Bureau De Change

Northern Ireland uses the £ sterling, the currency in circulation in England, Scotland and Wales. Unlike the Euro which is used in the Republic of Ireland, pound sterling is not linked to the Euro. Mastercard (Access) and Visa credit cards, including Contactless, are in general use and cheques backed by a bank card are widely accepted. American Express is accepted in some places but not others.

Credit cards can be used for purchases and to withdraw cash form ATMs (although this is usually accompanied by a fee). ATM cash machines are located at most banks in towns and villages and you can also withdraw from ATMs with your Mastercard and Visa Debit card. Fees will still be charged but at a lower rate to credit cards.

Northern Ireland uses a ‘chip and pin’ system for credit card and debit transactions. Most retailers will accept swipe cards but please note that this is not always guaranteed. It is recommended that you notify your bank prior to departure. Travel checks are no longer widely accepted in Northern Ireland.

Bureau de Change                                           Armagh Post Office

5 Ogle Street, Armagh                                     55-57 Scotch Street, Armagh

t: +44 (0) 28 3752 3399                                    BT61 7DF

t: +44 (0) 28 3752 4829

Armagh For Families & Children

The Irish Hotel Federation displays a few sample children’s menus so you know what to expect from their members. Even if restaurants do not have a specific children’s menu, most will offer half portions as an alternative.

Changing areas are widely available whenever there are public bathroom facilities. Establishments are generally very welcoming to nursing mothers and will be happy to help you feel more comfortable should you require any assistance.

Useful websites for family activities include:

NI4Kids 

What’s On NI 

Days Out With The Kids 

Outdoor NI 

Heritage Island 

All Translink services offer child fares and family tickets that cover travel on Ulsterbus, Metro and NI Railways services. Translink also offers a Family and Friends Ticket which offers a day’s unlimited travel on bus and rail services in Northern Ireland for two adults and up to four children,

Hospital

EU members will receive treatment as they would at home. A European Health Insurance card (EHIC) is required. The form can be obtained on their website, post office or telephone: 0845 606 2030. Visitors are strongly advised to take out private travel insurance.

Craigavon Area Hospital

68 Lurgan Road,

Portadown, BT63 5QQ

t: +44 (0) 28 38 33 4444

Weather & Climate

Northern Ireland’s climate is mild and temperate, with mild winters, very little snow and warm summers Maximum temperatures in the summer reach 25 degrees in Ireland and the mild climate enables visitors to spend a lot of time outdoors. The weather is very changeable so visitors are advised to bring plenty of warm jumpers and waterproof gear. More information www.bbc.co.uk/weather

 Churches

All the main churches are represented in Armagh City and in the towns and villages in the surrounding areas of Banbridge and Craigavon. Contact our Visitor Information Centres for more details.