What will the weather be like this May bank holiday?
Will the sun make an appearance for the pubs reopening? 🍻☀️
Last updated 28th Apr 2021
Following a glorious spell of sunshine across Northern Ireland last weekend, the weather will turn a little cooler in the run up to the May bank holiday over 1-3 May 2021.
Recent relaxations to lockdown rules will see non-essential shops, gyms and hospitality reopen this weekend also.
So should we pack our fluffy rugs and hot water bottles to take to the local pubs and beer gardens?
Sunny spells are still expected...but they will be joined by a scattering of showers which could be heavy in places, particularly in the north.
According to the Met Office’s long range forecast, a mixture of sunshine and showers will welcome people into the May bank holiday weekend.
5 day forecast across Northern Ireland:
Thursday:
A mixture of bright spells and a few showers, some heavy in the southwest in the afternoon. Light northeasterly winds. Maximum temperature 11 °C.
Friday:
It will be a mild day, with temperatures reaching around 10°C. Rather cool, but feeling pleasant in afternoon sunshine with light winds, but chilly in the shade.
Saturday:
It looks set to be a calm day, feeling quite pleasant in the sunshine with mostly light winds. Maximum temperature 11 °C.
Outlook for Sunday - Monday:
Bright but rather cold and showery conditions, with overnight frosts. Showers are likely to continue to fall as snow over high ground.
Check out some of our favourite local outdoor attractions reopening this weekend:
Colin Glen, Antrim
From Alpine coasteering to laser tag, golfing to the Gruffalo Trail, Colin Glen has adventure for all! Kids will love their all-new alpine coaster, travelling at a max speed of 25mph/40kph, they'll cover 565 metres including 22 twists and 2 tunnels. Colin Glen is also home to the longest zip line in Ireland, offering thrill-seekers the unique chance to fly at speeds of up to 55mph. Visitors will be able to travel up to 60kmh, completing the half mile treetop flight in just over a minute.
Jungle NI, Magherafelt
Perfect for trill-seeking families that enjoy competition and adventure. Jungle NI offers activities such as zorbing, paintball, high-wire tree top adventure courses, clay pigeon shooting, archery, llama trekking and so much more.
Let’s Go Hydro, Carryduff
Ireland's largest aqua park and alternative accommodation resort, this long-awaited resort has been visited by thousands since it first opened, just a few years ago. Activities here include their floating inflatable aqua park, aqua rugby, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, cable watersports and so much more!
Belfast Zoo
Overlooking Belfast city below, you can't beat a family day exploring Belfast's Zoo, on the 55-acre Cave Hill grounds. A number of safety measures will be in place to keep visitors, staff and animals safe. Tickets must be pre-booked in advance via their telephone booking system.
Streamvale Open Farm, Belfast
Escape the madness in the city, for life in the country! Streamvale Open Farm showcases everyday life on the farm, families can experience, learn and play together. They've got everything from piglets to puppies, they've even got a fresh milk vending machine, complete with tasty syrups.
The Gobbins, Antrim
One of Northern Ireland's most exhilarating tourist attractions is now open for another busy season. The Gobbins is a spectacular coastal walk situated along the Causeway Coastal Route, weaving its way along the basalt cliffs. The two and a half hour guided tour brings you on a journey to discover the area's history whilst your feet grip onto the rugged coastline as you taste the sea air.
Cranfield Alpacas, Newcastle
Nestled amongst the iconic Mourne Mountains, you'll find this funky Alpaca farm. You can take them for a walk/ trek, and even feed them lunch. Spending time outdoors with Alpacas is known to reduce stress and improve mental wellbeing. You can check out their website and tailor your trip to suit your family.
Pickie Park, Bangor
Pickie Pool is part of a rich history of Bangor town centre, it was the place where children from all over Bangor and Belfast first learnt to swim. Well-loved favourites like the Pickie Puffer steam train and the giant Pickie pedal swans, are a must-try. As well as a range of exciting features including a splash pad, children's electric cars and an 18-hole nautical themed mini golf course.
Castle Espie, Comber
With wide-open spaces and wetlands full of the sights and sounds of nature, there's plenty to see and do. Check out their exciting adventure play centre, herb-scented garden and exciting wildlife hideouts. If you've got a buddy David Attenborough in the family, they'll love this place.
Pirates Adventure Golf, Dundonald
Swash-buckling escapades, water cannon blasts and a search for hidden treasure; test out your golf skills on these quirky miniature 18-hole courses! The Captain's Challenge is a flatter course, specifically designed to assist wheelchair users as it has lower curbs between holes. This also makes it easier for parents to push a buggy around.
Mobile Team Adventure, Belfast
Talk about a chilly experience! Just minutes from Belfast's city centre, you'll find Mobile Team Adventure at Shaws Bridge. Explore the Lagan river in a kayak/canoe, or perhaps you'd prefer a relaxing bike ride. With experts on hand and superb equipment, your little ones will leave smiling from ear to ear here.
Galgorm Castle Fairy Trail, Ballymena
Watch as the magical Galgorm Castle Fairy Trail comes to life right before your eyes. Amongst the trees spy a fairy village complete with miniature wonders, including an outdoor library. You'll even be able to pay a visit to the tooth fairy! Kids can solve problems and spot clues as they explore this enchanted floral woodland.
Todds Leap, Ballygawley
There are over 20 action packed activities available at Todds Leap Activity Centre. They've got everything from off-road driving to a free fall drop zone. Not to worry, younger kids can enjoy archery, a mega climbing wall, paintballing and a host of other exciting activities throughout the day too.
Share Centre, Lisnaskea
Opening in May, you can choose from fantastic range of water, land or art based, fun-filled, instructor led activities on the shores Upper Lough Erne. If thrills and spills are more your cup of tea, then you gotta try out their banana boat or our fantastic new water park feature. Why not make a weekend/holiday out of it, their full board and self-catering accommodation options are available all year round.
Read more:
Belfast beer gardens we can’t wait to visit April 30th
Idyllic picnic spots across Northern Ireland
Complete guide to stand-up paddleboarding in Northern Ireland