minutes later and everyone swapped places on the boat to raise the sails and Michael took over the command.

He explained this group had been sailing together for years abroad and had competed (successfully on numerous occasions) while representing Northern Ireland.

I got sucked into the joy of sailing as Michael explained all of this, particularly as we got further out from shore and the relaxing swell of the Lough rocked us gently back and forth. The rest of the crew were able to relax as well now, sitting down for a chat and a laugh while Michael continued to explain the various parts of how the boat worked.

For a beginner, he explained, it would all be relatively straightforward to start. They would do just as we were doing coming out with a crew and watching what they did, but mainly developing a love for the feeling of being in the water. Gradually, you will be given small jobs to do help to row, hold a rope etc. until you feel comfortable with those. After that, there are any number of things to go on to learn and specialise in, from tying knots to hoisting sails, to directing the operations.

It genuinely was fascinating, and this from someone from land locked Omagh where a water sports club seemed like a foreign concept.

After a while, the weather was beginning to make its presence known with a couple of warning rolls of thunder. Even that though made for good fun, as the crew laughed at my no doubt slightly concerned face.

Getting off the boat, I was left with no doubt as to why someone would want to join a group like Antrim Boat Club.

Their base of operations is a lovely secluded bit of land that lends itself to some incredibly dramatic sunrises and sunsets. They have a club house, currently being renovated, with all the facilities you could imagine (including a very reasonably priced bar) and great connections with all of the other local groups involved in the water.

If you want to give yourself a treat, please try the club out. Contact them on Facebook, explain that youd heard about sailing and youd like to give it a go and I promise, youll not regret it.

0 comments  •  Post a commentEthan Loughrey  Mountain Bike Officer

Hardest thing about Mountain Biking? Definitely the trees.

Share on:TwitterFacebookDiggStumbleUponRedditDeliciousWhat's this?Get Wet This WeekendPosted on June 9, 2021 @ 3:37 PM in

As everything is finally getting back to normal, it is time for you to get out and experience something new! This weekend is the perfect time to GetWet, and with a range of events taking place, there is something for everybody! The GetWet campaign encourages everyone, no matter how much experience to come out and dip their toe into the water (sports).

ST. AYLES SKIFF ROWING FOR BEGINNERS

The St. Ayles skiff rowing for beginners is the perfect taster for you to get into rowing. Held at Killyleagh Harbour, catering for two age ranges over two days, we can guarantee you will find your new love for water sports.

The open day will last one hour and will consist of basic land-based training to get you prepared for the water. You will then finally get out on the water and give it a go for real. The session will then conclude with a recap of everything you learned on the day. It doesnt stop there, as they encourage you to come back and train with them for Skiffs on the Lake, Skiffie Strangford and or for Skiffie Worlds which takes place in June 2022 in the Netherlands.

The St. Ayles skiff rowing for beginners takes place on Saturday 12^th June between 1.30pm to 5.30pm for those 26 years and older. Sunday 13^th June between 2pm and 6pm caters for those aged 11 to 26 years old. Check out our website for more information, or PM Killyleagh Coastal Rowing Club on Facebook to book!

YOUNG PEOPLE AND CHILDREN TRY SAILING

On Saturday 12^th June, Lisnaskea Boat Club is hosting an introduction to sailing session for all young people and children. The day will consist of a 90 minute introduction to sailing, from learning how to rig in preparation for launch, to steering a sailing boat out on a course on the water. Do not worry, as a qualified instructor will be with you along the way, as well as a safety boat if you happen to get into any difficulty. You will also be kitted out with a wet suit and a buoyancy aid. This introduction is the perfect way to get into sailing, especially from a young age!

The event will take place on Saturday 12^th June, with sessions from 2pm to 3.30pm, and 5.30pm to 7pm. For more information check out our website, or to book contact waveridesireland@gmail.com or call Hugh on 00447894076574 or 00353838201664.

SCULLING FOR WATER ENTHUSIASTS

Lagan Scullers Club is hosting a sculling event on Sunday 13^th June. The event is the perfect way to try your hand at sculling and see Belfast from a different angle by sailing down the Lagan. Firstly, you will practice on the rowing machine to understand the parts of the rowing movement for 30 mins. You will then be entrusted to control the boat by yourself out on the water for 50 mins, however the instructor will be nearby to keep you right. Sculling is a very intense sport, with swimming ability and water confidence required. Once you get the hand of things youll be for the Olympics in no time!

The event is for anyone over the age of 12 years of age and is suitable for families. However, places are limited so if you dont get booked for this weekend, there are other dates in June available! To find out more information visit our website or contact lscullers@hotmail.com to arrange your session!

ST. AYLES SKIFF COASTAL ROWING FOR 16 TO 60+ YEAR OLDS.

Dundrum Coastal Rowing Club are hosting a coastal skiff rowing event. The day will consist of an hour taster session on Dundrum Inner Bay. This is the perfect opportunity to try out coastal skiff rowing, starting with the basics. You will be guided by experienced rowers and coxswains. With all equipment provided, you are encouraged to come and experience the world of skiff rowing, as well as enjoy the beautiful coastal views.

To find out more information check out or website, or to book your spot, contact wgkendall51@gmail.com . Another session will be held in late June if you are unable to get this weekend!

For future Get Wet Events, check out www.getwetni.com

0 comments  •  Post a commentKerry Kirkpatrick  Assistant Marketing and Events Officer

A true North Coast water baby, happiest when on the beach.

Share on:TwitterFacebookDiggStumbleUponRedditDeliciousWhat's this?Get Ready to Get Wet in 2021!Posted on May 20, 2021 @ 4:50 PM in

Get Wet NI

The average person would have jumped at any opportunity to get outdoors in a fun setting this time last year, let alone doing it with other people and the ability to learn a new skill! Covid-19 has fundamentally shifted our relationship with the outdoors and created a new appreciation for the ability to do things, to enjoy ourselves and savour life.

It is the perfect time then, to GetWet a campaign intended to introduce people to watersports in a fun and educational way. GetWetNI kicks off from the end of May with a series of free or much reduced cost taster events throughout Northern Ireland, and will run throughout the remainder of the summer. Below, weve listed just a few of the ones we think you might be interested in! But feel free to check them all out on our website, GetWetNI.com.

Girls in Angling

Camowen Community Anglers are running a free session on angling at Altmore Fishery in Co. Tyrone on Sunday 30^th May.

All equipment is provided for you on the day, you just need to bring your own wellies and waterproof gear. Better still, the organisers are running a competition and have prizes to be won throughout the day! If youre interested in attending, it runs between 11am and 3pm; just drop them an email to camowenanglers@gmail.com

Quoile Yacht Club Taster Events

The Quoile Yacht Club in Downpatrick are running multiple taster events that include dinghy sailing, paddle boarding, canoeing, and cruising. If this doesnt get you excited, were not sure what will! The day is suitable for anyone from the age of 8 up (with under 16s requiring a parent or guardian to be present), and will be lead by qualified instructors.

Again, this event is completely free so youll never have a better opportunity to experience these incredible watersports than this. Sessions run between 11am and 12:30pm, 12:30pm and 2pm and 2pm and 3:30pm, and youll be able to speak to members and officers of the club throughout the day as well.

To get involved in the day, simply email info@quoileyachtclub.com and indicate your preferred session time, how many people are in your party and if any are under 18 and provide a contact mobile number for yourself.

Sculling for Water Enthusiasts

Lagan Scullers Club are offering the chance to try your hand (both hands actually, and your arms also your legs) at rowing in the Lagan, again providing an amazing opportunity to both develop a new skill, get some good exercise in and also see Belfast from a completely different perspective.

A little bit of water confidence is needed for this course as, to reduce physical proximity, youll be in a single boat, with a coach in another boat just alongside you to keep you right.

The sessions themselves are limited to only 4 places per day so the spots will book up fast. With only four places, it means youll be receiving a significant amount of training over the two hours (one of which youll spend in the water, the other out of the water). Youll get to see the variety of boats on offer, try the rowing machine, learn the different rowing movements and then how to control your boat on the water! These sessions are 10 and will run every Sunday throughout June. To book, email lscullers@hotmail.com

Try Kayak Racing

Belfast Canoe Club are the only club in Northern Ireland currently offering tuition in the Olympic discipline of kayak racing. Running on Sunday 6^th June and Wednesday 9^th June, its a fast moving, exciting and energetic sport that the people who do it live for. Youll not be tackling any rapids in this session though, dont worry. Instead, youll be on the placid water of Lough Henney, outside Lisburn which is uniquely suitable for this sport.

During the session, youll learn the difference between kayaks and paddles used for racing and normal kayaks; the principles of paddling fast as well as then an hours coaching on the water.

The training is open to everyone, but the club have advised that their equipment is generally not suitable for children under the age of 10. A maximum of 8 people can attend per session and competent paddlers and those interested in getting involved in racing will have the opportunity to join the club.

To book on, email belfastcanoeclub@gmail.com with your choice of date.

Re-Discover Watersports at Cushendall Sailing and Boating Club

This is another extravaganza of different water sports discipline and absolutely not to be missed out on. CSBC are welcoming people to come along to try out sailing, standup paddleboarding, canoeing and sea swimming, all under the eye of qualified instructors and with all equipment supplied. The sessions will run across two days, on Friday 18^th June and Saturday 19^th June, between 6pm and 8pm both evenings and between 1pm and 3pm on the Saturday afternoon.

In addition to the fantastic watersports opportunities, there will also be a BBQ with firepits on the club patio on both evenings, and the clubhouse bar will be open.

If youd like to book on, you can do it via the clubs website. Visit www.csbc.co.uk now!

For more events, head to www.getwetni.com/events

0 comments  •  Post a commentKerry Kirkpatrick  Assistant Marketing and Events Officer

A true North Coast water baby, happiest when on the beach.

Share on:TwitterFacebookDiggStumbleUponRedditDeliciousWhat's this?Winners of the 2020 - 2021 MountainBikeNI AwardsPosted on May 6, 2021 @ 1:04 PM in

Welcome to the MountainBikeNI Awards, sponsored byChain Reaction Cycles!

Its a wonderful time of year where we can celebrate the very best of mountain biking in Northern Ireland thanks to hundreds of votes across multiple categories, recognising different sectors of the industry.Despite a slight delay due to Covid-19, we now have the results. (Drum roll please)

Crash of the Year

There He Goes is an apt name for this video. It cuts out quite suddenly - one because there was some colourful language, and secondly because the cameraman was (we assume) a good friend and stopped recording to rush to provide aid. We'll let the video do the talking here:

Favourite MTB Trail Centre in NI

Making history in the MountainBikeNI Awards, we have a tie! Both Castlewellan and the fresh faced newcomer Gortin Forest Park MTB Trails, were tied with the most votes in this category!

As things get back to normal it means youve even more reason to get the bike out and visit these two trail centres (as local Covid 19 restrictions allow; see current regulations for mountain biking here.)

Most Active MTB Club

The new category to the MTBNI Awards had a LOT of interest. The winner however ended up with a strong margin congratulations Gortin MTB Club! If you dont already, make sure to give them a follow as they showcase what Gortin has to offer.

Best MTB Event in 2020

:-(

(Though a special shout out to the one or two groups that did manage to run an event!)

Favourite MTB Trail Section in NI

Its a triple whammy for the Stream Trail section at Davagh Forest, fighting off stiff competition from both the black trails in Castlewellan and some of the newer trails at Gortin Glen Forest Park.

Speed and fun are the order of the day if you havent ridden the Stream Trail before. Also, what the heck are you doing?! Go try it right now!

Favourite MTB Friendly Caf

You guys seriously love Urban. Taking the crown in this category for a record breaking 4^th year running, we totally understand why. The service, the quality and the location are all unbeatable.

Even more impressive this year, theyve been open pretty much non stop since the first lockdown. Congratulations to all the team!

Favourite MTB-Friendly Accommodation in NI

Their first time appearing in the MountainBikeNI Awards, we're delighted to reveal that the winners are Sperinview Glamping! Located just a few minutes from the trails, the relatively new business is ideally located for mountain biking, enjoying the epic views of the Sperrins and, of course, is situated right beside the upcoming OM Dark Sky Observatory.

MountainBikeNI actually visited Sperrinview Glamping in 2019 - check out our blog on it here.

Thanks for following the MountainBikeNI Awards! The winner of the Chain Reaction Cycle sponsored competition was Warren Campbell:

Congratulations to him! Keep up to date with all the happenings in the mountain bike scene in Northern Ireland by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

0 comments  •  Post a commentEthan Loughrey  Mountain Bike Officer

Hardest thing about Mountain Biking? Definitely the trees.

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