‘Go Wild’ this June In Mid Ulster

To show the people of Northern Ireland where to go in the outdoors, our sister website, <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”><strong>OutmoreNI.com</strong></a> has just launched a new campaign called <strong>‘Get Out More’</strong>. The campaign includes its newly overhauled website which showcases the many outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland from those on peoples doorsteps to the wonderful hidden gems further afield.

<img class=”wp-image-10323 aligncenter” src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Main-Campaign-Graphic-e1649159072738.png” alt=”” width=”576″ height=”514″ />

Research by <a href=”http://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Outdoor Recreation NI</a> in 2020, the organisation behind the campaign, revealed nearly half (47%) of the population of Northern Ireland were spending more of their free time outdoors during the pandemic than they did in 2019 and 51% expect to continue to use the outdoors<strong>.</strong><strong> </strong>This increase in sustained outdoor usage by the Northern Irish public emboldened OutmoreNI.com’s desire to redevelop its website and launch this new campaign. Funding provided by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI has supported this new campaign and website.

Speaking on the investment and redevelopment of the new website, Ethan Loughrey, Marketing Officer at Outdoor Recreation NI said: “Spending time outdoors is a great way to connect and appreciate the beauty of nature around us and it is vital for our physical and mental health. There is a plethora of things to do and places to see across Northern Ireland’s outdoors, which <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> displays in a more innovative and user-friendly format, enhancing the old site for 2022. For example, the site now showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, in an easy-to-follow format, such as walking, cycling, canoeing and mountain biking in many locations. There is also a vast amount of information and useful resources on the site on outdoor places to discover and explore such as beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.”

There are a range of categories to choose from depending on what activity or place is desired by the user which are clearly represented by colour coded icons. For example, an orange foot print icon symbolises walking trails and a green park bench symbolises parks on the website. When a trail or place is selected, more information will be presented including distance, nearest town, trail directions, the facilities available, any points of interest including wildlife on site and how to actually get there. It also displays an image which encourages users to get a glimpse of the beautiful scenery the place or trail provides.

Since all of the restrictions have been lifted across Northern Ireland including travel, people finally have the freedom to spend more time outdoors. However, people may struggle to decide on where to go and therefore <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> is an excellent website for families and friends to utilise to plan and organise their dayshttp://outmoreni.com/ out.

The website is very easy to navigate and has a search bar which enables the public to organise their own adventure, catering to their own needs. Users may want to travel to Ballycastle for a day out and may need some ideas on different activities and places to get the most enjoyable experience out of their day.

Ethan adds: “The interactive map allows you to explore the area that you are travelling to and get to know the area and what is in it before you leave the house. By having filtered search results, this will allow you to find out more about the trail or place you want to visit.”

<img class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-10324″ src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Map.jpg” alt=”” width=”1744″ height=”840″ />

Supporting the launch of the new website and campaign is presenter and outdoor enthusiast, Paulo Ross who remarks: “Thanks to <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> people can make more informed decisions when preparing where to visit and explore the beautiful scenery across Northern Ireland right at their fingertips.

“People will be inspired to travel to new locations and create new routes for walking, cycling, mountain biking and canoeing and the beauty of it is that it caters for a range of abilities and backgrounds including complete beginners through to serious enthusiasts. Alternatively, if people just want to spend time outdoors and connect with nature whether that’s having a picnic or paddling their feet in the water there are also over 200 outdoor places listed”.

To see the new website and for more information on the ‘Get Out More campaign visit <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a>

,

‘Get Out More’ with our New and Improved Sister Website – OutmoreNI.com

To show the people of Northern Ireland where to go in the outdoors, our sister website, <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”><strong>OutmoreNI.com</strong></a> has just launched a new campaign called <strong>‘Get Out More’</strong>. The campaign includes its newly overhauled website which showcases the many outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland from those on peoples doorsteps to the wonderful hidden gems further afield.

<img class=”wp-image-10323 aligncenter” src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Main-Campaign-Graphic-e1649159072738.png” alt=”” width=”576″ height=”514″ />

Research by <a href=”http://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Outdoor Recreation NI</a> in 2020, the organisation behind the campaign, revealed nearly half (47%) of the population of Northern Ireland were spending more of their free time outdoors during the pandemic than they did in 2019 and 51% expect to continue to use the outdoors<strong>.</strong><strong> </strong>This increase in sustained outdoor usage by the Northern Irish public emboldened OutmoreNI.com’s desire to redevelop its website and launch this new campaign. Funding provided by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI has supported this new campaign and website.

Speaking on the investment and redevelopment of the new website, Ethan Loughrey, Marketing Officer at Outdoor Recreation NI said: “Spending time outdoors is a great way to connect and appreciate the beauty of nature around us and it is vital for our physical and mental health. There is a plethora of things to do and places to see across Northern Ireland’s outdoors, which <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> displays in a more innovative and user-friendly format, enhancing the old site for 2022. For example, the site now showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, in an easy-to-follow format, such as walking, cycling, canoeing and mountain biking in many locations. There is also a vast amount of information and useful resources on the site on outdoor places to discover and explore such as beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.”

There are a range of categories to choose from depending on what activity or place is desired by the user which are clearly represented by colour coded icons. For example, an orange foot print icon symbolises walking trails and a green park bench symbolises parks on the website. When a trail or place is selected, more information will be presented including distance, nearest town, trail directions, the facilities available, any points of interest including wildlife on site and how to actually get there. It also displays an image which encourages users to get a glimpse of the beautiful scenery the place or trail provides.

Since all of the restrictions have been lifted across Northern Ireland including travel, people finally have the freedom to spend more time outdoors. However, people may struggle to decide on where to go and therefore <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> is an excellent website for families and friends to utilise to plan and organise their dayshttp://outmoreni.com/ out.

The website is very easy to navigate and has a search bar which enables the public to organise their own adventure, catering to their own needs. Users may want to travel to Ballycastle for a day out and may need some ideas on different activities and places to get the most enjoyable experience out of their day.

Ethan adds: “The interactive map allows you to explore the area that you are travelling to and get to know the area and what is in it before you leave the house. By having filtered search results, this will allow you to find out more about the trail or place you want to visit.”

<img class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-10324″ src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Map.jpg” alt=”” width=”1744″ height=”840″ />

Supporting the launch of the new website and campaign is presenter and outdoor enthusiast, Paulo Ross who remarks: “Thanks to <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> people can make more informed decisions when preparing where to visit and explore the beautiful scenery across Northern Ireland right at their fingertips.

“People will be inspired to travel to new locations and create new routes for walking, cycling, mountain biking and canoeing and the beauty of it is that it caters for a range of abilities and backgrounds including complete beginners through to serious enthusiasts. Alternatively, if people just want to spend time outdoors and connect with nature whether that’s having a picnic or paddling their feet in the water there are also over 200 outdoor places listed”.

To see the new website and for more information on the ‘Get Out More campaign visit <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a>

,

‘Get Out More’ with OutmoreNI.com as Days Lengthen

Marking the clocks going forward for spring, our sister website, OutmoreNI.com has just launched its ‘Get Out More’ campaign to encourage people across the country to use the extra hour to get outside.

As days lengthen and the weather improves, there is no better time to explore some of the hundreds of outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland.

Kerry Kirkpatrick, Communications and Training Executive at Outdoor Recreation NI, says, Spending time outdoors is  fundamental to our wellbeing. It allows us to connect with nature and to experience the beauty of Northern Ireland. We are lucky to have a plethora of amazing green and blue spaces on our doorstep and I would encourage people across the country to take advantage of the extra hour that we have gained and get out more.

“To help them do this, our OutmoreNI.com website is a vital resource for those who wish to explore the wonderful outdoor spaces that Northern Ireland has to offer.

“The site, which is easily navigated, showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, that are curated to offer something for everyone, from walkers and families to mountain bikers, cyclists, and canoeists. It also contains a vast range of information on beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.

“Of course, we would also encourage people to protect the environment by exploring these areas responsibly and OutmoreNI.com provides a wealth of information on how to do so through its ‘Right Side of Outside’ campaign.”

Research from the People in the Outdoors Monitor for Northern Ireland (POMNI) report which was conducted by our parent company, Outdoor Recreation NI, from November 2020 to October 2021, shows that 77 per cent of people surveyed across Northern Ireland say that getting outdoors is good for their wellbeing.

41 per cent of those surveyed say that connecting with nature is a key motivator for getting outdoors, whilst 72 per cent say that their local greenspace is within easy walking distance.

Supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI, the OutmoreNI.com website showcases over 850 green and blue spaces and outdoor trails across Northern Ireland. These include those on our doorsteps, along with hidden gems further afield.

Don’t forget when visiting an outdoor spot, you can help protect it by following a few simple steps to ensure you stay on the ‘Right Side of Outside’ such as:

  • Planning ahead by checking the weather and bringing the right equipment such as clothing, footwear, map, wet suit, paddles etc.
  • Keeping your dog on a lead to avoid livestock worrying and disruption to wildlife.
  • Only camping or lighting a BBQ in a designated area.
  • Avoid starting open fires.
  • Only parking your car in designated spaces and don’t forget to consider local access
  • Taking your dog waste and litter home with you.
  • Get involved and protect the environment by taking part in initiatives such as litter picks.

To discover a range of new outdoor trails and places to explore throughout Northern Ireland, visit OutmoreNI.com

,

78 Parks and Open Spaces recognised with a Prestigious Green Flag Award

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

A warning to dog walkers about dangers of Rapeseed Fields

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,
Lord Mayor of ABC pictured outside with Beverley from ORNI.

ABC Lord Mayor encourages you to get on the #RightSideOfOutside

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Ancient Mournes woodland opened to public after 500 years

To show the people of Northern Ireland where to go in the outdoors, our sister website, <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”><strong>OutmoreNI.com</strong></a> has just launched a new campaign called <strong>‘Get Out More’</strong>. The campaign includes its newly overhauled website which showcases the many outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland from those on peoples doorsteps to the wonderful hidden gems further afield.

<img class=”wp-image-10323 aligncenter” src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Main-Campaign-Graphic-e1649159072738.png” alt=”” width=”576″ height=”514″ />

Research by <a href=”http://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Outdoor Recreation NI</a> in 2020, the organisation behind the campaign, revealed nearly half (47%) of the population of Northern Ireland were spending more of their free time outdoors during the pandemic than they did in 2019 and 51% expect to continue to use the outdoors<strong>.</strong><strong> </strong>This increase in sustained outdoor usage by the Northern Irish public emboldened OutmoreNI.com’s desire to redevelop its website and launch this new campaign. Funding provided by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI has supported this new campaign and website.

Speaking on the investment and redevelopment of the new website, Ethan Loughrey, Marketing Officer at Outdoor Recreation NI said: “Spending time outdoors is a great way to connect and appreciate the beauty of nature around us and it is vital for our physical and mental health. There is a plethora of things to do and places to see across Northern Ireland’s outdoors, which <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> displays in a more innovative and user-friendly format, enhancing the old site for 2022. For example, the site now showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, in an easy-to-follow format, such as walking, cycling, canoeing and mountain biking in many locations. There is also a vast amount of information and useful resources on the site on outdoor places to discover and explore such as beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.”

There are a range of categories to choose from depending on what activity or place is desired by the user which are clearly represented by colour coded icons. For example, an orange foot print icon symbolises walking trails and a green park bench symbolises parks on the website. When a trail or place is selected, more information will be presented including distance, nearest town, trail directions, the facilities available, any points of interest including wildlife on site and how to actually get there. It also displays an image which encourages users to get a glimpse of the beautiful scenery the place or trail provides.

Since all of the restrictions have been lifted across Northern Ireland including travel, people finally have the freedom to spend more time outdoors. However, people may struggle to decide on where to go and therefore <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> is an excellent website for families and friends to utilise to plan and organise their dayshttp://outmoreni.com/ out.

The website is very easy to navigate and has a search bar which enables the public to organise their own adventure, catering to their own needs. Users may want to travel to Ballycastle for a day out and may need some ideas on different activities and places to get the most enjoyable experience out of their day.

Ethan adds: “The interactive map allows you to explore the area that you are travelling to and get to know the area and what is in it before you leave the house. By having filtered search results, this will allow you to find out more about the trail or place you want to visit.”

<img class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-10324″ src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Map.jpg” alt=”” width=”1744″ height=”840″ />

Supporting the launch of the new website and campaign is presenter and outdoor enthusiast, Paulo Ross who remarks: “Thanks to <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> people can make more informed decisions when preparing where to visit and explore the beautiful scenery across Northern Ireland right at their fingertips.

“People will be inspired to travel to new locations and create new routes for walking, cycling, mountain biking and canoeing and the beauty of it is that it caters for a range of abilities and backgrounds including complete beginners through to serious enthusiasts. Alternatively, if people just want to spend time outdoors and connect with nature whether that’s having a picnic or paddling their feet in the water there are also over 200 outdoor places listed”.

To see the new website and for more information on the ‘Get Out More campaign visit <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a>

,

Barista Bar release their Christmas Cups ahead of the Festive Season

OutmoreNI is inviting everyone to participate in a quick survey that will shape the future of outdoor exploration in Northern Ireland.

Ever wondered if parks take the top spot over beaches, or if heritage sites are more adored than forests?

Now is your chance to voice your preferences! Please complete our short survey (less than two minutes) and rank your preferred outdoor places, from parks to playing fields, and beaches to playing fields.

Your input is invaluable. By taking the survey, you’ll play a vital role in tailoring the OutmoreNI.com experience, ensuring it aligns seamlessly with your outdoor interests.

Click here to head over to the survey and make your preferences known!

For more information, click here.

,

Belfast City Council invite walkers to name their new bridge

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Belfast Hills Explorer Programme

Marking the clocks going forward for spring, our sister website, OutmoreNI.com has just launched its ‘Get Out More’ campaign to encourage people across the country to use the extra hour to get outside.

As days lengthen and the weather improves, there is no better time to explore some of the hundreds of outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland.

Kerry Kirkpatrick, Communications and Training Executive at Outdoor Recreation NI, says, Spending time outdoors is  fundamental to our wellbeing. It allows us to connect with nature and to experience the beauty of Northern Ireland. We are lucky to have a plethora of amazing green and blue spaces on our doorstep and I would encourage people across the country to take advantage of the extra hour that we have gained and get out more.

“To help them do this, our OutmoreNI.com website is a vital resource for those who wish to explore the wonderful outdoor spaces that Northern Ireland has to offer.

“The site, which is easily navigated, showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, that are curated to offer something for everyone, from walkers and families to mountain bikers, cyclists, and canoeists. It also contains a vast range of information on beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.

“Of course, we would also encourage people to protect the environment by exploring these areas responsibly and OutmoreNI.com provides a wealth of information on how to do so through its ‘Right Side of Outside’ campaign.”

Research from the People in the Outdoors Monitor for Northern Ireland (POMNI) report which was conducted by our parent company, Outdoor Recreation NI, from November 2020 to October 2021, shows that 77 per cent of people surveyed across Northern Ireland say that getting outdoors is good for their wellbeing.

41 per cent of those surveyed say that connecting with nature is a key motivator for getting outdoors, whilst 72 per cent say that their local greenspace is within easy walking distance.

Supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI, the OutmoreNI.com website showcases over 850 green and blue spaces and outdoor trails across Northern Ireland. These include those on our doorsteps, along with hidden gems further afield.

Don’t forget when visiting an outdoor spot, you can help protect it by following a few simple steps to ensure you stay on the ‘Right Side of Outside’ such as:

  • Planning ahead by checking the weather and bringing the right equipment such as clothing, footwear, map, wet suit, paddles etc.
  • Keeping your dog on a lead to avoid livestock worrying and disruption to wildlife.
  • Only camping or lighting a BBQ in a designated area.
  • Avoid starting open fires.
  • Only parking your car in designated spaces and don’t forget to consider local access
  • Taking your dog waste and litter home with you.
  • Get involved and protect the environment by taking part in initiatives such as litter picks.

To discover a range of new outdoor trails and places to explore throughout Northern Ireland, visit OutmoreNI.com

,

Belfast Hills Partnership announce the third year of important youth volunteer role in the Belfast Hills!

Marking the clocks going forward for spring, our sister website, OutmoreNI.com has just launched its ‘Get Out More’ campaign to encourage people across the country to use the extra hour to get outside.

As days lengthen and the weather improves, there is no better time to explore some of the hundreds of outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland.

Kerry Kirkpatrick, Communications and Training Executive at Outdoor Recreation NI, says, Spending time outdoors is  fundamental to our wellbeing. It allows us to connect with nature and to experience the beauty of Northern Ireland. We are lucky to have a plethora of amazing green and blue spaces on our doorstep and I would encourage people across the country to take advantage of the extra hour that we have gained and get out more.

“To help them do this, our OutmoreNI.com website is a vital resource for those who wish to explore the wonderful outdoor spaces that Northern Ireland has to offer.

“The site, which is easily navigated, showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, that are curated to offer something for everyone, from walkers and families to mountain bikers, cyclists, and canoeists. It also contains a vast range of information on beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.

“Of course, we would also encourage people to protect the environment by exploring these areas responsibly and OutmoreNI.com provides a wealth of information on how to do so through its ‘Right Side of Outside’ campaign.”

Research from the People in the Outdoors Monitor for Northern Ireland (POMNI) report which was conducted by our parent company, Outdoor Recreation NI, from November 2020 to October 2021, shows that 77 per cent of people surveyed across Northern Ireland say that getting outdoors is good for their wellbeing.

41 per cent of those surveyed say that connecting with nature is a key motivator for getting outdoors, whilst 72 per cent say that their local greenspace is within easy walking distance.

Supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI, the OutmoreNI.com website showcases over 850 green and blue spaces and outdoor trails across Northern Ireland. These include those on our doorsteps, along with hidden gems further afield.

Don’t forget when visiting an outdoor spot, you can help protect it by following a few simple steps to ensure you stay on the ‘Right Side of Outside’ such as:

  • Planning ahead by checking the weather and bringing the right equipment such as clothing, footwear, map, wet suit, paddles etc.
  • Keeping your dog on a lead to avoid livestock worrying and disruption to wildlife.
  • Only camping or lighting a BBQ in a designated area.
  • Avoid starting open fires.
  • Only parking your car in designated spaces and don’t forget to consider local access
  • Taking your dog waste and litter home with you.
  • Get involved and protect the environment by taking part in initiatives such as litter picks.

To discover a range of new outdoor trails and places to explore throughout Northern Ireland, visit OutmoreNI.com

,

Belfast Hills Partnership Big Summer Walk!

Marking the clocks going forward for spring, our sister website, OutmoreNI.com has just launched its ‘Get Out More’ campaign to encourage people across the country to use the extra hour to get outside.

As days lengthen and the weather improves, there is no better time to explore some of the hundreds of outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland.

Kerry Kirkpatrick, Communications and Training Executive at Outdoor Recreation NI, says, Spending time outdoors is  fundamental to our wellbeing. It allows us to connect with nature and to experience the beauty of Northern Ireland. We are lucky to have a plethora of amazing green and blue spaces on our doorstep and I would encourage people across the country to take advantage of the extra hour that we have gained and get out more.

“To help them do this, our OutmoreNI.com website is a vital resource for those who wish to explore the wonderful outdoor spaces that Northern Ireland has to offer.

“The site, which is easily navigated, showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, that are curated to offer something for everyone, from walkers and families to mountain bikers, cyclists, and canoeists. It also contains a vast range of information on beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.

“Of course, we would also encourage people to protect the environment by exploring these areas responsibly and OutmoreNI.com provides a wealth of information on how to do so through its ‘Right Side of Outside’ campaign.”

Research from the People in the Outdoors Monitor for Northern Ireland (POMNI) report which was conducted by our parent company, Outdoor Recreation NI, from November 2020 to October 2021, shows that 77 per cent of people surveyed across Northern Ireland say that getting outdoors is good for their wellbeing.

41 per cent of those surveyed say that connecting with nature is a key motivator for getting outdoors, whilst 72 per cent say that their local greenspace is within easy walking distance.

Supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI, the OutmoreNI.com website showcases over 850 green and blue spaces and outdoor trails across Northern Ireland. These include those on our doorsteps, along with hidden gems further afield.

Don’t forget when visiting an outdoor spot, you can help protect it by following a few simple steps to ensure you stay on the ‘Right Side of Outside’ such as:

  • Planning ahead by checking the weather and bringing the right equipment such as clothing, footwear, map, wet suit, paddles etc.
  • Keeping your dog on a lead to avoid livestock worrying and disruption to wildlife.
  • Only camping or lighting a BBQ in a designated area.
  • Avoid starting open fires.
  • Only parking your car in designated spaces and don’t forget to consider local access
  • Taking your dog waste and litter home with you.
  • Get involved and protect the environment by taking part in initiatives such as litter picks.

To discover a range of new outdoor trails and places to explore throughout Northern Ireland, visit OutmoreNI.com

,
walking boots

Belfast to get new 250-acre woodland near cavehill

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Belfast Walking & Cycling Index Published

To show the people of Northern Ireland where to go in the outdoors, our sister website, <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”><strong>OutmoreNI.com</strong></a> has just launched a new campaign called <strong>‘Get Out More’</strong>. The campaign includes its newly overhauled website which showcases the many outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland from those on peoples doorsteps to the wonderful hidden gems further afield.

<img class=”wp-image-10323 aligncenter” src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Main-Campaign-Graphic-e1649159072738.png” alt=”” width=”576″ height=”514″ />

Research by <a href=”http://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Outdoor Recreation NI</a> in 2020, the organisation behind the campaign, revealed nearly half (47%) of the population of Northern Ireland were spending more of their free time outdoors during the pandemic than they did in 2019 and 51% expect to continue to use the outdoors<strong>.</strong><strong> </strong>This increase in sustained outdoor usage by the Northern Irish public emboldened OutmoreNI.com’s desire to redevelop its website and launch this new campaign. Funding provided by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI has supported this new campaign and website.

Speaking on the investment and redevelopment of the new website, Ethan Loughrey, Marketing Officer at Outdoor Recreation NI said: “Spending time outdoors is a great way to connect and appreciate the beauty of nature around us and it is vital for our physical and mental health. There is a plethora of things to do and places to see across Northern Ireland’s outdoors, which <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> displays in a more innovative and user-friendly format, enhancing the old site for 2022. For example, the site now showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, in an easy-to-follow format, such as walking, cycling, canoeing and mountain biking in many locations. There is also a vast amount of information and useful resources on the site on outdoor places to discover and explore such as beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.”

There are a range of categories to choose from depending on what activity or place is desired by the user which are clearly represented by colour coded icons. For example, an orange foot print icon symbolises walking trails and a green park bench symbolises parks on the website. When a trail or place is selected, more information will be presented including distance, nearest town, trail directions, the facilities available, any points of interest including wildlife on site and how to actually get there. It also displays an image which encourages users to get a glimpse of the beautiful scenery the place or trail provides.

Since all of the restrictions have been lifted across Northern Ireland including travel, people finally have the freedom to spend more time outdoors. However, people may struggle to decide on where to go and therefore <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> is an excellent website for families and friends to utilise to plan and organise their dayshttp://outmoreni.com/ out.

The website is very easy to navigate and has a search bar which enables the public to organise their own adventure, catering to their own needs. Users may want to travel to Ballycastle for a day out and may need some ideas on different activities and places to get the most enjoyable experience out of their day.

Ethan adds: “The interactive map allows you to explore the area that you are travelling to and get to know the area and what is in it before you leave the house. By having filtered search results, this will allow you to find out more about the trail or place you want to visit.”

<img class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-10324″ src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Map.jpg” alt=”” width=”1744″ height=”840″ />

Supporting the launch of the new website and campaign is presenter and outdoor enthusiast, Paulo Ross who remarks: “Thanks to <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> people can make more informed decisions when preparing where to visit and explore the beautiful scenery across Northern Ireland right at their fingertips.

“People will be inspired to travel to new locations and create new routes for walking, cycling, mountain biking and canoeing and the beauty of it is that it caters for a range of abilities and backgrounds including complete beginners through to serious enthusiasts. Alternatively, if people just want to spend time outdoors and connect with nature whether that’s having a picnic or paddling their feet in the water there are also over 200 outdoor places listed”.

To see the new website and for more information on the ‘Get Out More campaign visit <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a>

,

Card Payment now available at Silent Valley

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Castle Espie Elf Academy

OutmoreNI is inviting everyone to participate in a quick survey that will shape the future of outdoor exploration in Northern Ireland.

Ever wondered if parks take the top spot over beaches, or if heritage sites are more adored than forests?

Now is your chance to voice your preferences! Please complete our short survey (less than two minutes) and rank your preferred outdoor places, from parks to playing fields, and beaches to playing fields.

Your input is invaluable. By taking the survey, you’ll play a vital role in tailoring the OutmoreNI.com experience, ensuring it aligns seamlessly with your outdoor interests.

Click here to head over to the survey and make your preferences known!

For more information, click here.

,

Celebrations as Mourne Gullion Strangford is Awarded Full UNESCO Global Geopark Status

Marking the clocks going forward for spring, our sister website, OutmoreNI.com has just launched its ‘Get Out More’ campaign to encourage people across the country to use the extra hour to get outside.

As days lengthen and the weather improves, there is no better time to explore some of the hundreds of outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland.

Kerry Kirkpatrick, Communications and Training Executive at Outdoor Recreation NI, says, Spending time outdoors is  fundamental to our wellbeing. It allows us to connect with nature and to experience the beauty of Northern Ireland. We are lucky to have a plethora of amazing green and blue spaces on our doorstep and I would encourage people across the country to take advantage of the extra hour that we have gained and get out more.

“To help them do this, our OutmoreNI.com website is a vital resource for those who wish to explore the wonderful outdoor spaces that Northern Ireland has to offer.

“The site, which is easily navigated, showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, that are curated to offer something for everyone, from walkers and families to mountain bikers, cyclists, and canoeists. It also contains a vast range of information on beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.

“Of course, we would also encourage people to protect the environment by exploring these areas responsibly and OutmoreNI.com provides a wealth of information on how to do so through its ‘Right Side of Outside’ campaign.”

Research from the People in the Outdoors Monitor for Northern Ireland (POMNI) report which was conducted by our parent company, Outdoor Recreation NI, from November 2020 to October 2021, shows that 77 per cent of people surveyed across Northern Ireland say that getting outdoors is good for their wellbeing.

41 per cent of those surveyed say that connecting with nature is a key motivator for getting outdoors, whilst 72 per cent say that their local greenspace is within easy walking distance.

Supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI, the OutmoreNI.com website showcases over 850 green and blue spaces and outdoor trails across Northern Ireland. These include those on our doorsteps, along with hidden gems further afield.

Don’t forget when visiting an outdoor spot, you can help protect it by following a few simple steps to ensure you stay on the ‘Right Side of Outside’ such as:

  • Planning ahead by checking the weather and bringing the right equipment such as clothing, footwear, map, wet suit, paddles etc.
  • Keeping your dog on a lead to avoid livestock worrying and disruption to wildlife.
  • Only camping or lighting a BBQ in a designated area.
  • Avoid starting open fires.
  • Only parking your car in designated spaces and don’t forget to consider local access
  • Taking your dog waste and litter home with you.
  • Get involved and protect the environment by taking part in initiatives such as litter picks.

To discover a range of new outdoor trails and places to explore throughout Northern Ireland, visit OutmoreNI.com

,

Christmas Artisan Market at Castleward

OutmoreNI is inviting everyone to participate in a quick survey that will shape the future of outdoor exploration in Northern Ireland.

Ever wondered if parks take the top spot over beaches, or if heritage sites are more adored than forests?

Now is your chance to voice your preferences! Please complete our short survey (less than two minutes) and rank your preferred outdoor places, from parks to playing fields, and beaches to playing fields.

Your input is invaluable. By taking the survey, you’ll play a vital role in tailoring the OutmoreNI.com experience, ensuring it aligns seamlessly with your outdoor interests.

Click here to head over to the survey and make your preferences known!

For more information, click here.

,

Christmas Dinner Cooking Class at Killeavy Castle Estate

OutmoreNI is inviting everyone to participate in a quick survey that will shape the future of outdoor exploration in Northern Ireland.

Ever wondered if parks take the top spot over beaches, or if heritage sites are more adored than forests?

Now is your chance to voice your preferences! Please complete our short survey (less than two minutes) and rank your preferred outdoor places, from parks to playing fields, and beaches to playing fields.

Your input is invaluable. By taking the survey, you’ll play a vital role in tailoring the OutmoreNI.com experience, ensuring it aligns seamlessly with your outdoor interests.

Click here to head over to the survey and make your preferences known!

For more information, click here.

,

Darkley Forest Walking Trails Launched

A £220,000 project to design and create 4.6km of beautiful walking trails in Darkley Forest, Co. Armagh for all of the community to enjoy is now complete and open for everyone to enjoy!

Work began on site earlier this year following extensive consultation with the community who decided that a walking trail was a priority project for the area.

The trails, which start at the new eight space car park at Mountain Lodge Road, accommodates a wide range of users, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of outdoor exercise in a safe environment.

This scheme was delivered thanks to a partnership between Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council,  Outdoor Recreation NI (ORNI) and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Development (DAERA) – Rural Affairs Division and Forest Service. Funding was provided from DEARA’s Targeting Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) programme and from the National Lottery through Sport Northern Ireland’s ‘Every Body Active: Outdoor Spaces’ programme.

“It was a great honour for me to cut the ribbon and officially declare the brand new walking trails at Darkley open, and what an absolutely beautiful place it is,” commented the Lord Mayor of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Julie Flaherty.

“It is wonderful to see something that the community has wanted for so long coming to fruition and I know that these trails will really make a difference to the lives of those living within the Darkley area. This Forest was once inaccessible but now residents have something truly unique to enjoy right here on their doorsteps. So get out, experience and explore this fantastic new facility!”

Forest Service Chief Executive John Joe O’Boyle said: “Our forests are an outstanding and valuable natural resource. The excellent new facilities here at Darkley Forest are a great example of partnership working delivering a living, active landscape valued by all through the social and recreational benefits it creates for local communities”.

His sentiments were echoed by DAERA’s Southern Rural Affairs Manager, Jerome Burns, who said, “The need for safe walking trails in the forest was identified by the local community and I am delighted that DAERA, through the TRPSI Programme was able to help bring this project to fruition, creating an asset which will be enjoyed by the residents of Darkley and beyond.”

Sport NI Chief Executive Antoinette McKeown added: “Northern Ireland boasts a rich variety of outdoor spaces and Sport NI is delighted to be investing in projects like this which are helping communities to connect to the natural environment through sport and physical activity. Every day, National Lottery players are helping people across Northern Ireland enjoy, engage and excel in sport and we look forward to seeing these new trails help more people in the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon area get active and get involved.”

“We are delighted to have been involved in the development of two high quality community trails within Darkley Forest,” said Outdoor Recreation NI Executive Director Caro Lynne Ferris. “Expected to improve health and wellbeing, these trails are a fantastic asset to the rural community of Darkley, providing accessible opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of this environment.”

The trail was designed by renowned trail designer Hugh Clixby and built by local Camlough firm Euro Services.

,

Derry’s new Strathfoyle Greenway officially opened

Marking the clocks going forward for spring, our sister website, OutmoreNI.com has just launched its ‘Get Out More’ campaign to encourage people across the country to use the extra hour to get outside.

As days lengthen and the weather improves, there is no better time to explore some of the hundreds of outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland.

Kerry Kirkpatrick, Communications and Training Executive at Outdoor Recreation NI, says, Spending time outdoors is  fundamental to our wellbeing. It allows us to connect with nature and to experience the beauty of Northern Ireland. We are lucky to have a plethora of amazing green and blue spaces on our doorstep and I would encourage people across the country to take advantage of the extra hour that we have gained and get out more.

“To help them do this, our OutmoreNI.com website is a vital resource for those who wish to explore the wonderful outdoor spaces that Northern Ireland has to offer.

“The site, which is easily navigated, showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, that are curated to offer something for everyone, from walkers and families to mountain bikers, cyclists, and canoeists. It also contains a vast range of information on beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.

“Of course, we would also encourage people to protect the environment by exploring these areas responsibly and OutmoreNI.com provides a wealth of information on how to do so through its ‘Right Side of Outside’ campaign.”

Research from the People in the Outdoors Monitor for Northern Ireland (POMNI) report which was conducted by our parent company, Outdoor Recreation NI, from November 2020 to October 2021, shows that 77 per cent of people surveyed across Northern Ireland say that getting outdoors is good for their wellbeing.

41 per cent of those surveyed say that connecting with nature is a key motivator for getting outdoors, whilst 72 per cent say that their local greenspace is within easy walking distance.

Supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI, the OutmoreNI.com website showcases over 850 green and blue spaces and outdoor trails across Northern Ireland. These include those on our doorsteps, along with hidden gems further afield.

Don’t forget when visiting an outdoor spot, you can help protect it by following a few simple steps to ensure you stay on the ‘Right Side of Outside’ such as:

  • Planning ahead by checking the weather and bringing the right equipment such as clothing, footwear, map, wet suit, paddles etc.
  • Keeping your dog on a lead to avoid livestock worrying and disruption to wildlife.
  • Only camping or lighting a BBQ in a designated area.
  • Avoid starting open fires.
  • Only parking your car in designated spaces and don’t forget to consider local access
  • Taking your dog waste and litter home with you.
  • Get involved and protect the environment by taking part in initiatives such as litter picks.

To discover a range of new outdoor trails and places to explore throughout Northern Ireland, visit OutmoreNI.com

,

Dungannon Park – Something to brighten your walk!

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Elf Escape Takeover, Marble Arch Caves

OutmoreNI is inviting everyone to participate in a quick survey that will shape the future of outdoor exploration in Northern Ireland.

Ever wondered if parks take the top spot over beaches, or if heritage sites are more adored than forests?

Now is your chance to voice your preferences! Please complete our short survey (less than two minutes) and rank your preferred outdoor places, from parks to playing fields, and beaches to playing fields.

Your input is invaluable. By taking the survey, you’ll play a vital role in tailoring the OutmoreNI.com experience, ensuring it aligns seamlessly with your outdoor interests.

Click here to head over to the survey and make your preferences known!

For more information, click here.

,

Embrace The Giant Spirit in the Sperrins

Marking the clocks going forward for spring, our sister website, OutmoreNI.com has just launched its ‘Get Out More’ campaign to encourage people across the country to use the extra hour to get outside.

As days lengthen and the weather improves, there is no better time to explore some of the hundreds of outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland.

Kerry Kirkpatrick, Communications and Training Executive at Outdoor Recreation NI, says, Spending time outdoors is  fundamental to our wellbeing. It allows us to connect with nature and to experience the beauty of Northern Ireland. We are lucky to have a plethora of amazing green and blue spaces on our doorstep and I would encourage people across the country to take advantage of the extra hour that we have gained and get out more.

“To help them do this, our OutmoreNI.com website is a vital resource for those who wish to explore the wonderful outdoor spaces that Northern Ireland has to offer.

“The site, which is easily navigated, showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, that are curated to offer something for everyone, from walkers and families to mountain bikers, cyclists, and canoeists. It also contains a vast range of information on beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.

“Of course, we would also encourage people to protect the environment by exploring these areas responsibly and OutmoreNI.com provides a wealth of information on how to do so through its ‘Right Side of Outside’ campaign.”

Research from the People in the Outdoors Monitor for Northern Ireland (POMNI) report which was conducted by our parent company, Outdoor Recreation NI, from November 2020 to October 2021, shows that 77 per cent of people surveyed across Northern Ireland say that getting outdoors is good for their wellbeing.

41 per cent of those surveyed say that connecting with nature is a key motivator for getting outdoors, whilst 72 per cent say that their local greenspace is within easy walking distance.

Supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI, the OutmoreNI.com website showcases over 850 green and blue spaces and outdoor trails across Northern Ireland. These include those on our doorsteps, along with hidden gems further afield.

Don’t forget when visiting an outdoor spot, you can help protect it by following a few simple steps to ensure you stay on the ‘Right Side of Outside’ such as:

  • Planning ahead by checking the weather and bringing the right equipment such as clothing, footwear, map, wet suit, paddles etc.
  • Keeping your dog on a lead to avoid livestock worrying and disruption to wildlife.
  • Only camping or lighting a BBQ in a designated area.
  • Avoid starting open fires.
  • Only parking your car in designated spaces and don’t forget to consider local access
  • Taking your dog waste and litter home with you.
  • Get involved and protect the environment by taking part in initiatives such as litter picks.

To discover a range of new outdoor trails and places to explore throughout Northern Ireland, visit OutmoreNI.com

,

Farmer Rory Best Launches Second Phase of ‘Right Side of Outside’ Campaign

To show the people of Northern Ireland where to go in the outdoors, our sister website, <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”><strong>OutmoreNI.com</strong></a> has just launched a new campaign called <strong>‘Get Out More’</strong>. The campaign includes its newly overhauled website which showcases the many outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland from those on peoples doorsteps to the wonderful hidden gems further afield.

<img class=”wp-image-10323 aligncenter” src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Main-Campaign-Graphic-e1649159072738.png” alt=”” width=”576″ height=”514″ />

Research by <a href=”http://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Outdoor Recreation NI</a> in 2020, the organisation behind the campaign, revealed nearly half (47%) of the population of Northern Ireland were spending more of their free time outdoors during the pandemic than they did in 2019 and 51% expect to continue to use the outdoors<strong>.</strong><strong> </strong>This increase in sustained outdoor usage by the Northern Irish public emboldened OutmoreNI.com’s desire to redevelop its website and launch this new campaign. Funding provided by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI has supported this new campaign and website.

Speaking on the investment and redevelopment of the new website, Ethan Loughrey, Marketing Officer at Outdoor Recreation NI said: “Spending time outdoors is a great way to connect and appreciate the beauty of nature around us and it is vital for our physical and mental health. There is a plethora of things to do and places to see across Northern Ireland’s outdoors, which <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> displays in a more innovative and user-friendly format, enhancing the old site for 2022. For example, the site now showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, in an easy-to-follow format, such as walking, cycling, canoeing and mountain biking in many locations. There is also a vast amount of information and useful resources on the site on outdoor places to discover and explore such as beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.”

There are a range of categories to choose from depending on what activity or place is desired by the user which are clearly represented by colour coded icons. For example, an orange foot print icon symbolises walking trails and a green park bench symbolises parks on the website. When a trail or place is selected, more information will be presented including distance, nearest town, trail directions, the facilities available, any points of interest including wildlife on site and how to actually get there. It also displays an image which encourages users to get a glimpse of the beautiful scenery the place or trail provides.

Since all of the restrictions have been lifted across Northern Ireland including travel, people finally have the freedom to spend more time outdoors. However, people may struggle to decide on where to go and therefore <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> is an excellent website for families and friends to utilise to plan and organise their dayshttp://outmoreni.com/ out.

The website is very easy to navigate and has a search bar which enables the public to organise their own adventure, catering to their own needs. Users may want to travel to Ballycastle for a day out and may need some ideas on different activities and places to get the most enjoyable experience out of their day.

Ethan adds: “The interactive map allows you to explore the area that you are travelling to and get to know the area and what is in it before you leave the house. By having filtered search results, this will allow you to find out more about the trail or place you want to visit.”

<img class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-10324″ src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Map.jpg” alt=”” width=”1744″ height=”840″ />

Supporting the launch of the new website and campaign is presenter and outdoor enthusiast, Paulo Ross who remarks: “Thanks to <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> people can make more informed decisions when preparing where to visit and explore the beautiful scenery across Northern Ireland right at their fingertips.

“People will be inspired to travel to new locations and create new routes for walking, cycling, mountain biking and canoeing and the beauty of it is that it caters for a range of abilities and backgrounds including complete beginners through to serious enthusiasts. Alternatively, if people just want to spend time outdoors and connect with nature whether that’s having a picnic or paddling their feet in the water there are also over 200 outdoor places listed”.

To see the new website and for more information on the ‘Get Out More campaign visit <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a>

,

Festive Family Trail Mount Stewart

OutmoreNI is inviting everyone to participate in a quick survey that will shape the future of outdoor exploration in Northern Ireland.

Ever wondered if parks take the top spot over beaches, or if heritage sites are more adored than forests?

Now is your chance to voice your preferences! Please complete our short survey (less than two minutes) and rank your preferred outdoor places, from parks to playing fields, and beaches to playing fields.

Your input is invaluable. By taking the survey, you’ll play a vital role in tailoring the OutmoreNI.com experience, ensuring it aligns seamlessly with your outdoor interests.

Click here to head over to the survey and make your preferences known!

For more information, click here.

,

Fill Your Bottle, Not A Landfill!

Marking the clocks going forward for spring, our sister website, OutmoreNI.com has just launched its ‘Get Out More’ campaign to encourage people across the country to use the extra hour to get outside.

As days lengthen and the weather improves, there is no better time to explore some of the hundreds of outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland.

Kerry Kirkpatrick, Communications and Training Executive at Outdoor Recreation NI, says, Spending time outdoors is  fundamental to our wellbeing. It allows us to connect with nature and to experience the beauty of Northern Ireland. We are lucky to have a plethora of amazing green and blue spaces on our doorstep and I would encourage people across the country to take advantage of the extra hour that we have gained and get out more.

“To help them do this, our OutmoreNI.com website is a vital resource for those who wish to explore the wonderful outdoor spaces that Northern Ireland has to offer.

“The site, which is easily navigated, showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, that are curated to offer something for everyone, from walkers and families to mountain bikers, cyclists, and canoeists. It also contains a vast range of information on beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.

“Of course, we would also encourage people to protect the environment by exploring these areas responsibly and OutmoreNI.com provides a wealth of information on how to do so through its ‘Right Side of Outside’ campaign.”

Research from the People in the Outdoors Monitor for Northern Ireland (POMNI) report which was conducted by our parent company, Outdoor Recreation NI, from November 2020 to October 2021, shows that 77 per cent of people surveyed across Northern Ireland say that getting outdoors is good for their wellbeing.

41 per cent of those surveyed say that connecting with nature is a key motivator for getting outdoors, whilst 72 per cent say that their local greenspace is within easy walking distance.

Supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI, the OutmoreNI.com website showcases over 850 green and blue spaces and outdoor trails across Northern Ireland. These include those on our doorsteps, along with hidden gems further afield.

Don’t forget when visiting an outdoor spot, you can help protect it by following a few simple steps to ensure you stay on the ‘Right Side of Outside’ such as:

  • Planning ahead by checking the weather and bringing the right equipment such as clothing, footwear, map, wet suit, paddles etc.
  • Keeping your dog on a lead to avoid livestock worrying and disruption to wildlife.
  • Only camping or lighting a BBQ in a designated area.
  • Avoid starting open fires.
  • Only parking your car in designated spaces and don’t forget to consider local access
  • Taking your dog waste and litter home with you.
  • Get involved and protect the environment by taking part in initiatives such as litter picks.

To discover a range of new outdoor trails and places to explore throughout Northern Ireland, visit OutmoreNI.com

,

Friends of the Glens Walk & Talk walks are back

To show the people of Northern Ireland where to go in the outdoors, our sister website, <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”><strong>OutmoreNI.com</strong></a> has just launched a new campaign called <strong>‘Get Out More’</strong>. The campaign includes its newly overhauled website which showcases the many outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland from those on peoples doorsteps to the wonderful hidden gems further afield.

<img class=”wp-image-10323 aligncenter” src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Main-Campaign-Graphic-e1649159072738.png” alt=”” width=”576″ height=”514″ />

Research by <a href=”http://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Outdoor Recreation NI</a> in 2020, the organisation behind the campaign, revealed nearly half (47%) of the population of Northern Ireland were spending more of their free time outdoors during the pandemic than they did in 2019 and 51% expect to continue to use the outdoors<strong>.</strong><strong> </strong>This increase in sustained outdoor usage by the Northern Irish public emboldened OutmoreNI.com’s desire to redevelop its website and launch this new campaign. Funding provided by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI has supported this new campaign and website.

Speaking on the investment and redevelopment of the new website, Ethan Loughrey, Marketing Officer at Outdoor Recreation NI said: “Spending time outdoors is a great way to connect and appreciate the beauty of nature around us and it is vital for our physical and mental health. There is a plethora of things to do and places to see across Northern Ireland’s outdoors, which <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> displays in a more innovative and user-friendly format, enhancing the old site for 2022. For example, the site now showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, in an easy-to-follow format, such as walking, cycling, canoeing and mountain biking in many locations. There is also a vast amount of information and useful resources on the site on outdoor places to discover and explore such as beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.”

There are a range of categories to choose from depending on what activity or place is desired by the user which are clearly represented by colour coded icons. For example, an orange foot print icon symbolises walking trails and a green park bench symbolises parks on the website. When a trail or place is selected, more information will be presented including distance, nearest town, trail directions, the facilities available, any points of interest including wildlife on site and how to actually get there. It also displays an image which encourages users to get a glimpse of the beautiful scenery the place or trail provides.

Since all of the restrictions have been lifted across Northern Ireland including travel, people finally have the freedom to spend more time outdoors. However, people may struggle to decide on where to go and therefore <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> is an excellent website for families and friends to utilise to plan and organise their dayshttp://outmoreni.com/ out.

The website is very easy to navigate and has a search bar which enables the public to organise their own adventure, catering to their own needs. Users may want to travel to Ballycastle for a day out and may need some ideas on different activities and places to get the most enjoyable experience out of their day.

Ethan adds: “The interactive map allows you to explore the area that you are travelling to and get to know the area and what is in it before you leave the house. By having filtered search results, this will allow you to find out more about the trail or place you want to visit.”

<img class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-10324″ src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Map.jpg” alt=”” width=”1744″ height=”840″ />

Supporting the launch of the new website and campaign is presenter and outdoor enthusiast, Paulo Ross who remarks: “Thanks to <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> people can make more informed decisions when preparing where to visit and explore the beautiful scenery across Northern Ireland right at their fingertips.

“People will be inspired to travel to new locations and create new routes for walking, cycling, mountain biking and canoeing and the beauty of it is that it caters for a range of abilities and backgrounds including complete beginners through to serious enthusiasts. Alternatively, if people just want to spend time outdoors and connect with nature whether that’s having a picnic or paddling their feet in the water there are also over 200 outdoor places listed”.

To see the new website and for more information on the ‘Get Out More campaign visit <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a>

,

Get into Nature with MyNI

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Get your walking boots ready and discover the beauty of the Sperrins

To show the people of Northern Ireland where to go in the outdoors, our sister website, <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”><strong>OutmoreNI.com</strong></a> has just launched a new campaign called <strong>‘Get Out More’</strong>. The campaign includes its newly overhauled website which showcases the many outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland from those on peoples doorsteps to the wonderful hidden gems further afield.

<img class=”wp-image-10323 aligncenter” src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Main-Campaign-Graphic-e1649159072738.png” alt=”” width=”576″ height=”514″ />

Research by <a href=”http://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Outdoor Recreation NI</a> in 2020, the organisation behind the campaign, revealed nearly half (47%) of the population of Northern Ireland were spending more of their free time outdoors during the pandemic than they did in 2019 and 51% expect to continue to use the outdoors<strong>.</strong><strong> </strong>This increase in sustained outdoor usage by the Northern Irish public emboldened OutmoreNI.com’s desire to redevelop its website and launch this new campaign. Funding provided by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI has supported this new campaign and website.

Speaking on the investment and redevelopment of the new website, Ethan Loughrey, Marketing Officer at Outdoor Recreation NI said: “Spending time outdoors is a great way to connect and appreciate the beauty of nature around us and it is vital for our physical and mental health. There is a plethora of things to do and places to see across Northern Ireland’s outdoors, which <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> displays in a more innovative and user-friendly format, enhancing the old site for 2022. For example, the site now showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, in an easy-to-follow format, such as walking, cycling, canoeing and mountain biking in many locations. There is also a vast amount of information and useful resources on the site on outdoor places to discover and explore such as beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.”

There are a range of categories to choose from depending on what activity or place is desired by the user which are clearly represented by colour coded icons. For example, an orange foot print icon symbolises walking trails and a green park bench symbolises parks on the website. When a trail or place is selected, more information will be presented including distance, nearest town, trail directions, the facilities available, any points of interest including wildlife on site and how to actually get there. It also displays an image which encourages users to get a glimpse of the beautiful scenery the place or trail provides.

Since all of the restrictions have been lifted across Northern Ireland including travel, people finally have the freedom to spend more time outdoors. However, people may struggle to decide on where to go and therefore <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> is an excellent website for families and friends to utilise to plan and organise their dayshttp://outmoreni.com/ out.

The website is very easy to navigate and has a search bar which enables the public to organise their own adventure, catering to their own needs. Users may want to travel to Ballycastle for a day out and may need some ideas on different activities and places to get the most enjoyable experience out of their day.

Ethan adds: “The interactive map allows you to explore the area that you are travelling to and get to know the area and what is in it before you leave the house. By having filtered search results, this will allow you to find out more about the trail or place you want to visit.”

<img class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-10324″ src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Map.jpg” alt=”” width=”1744″ height=”840″ />

Supporting the launch of the new website and campaign is presenter and outdoor enthusiast, Paulo Ross who remarks: “Thanks to <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> people can make more informed decisions when preparing where to visit and explore the beautiful scenery across Northern Ireland right at their fingertips.

“People will be inspired to travel to new locations and create new routes for walking, cycling, mountain biking and canoeing and the beauty of it is that it caters for a range of abilities and backgrounds including complete beginners through to serious enthusiasts. Alternatively, if people just want to spend time outdoors and connect with nature whether that’s having a picnic or paddling their feet in the water there are also over 200 outdoor places listed”.

To see the new website and for more information on the ‘Get Out More campaign visit <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a>

,

Glasswater Wood given a major expansion

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Green Flag Winners Revealed 2019

Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful are celebrating a record 76 Green Flag awards this year. 

Click here to download the Green Flag Award 2019 Map

The Winners:

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough council achieved 15 Green Flags.

Parks awarded were;
Antrim Castle Gardens (Heritage)
Antrim/Belmont Cemetery
Ballynure Old Graveyard
Jordanstown Loughshore Park, Hazelbank Park and Gideons Green
Kilbride Cemetery
Lilian Bland Park
Mallusk Cemetery
Mill Race Trail
Newtownabbey Way
Randalstown Riverside Walk
Rashee Cemetery
Sentry Hill Historic House & Visitor Centre (Heritage)
Sixmile Water Park
Valley Park (V36 and Glas-na-braden Glen)
Wallace Park

Ards and North Down Borough Council achieved 5 Green Flags.

Parks awarded were;
Ballymenoch Park
Castle Park
Kiltonga Nature Reserve
Linear Park Bangor
Londonderry Park

Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council achieved 9 Green Flags.

Parks awarded were;
ABC Canal Greenway
Brownstown Park
Edenvilla Park
Gosford Forest Park
Lurgan Public Park
Portadown People’s Park
Solitude Park
Tannaghmore Gardens
The Palace Park

Belfast City Council achieved 20 Green Flags.

Parks awarded were;
Barnett Demesne
Belfast Botanic Gardens (Heritage)
Belmont Park
Cavehill Country Park
Connswater Community Greenway
Drumglass Park
Dunmurry Village
Dunville Park
Falls Park
Grove Park
Half Moon Lake
Knocknagoney Park
Lagan Meadows
Musgrave Park
Ormeau Park
Roselawn Cemetery
Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park
Tullycarnet Park
Waterworks Park
Woodvale Park

Derry City & Strabane District Council for achieved 1 Green Flag.

Park awarded;
Brooke Park (Heritage)

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council achieved 2 Green Flags.

Parks awarded were;
Grange Park
Broadmeadow

Mid Ulster District Council achieved 3 Green Flags.

Parks awarded were;
Dungannon Park
Maghera Walled Garden
Hill of the O’Neill

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council achieved 4 Green Flags.

Parks awarded were;
Castle Gardens
Moat Park
Moira Demense
Wallace Park

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council achieved 8 Green Flags.

Parks awarded were;
Bashfordsland Wood and Oakfield Glen
Carnfunnock Country Park
Carrickfergus Mill Ponds, Shaftesbury Park & Marine Gardens
Diamond Jubilee Wood
Dixon Park
Ecos Nature Park
Eden Allotment Garden
The People’s Park

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council achieved 3 Green Flags.

Parks awarded were;
Kilbroney Park
Slieve Gullion Forest Park
Warrenpoint Municipal Park

The Department of Finance achieved 1 Green Flag.

Park awarded;
Stormont Estate

,

Have Your Say on Your Favourite Outdoor Spots with OutmoreNI

OutmoreNI is inviting everyone to participate in a quick survey that will shape the future of outdoor exploration in Northern Ireland.

Ever wondered if parks take the top spot over beaches, or if heritage sites are more adored than forests?

Now is your chance to voice your preferences! Please complete our short survey (less than two minutes) and rank your preferred outdoor places, from parks to playing fields, and beaches to playing fields.

Your input is invaluable. By taking the survey, you’ll play a vital role in tailoring the OutmoreNI.com experience, ensuring it aligns seamlessly with your outdoor interests.

Click here to head over to the survey and make your preferences known!

For more information, click here.

,

Have your say! Mid and East Antrim Forest Masterplans

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Have your say! Mournes Community Renewal Through Nature Survey

To show the people of Northern Ireland where to go in the outdoors, our sister website, <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”><strong>OutmoreNI.com</strong></a> has just launched a new campaign called <strong>‘Get Out More’</strong>. The campaign includes its newly overhauled website which showcases the many outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland from those on peoples doorsteps to the wonderful hidden gems further afield.

<img class=”wp-image-10323 aligncenter” src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Main-Campaign-Graphic-e1649159072738.png” alt=”” width=”576″ height=”514″ />

Research by <a href=”http://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Outdoor Recreation NI</a> in 2020, the organisation behind the campaign, revealed nearly half (47%) of the population of Northern Ireland were spending more of their free time outdoors during the pandemic than they did in 2019 and 51% expect to continue to use the outdoors<strong>.</strong><strong> </strong>This increase in sustained outdoor usage by the Northern Irish public emboldened OutmoreNI.com’s desire to redevelop its website and launch this new campaign. Funding provided by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI has supported this new campaign and website.

Speaking on the investment and redevelopment of the new website, Ethan Loughrey, Marketing Officer at Outdoor Recreation NI said: “Spending time outdoors is a great way to connect and appreciate the beauty of nature around us and it is vital for our physical and mental health. There is a plethora of things to do and places to see across Northern Ireland’s outdoors, which <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> displays in a more innovative and user-friendly format, enhancing the old site for 2022. For example, the site now showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, in an easy-to-follow format, such as walking, cycling, canoeing and mountain biking in many locations. There is also a vast amount of information and useful resources on the site on outdoor places to discover and explore such as beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.”

There are a range of categories to choose from depending on what activity or place is desired by the user which are clearly represented by colour coded icons. For example, an orange foot print icon symbolises walking trails and a green park bench symbolises parks on the website. When a trail or place is selected, more information will be presented including distance, nearest town, trail directions, the facilities available, any points of interest including wildlife on site and how to actually get there. It also displays an image which encourages users to get a glimpse of the beautiful scenery the place or trail provides.

Since all of the restrictions have been lifted across Northern Ireland including travel, people finally have the freedom to spend more time outdoors. However, people may struggle to decide on where to go and therefore <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> is an excellent website for families and friends to utilise to plan and organise their dayshttp://outmoreni.com/ out.

The website is very easy to navigate and has a search bar which enables the public to organise their own adventure, catering to their own needs. Users may want to travel to Ballycastle for a day out and may need some ideas on different activities and places to get the most enjoyable experience out of their day.

Ethan adds: “The interactive map allows you to explore the area that you are travelling to and get to know the area and what is in it before you leave the house. By having filtered search results, this will allow you to find out more about the trail or place you want to visit.”

<img class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-10324″ src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Map.jpg” alt=”” width=”1744″ height=”840″ />

Supporting the launch of the new website and campaign is presenter and outdoor enthusiast, Paulo Ross who remarks: “Thanks to <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> people can make more informed decisions when preparing where to visit and explore the beautiful scenery across Northern Ireland right at their fingertips.

“People will be inspired to travel to new locations and create new routes for walking, cycling, mountain biking and canoeing and the beauty of it is that it caters for a range of abilities and backgrounds including complete beginners through to serious enthusiasts. Alternatively, if people just want to spend time outdoors and connect with nature whether that’s having a picnic or paddling their feet in the water there are also over 200 outdoor places listed”.

To see the new website and for more information on the ‘Get Out More campaign visit <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a>

,

International Appalachian Trail Ulster-Ireland celebrated at national launch

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Killyfole Lough improvement works to commence

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Latest Covid-19 Restrictions and what they mean for Outdoor Recreation

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Local community celebrate success with launch of two new community trails

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Magic and Mistletoe, Magheramorne Estate

OutmoreNI is inviting everyone to participate in a quick survey that will shape the future of outdoor exploration in Northern Ireland.

Ever wondered if parks take the top spot over beaches, or if heritage sites are more adored than forests?

Now is your chance to voice your preferences! Please complete our short survey (less than two minutes) and rank your preferred outdoor places, from parks to playing fields, and beaches to playing fields.

Your input is invaluable. By taking the survey, you’ll play a vital role in tailoring the OutmoreNI.com experience, ensuring it aligns seamlessly with your outdoor interests.

Click here to head over to the survey and make your preferences known!

For more information, click here.

,

Mallon announces a £2.8 million package for Greenway projects

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Mallon commits £20 million to Blue Green delivery in 2021/22

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Mid Ulster ‘Shared Space’ Development Work

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Mid Ulster Council Launch Dog Foul Campaign at Lough Fea

To show the people of Northern Ireland where to go in the outdoors, our sister website, <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”><strong>OutmoreNI.com</strong></a> has just launched a new campaign called <strong>‘Get Out More’</strong>. The campaign includes its newly overhauled website which showcases the many outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland from those on peoples doorsteps to the wonderful hidden gems further afield.

<img class=”wp-image-10323 aligncenter” src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Main-Campaign-Graphic-e1649159072738.png” alt=”” width=”576″ height=”514″ />

Research by <a href=”http://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Outdoor Recreation NI</a> in 2020, the organisation behind the campaign, revealed nearly half (47%) of the population of Northern Ireland were spending more of their free time outdoors during the pandemic than they did in 2019 and 51% expect to continue to use the outdoors<strong>.</strong><strong> </strong>This increase in sustained outdoor usage by the Northern Irish public emboldened OutmoreNI.com’s desire to redevelop its website and launch this new campaign. Funding provided by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI has supported this new campaign and website.

Speaking on the investment and redevelopment of the new website, Ethan Loughrey, Marketing Officer at Outdoor Recreation NI said: “Spending time outdoors is a great way to connect and appreciate the beauty of nature around us and it is vital for our physical and mental health. There is a plethora of things to do and places to see across Northern Ireland’s outdoors, which <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> displays in a more innovative and user-friendly format, enhancing the old site for 2022. For example, the site now showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, in an easy-to-follow format, such as walking, cycling, canoeing and mountain biking in many locations. There is also a vast amount of information and useful resources on the site on outdoor places to discover and explore such as beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.”

There are a range of categories to choose from depending on what activity or place is desired by the user which are clearly represented by colour coded icons. For example, an orange foot print icon symbolises walking trails and a green park bench symbolises parks on the website. When a trail or place is selected, more information will be presented including distance, nearest town, trail directions, the facilities available, any points of interest including wildlife on site and how to actually get there. It also displays an image which encourages users to get a glimpse of the beautiful scenery the place or trail provides.

Since all of the restrictions have been lifted across Northern Ireland including travel, people finally have the freedom to spend more time outdoors. However, people may struggle to decide on where to go and therefore <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> is an excellent website for families and friends to utilise to plan and organise their dayshttp://outmoreni.com/ out.

The website is very easy to navigate and has a search bar which enables the public to organise their own adventure, catering to their own needs. Users may want to travel to Ballycastle for a day out and may need some ideas on different activities and places to get the most enjoyable experience out of their day.

Ethan adds: “The interactive map allows you to explore the area that you are travelling to and get to know the area and what is in it before you leave the house. By having filtered search results, this will allow you to find out more about the trail or place you want to visit.”

<img class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-10324″ src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Map.jpg” alt=”” width=”1744″ height=”840″ />

Supporting the launch of the new website and campaign is presenter and outdoor enthusiast, Paulo Ross who remarks: “Thanks to <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> people can make more informed decisions when preparing where to visit and explore the beautiful scenery across Northern Ireland right at their fingertips.

“People will be inspired to travel to new locations and create new routes for walking, cycling, mountain biking and canoeing and the beauty of it is that it caters for a range of abilities and backgrounds including complete beginners through to serious enthusiasts. Alternatively, if people just want to spend time outdoors and connect with nature whether that’s having a picnic or paddling their feet in the water there are also over 200 outdoor places listed”.

To see the new website and for more information on the ‘Get Out More campaign visit <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a>

,

Mid Ulster Council Support the Big Clean Up

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Montalto Twilight Market

OutmoreNI is inviting everyone to participate in a quick survey that will shape the future of outdoor exploration in Northern Ireland.

Ever wondered if parks take the top spot over beaches, or if heritage sites are more adored than forests?

Now is your chance to voice your preferences! Please complete our short survey (less than two minutes) and rank your preferred outdoor places, from parks to playing fields, and beaches to playing fields.

Your input is invaluable. By taking the survey, you’ll play a vital role in tailoring the OutmoreNI.com experience, ensuring it aligns seamlessly with your outdoor interests.

Click here to head over to the survey and make your preferences known!

For more information, click here.

,

Mountaineering Ireland – Happy Hiking

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Mourne Heritage Trust Open Litter Stations in the Mournes

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

MyNI encourage you to take a car diet

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

New Chatty Bench Installed in Dungannon Park

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

New conservation heroes on the Mourne Mountains!

Marking the clocks going forward for spring, our sister website, OutmoreNI.com has just launched its ‘Get Out More’ campaign to encourage people across the country to use the extra hour to get outside.

As days lengthen and the weather improves, there is no better time to explore some of the hundreds of outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland.

Kerry Kirkpatrick, Communications and Training Executive at Outdoor Recreation NI, says, Spending time outdoors is  fundamental to our wellbeing. It allows us to connect with nature and to experience the beauty of Northern Ireland. We are lucky to have a plethora of amazing green and blue spaces on our doorstep and I would encourage people across the country to take advantage of the extra hour that we have gained and get out more.

“To help them do this, our OutmoreNI.com website is a vital resource for those who wish to explore the wonderful outdoor spaces that Northern Ireland has to offer.

“The site, which is easily navigated, showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, that are curated to offer something for everyone, from walkers and families to mountain bikers, cyclists, and canoeists. It also contains a vast range of information on beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.

“Of course, we would also encourage people to protect the environment by exploring these areas responsibly and OutmoreNI.com provides a wealth of information on how to do so through its ‘Right Side of Outside’ campaign.”

Research from the People in the Outdoors Monitor for Northern Ireland (POMNI) report which was conducted by our parent company, Outdoor Recreation NI, from November 2020 to October 2021, shows that 77 per cent of people surveyed across Northern Ireland say that getting outdoors is good for their wellbeing.

41 per cent of those surveyed say that connecting with nature is a key motivator for getting outdoors, whilst 72 per cent say that their local greenspace is within easy walking distance.

Supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI, the OutmoreNI.com website showcases over 850 green and blue spaces and outdoor trails across Northern Ireland. These include those on our doorsteps, along with hidden gems further afield.

Don’t forget when visiting an outdoor spot, you can help protect it by following a few simple steps to ensure you stay on the ‘Right Side of Outside’ such as:

  • Planning ahead by checking the weather and bringing the right equipment such as clothing, footwear, map, wet suit, paddles etc.
  • Keeping your dog on a lead to avoid livestock worrying and disruption to wildlife.
  • Only camping or lighting a BBQ in a designated area.
  • Avoid starting open fires.
  • Only parking your car in designated spaces and don’t forget to consider local access
  • Taking your dog waste and litter home with you.
  • Get involved and protect the environment by taking part in initiatives such as litter picks.

To discover a range of new outdoor trails and places to explore throughout Northern Ireland, visit OutmoreNI.com

,

New Ulster-Scots Walks with Graham Little

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

NIEA Country Park Survey

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Northern Ireland’s First Ever Environment Strategy – Have Your Say!

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Northern Ireland’s most iconic long distance walking trail gets a fresh new look and interactive mapping.

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

One from the hills

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Our Mental Health and the Outdoors – LNT Ireland Podcast

Marking the clocks going forward for spring, our sister website, OutmoreNI.com has just launched its ‘Get Out More’ campaign to encourage people across the country to use the extra hour to get outside.

As days lengthen and the weather improves, there is no better time to explore some of the hundreds of outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland.

Kerry Kirkpatrick, Communications and Training Executive at Outdoor Recreation NI, says, Spending time outdoors is  fundamental to our wellbeing. It allows us to connect with nature and to experience the beauty of Northern Ireland. We are lucky to have a plethora of amazing green and blue spaces on our doorstep and I would encourage people across the country to take advantage of the extra hour that we have gained and get out more.

“To help them do this, our OutmoreNI.com website is a vital resource for those who wish to explore the wonderful outdoor spaces that Northern Ireland has to offer.

“The site, which is easily navigated, showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, that are curated to offer something for everyone, from walkers and families to mountain bikers, cyclists, and canoeists. It also contains a vast range of information on beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.

“Of course, we would also encourage people to protect the environment by exploring these areas responsibly and OutmoreNI.com provides a wealth of information on how to do so through its ‘Right Side of Outside’ campaign.”

Research from the People in the Outdoors Monitor for Northern Ireland (POMNI) report which was conducted by our parent company, Outdoor Recreation NI, from November 2020 to October 2021, shows that 77 per cent of people surveyed across Northern Ireland say that getting outdoors is good for their wellbeing.

41 per cent of those surveyed say that connecting with nature is a key motivator for getting outdoors, whilst 72 per cent say that their local greenspace is within easy walking distance.

Supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI, the OutmoreNI.com website showcases over 850 green and blue spaces and outdoor trails across Northern Ireland. These include those on our doorsteps, along with hidden gems further afield.

Don’t forget when visiting an outdoor spot, you can help protect it by following a few simple steps to ensure you stay on the ‘Right Side of Outside’ such as:

  • Planning ahead by checking the weather and bringing the right equipment such as clothing, footwear, map, wet suit, paddles etc.
  • Keeping your dog on a lead to avoid livestock worrying and disruption to wildlife.
  • Only camping or lighting a BBQ in a designated area.
  • Avoid starting open fires.
  • Only parking your car in designated spaces and don’t forget to consider local access
  • Taking your dog waste and litter home with you.
  • Get involved and protect the environment by taking part in initiatives such as litter picks.

To discover a range of new outdoor trails and places to explore throughout Northern Ireland, visit OutmoreNI.com

,

Outdoor Recreation NI Community Trails Survey 2021

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Park users encouraged to take their rubbish home

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Phase 2 of Cairn Wood Development Work

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Plan Before You Go – Mourne Shuttle Service

To show the people of Northern Ireland where to go in the outdoors, our sister website, <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”><strong>OutmoreNI.com</strong></a> has just launched a new campaign called <strong>‘Get Out More’</strong>. The campaign includes its newly overhauled website which showcases the many outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland from those on peoples doorsteps to the wonderful hidden gems further afield.

<img class=”wp-image-10323 aligncenter” src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Main-Campaign-Graphic-e1649159072738.png” alt=”” width=”576″ height=”514″ />

Research by <a href=”http://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Outdoor Recreation NI</a> in 2020, the organisation behind the campaign, revealed nearly half (47%) of the population of Northern Ireland were spending more of their free time outdoors during the pandemic than they did in 2019 and 51% expect to continue to use the outdoors<strong>.</strong><strong> </strong>This increase in sustained outdoor usage by the Northern Irish public emboldened OutmoreNI.com’s desire to redevelop its website and launch this new campaign. Funding provided by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI has supported this new campaign and website.

Speaking on the investment and redevelopment of the new website, Ethan Loughrey, Marketing Officer at Outdoor Recreation NI said: “Spending time outdoors is a great way to connect and appreciate the beauty of nature around us and it is vital for our physical and mental health. There is a plethora of things to do and places to see across Northern Ireland’s outdoors, which <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> displays in a more innovative and user-friendly format, enhancing the old site for 2022. For example, the site now showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, in an easy-to-follow format, such as walking, cycling, canoeing and mountain biking in many locations. There is also a vast amount of information and useful resources on the site on outdoor places to discover and explore such as beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.”

There are a range of categories to choose from depending on what activity or place is desired by the user which are clearly represented by colour coded icons. For example, an orange foot print icon symbolises walking trails and a green park bench symbolises parks on the website. When a trail or place is selected, more information will be presented including distance, nearest town, trail directions, the facilities available, any points of interest including wildlife on site and how to actually get there. It also displays an image which encourages users to get a glimpse of the beautiful scenery the place or trail provides.

Since all of the restrictions have been lifted across Northern Ireland including travel, people finally have the freedom to spend more time outdoors. However, people may struggle to decide on where to go and therefore <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> is an excellent website for families and friends to utilise to plan and organise their dayshttp://outmoreni.com/ out.

The website is very easy to navigate and has a search bar which enables the public to organise their own adventure, catering to their own needs. Users may want to travel to Ballycastle for a day out and may need some ideas on different activities and places to get the most enjoyable experience out of their day.

Ethan adds: “The interactive map allows you to explore the area that you are travelling to and get to know the area and what is in it before you leave the house. By having filtered search results, this will allow you to find out more about the trail or place you want to visit.”

<img class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-10324″ src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Map.jpg” alt=”” width=”1744″ height=”840″ />

Supporting the launch of the new website and campaign is presenter and outdoor enthusiast, Paulo Ross who remarks: “Thanks to <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> people can make more informed decisions when preparing where to visit and explore the beautiful scenery across Northern Ireland right at their fingertips.

“People will be inspired to travel to new locations and create new routes for walking, cycling, mountain biking and canoeing and the beauty of it is that it caters for a range of abilities and backgrounds including complete beginners through to serious enthusiasts. Alternatively, if people just want to spend time outdoors and connect with nature whether that’s having a picnic or paddling their feet in the water there are also over 200 outdoor places listed”.

To see the new website and for more information on the ‘Get Out More campaign visit <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a>

,

Play your part in keeping Divis Mountain safe and litter free

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Poots announces £2m Environment Fund Challenge competition

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Poots launches Peatland consultation

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Portaneevey Car Park now open

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Responsible Use of Shared Multi Use Trails

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

RSPB NI Launches New Nature Reserve Montiaghs Moss, a haven for wildlife

Marking the clocks going forward for spring, our sister website, OutmoreNI.com has just launched its ‘Get Out More’ campaign to encourage people across the country to use the extra hour to get outside.

As days lengthen and the weather improves, there is no better time to explore some of the hundreds of outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland.

Kerry Kirkpatrick, Communications and Training Executive at Outdoor Recreation NI, says, Spending time outdoors is  fundamental to our wellbeing. It allows us to connect with nature and to experience the beauty of Northern Ireland. We are lucky to have a plethora of amazing green and blue spaces on our doorstep and I would encourage people across the country to take advantage of the extra hour that we have gained and get out more.

“To help them do this, our OutmoreNI.com website is a vital resource for those who wish to explore the wonderful outdoor spaces that Northern Ireland has to offer.

“The site, which is easily navigated, showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, that are curated to offer something for everyone, from walkers and families to mountain bikers, cyclists, and canoeists. It also contains a vast range of information on beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.

“Of course, we would also encourage people to protect the environment by exploring these areas responsibly and OutmoreNI.com provides a wealth of information on how to do so through its ‘Right Side of Outside’ campaign.”

Research from the People in the Outdoors Monitor for Northern Ireland (POMNI) report which was conducted by our parent company, Outdoor Recreation NI, from November 2020 to October 2021, shows that 77 per cent of people surveyed across Northern Ireland say that getting outdoors is good for their wellbeing.

41 per cent of those surveyed say that connecting with nature is a key motivator for getting outdoors, whilst 72 per cent say that their local greenspace is within easy walking distance.

Supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI, the OutmoreNI.com website showcases over 850 green and blue spaces and outdoor trails across Northern Ireland. These include those on our doorsteps, along with hidden gems further afield.

Don’t forget when visiting an outdoor spot, you can help protect it by following a few simple steps to ensure you stay on the ‘Right Side of Outside’ such as:

  • Planning ahead by checking the weather and bringing the right equipment such as clothing, footwear, map, wet suit, paddles etc.
  • Keeping your dog on a lead to avoid livestock worrying and disruption to wildlife.
  • Only camping or lighting a BBQ in a designated area.
  • Avoid starting open fires.
  • Only parking your car in designated spaces and don’t forget to consider local access
  • Taking your dog waste and litter home with you.
  • Get involved and protect the environment by taking part in initiatives such as litter picks.

To discover a range of new outdoor trails and places to explore throughout Northern Ireland, visit OutmoreNI.com

,

Share a Great Place: New Code of Conduct for the Newry-Portadown Canal Towpath

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Skill Development Opportunity – Mourne Ambassador Scheme

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Step Out in The Sperrins this autumn

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Super-sized nature reserve planned for grassland hills above Belfast by Ulster Wildlife

To show the people of Northern Ireland where to go in the outdoors, our sister website, <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”><strong>OutmoreNI.com</strong></a> has just launched a new campaign called <strong>‘Get Out More’</strong>. The campaign includes its newly overhauled website which showcases the many outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland from those on peoples doorsteps to the wonderful hidden gems further afield.

<img class=”wp-image-10323 aligncenter” src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Main-Campaign-Graphic-e1649159072738.png” alt=”” width=”576″ height=”514″ />

Research by <a href=”http://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Outdoor Recreation NI</a> in 2020, the organisation behind the campaign, revealed nearly half (47%) of the population of Northern Ireland were spending more of their free time outdoors during the pandemic than they did in 2019 and 51% expect to continue to use the outdoors<strong>.</strong><strong> </strong>This increase in sustained outdoor usage by the Northern Irish public emboldened OutmoreNI.com’s desire to redevelop its website and launch this new campaign. Funding provided by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI has supported this new campaign and website.

Speaking on the investment and redevelopment of the new website, Ethan Loughrey, Marketing Officer at Outdoor Recreation NI said: “Spending time outdoors is a great way to connect and appreciate the beauty of nature around us and it is vital for our physical and mental health. There is a plethora of things to do and places to see across Northern Ireland’s outdoors, which <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> displays in a more innovative and user-friendly format, enhancing the old site for 2022. For example, the site now showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, in an easy-to-follow format, such as walking, cycling, canoeing and mountain biking in many locations. There is also a vast amount of information and useful resources on the site on outdoor places to discover and explore such as beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.”

There are a range of categories to choose from depending on what activity or place is desired by the user which are clearly represented by colour coded icons. For example, an orange foot print icon symbolises walking trails and a green park bench symbolises parks on the website. When a trail or place is selected, more information will be presented including distance, nearest town, trail directions, the facilities available, any points of interest including wildlife on site and how to actually get there. It also displays an image which encourages users to get a glimpse of the beautiful scenery the place or trail provides.

Since all of the restrictions have been lifted across Northern Ireland including travel, people finally have the freedom to spend more time outdoors. However, people may struggle to decide on where to go and therefore <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> is an excellent website for families and friends to utilise to plan and organise their dayshttp://outmoreni.com/ out.

The website is very easy to navigate and has a search bar which enables the public to organise their own adventure, catering to their own needs. Users may want to travel to Ballycastle for a day out and may need some ideas on different activities and places to get the most enjoyable experience out of their day.

Ethan adds: “The interactive map allows you to explore the area that you are travelling to and get to know the area and what is in it before you leave the house. By having filtered search results, this will allow you to find out more about the trail or place you want to visit.”

<img class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-10324″ src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Map.jpg” alt=”” width=”1744″ height=”840″ />

Supporting the launch of the new website and campaign is presenter and outdoor enthusiast, Paulo Ross who remarks: “Thanks to <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> people can make more informed decisions when preparing where to visit and explore the beautiful scenery across Northern Ireland right at their fingertips.

“People will be inspired to travel to new locations and create new routes for walking, cycling, mountain biking and canoeing and the beauty of it is that it caters for a range of abilities and backgrounds including complete beginners through to serious enthusiasts. Alternatively, if people just want to spend time outdoors and connect with nature whether that’s having a picnic or paddling their feet in the water there are also over 200 outdoor places listed”.

To see the new website and for more information on the ‘Get Out More campaign visit <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a>

,

Take part in the UK’s biggest nature challenge – 30 Days Wild

Marking the clocks going forward for spring, our sister website, OutmoreNI.com has just launched its ‘Get Out More’ campaign to encourage people across the country to use the extra hour to get outside.

As days lengthen and the weather improves, there is no better time to explore some of the hundreds of outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland.

Kerry Kirkpatrick, Communications and Training Executive at Outdoor Recreation NI, says, Spending time outdoors is  fundamental to our wellbeing. It allows us to connect with nature and to experience the beauty of Northern Ireland. We are lucky to have a plethora of amazing green and blue spaces on our doorstep and I would encourage people across the country to take advantage of the extra hour that we have gained and get out more.

“To help them do this, our OutmoreNI.com website is a vital resource for those who wish to explore the wonderful outdoor spaces that Northern Ireland has to offer.

“The site, which is easily navigated, showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, that are curated to offer something for everyone, from walkers and families to mountain bikers, cyclists, and canoeists. It also contains a vast range of information on beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.

“Of course, we would also encourage people to protect the environment by exploring these areas responsibly and OutmoreNI.com provides a wealth of information on how to do so through its ‘Right Side of Outside’ campaign.”

Research from the People in the Outdoors Monitor for Northern Ireland (POMNI) report which was conducted by our parent company, Outdoor Recreation NI, from November 2020 to October 2021, shows that 77 per cent of people surveyed across Northern Ireland say that getting outdoors is good for their wellbeing.

41 per cent of those surveyed say that connecting with nature is a key motivator for getting outdoors, whilst 72 per cent say that their local greenspace is within easy walking distance.

Supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI, the OutmoreNI.com website showcases over 850 green and blue spaces and outdoor trails across Northern Ireland. These include those on our doorsteps, along with hidden gems further afield.

Don’t forget when visiting an outdoor spot, you can help protect it by following a few simple steps to ensure you stay on the ‘Right Side of Outside’ such as:

  • Planning ahead by checking the weather and bringing the right equipment such as clothing, footwear, map, wet suit, paddles etc.
  • Keeping your dog on a lead to avoid livestock worrying and disruption to wildlife.
  • Only camping or lighting a BBQ in a designated area.
  • Avoid starting open fires.
  • Only parking your car in designated spaces and don’t forget to consider local access
  • Taking your dog waste and litter home with you.
  • Get involved and protect the environment by taking part in initiatives such as litter picks.

To discover a range of new outdoor trails and places to explore throughout Northern Ireland, visit OutmoreNI.com

,

The story behind ‘The Mourne Hand”

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

The Woodland Trust buys ancient woodland – Mourne Park

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

This Bank Holiday plan to be on the #RightSideOfOutside

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Top Tips on connecting with nature to improve your mental health

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

UFU, UFRC and ORNI Working Together to Promote Responsible Behaviour in the Countryside

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

UNCOVER NATURAL BENEFITS AND BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPES WITH SPERRINS WALKING

Marking the clocks going forward for spring, our sister website, OutmoreNI.com has just launched its ‘Get Out More’ campaign to encourage people across the country to use the extra hour to get outside.

As days lengthen and the weather improves, there is no better time to explore some of the hundreds of outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland.

Kerry Kirkpatrick, Communications and Training Executive at Outdoor Recreation NI, says, Spending time outdoors is  fundamental to our wellbeing. It allows us to connect with nature and to experience the beauty of Northern Ireland. We are lucky to have a plethora of amazing green and blue spaces on our doorstep and I would encourage people across the country to take advantage of the extra hour that we have gained and get out more.

“To help them do this, our OutmoreNI.com website is a vital resource for those who wish to explore the wonderful outdoor spaces that Northern Ireland has to offer.

“The site, which is easily navigated, showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, that are curated to offer something for everyone, from walkers and families to mountain bikers, cyclists, and canoeists. It also contains a vast range of information on beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.

“Of course, we would also encourage people to protect the environment by exploring these areas responsibly and OutmoreNI.com provides a wealth of information on how to do so through its ‘Right Side of Outside’ campaign.”

Research from the People in the Outdoors Monitor for Northern Ireland (POMNI) report which was conducted by our parent company, Outdoor Recreation NI, from November 2020 to October 2021, shows that 77 per cent of people surveyed across Northern Ireland say that getting outdoors is good for their wellbeing.

41 per cent of those surveyed say that connecting with nature is a key motivator for getting outdoors, whilst 72 per cent say that their local greenspace is within easy walking distance.

Supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI, the OutmoreNI.com website showcases over 850 green and blue spaces and outdoor trails across Northern Ireland. These include those on our doorsteps, along with hidden gems further afield.

Don’t forget when visiting an outdoor spot, you can help protect it by following a few simple steps to ensure you stay on the ‘Right Side of Outside’ such as:

  • Planning ahead by checking the weather and bringing the right equipment such as clothing, footwear, map, wet suit, paddles etc.
  • Keeping your dog on a lead to avoid livestock worrying and disruption to wildlife.
  • Only camping or lighting a BBQ in a designated area.
  • Avoid starting open fires.
  • Only parking your car in designated spaces and don’t forget to consider local access
  • Taking your dog waste and litter home with you.
  • Get involved and protect the environment by taking part in initiatives such as litter picks.

To discover a range of new outdoor trails and places to explore throughout Northern Ireland, visit OutmoreNI.com

,

Visitor Notice – Cuilcagh Boardwalk (Stairway to Heaven)

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Volunteers helping to maintain paths in the Belfast Hills

To show the people of Northern Ireland where to go in the outdoors, our sister website, <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”><strong>OutmoreNI.com</strong></a> has just launched a new campaign called <strong>‘Get Out More’</strong>. The campaign includes its newly overhauled website which showcases the many outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland from those on peoples doorsteps to the wonderful hidden gems further afield.

<img class=”wp-image-10323 aligncenter” src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Main-Campaign-Graphic-e1649159072738.png” alt=”” width=”576″ height=”514″ />

Research by <a href=”http://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Outdoor Recreation NI</a> in 2020, the organisation behind the campaign, revealed nearly half (47%) of the population of Northern Ireland were spending more of their free time outdoors during the pandemic than they did in 2019 and 51% expect to continue to use the outdoors<strong>.</strong><strong> </strong>This increase in sustained outdoor usage by the Northern Irish public emboldened OutmoreNI.com’s desire to redevelop its website and launch this new campaign. Funding provided by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI has supported this new campaign and website.

Speaking on the investment and redevelopment of the new website, Ethan Loughrey, Marketing Officer at Outdoor Recreation NI said: “Spending time outdoors is a great way to connect and appreciate the beauty of nature around us and it is vital for our physical and mental health. There is a plethora of things to do and places to see across Northern Ireland’s outdoors, which <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> displays in a more innovative and user-friendly format, enhancing the old site for 2022. For example, the site now showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, in an easy-to-follow format, such as walking, cycling, canoeing and mountain biking in many locations. There is also a vast amount of information and useful resources on the site on outdoor places to discover and explore such as beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.”

There are a range of categories to choose from depending on what activity or place is desired by the user which are clearly represented by colour coded icons. For example, an orange foot print icon symbolises walking trails and a green park bench symbolises parks on the website. When a trail or place is selected, more information will be presented including distance, nearest town, trail directions, the facilities available, any points of interest including wildlife on site and how to actually get there. It also displays an image which encourages users to get a glimpse of the beautiful scenery the place or trail provides.

Since all of the restrictions have been lifted across Northern Ireland including travel, people finally have the freedom to spend more time outdoors. However, people may struggle to decide on where to go and therefore <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> is an excellent website for families and friends to utilise to plan and organise their dayshttp://outmoreni.com/ out.

The website is very easy to navigate and has a search bar which enables the public to organise their own adventure, catering to their own needs. Users may want to travel to Ballycastle for a day out and may need some ideas on different activities and places to get the most enjoyable experience out of their day.

Ethan adds: “The interactive map allows you to explore the area that you are travelling to and get to know the area and what is in it before you leave the house. By having filtered search results, this will allow you to find out more about the trail or place you want to visit.”

<img class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-10324″ src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Map.jpg” alt=”” width=”1744″ height=”840″ />

Supporting the launch of the new website and campaign is presenter and outdoor enthusiast, Paulo Ross who remarks: “Thanks to <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> people can make more informed decisions when preparing where to visit and explore the beautiful scenery across Northern Ireland right at their fingertips.

“People will be inspired to travel to new locations and create new routes for walking, cycling, mountain biking and canoeing and the beauty of it is that it caters for a range of abilities and backgrounds including complete beginners through to serious enthusiasts. Alternatively, if people just want to spend time outdoors and connect with nature whether that’s having a picnic or paddling their feet in the water there are also over 200 outdoor places listed”.

To see the new website and for more information on the ‘Get Out More campaign visit <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a>

,

Voting opens for WalkNI Awards 2022

The WalkNI Awards are back!

The eagerly anticipated WalkNI Awards are back to celebrate the best walking trails in Northern Ireland. This year we are delighted that the awards are sponsored by Barista Bar who offer great tasting coffee, hot beverages and snacks close to Northern Ireland’s walking trails. All those who vote in this year’s awards are in with a chance of winning one month of free hot beverages from Barista Bar and a £200 voucher to spend at the Slieve Donard Hotel.

Who wins? You decide! Now is your chance to vote for your favourite in the following categories:

  • Best place to walk as a family
  • Best NEW walking trail
  • Best long distance walking trail
  • Top walking trail in Fermanagh and Omagh
  • Top walking trail in Co. Down
  • Top walking trail in Belfast
  • Top walking trail in Mid Ulster
  • Favourite place to walk with your dog
  • Best summit/hilltop view
  • Best section of the International Appalachian Trail Ulster-Ireland
  • Best section of the Ulster Way
  • Best Barista Bar serving hot drinks close to the trails

Click here to vote!

Voting closes at 11.59pm on Friday 18th March 2022. The winners will be announced in March 2022. T&C’s apply.

,

Walking Clubs across NI set to welcome new walkers

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Walking with the Snowman, Hillsborough Castle & Gardens

OutmoreNI is inviting everyone to participate in a quick survey that will shape the future of outdoor exploration in Northern Ireland.

Ever wondered if parks take the top spot over beaches, or if heritage sites are more adored than forests?

Now is your chance to voice your preferences! Please complete our short survey (less than two minutes) and rank your preferred outdoor places, from parks to playing fields, and beaches to playing fields.

Your input is invaluable. By taking the survey, you’ll play a vital role in tailoring the OutmoreNI.com experience, ensuring it aligns seamlessly with your outdoor interests.

Click here to head over to the survey and make your preferences known!

For more information, click here.

,

WalkNI Announces New Sponsor

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

WalkNI Awards Return for 2020

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

WalkNI Reveals This Year’s Top Walks

To show the people of Northern Ireland where to go in the outdoors, our sister website, <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”><strong>OutmoreNI.com</strong></a> has just launched a new campaign called <strong>‘Get Out More’</strong>. The campaign includes its newly overhauled website which showcases the many outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland from those on peoples doorsteps to the wonderful hidden gems further afield.

<img class=”wp-image-10323 aligncenter” src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Main-Campaign-Graphic-e1649159072738.png” alt=”” width=”576″ height=”514″ />

Research by <a href=”http://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Outdoor Recreation NI</a> in 2020, the organisation behind the campaign, revealed nearly half (47%) of the population of Northern Ireland were spending more of their free time outdoors during the pandemic than they did in 2019 and 51% expect to continue to use the outdoors<strong>.</strong><strong> </strong>This increase in sustained outdoor usage by the Northern Irish public emboldened OutmoreNI.com’s desire to redevelop its website and launch this new campaign. Funding provided by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI has supported this new campaign and website.

Speaking on the investment and redevelopment of the new website, Ethan Loughrey, Marketing Officer at Outdoor Recreation NI said: “Spending time outdoors is a great way to connect and appreciate the beauty of nature around us and it is vital for our physical and mental health. There is a plethora of things to do and places to see across Northern Ireland’s outdoors, which <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> displays in a more innovative and user-friendly format, enhancing the old site for 2022. For example, the site now showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, in an easy-to-follow format, such as walking, cycling, canoeing and mountain biking in many locations. There is also a vast amount of information and useful resources on the site on outdoor places to discover and explore such as beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.”

There are a range of categories to choose from depending on what activity or place is desired by the user which are clearly represented by colour coded icons. For example, an orange foot print icon symbolises walking trails and a green park bench symbolises parks on the website. When a trail or place is selected, more information will be presented including distance, nearest town, trail directions, the facilities available, any points of interest including wildlife on site and how to actually get there. It also displays an image which encourages users to get a glimpse of the beautiful scenery the place or trail provides.

Since all of the restrictions have been lifted across Northern Ireland including travel, people finally have the freedom to spend more time outdoors. However, people may struggle to decide on where to go and therefore <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> is an excellent website for families and friends to utilise to plan and organise their dayshttp://outmoreni.com/ out.

The website is very easy to navigate and has a search bar which enables the public to organise their own adventure, catering to their own needs. Users may want to travel to Ballycastle for a day out and may need some ideas on different activities and places to get the most enjoyable experience out of their day.

Ethan adds: “The interactive map allows you to explore the area that you are travelling to and get to know the area and what is in it before you leave the house. By having filtered search results, this will allow you to find out more about the trail or place you want to visit.”

<img class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-10324″ src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Map.jpg” alt=”” width=”1744″ height=”840″ />

Supporting the launch of the new website and campaign is presenter and outdoor enthusiast, Paulo Ross who remarks: “Thanks to <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> people can make more informed decisions when preparing where to visit and explore the beautiful scenery across Northern Ireland right at their fingertips.

“People will be inspired to travel to new locations and create new routes for walking, cycling, mountain biking and canoeing and the beauty of it is that it caters for a range of abilities and backgrounds including complete beginners through to serious enthusiasts. Alternatively, if people just want to spend time outdoors and connect with nature whether that’s having a picnic or paddling their feet in the water there are also over 200 outdoor places listed”.

To see the new website and for more information on the ‘Get Out More campaign visit <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a>

,

Wee Binnians Hillwalking Festival Returns

To show the people of Northern Ireland where to go in the outdoors, our sister website, <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”><strong>OutmoreNI.com</strong></a> has just launched a new campaign called <strong>‘Get Out More’</strong>. The campaign includes its newly overhauled website which showcases the many outdoor trails and places across Northern Ireland from those on peoples doorsteps to the wonderful hidden gems further afield.

<img class=”wp-image-10323 aligncenter” src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Main-Campaign-Graphic-e1649159072738.png” alt=”” width=”576″ height=”514″ />

Research by <a href=”http://www.outdoorrecreationni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Outdoor Recreation NI</a> in 2020, the organisation behind the campaign, revealed nearly half (47%) of the population of Northern Ireland were spending more of their free time outdoors during the pandemic than they did in 2019 and 51% expect to continue to use the outdoors<strong>.</strong><strong> </strong>This increase in sustained outdoor usage by the Northern Irish public emboldened OutmoreNI.com’s desire to redevelop its website and launch this new campaign. Funding provided by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Sport NI has supported this new campaign and website.

Speaking on the investment and redevelopment of the new website, Ethan Loughrey, Marketing Officer at Outdoor Recreation NI said: “Spending time outdoors is a great way to connect and appreciate the beauty of nature around us and it is vital for our physical and mental health. There is a plethora of things to do and places to see across Northern Ireland’s outdoors, which <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> displays in a more innovative and user-friendly format, enhancing the old site for 2022. For example, the site now showcases hundreds of outdoor trails, in an easy-to-follow format, such as walking, cycling, canoeing and mountain biking in many locations. There is also a vast amount of information and useful resources on the site on outdoor places to discover and explore such as beautiful beaches, forests, parks, and nature reserves.”

There are a range of categories to choose from depending on what activity or place is desired by the user which are clearly represented by colour coded icons. For example, an orange foot print icon symbolises walking trails and a green park bench symbolises parks on the website. When a trail or place is selected, more information will be presented including distance, nearest town, trail directions, the facilities available, any points of interest including wildlife on site and how to actually get there. It also displays an image which encourages users to get a glimpse of the beautiful scenery the place or trail provides.

Since all of the restrictions have been lifted across Northern Ireland including travel, people finally have the freedom to spend more time outdoors. However, people may struggle to decide on where to go and therefore <a href=”https://outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> is an excellent website for families and friends to utilise to plan and organise their dayshttp://outmoreni.com/ out.

The website is very easy to navigate and has a search bar which enables the public to organise their own adventure, catering to their own needs. Users may want to travel to Ballycastle for a day out and may need some ideas on different activities and places to get the most enjoyable experience out of their day.

Ethan adds: “The interactive map allows you to explore the area that you are travelling to and get to know the area and what is in it before you leave the house. By having filtered search results, this will allow you to find out more about the trail or place you want to visit.”

<img class=”alignnone size-full wp-image-10324″ src=”https://walkni.com/wp-content/uploads/Map.jpg” alt=”” width=”1744″ height=”840″ />

Supporting the launch of the new website and campaign is presenter and outdoor enthusiast, Paulo Ross who remarks: “Thanks to <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a> people can make more informed decisions when preparing where to visit and explore the beautiful scenery across Northern Ireland right at their fingertips.

“People will be inspired to travel to new locations and create new routes for walking, cycling, mountain biking and canoeing and the beauty of it is that it caters for a range of abilities and backgrounds including complete beginners through to serious enthusiasts. Alternatively, if people just want to spend time outdoors and connect with nature whether that’s having a picnic or paddling their feet in the water there are also over 200 outdoor places listed”.

To see the new website and for more information on the ‘Get Out More campaign visit <a href=”http://www.outmoreni.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>OutmoreNI.com</a>

,

Wild Youth NI – Trainee Ranger Scheme in the Belfast Hills

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Wildfires cause devastating damage says Poots during visit to Mournes

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

World Famous Walking Trail set to make its mark in Ireland

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,

Yellow Weather Warning – Storm Ellen

 

WalkNI’s parent company Outdoor Recreation NI is encouraging people to carefully consider how they enjoy the outdoors this Bank Holiday weekend.

 

“We all have a pent-up desire to get outside especially now we can meet in groups of six or less whilst maintaining social distancing. However, we want everybody to have a safe and healthy visit to the outdoors this Bank Holiday Weekend” cautioned Chris Scott, Head of Operations, Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland.

 

“It is important to remember that your favourite places will probably not be at full operating capacity for example many car parks and toilets remain closed.” continued Chris.

 

Outdoor Recreation NI is advising people to ‘Stay local, stay apart, stay safe and leave no trace.’

 

Stay Local

 

  • Respect the wishes of landowners and local communities
  • Expect some changes – the majority of car parks, toilets, on-site visitor facilities, playgrounds and baby changing remain closed
  • Plan your day around your needs and what will be available

 

Stay Apart

 

  • Maintain social distancing from those not living in your household – stay at least 2 metres apart
  • Meet in groups of 6 or less – if meeting those from outside your household
  • Avoid peak times and popular honeypot sites – do you really want to be around large groups of people?

 

Stay Safe

 

  • Respect our emergency services – now is not the time to end up in hospital
  • Scale back your ambitions – choose activities that are within your skills and capabilities

 

Leave No Trace

  • Practicing a Leave No trace ethic is very simple – Make it hard for others to see or hear you and LEAVE NO TRACE of your visit.

 

“The benefits of being outdoors are well recognized and it is pleasing to see many public landowners and land managers undertaking detailed planning with the view to re-opening their offering. Please be patient and do not undertake actions which may slow their progress.” concluded Chris.

 

Useful Links

 

WalkNI

OutMoreNI

MountainBikeNI

BeachNI

DAERA Country & Forest Parks

National Trust

Waterways Ireland

Leave No Trace Ireland

Mountaineering Ireland

Cycling Ireland

 

 

 

 

,