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Great Experiences - Highlights this Autumn

FE McWilliam Gallery and Studio

FE McWilliam Gallery and Studio is in a very convenient location, just off the A1 outside Banbridge. The new exhibit in the Gallery from 21 September is entitled “Susan Connolly: GROUND (100 + one)” displaying 100 pieces of art in varying sizes in the space. One for the cultural bucket list this autumn.

One of the newest visitor attractions, the Game of Thrones Studio Tour is of interest whether you have seen the most successful TV show of all time or not. The tour is located at the Linen Mill Studios just outside Banbridge which is where a vast proportion of the entire series was filmed. From epic sets, to costumes, props, SX and more the studio tour is well worth a visit.

Clare Glen, located on the banks of the Cusher River. Meander along the banks of the river, taking in the pleasant sounds of nature. Look for oak, ash, hazel and more trees and plant life.

Armagh County Museum is a hidden gem situated on the The Mall. As the oldest county museum in Ireland it offers a wealth of history and heritage. The current exhibition running until 19th October is JB Vallely “The Ulster Cycle of Heroic tales” and marks 66 years from his first exhibition. Its inspiration is taken from a book entitled Cúchulainn – Ulster’s Greatest Hero by Réamonn Ó Ciaráin which bring the story vividly to life. Admission is free and aside from the exhibition, there are many exhibits of interest for the visitor including animals, flora, fauna and life in Armagh as was.

For foodie lovers, a must visit is the Tayto factory tour. Located in Tandragee the tour welcomes the visitor to follow through the stages of crisp production. Decide on your favourite flavour as you learn more about the making of crisps. Don’t forget to say hello to Mr Tayto as part of your tour – selfies obligatory! Tours take place Monday – Friday and must be booked in advance.

A great autumn experience which celebrates Armagh is the Georgian Festival which takes place from 28 November -1 December. Georgian Armagh and a celebration of the Georgian heritage relating to the city comes to life for 4 days with talks, tours, markets and the famous lightshow. Watch out for costumed characters, meet up with family and friends and mark the beginning of the Christmas season.

St Patrick’s Way: The Pilgrim Walk begins in Armagh, at the Navan Centre and Fort and leads the walker through the city and to the surrounding countryside to places connected with the life and times of St Patrick. The journey continues beyond the destination eventually ending up in Downpatrick, to the site of his burial but weaving the connection between the two locations with the most connection to his life and times. Whilst the walk traverses some 82 miles, it can be walking in sections and provide a chance for reflection and admiration of the beautiful countryside.