The Great Indoors

So, summers over. Weren't those four days glorious though! Who know's, maybe the sun will come back, but between now and the end of May, the forecast isn't great.
With that in mind we've compiled a list of some of the best indoor activities across NI.

Armagh Planetarium

First open in 1968 the Armagh Planetarium has become a world-renowned astronomical educational establishment, and its purpose remains to bring astronomy to a wider audience.
The Planetarium states that its aim is to "demonstrate to our visitors the amazing objects that exist in the cosmos, but to do it in such a way that they do not see our efforts as formal teaching. We call this 'Learning by Stealth'. When they are prompted to ask questions, they are engaging in the learning process.
"All of our school theatre shows are interactive, so that presenters and pupils take an active part in the show. Follow up tasks back in the classroom are facilitated by downloadable PDFs and astronomical factsheets for teachers to use as supplementary teaching material."
The Planetarium has a range of shows suitable for all the family, including:
Edge of Darkness A full dome show featuring amazing scenes of places never before seen gathered by key space missions that culminated with groundbreaking discoveries in 2015.
Sun, Moon & Stars A lively interactive show designed to introduce children to our Sun, Moon and stars.
Astronaut The exploration of space is the greatest endeavour that humankind has ever undertaken. What does it take to be part of this incredible journey? What does it take to become an astronaut?
Exploding Universe Out of devastating events in the cosmos comes new creation. Explosive phenomena are responsible for the way we see the Universe today.
The Accidental Astronauts Follow the adventures of Sy and Annie, and their dog Armstrong, as they embark on an unexpected journey into space!
Little Yellow Star Free live nursery age show with a presenter to guide your little ones.
Due to the darkness and sound levels some shows are only suitable for children of six years and above. Children under six years old will not be permitted to these shows. Check the full show descriptions on the website (link below) for age ranges and prices.
armaghplanet.com

Ulster Museum, Botanic Gardens and the Palm House

To locals the Ulster Museum could be easily forgotten; maybe you haven't been since you were a child and remember it as being a bit rundown. Well, if so, you should definitely revisit.
Following extensive renovations, the museum is better than ever. You'll come "face to face with dinosaurs, meet an Egyptian Mummy and see modern masterpieces..."
Entry is free however donations are welcomed - to almost their entire museum and its exhibitions. Currently you'll find work by Rembrandt – on loan from the National Gallery – and Rep-Tails, a "unique hands-on experience with reptiles, tarantulas, scorpions and insects. And of course the museums resident displays of art, historical artefacts and collections.
"As Northern Ireland's treasure house of the past and present, the museum is home to a rich collection of art, history and natural sciences and free to all visitors. From Ireland to the South Pacific, ancient relics to hands on activities, the museum offers something for everyone from the simply curious to the enthusiast."
Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 to 17:00.
nmni.com/um

The Tower Museum

Located within the L'Derry's historic walls the Tower Museum has won four major awards since its opening in October 1992. The museum boasts the only open air viewing facility in the heart of the city offering panoramic views across L'Derry and the River Foyle.
There are two permanent exhibitions: The Story of Derry, which tells the colourful and dramatic history of the city from the earliest prehistory to the present; and An Armada Shipwreck - La Trinidad Valencera, which tells the story of one of the largest ships in the Spanish Armada that sank off the Donegal Coast in 1588 and was rediscovered by divers from the City of Derry Sub-Aqua Club in 1971.
There is also a series of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, with the current display being A Sense Of The Past.
The museum is open daily from 10:00 to 17:30 – last admission is 16:00. More information and prices are available on the website.
The Tower Museum

W5

whowhatwherewhenwhy, to give it its full name Ireland's award winning science and discovery centre at Odyssey complex in Belfast.
The centre boasts more than 250 interactive exhibitions alongside a changing programme of events and shows.
Current events include: An Encounter with Dinosaurs; Discover the Boxdinos; The Kapla Big Build; and Build It.
The special events take place during weekends and seasonal holiday periods. They are generally free with admission to W5 unless otherwise stated. The majority of the events are suitable for children of all ages but please note that some events may be aimed at a specific age range.
This is just a tiny cross section of the wide range of activities and events on offer at W5. To find out more information visit their website.
w5online.co.uk

We Are Vertigo

Vertigo is a massive indoor trampoline park and so much more besides, including an indoor ski centre, an alpine themed adventure centre and a spa.
The Trampoline Park is ideal for family and friends of all ages, birthday celebrations, corporate and large groups, stag and hen parties with a difference and so much more. They also offer toddler only sessions.
The alpine themed Adventure Centre offers challenges and fun for all ages. Scale the climbing wall, conquer the high (or low) ropes and burn off energy in the multi-tiered soft play village.
Why not try the continuous ski slopes - Don't waste time on lifts or side stepping, build muscle memory and get ski fit. Suitable for beginners to advanced skiers/snowboarders.
Full information and pricing can be found on their website.
wearevertigo.com