Exciting Ticketed Activities and Free Pre-Bookable Event Buses for the Shorelife Celebration!
The Shorelife Celebration is set to be an unforgettable day to explore and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of our shoreline at the stunning WWT Castle Espie and National Trust Mount Stewart on Saturday 4 October (10am–5pm).
Organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council in partnership with WWT Castle Espie and the National Trust, this is a chance to experience two amazing venues free of charge – for members and non-members alike.
Add to that a host of ticketed workshops, fascinating talks, and pre-bookable shuttle buses, and you have the perfect recipe for a day packed with discovery, creativity, and inspiration.
Must-Book Ticketed Activities
Spaces are limited — so if something catches your eye, be sure to book early.
At Mount Stewart, visitors can unleash their creativity with a Cyanotype Printing Workshop (£12), using sunlight and natural objects to produce striking images, or explore instant photography in the Polaroid Nature Photography Workshop (£12), both led by artist Polly Garnett.
Adventurer and author Al Mennie will share stories from his new book Night Swimming (£10), delving into his awe-inspiring experiences of wild ocean swims under moonlight.
Meanwhile, award-winning nature advocate, writer, and conservation biologist Ruby Free (£10) will deliver an inspiring talk, offering unique insights into the importance of conservation and storytelling in the natural world.
At WWT Castle Espie, renowned expert Brigid Watson will lead a free ticketed guided tour of the reserve, giving visitors the chance to encounter Ireland’s largest collection of native and exotic birds, ducks, and geese. Along the way, families can enjoy interactive activities designed to engage and inspire younger explorers.
Family Fun for All
The Shorelife Celebration promises a wealth of free activities including outdoor games, craft activities, and Book Nook Book Swaps taking place on both sites at both venues, it is all designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and a sense of adventure.
At Mount Stewart, families can get hands-on with the Exploris Aquarium touch tank, a rare opportunity to encounter fascinating marine creatures up close. The gardens with roving themed characters and creative surprises, while storytelling sessions will capture imaginations throughout the day.
Children will delight in the Butterfly Hunt, scouring the grounds for hidden butterflies before claiming a prize at the Visitor Information Centre Point.
At WWT Castle Espie, creativity and exploration take centre stage. Families can enjoy nature-themed crafts, including the chance to make a Brent Goose to take home, alongside storytelling sessions and playful outdoor games around the reserve.
Children can test their observation skills in the Goose Hunt, searching for hidden geese across the site and earning a prize for their efforts. Nature enthusiasts will relish expert talks with conservation specialists at hides, lookout points, and along scenic trails.
Visitors can also enjoy Castle Espie’s permanent attractions, from the World Wetland Aviary and Duckery to the sensory garden, woodland walks, and exhibition spaces, ensuring a full day of inspiration and discovery.
Free Shuttle Buses – Pre-Book Required
To make travelling between venues simple and sustainable, free shuttle buses will run between:
- Dundonald Park & Ride
- Newtownards Bus Centre
- Mount Stewart & Castle Espie
These are completely free but must be pre-booked (both outbound and return). Tickets must be retained and presented to the driver on the day.
Plan Your Day
With free entry, exciting, ticketed activities, inspiring talks, and family-friendly fun across two venues, the Shorelife Celebration is a unique opportunity to connect with nature, creativity, and community.
- Shorelife Celebration is brought to you by Ards and North Down Borough Council in partnership with WWT Castle Espie and National Trust Mount Stewart.
- Terms and Conditions apply for ticketed programme and bus elements.
- Entry to the event is free during this event with a range of entertainment and activities which are also free to enjoy.
- Additional programme elements at Mount Stewart have been curated by NI Science Festival and must be pre-booked – ticket prices vary.
