Rainy day delights in County Down

Summer holidays are just around the corner, and while we all associate summer with sunshine and long days, Northern Ireland natives know this isn’t always the case.

When the showers hit, head inside to these County Down attractions which offer plenty of things to do in the local area and prepare to beat the boredom of a rainy day. And the best part? These must-visit sites are all within a short drive from Dufferin Coaching Inn!

Down County Museum

Enriched in local heritage, the Down County Museum in Downpatrick houses exhibitions on the museum’s history as the town’s former gaol, and also showcases the area’s valuable artefacts including artwork from the first world war.

Down Arts Centre

Located in Downpatrick’s town centre, the Down Arts Centre boasts a packed programme during the summer full of live performances, local artists’ exhibitions and even arts and crafts workshops for visitors to try their hand at pottery, creative writing, drama, dressmaking, and much more.

Eclipse Cinema

Find shelter with homemade popcorn and the latest flick in this local cinema. Based in Downpatrick, Eclipse Cinema hosts one of Northern Ireland’s only 4K projection screens. Showing the latest box office hits as well as exclusive screenings of classic movies, there’s something here for all audiences. 

Violet’s Attic Pampering Parlour

Spend an afternoon inside in this lovely vintage-style spa. A secret treasure hidden away in Newtownards, Violet’s Attic is the perfect escape when the weather lets you down. Take some time out for an afternoon tea with a side of glamorous beauty treatments to relax and revitalise!

Dundonald Ice Bowl

Looking to do something more active or an escape from a hot day? Embrace your inner figure skater at this fully equipped ice rink or try your luck hitting the pins at the sports’ centre bowling alley. And if the weather picks up by the time you’ve finished your game inside, have a go on the fresh air mini golf course with their Pirates Adventure Golf.  The Ice Bowl is a local institution and locals enjoy this fun day out just as much as visitors to Northern Ireland!

Or, if the rainy day makes you want to stay inside, pull the curtains, and enjoy a relaxing duvet day, Dufferin Coaching Inn can help you with that…