VISITOR ATTRACTION: what’s new and what’s cool at county Tyrone’s Burnavon centre

Located in the heart of Cookstown, County Tyrone, the Burnavon Arts and Cultural Centre is Mid-Ulster’s premier arts and cultural venue, offering a vibrant mix of performances, workshops, and community events. Open six days a week (closed Sundays except for events), it’s a hub for arts, drama, music, theatre, and dance, with additional facilities like a Visitor Information Centre and craft shop.

Performances and Events: The Burnavon hosts high-quality performances, typically Wednesday to Saturday at 8:00 PM, including concerts, comedy, drama, children’s shows, and dance. Recent highlights include artists like Cliona Hagan and Philomena Begley, with reviews praising the venue’s intimate atmosphere and diverse programming for all ages. Expect everything from local school performances to professional acts, with a bar open on major event nights (pre-order drinks for intervals).
Arts and Cultural Programme: The centre offers workshops in arts, crafts, and Irish language activities, fostering cultural engagement. Exhibitions in the gallery space showcase local artists, and community events like cultural days add variety. Family-friendly events, such as Santa visits, include photos, balloons, and gifts, noted for being reasonably priced and “simple and innocent”.
Visitor Information Centre: A state-of-the-art facility provides free information on Mid-Ulster attractions, accommodation, dining, and regional heritage. Services include booking assistance for holidays across Ireland, fishing licenses, and event promotion. Staff, like Una Stevenson, are praised for exceptional help with travel planning, including transport and local historian connections.
Craft Shop and Facilities: The on-site shop sells local crafts and souvenirs, such as Irish silver, ideal for unique gifts. The venue is fully accessible with wheelchair-friendly facilities, free parking, and catering for events. It’s also a popular choice for business meetings, seminars, and conferences, with customizable packages. The Burnavon’s central location in Cookstown makes it easily accessible, with ample free parking and proximity to public transport (bus services to Cookstown). Reviews highlight the friendly staff, organized facilities, and vibrant atmosphere, though some note the bar’s limited hours on smaller event nights. The venue’s compact size ensures an intimate experience, with a 4–5-star rating from 95–99% of Tripadvisor reviewers.
Hours and Access: Open Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (extended hours for performances). Check the “What’s On” listing at www.burnavon.com or contact the Box Office at +44 (0) 28 8676 9949 for current events. Admission varies by event; some workshops and exhibitions are free or low-cost.

What’s New:

Expanded Event Lineup: The Burnavon continues to diversify its programming, with a robust schedule of concerts, theatre, and community events, building on successes like the Tullylagan Pipe Band Concert. Look for more children’s performances, local art exhibitions, and Irish cultural events, reflecting the centre’s commitment to varied programming for all ages.
Enhanced Community Engagement: The centre is likely to expand its workshops, including new arts, crafts, or Irish language classes, given its focus on cultural education. Seasonal events, like the popular Santa visits, are expected to return with enhancements based on 2024’s positive feedback.
Visitor Information Centre Upgrades: The centre may introduce updated resources or digital tools for tourists, aligning with Mid-Ulster’s growing tourism push. The Visitor Information Centre’s role in promoting local heritage, such as nearby forest parks or Bronze Age stone circles.

Practical Tips:

Booking: Reserve tickets early via www.burnavon.com or the Box Office, especially for high-demand concerts or holiday events. Check the website for the latest schedule.
Getting There: Located at Burn Road, Cookstown, BT80 8DN, the centre is a 45-minute drive from Belfast. Bus services (e.g., Translink) connect to Cookstown, and the venue offers free parking.
Plan Your Visit: Combine a show with a visit to nearby Mid-Ulster attractions like Drum Manor Forest Park or the Beaghmore Stone Circles, accessible via the Visitor Information Centre’s resources.
What to Bring: Comfortable clothing for workshops or walking tours; cash or card for the craft shop or bar.

The Burnavon Arts and Cultural Centre promises a lively blend of entertainment, cultural immersion, and community connection, with an expanded events calendar and ongoing commitment to visitor satisfaction in the heart of Mid-Ulster.