May 2023


from around the world. The new galleries that have been introduced as part of the reimagined Titanic Experience add a new dimension and it is great to see the new artefacts on display, many of which I am seeing in person for the first time. It’s an honour to have a part of the experience named after me and it’s very humbling that the story of my work is being told as part of the authentic Titanic story here in Belfast. It’s almost 40 years since I discovered the wreck of Titanic and I’m so proud that people of all ages are now able to find out more about my quest, learn about the top-secret US Navy mission that enabled me to search for the ship, the challenges we faced and how we were able to cover such a large area in a short space of time which then led us to discovering RMS Titanic.” Judith Owens MBE, Chief Executive of


There’s something about finding things; being forever linked to the story...


Titanic Belfast said: “We are delighted to welcome Dr Robert Ballard back to Titanic Belfast to mark our 11th birthday. He has been a long-term supporter and our strategic partner since we opened in 2012 and we are so proud to have the opportunity to show him in person, the new gallery we have created in honour of his life’s work as he fulfilled his dream to discover the wreck of Titanic, as well as the new collection of artefacts which are on loan from a private collection and are on display in line with the ethics policy we established with Dr Ballard.”


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THE LOCAL TOURIST | 61


TITANIC THE MUSICAL: THE SHOW OF DREAMS


TITANIC The Musical took to the stage of The Grand Opera House Belfast in April. NI Travel News were in attendance to witness the musical in all it’s glory. Walking into the auditorium, a poigant scene was already underway. While the crowd got into their seats, Thomas Andrews (played by Ian McLarnon) sat centre stage, drawing up plans for the iconic White Star Line ship, Titanic. Undoubtedly,


Belfast, the


birthplace of Titanic, has a deep connection with the Titanic Story. A connection


which this musical encapuslates tastefully. Based on real people aboard the most legendary ship in the world, Titanic The Musical is a stirring production. the


human the tragedy,


Focusing on element


of includingthe


hope, and dreams of those onboard.


With accolades that include five Tony Awards, including one


for Best


Musical, the next time that Titanic The Musical docks in the Grand Opera House Belfast, be sure to grab yourself a ticket.


Historic Lost Garden at Montalto Estate Gets Ready to Welcome Visitors


gardens consultant, has brought the garden back to life. The Lost Garden


THE award winning, five star Montalto Estate, in rural Co. Down, is getting ready to open, and welcome visitors to its significant new tourism experience called The Lost Garden Trail, on 31st March 2023. Located within the 400-acre estate, The


Lost Garden Trail is part of Montalto’s high quality visitor experience, which reconnects visitors with nature through its beautiful and historic surroundings. The Lost Garden was initially discovered in 2018 when the estate was preparing to open to the public for the first time in decades. The team uncovered stone slabs in an unexpected area, which led to a forgotten garden. Further investigative work was put on hold whilst focus continued on opening plans. With the arrival of 2020, the team took the opportunity to revisit the area, and continue the exploration of what else was still to be uncovered. In the overgrown area, the team started


to uncover many interesting artefacts and original features and, working alongside a highly respected historic


Trail experience will provide visitors with an understanding of what the area would have looked like back in 1912, when the Estate was owned by Lord and Lady Clanwilliam. The Lost Garden Trail is 1.2 miles and surrounded by native woodland, which gives a sense of tranquillity. Visitor


interpretation located throughout the trail reveals the physical and historical elements of the trail and garden. Key highlights include: Victorian glasshouse: In the overgrown


area the team discovered what remains of an original Victorian glasshouse. The lost garden is the warmest, most sheltered, south facing area on the estate, which is why the glasshouse is


located here. This would have catered for fruits that needed a warm and humid climate, and helped elongate the growing season. Stone bench seat: Located alongside


part of the garden wall is this original feature. It was uncovered as part of the clearing of the site, and visitors can enjoy this discovery as they walk the winding pathways around the trail. Rose arbour: An exact replica of the


one discovered in disrepair by the team has been designed and created by local engineer John Lyons. This statement piece has been carefully placed within its original location, and will look even more stunning as newly planted roses mature over the next 18 months to 2 years.


Bridges: The remains of two bridges, linking one side of the garden to the other, have been reinstated in a similar design to what they were originally. These are also located in their original settings, crossing stream. the


a All timber


work has been handcrafted by two talented joiners from the Ballynahinch area.


Stag sculpture: A large stone stag has been placed beside a


section of original metal fencing to symbolise that this estate once had a deer park, an area which was adjacent to The Lost Garden


setting. Garden plants, flowers, trees, and shrubs: The gardening team discovered Philadelphus, Mahonia, Japanese Maple, and many native trees that had seeded in the area and gave a canopy to this beautiful garden. The Rhododendrons on the far side of the river were kindly donated from other gardens. Alpine area: Award winning alpines;


the alpine plants are in pots as they are lifted in and out according to what is in season, and are expertly nurtured by important volunteer Gordon Finch, current Chairman of the Ulster Alpine Society. The society had its humble beginnings on the Estate at a garden fete when it was set up by Lady Clanwilliam during her ownership. The Lost Garden Trail has been


made possible through major private investment, with additional support from Tourism NI’s Experience Development Programme. For further information on Montalto Estate, including opening hours and admission, please visit www. montaltoestate.com and follow on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram #exploremontalto.


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