This March, The National Lottery will once again be saying thank you to players for the £30million they raise for good causes every week with National Lottery Open Week.
Individuals and families can take advantage of free and discounted entry, as well as other special offers, at hundreds of National Lottery-funded venues and attractions across the UK.
From Saturday 15 – Sunday 23 March 2025, anyone with a valid online or retail National Lottery ticket, Scratchcard or Instant Win Game can enjoy a low-cost day out, thanks to special offers at hundreds of National Lottery funded venues and attractions.
Escape the everyday mundane and say yes to these venues taking part locally in Northern Ireland:
• Armagh Observatory and Planetarium - Half price entry
Budding astronomers can enjoy half price entry on dome shows at the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium from 15-23 March.
• Minors Club at Strand Arts Centre / Cinema, Belfast - Free family films on Saturdays (15 & 22 March)
Bring the whole family to the Minors Club at the Strand on 15 and 22 March to enjoy the magic of cinema with free family-friendly films every Saturday afternoon. After each screening, children can take part in an interactive workshop inspired by the film, designed to spark creativity and curiosity.
• National Trust - Castle Coole, Crom, Florence Court, Giant's Causeway, Mount Stewart, Rowallane Garden - Free entry
Enjoy some time out and about with free entry at stunning National Trust sites across Northern Ireland. Stroll down the iconic basalt stones at Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim or head to the horticultural gem, Rowallane Garden in County Down – all sites with free entry from 15-23 March.
• The Linen Hall, Belfast - 10% off membership (17 - 21 March)
• Ulster Folk Museum - Free entry (22-23 March)
• Hillsborough Castle and Gardens - 50% off tickets
• Wander around the Historic Royal Palaces’ Hillsborough Castle and Gardens in County Down with half price entry from 15 – 23 March on days the site is open. Please check the Historic Royal Palace website for details.
• Take a trip to the Ulster Folk Museum and enjoy free entry from 22-23 March.
• Ahead of the film’s release in April, BFI Escapes are offering a special preview of The Penguin Lessons starring Steve Coogan on Monday 17 March at selected independent cinemas across Northern Ireland.
Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England and Chair of the National Lottery Forum said:
"National Lottery Open Week is a chance to get outside and explore the UK’s rich history, stunning landscapes and vibrant culture through free and low-cost days out.
“We’re thrilled to bring back National Lottery Open Week for another year, it’s our way of thanking National Lottery players who raise £30 million every week for Good Causes, supporting vital projects in arts, sports, heritage, and communities nationwide.”
Use any retail or online National Lottery ticket, including Lotto, EuroMillions, Set 4 Life and Thunderball or National Lottery Scratchcard or Instant Win Games, for special offers at selected attractions between 15th and 23rd March 2025.
Terms and conditions and booking instructions across special offers will vary, check the individual offer listing for details.