Chris Scott
When not boring everyone about his little kids’ latest antics, Chris enjoys sailing and cycling, if only to offset his love of eating out and Marlborough Cabernet Sauvignon..
As I sit writing this blog, the rain is bouncing off the window, the wind is howling outside and the winter depression is starting to kick in.
But then I quickly banish those thoughts as I realise I am still sun burnt from sailing at the weekend and more importantly there are officially 7 weeks of summer left.
In many people’s minds the summer comes to an end when ever the schools go back at the start of September but British Summer Time doesn’t end until the last Sunday in October. This means there are 7 weeks of summer left – so we don’t need to go into hibernation just yet.
The question is what is there to do in the ‘Magnificent 7’ weeks remaining?
The answer is a challenging one. Challenging because we are all under pressure to get everything fitted in before the summer comes to an end. Whether it is days out or weekends away there are still a huge range of options available.
Weekends Away
Troglodyte Weekend
Corralea Activity Centre, Belcoo, County Fermanagh
Don your helmet, boiler suit and caving lamp to explore underground Fermanagh under the guidance of a qualified instructor, then relax in the evening in a lakeside self-catering cottages.
Wilderness Trip
Action Outdoors, Strangford Lough, County Down
Spend the day exploring the picturesque Strangford Lough Canoe Trail by canoe and then spend the night on Salt Island in a refurbished National Trust Cottage.
Lough Erne Canoe Rally
Share Holiday Village, Lisnaskea, County Fermanagh
A competitive canoeing event were the fun gets in the way. This team events on the Lough Erne Canoe Trail combines several disciplines of canoeing but the most points are scored for the fancy dress! Need we say more?!
Family Adventure Break
The Adventure Team, Gortin, County Tyrone
A weekend of Adventure, great food, traditional bunk room (or private cottage) accommodation and lots of activity to keep you going! Activities include archery, orienteering, family fortunes and mountain biking.
Days Out
Strangford Sea Safari
Clearsky Adventure Centre, Strangford, County Down
A fantastic opportunity to experience Strangford Lough as never before aboard a high speed RIB. Guaranteed enjoyment as you take in seal colonies, whirlpools and Angus Rock lighthouse.
Cave Day
Corralea Activity Centre, Belcoo, County Fermanagh
Don your helmet, boiler suit and caving lamp to explore underground Fermanagh under the guidance of a qualified instructor.
Full Moon Paddle Power for Adults
Clearsky Adventure Centre, Castle Ward, Downpatrick, County Down
Enjoy the beauty of Strangford Lough from a completely new perspective, under the glistening light of a full moon. No experience is required for this evening session.
I’m sure you will agree – there is no need to get depressed just yet. Just remember there are a ‘Magnificent 7’ weeks of summer left.
There are some great activity ideas here. You could also try www.gogetadventure.com for some more great activity ideas. Read more >
Buying a bike is a good time to buy a helmet which is so important to protect you and your child’s head. There are many types, colours and brands of helmets as well as the price range, from £7/8 to hundreds. A helmet is advisable but not compulsory in Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland, so here are a few reasons why we should wear them...
A lot of helmets are made of EPS foam with a thin plastic shell. The shell helps the helmet skid easily on rough pavement to avoid jerking your neck. The shell also holds the foam together after the first impact. Some excellent helmets are made by moulding foam in the shell rather than adding the shell later.
A few things to think about when buying a helmet…I feel you should:
Look out for more tips from Mary on cycling safety. For more information on Pedal Right and its services please click here.
All nice tips. I would really agree on the ventilation holes. Having a cycling helmet is important however, a cyclist must not rely his total safety upon it. A biker with a helmet but doesn't ... Read more >