Shorelife Mount Stewart Bookable Activities

Part of Shorelife Celebration | Al Mennie has spent a lifetime pushing the limits of what is possible in the ocean. In his new book, Night Swimming, he explores the extraordinary world of swimming through wild seas under the cover of darkness. In this special event, Al joins award-winning nature advocate Ruby Free to share the psychology, oceanography, and raw adventure behind his night swims — and to reflect on what they reveal about courage, risk, and our relationship with the vast unknown.

Part of Shorelife Celebration | Join award-winning nature advocate, writer, and conservation biologist Ruby Free for an inspiring talk about her life, work, and passion for the natural world. Based in County Antrim, Ruby has dedicated herself to restoring biodiversity and reconnecting people with nature since the age of 16. Her impact has been widely recognised, earning her a place on the ENDS Power List of the UK’s 100 most influential environmental professionals.

Part of Shorelife Celebration | Discover the early photographic process of cyanotype, a fascinating blend of art and science. Artist Polly Garnett will introduce the history of this technique, highlighting how seaweed, algae, and ferns featured in the pioneering work of 19th-century botanist and photographer Anna Atkins.

Part of Shorelife Celebration | Join artist Polly Garnett for a guided walk through Mount Stewart, exploring how photography can capture personal experiences of nature while also sparking wider conversations about climate awareness and our connection to place.