Hidden Gems at Home | Tourism Showcase in Downpatrick
Hidden Gems at Home is a free tourism showcase designed to inspire people to discover what is on their doorstep. Taking place in Downpatrick at Down County Museum, the event brings together tourism providers from across the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark to share ideas for memorable days out and short breaks close to home.
Hidden Gems at Home offers staycation inspiration rooted in Ireland’s True Nature, connecting people with authentic experiences shaped by landscape, culture and community. Visitors can explore outdoor adventures, cultural and heritage experiences, food and drink, accommodation and wellbeing, all delivered by people who know the area best.
Whether you are planning a spontaneous day out, a weekend escape or a future staycation, Hidden Gems at Home provides a relaxed and welcoming opportunity to gather ideas, meet local providers and discover experiences you may not have realised were available so close to home.
The event runs from 12:00 to 16:30 on the March 14, 2026 and is free to attend.
Whether you are planning a spontaneous day trip, a weekend escape or simply looking for new places to explore, Hidden Gems at Home offers staycation inspiration rooted in ‘Ireland’s True Nature‘.
Discover staycation inspiration in the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark
Hidden Gems at Home celebrates the diversity of experiences available across the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark. From mountains and coastline to historic towns, landscapes, culture and local food, the Geopark is a place where nature, heritage and community come together.
At the event you can meet people delivering outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, food and drink, accommodation and wellbeing activities, all offering authentic ways to experience the area throughout the year. It is an opportunity to gather ideas, ask questions directly and uncover experiences you may not have realised were available so close to home.
A tourism showcase in Downpatrick
Hidden Gems at Home takes place in Downpatrick at Down County Museum, a central and accessible venue in the heart of the town. The event runs from 12:00 to 16:30 and is free to attend, making it easy to drop in, browse and be inspired.
Downpatrick’s strong sense of place and heritage provides an ideal setting for a tourism showcase that is about connection to landscape, culture and community. Visitors can explore ideas for exploring the wider Geopark area while enjoying one of its most historic towns.
What to expect at Hidden Gems at Home
Visitors to Hidden Gems at Home can expect a relaxed, welcoming event focused on conversation and discovery. The showcase brings together a wide range of tourism experiences, from active outdoor pursuits to slower, more reflective ways of engaging with place.
You will find inspiration for:
• Family-friendly days out
• Walking, cycling and outdoor adventures
• Cultural and heritage experiences
• Food, drink and local produce
• Short breaks and seasonal stays
All experiences reflect the values of the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark and the destination’s commitment to Ireland’s True Nature.
Who Hidden Gems at Home is for
Hidden Gems at Home is for anyone interested in discovering more about their local area. It is particularly suited to:
• Local residents seeking new ideas close to home
• Visitors staying in the region who want authentic experiences
• People planning a staycation or short break
• Those curious about the landscapes, heritage and stories of the Geopark
No booking is required and all are welcome.
Ireland’s True Nature on your doorstep
Hidden Gems at Home reflects the spirit of Ireland’s True Nature by highlighting experiences that are rooted in landscape, people and place. It encourages exploration that is slower, more meaningful and connected to the natural and cultural heritage of the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark.
By bringing these experiences together in one place, the event helps visitors see the richness of what is available across the area and supports sustainable, locally based tourism.
Plan your next adventure in the Geopark
Hidden Gems at Home is part of a wider programme that encourages people to explore the landscapes, heritage and experiences of the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark. From mountains and coastlines to towns, villages and waterways, the Geopark offers year-round opportunities to connect with Ireland’s True Nature.
If Hidden Gems at Home has inspired you to explore further, you can find ideas for activities, trails, experiences and future events across the Geopark, helping you plan days out, short breaks and longer stays at your own pace.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hidden Gems at Home free to attend
Yes. Hidden Gems at Home is free and open to everyone.
Where is Hidden Gems at Home taking place
The event takes place in Downpatrick at Down County Museum, located at The Mall, Downpatrick, BT30 6AH.
Google maps link to the venue here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DtE4p86itb9eJJz7A
Apple maps link to the venue here: https://maps.apple/p/bDenNETYi3L_VF
What time does the event run
Hidden Gems at Home runs from 12:00 to 16:30.
What kind of experiences will be featured
The showcase includes outdoor adventure, culture and heritage, food and drink, accommodation and wellbeing experiences from across the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark.
Is Hidden Gems at Home suitable for families
Yes. The event is suitable for individuals, couples and families looking for staycation inspiration and ideas for days out.
Where can I find more information after the event
Further information on experiences, activities and events across the Geopark is available through the official Mourne Gullion Strangford destination channels.
For example, more information can be found through:
The Visit Mourne Gullion Strangford website, for tourism, experiences and activities, accommodation and food and drink, events and special offers: Visit Mourne Gullion Strangford: The Official Tourism Website
The Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark website, for education, science and cultural information, including volunteering and learning opportunities: Homepage – Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark
Socials:
Tourism (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/VisitMourneGullionStrangford
(Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/visitmournegullionstrangford/
Geopark (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/MourneGullionStrangford
Event Details
Event has past.
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