Mini-heatwave could be on the way next week ☀️
Time to give the BBQs a quick wash 😉
Nothing puts a smile on our faces quite like blue skies and sunshine across Northern Ireland.
The weather has been unpredictable this past few weeks, one minute it's scorching, the next you're reaching for your brolly.
But it looks like we won't have to wait too long for our first proper taste of summer.
The mercury is set to start climbing to 18+°C from Saturday and into next week.
Met Office’s forecasting temperatures would suggest it is best to make the most of the warmer weather, before it disappears in no time.
Take a closer look at the Met Office's forecast 👇
Wednesday: Bright with the best of the sunshine early and later in the day. Scattered showers affecting the west at first, these developing more widely around the middle of the day. Maximum temperature 15 °C
Outlook for Thursday to Saturday: A mainly dry and bright start on Thursday but breezy with further showers later. Heading towards the weekend it will start getting warmer, more sunshine and lighter winds.****
High pressure and fine dry weather can be expected for most going into next week.
Looking towards mid-May, a spokesperson from the Met Office said: "Temperatures will be widely warm or very warm for most through this period, perhaps locally hot in the south and southeast."
As the 'grand stretch' returns, grab your walking boots and get outdoors.
Yes there's the popular hikes and trails everyone knows, but tucked away down forgotten paths you'll find a hidden gem or two!
Check out some of our favourite walks from across Northern Ireland:
Slieve Donard
We'll start with the toughest first, at 850m Northern Ireland's highest peak is definitely not for the faint-hearted. Set aside 3.5-6 hours to complete.
There are two routes up, via Donard Car Park and Bloody Bridge.
For the most popular route (Donard Car Park), follow the Glen River uphill through the forest.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads.
Slieve Bearnagh
Once you've conquered Slieve Donard, why not out some of the smaller peaks in a day or for more 700m+ challenging climbs head for Slieve Binnian, Slieve Commedagh or Slieve Bearnagh.
Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail
The route meanders through one of the largest expanses of blanket bog in Northern Ireland, traversing over tracks, boardwalk and staircase. A steep climb is required to reach the viewing platform which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding low lands.
Set aside 5-6 hours to complete.
Dogs are not permitted.
There is a carpark at Killykeegan NNR signposted, with toilet facilities. Visitors can use the Killykeegan Nature Reserve car park or Marble Arch Caves Visitor Centre.
Carrick -a-Rede Rope Bridge
A popular tourist attraction. Connected to cliffs by a rope bridge across the Atlantic Ocean. Suspended 100ft (30m) above sea level, it was first erected by salmon fisherman 350 years ago.
Set aside 1 hour to complete. A good one for beginners.
You'll need to purchase allocated time tickets.
Causeway Coastal Walk
This superb, two-day 33 mile walking route takes you along Northern Ireland's most celebrated coastline. High cliffs, pass secluded beaches and historic landmarks.
With frequent access points and terrain suitable for all fit walkers, this is one route you'll remember for years to come.
Rostrevor and Kilbroney Forest
The Cloughmore car park is 230m above sea level and provides views of the surrounding forest. There are three trails, which vary in length from 1.25 miles to 4.5 miles with great views of Carlingford Lough along the way.
Divis and Black Mountain Trial
View the city from a different perspective, from above! The Divis Ridge Trail allows the walkers to enjoy 180 degree views across the city and further afield including the Antrim Plateau to the north, Scotland to the east and the Mourne Mountains to the south.
Set aside 2-3 hours to complete. A great flat walk for beginners. 4 miles long.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads.
Cave Hill
One of the most popular city hikes with stunning panoramic views of Belfast from the top. Start at Belfast Castle and join the 'Cave Hill' signposted route.
Set aside 1.5-3 hours to complete. A challenging 4.5 mile hike.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads.
Slemish
It lies a few miles east of Ballymena. This route begins at Slemish Car Park about 15 minutes drive from the village of Broughshane. After following a grassy track to the base of the mountain, walkers choose their own path over rocky terrain to the summit, some 430m above sea level. According to legend, following his capture and being brought to Ireland as a slave, Saint Patrick worked as a shepherd at Slemish.
Set aside 1.5-2 hours to complete. A challenging 1.5 mile steep hike.
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads.
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