Top Indoor Activities Northern Ireland: Explore Weather Friendly Attractions
Northern Ireland is a destination known for its breath-taking landscapes and stunning scenery, with Fermanagh being one of the most picturesque regions. From rolling hills to serene lakes, the natural beauty here is undeniable. However, as anyone familiar with the area will tell you, our weather isn’t always on our side. Rainy days are part of life in Northern Ireland, but that doesn’t mean your plans have to be put on hold. When the skies turn grey, it’s the perfect time to explore the diverse indoor activities Northern Ireland has to offer.
If you’re planning your next, or first, stay in Fermanagh, you’ll find an array of engaging indoor attractions that ensure you will enjoy your visit, no matter the weather. Let’s dive into the top indoor activities Northern Ireland provides that are just a stone’s throw away from the centrally located Belmore Court & Motel.
Enniskillen castle museums
📍 Distance from Belmore Court & Motel: 3 Minute Drive / 19 Minute Walk
Among the primal destinations of indoor activities Northern Ireland contains is the iconic Enniskillen Castle, a landmark holding centuries of history within its walls. Situated just a short distance from Belmore Court & Motel, this impressive fortress has stood the test of time, serving as a key site in the region’s rich past. Today, Enniskillen Castle is not only a stunning architectural marvel but also a cultural hub, housing two of Fermanagh’s most captivating museums: the Fermanagh County Museum and The Inniskillings Museum.
Fermanagh County Museum
The Fermanagh County Museum offers visitors a comprehensive journey through the local history, showcasing everything from ancient archaeological finds to exhibits on rural life in the region. It highlights the cultural and social evolution of Fermanagh, with a particular focus on its unique geographical landscape and how it has shaped the lives of its inhabitants over the centuries. The museum’s collection includes a variety of artefacts, including prehistoric tools, traditional costumes, and rare manuscripts, giving visitors an in-depth understanding of the area’s heritage.
Although historical, Enniskillen Castle is designed to be welcoming for the whole family, the Fermanagh County Museum includes interactive exhibits that are particularly appealing to younger visitors, such as touchable artefacts, hands-on activities, and child-friendly displays. These features help children learn in a fun and engaging way, making history accessible and interesting for all ages.
The Inniskillings Museum
Adjacent to the Fermanagh County Museum is The Inniskillings Museum, dedicated to the story of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and the 5th Royal Inniskilling Dragoon Guards, two regiments with deep roots in Fermanagh. Tailored more towards adults and older kids, this museum provides a detailed exploration of military history, with exhibits featuring uniforms, weapons, medals, and personal stories of soldiers who served in various conflicts, including both World Wars. The museum’s narrative is both informative and moving, offering a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served.
Enniskillen Castle
Together, these museums make Enniskillen Castle one of the leading historical indoor activities Northern Ireland offers, providing an educational and enriching experience that appeals to visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family looking for an engaging day out, or simply someone seeking to learn more about the region, Enniskillen Castle provides a fascinating glimpse into Fermanagh’s past, all within the comfort of a well-preserved historical site.
Pricing
Adult:
£5.80
Concession (Senior, Student, Child):
£4.20
Children Under 5:
Free
Family Rate:
£15.80
Additional Information
Enniskillen Castle frequently hosts family-oriented events, especially during school holidays: Keep an eye out for craft workshops, themed tours, and special exhibitions. These events are designed to be educational and entertaining, making Enniskillen Castle a go-to destination for families interested in the indoor activities Northern Ireland can proudly offer.
Free parking available
Florence Court House
📍 Distance from Belmore Court & Motel: 17 Minute Drive
Florence Court House is an excellent choice among the indoor activities Northern Ireland offers, particularly for those seeking a historical and architectural experience. This 18th-century mansion, celebrated for its stunning architecture and meticulously preserved interiors, provides an enriching visit regardless of the weather. Although the estate is renowned for its expansive and beautifully landscaped gardens and walking trails, the guided tours of the house itself are conducted entirely indoors, making Florence Court a perfect destination regardless of the weather.
The tours at Florence Court House, tailored to be engaging to visitors of all ages, offers an experience for the whole family. With interactive explorations, fascinating stories and guided tours, the history of the estate is made to be more engaging and visually stimulating for younger visitors. At around an hour/hour-and-a-half in length, these tours are manageable for families while providing ample time to appreciate the estate and its rich history.
Pricing
Adult:
£13
Child:
£6.50
Family Rates
1 Adult, 2 Kids: £19.50
2 Adults, 2 Kids: £32.50
National Trust Members:
Free
Additional Information
Where to Eat:
Following your exploration of one of the best indoor activities Northern Ireland has to offer, Florence Court House, treat yourself to something tasty in the Stables Tea Room.
Located in the historic old stables at Florence Court, the tearoom celebrates local produce, with seasonal vegetables grown right on the grounds of the walled garden, home-baked goods by the Tullymill, Fivemiletown cheese and Tickety Moo ice cream all produced in Fermanagh. Children can tuck into a yummy hot meal from the children’s menu or pick up a handy to-go-box loaded with a sandwich, crisps, fruit and a chocolate bar.
Profits made from the Stables Tea Room go straight back into the maintenance of the grounds, allowing visitors to enjoy for years to come.
We recommend checking Stables Team-Room’s Opening Times before visiting to avoid disappointment.
Accessibility:
- Mobility scooters available to hire free of charge.
- Wheelchairs available to accommodate house tours.
- Audio loops are available in the Visitor Centre and café.
- Dedicated disabled parking
- Disabled toilets in the visitor centre and courtyard.
Marble Arch Caves
📍 Distance from Belmore Court & Motel: 30 Minute Drive
Among the most unique indoor activities Northern Ireland is graced with, is the Marble Arch Caves in Fermanagh, offering an extraordinary underground adventure. Located not far from Belmore Court & Motel, these caves are among the finest show caves in Europe.
Underground Experience
The Owenbrean River Guided Cave Tour takes visitors through a series of awe-inspiring natural formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. Although technically outdoors, the majority of this experience is within the protected environment of the underground cave, meaning that even on rainy or chilly days, you can enjoy a captivating adventure underground without being affected by the weather, making it among the most unique and unforgettable indoor activities Northern Ireland has the pleasure to provide, particularly for geology enthusiasts. This exciting 60-75 minute tour follows the Yorkshire Ramblers’ exploratory route of 1935 past hidden tunnels, still pools, delicate formations and stunning reflections.
The dramatic cave formations and the thrilling underground environment offer a memorable experience for children, making geology exciting and approachable. The guides’ engaging storytelling adds to the enjoyment, making it a fun and educational outing for the whole family.
Pricing
Adult:
£15.50
Concession (Senior, Student):
£12.50
Family Rates
2 Adults, 2 Kids: £39
2 Adults, 3 Kids: £47
Children
Age 5-17: £7.80
Under 5: Free
We advise you to book your guided cave tour tickets in advance to avoid disappointment during peak periods.
Above Ground Experience
For only £3, visitors can obtain a taste of the Marble Arch Caves system through a 360-degree, panoramic Virtual Reality Experience. With cutting edge technology, the Oculus headset will whisk you away on a journey through time detailing the formation of what has become the Marble Arch Caves, allowing you to discover the beauty and fragility of the natural wonder.
Accessibility
Although the traditional Cave Tour is unsuitable for wheelchair users due to its terrain, the VR Tour room, located on the ground floor with widened entrance doors, allows for inclusive access, and the headset is developed to be suitable for all abilities. There are 5 designated parking spaces for Blue Badge holders, accessible toilets on the ground floor fitted with emergency alarm cords, lift to access the restaurant and Audio-Visual Room and Guide/Assistant dogs are welcome in the visitor centre.
Check out our full Blog Post on the Marble Arch Caves for more information on these must-visit indoor activities Northern Ireland allows you to enjoy.
The Ardhowen Theatre
📍 Distance from Belmore Court & Motel: 2 Minute Drive / 10 Minute Walk
The Ardhowen Theatre in Enniskillen is a standout choice for indoor activities Northern Ireland visitors to enjoy, offering a rich cultural experience in a welcoming and accessible environment. Located conveniently within walking distance of Belmore Court & Motel, this theatre is a hub of entertainment that caters to a wide range of tastes and interests, making it a must-visit destination for any tourists.
The Ardhowen Theatre prides itself on being a welcoming space for all, hosting a diverse array of entertainment options to ensure there’s something to suit every age group and taste. Whether you’re a fan of the performing arts, seeking some family-friendly entertainment, or just looking for a fun night out, the theatre’s impressively varied event line up is sure to have something for you.
The line-up generally consists of:
Theatrical Productions, plays, musicals and pantomimes
Dramas
Live Music and Tribute Acts
Comedy shows
Ticket prices vary by event.
We recommend visiting the Ardhowen Theatre’s official What’s On schedule to view the latest shows and secure tickets in advance.
Accessibility
The venue is fully accessible, with facilities that accommodate guests with mobility challenges, including wheelchair access, reserved seating for disabled patrons, and accessible restrooms. The theatre staff are trained to assist visitors with special needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the performances with ease.
Workshops
The theatre also hosts varies Childrens’ and Adults’ workshops, with upcoming events by Fermanagh Art Club, Yoga with Catherine and Ulster Youth Opera among many more. With these indoor activities Northern Ireland offer a haven of entertainment, sheltered from the unpredictable weather conditions of the region. Check out What’s On during your visit now.
Learn more in our Ardhowen Theatre Enniskillen Blog Post
The Lakeland Forum Leisure Centre
📍 Distance from Belmore Court & Motel: 4 Minute Drive / 17 Minute Walk
The Fermanagh Lakeland Forum Leisure Centre in Enniskillen is a top destination for those looking to enjoy the indoor activities Northern Ireland has to offer, while staying active, designed with the whole family in mind. Centrally located, accompanied by ample free parking and packed with facilities, this leisure centre provides a comprehensive range of amenities designed to keep everyone entertained and physically engaged, making it a standout choice for visitors of all ages.
The Lakeland Forum is well-suited to a variety of ages, interests and fitness levels, ensuring that everyone can find an activity they enjoy:
Swimming Pool:
The centre features swimming facilities for visitors of all ages and abilities. A large 25-meter swimming pool, provides the perfect setting for serious swimmers, older kids and those looking for a fun, relaxing swim, even hosting events such as water aerobics! Also, the Lakeland Forum contains a shallow pool, partitioned from the main pool, suitable for inexperienced or nervous swimmers and younger kids.
Swimming is proved to have major benefits on your physical, mental, and social wellbeing, so this haven of indoor activities Northern Ireland can allow you to enjoy not only keeps you sheltered from the weather, but also boosts your wellbeing. Adults Only Hour offers an oasis of relaxation, with a chilled, quiet swimming environment, allowing you to make full use out of the pool, sauna and steam room without disruption.
Fitness Classes:
Whether you prefer an independent workout in the fitness suite, or structured workout classes, the Lakeland Forum offers a wide range of facilities for all.
From high-energy aerobics and spinning classes to more relaxed yoga and pilates sessions, there’s something to suit every fitness level and preference. These classes are led by experienced instructors who ensure that participants get the most out of their workout.
In addition to these indoor activities Northern Ireland also fund a Teen Fit programme, running free fitness classes and discounted use of the fitness suite during Teen Fit hours!
Check out Opening Times or Book a Session
Soft Play Area for Children:
Some particularly family-friendly indoor activities Northern Ireland have available to visitors are the two childrens’ soft play areas at the Lakeland Forum, perfect for different age groups, Nemo’s Reef for younger kids and Ely Alley for older kids. These dedicated spaces allow kids to burn off energy in a safe and fun environment, complete with climbing frames, slides, and soft mats. It’s a great option for parents who want to keep their children entertained while not having to worry about the weather!
See Opening Times for Soft Play Areas: Please note, these times are subject to birthday parties, we recommend checking before your arrival.
Accessibility
In terms of accessibility, the Lakeland Forum is fully equipped to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. The centre offers accessible changing rooms, pool hoists, and dedicated parking spaces, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the facilities with ease. The friendly staff are always on hand to assist with any special requirements, making the experience smooth and enjoyable for all.
Pricing
Explore the Full Price List for 2024.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When visiting the Marble Arch Caves, it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as there are some uneven surfaces inside the cave.
Although among the impressive indoor activities Northern Ireland visitors can explore, the temperature inside the caves is usually cool, so bringing a light jacket is advisable.
Refreshments are typically available at most attractions, with Cafes on site or nearby. However, it’s best to check each venue individually for specific details.
Many attractions offer discounted rates for large groups, families, and children, allowing you to get the most value out of the indoor activities Northern Ireland have available. For example, the Marble Arch Caves offer family tickets and reduced prices for children.
It’s best to inquire directly with the venue or check online for group rates and special offers.
Most of the mentioned indoor activities Northern Ireland visitors can access in the area are within a short drive from Belmore Court & Motel. Enniskillen Castle and The Ardhowen Theatre are particularly close, making them easily accessible by car or even on foot. The Marble Arch Caves and Florence Court House are a bit further, so driving is recommended.
Yes, all of the indoor activities Northern Ireland provide parking facilities, many offering free parking.
The Lakeland Forum, Florence Court House, The Ardhowen Theatre, Enniskillen Castle and the Marble Arch Caves have ample and convenient parking facilities at the venue. Therefore, after a day exploring your choice among the indoor activities Northern Ireland has available, you can easily return to your safely and conveniently parked car.
