How long is NI's heatwave expected to last?
Could we break another record this week?☀️🌡️
Last updated 19th Jul 2021
What a weekend it has been - there's no place like our 'wee' country when the sun is shining!
Saturday (17th July) was the hottest day ever on record in Northern Ireland – with temperatures hitting 31.2 degrees in Ballywatticock in Co Down.
Previously the highest temperature of 30.8°C was recorded on July 12, 1983 and June 30, 1976.
Northern Ireland's hottest beaches, water parks and idyllic picnic spots are busier than ever, with families making the most of the surprising weather! We've received hundreds of fantastic pictures and videos over the weekend from listeners sharing their summery plans, so thank you to those who got in touch!
How long will this hot and sunny spell last for?
The Met Office has shared that they expect the high temperatures across the country to dip slightly from Wednesday, there’s an increasing chance of rain and thunderstorms in the forecast soon too.
Tuesday is predicted to reach temperatures of 29°C, Wednesday at 26°C, and Thursday is also forecast to reach 26°C, however it's expected to be cloudy.
Next weekend looks set to stay in the mid-twenties, but with more cloud and light breezes expected.
There's no better time to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors this summer.
Check out NI's hottest outdoor attractions that the entire family can enjoy👇
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:
NI's best water parks & activity centres
Complete guide to stand-up paddleboarding in Northern Ireland
11 seriously cool ice cream parlours you don't want to skip this summer