A Canadian billionaire heiress and her former reality TV star husband have been accused of scamming their best friend out of $2 million, according to a new lawsuit.

Brendan Fitzpatrick, 38, who starred in Rich Kids of Beverly Hills, and his wife, Chloe de Serigny, 31, the granddaughter of late Canadian financier Paul Desmarais, allegedly conned their wealthy friend out of a loan and then refused to pay him back, the filing states.

Max Jan Fowles-Pazdro, 46, accused Brendan of ‘exploiting their personal friendship’ to get $2 million for a real estate project in the United Kingdom in January 2025, according to the lawsuit filed in federal court and obtained by the Daily Mail.

‘Following repeated and increasingly desperate pleas from [Brendan] – [Fowles-Pazdro’s] then-close friend, [Fowles-Pazdro] dug into his and his wife’s life savings and funded a $2 million bridge loan that Brendan promised to begin repaying within six weeks,’ the filing stated.  

‘Two years have since elapsed – and not a penny of the loan has been repaid. With their nest egg gone, [Fowles-Pazdro] and his wife now teeter on financial ruin.’

Fowles-Pazdro’s lawsuit claims that the Fitzpatricks are ‘beleaguered on all fronts,’ but ‘continue to live – and present themselves to others as living – in the lap of luxury.’

The court document included a recent social media post from the couple on a yacht in the Mediterranean. 

Fowles-Pazdro describes the couple as ‘devoid of any worldly cares while yachting through the Mediterranean.’

Max Jan Fowles-Pazdro, 46, accused Brendan in a lawsuit of ‘exploiting their personal friendship’ to get $2 million for a real estate project in the United Kingdom in January 2025. Fowles-Padro is pictured with wife Parisa

The lawsuit claims that the couple has repeatedly promised to pay Fowles-Pazdro back, and even suggested they would ask Chloe’s mother for help with the repayment.

‘I am going to fix everything this week,’ Brendan allegedly texted Fowles-Pazdro, according to the lawsuit.

In another text, Brendan allegedly wrote: ‘We will absolutely have this resolved tomorrow [sic]; if not, I will be borrowing from my mother-in-law… We get funds by 2, or I will get them from her [sic]. I will say it’s life or death.’

At one point, Chloe allegedly told Fowles-Pazdro: ‘My mom had a serious conversation with Brendan; she said my [sic] March 10 we’re switching boats if nothing happens… and figuring out how to pay everyone back and get the f*** out.’

Chloe’s mother, Sophie Desmarais, is the trustee of her grandfather’s fortune. Paul Desmarais was chairman and chief executive officer of Power Corporation of Canada, a financial services company, until 1996.

The Desmarais family has an estimated net worth of $4.5 billion, and at the time of his death in 2013, Paul was Canada’s fourth-richest person.

Brendan and Chloe wed at a lavish ceremony in California’s wine country in 2023 which was featured in People magazine. They share one child, according to social media.

Fowles-Pazdro alleged that the couple had mutual friends while living in California, and they began spending more time together in 2024 while living in Miami.

Fowles-Pazdro alleged in the filing that instead of paying him back, the Fitzpatricks flaunted their lavish yacht trips on social media by posting this photograph

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The lawsuit claims that the couple has repeatedly promised to pay Fowles-Pazdro back, and even suggested they would ask Chloe’s mother for help with the repayment

‘The parties grew close, bonding over their imminent toddlers and other shared commonalities. Brendan referred often to [Fowles-Pazdro] as his best friend, telling him that his family is “also my family,”‘ the court document stated. 

Fowles-Pazdro and his wife spent the summer of 2024 at the Fitzpatricks’ rental in the South of France, and stayed at the Montreal home of Chloe’s mother that September.

The lawsuit stated: ‘During these lavish trips, [the Fitzpatricks] laid the groundwork to defraud and steal from [Fowles-Pazdro] and his family.’

Months later, in January 2025, Brendan allegedly claimed he needed the loan for the real estate project in the UK, and the Fowles-Pazdros paid up. 

The Fowles-Pazdros lawsuit seeks damages, including all attorneys’ fees and the loan plus interest. 

It comes as Brendan is facing a separate lawsuit accusing him of running an $80 million Ponzi scheme through his mining and resource management company, Carbonatik.

Brendan’s attorneys filed an answer largely denying many of the lawsuit’s claims and admitting some basic facts relating to agreements and certain communications.

Chloe’s mother, Sophie Desmarais, is the trustee of her grandfather’s fortune. Paul Desmarais was chairman and chief executive officer of Power Corporation of Canada, a financial services company, until 1996

They also filed a counterclaim accusing the plaintiff of failing to fulfill their obligations. 

The case remains ongoing, and on September 3, Brendan filed a motion requesting to change his legal representation.

The Daily Mail contacted Fitzpatrick and his attorneys, as well as Fowles-Pazdro’s lawyer, for comment. 

‘Nothing is too uncool. We want to stock as much variety as we can’

When the decision to close Tasty Records in Altrincham was made earlier this year, music fans were devastated.

At the time of its closure, owner Ben Molesworth said the store deserved ‘more than’ he could give after eight years. And upon announcing the decision to shut down, he also offered out the store’s remaining stock for sale, which spanned across genres from rock to reggaeton.

It was former Tasty manager Jess Campbell who took on the treasure trove of hundreds of 7” singles and 12” albums. For Jess and her partner Billy Goodwin, the purchase accelerated their dreams of opening their own store together – which became a reality last week.

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At the end of August, the pair opened Gatekeep in a tiny window unit on the ground floor of Emporium M33 on Tatton Road in Sale. The quirky shopping centre is hope to around 50 independent businesses across three floors offering everything from free bookstores and charm jewellery shops to clairvoyants and taxidermists.

“We actually had someone queuing up outside on the first day for us to open,” Jess tells the Manchester Evening News. “They used to come to Tasty often and wanted to support us.

“There’s not a proper record store in Sale. Just a few of the guys sell records at markets, but it’s just really us. We’ve already had to restock things quite a lot because so many people have visited us. The reaction has really caught us by surprise – we’re already starting to realise that this space might not be big enough for us!”

But Gatekeep isn’t just a relocated version of Tasty. Alongside stacks of records – ranging from the latest releases to classic albums and rare finds – they also sell VHS, cassettes, CDs and laser disks. It’s something they’ve found a market for.

“People are really keen to physically own media again,” Billy, who also works as a chef, explains. “When you own something, whether it’s a record, a CD, a DVD or a VHS, you are the custodian of it.

“When it comes to streaming these days, you’re paying just for the privilege of watching it. You don’t actually own anything. Even when you buy it digitally, it’s just a license – and it can be taken away from you quite easily.

“People are really interested in buying CDs and cassettes again. Maybe it’s because they’re accessible, but they are also a little cheaper to collect than some of the big vinyl albums. Some of the CDs we stock are perhaps some of the only copies we believe are in the UK.”

Jess and Billy say, in addition to buying up Ben’s expansive Tasty collection, they source their records from markets, car boots, eBay, and auctions, as well as trading with other stores across the country and even the world.

Some of their prized collections, and big prize tickets right now, include a Russian bootleg of Rolling Stones’ Sticky Fingers for £75, a £900 copy of Aphrodite’s Child’s 666 and a £450 vinyl of a live recording of early Joy Division band Warsaw’s 1977 Middlesbrough gig.

Amongst the rest of the aisles there’s also more affordable copies of records from Blondie, Madonna, Dead or Alive, David Bowie and the Beatles, and so much more. “We want to be accessible, and we want to offer a variety,” Jess says. “If we don’t have it in store, chances are we’ve got it elsewhere and can bring it in.”

Asked how they decide what to keep and what to sell when it comes to their big hauls, Billy says the couple have been quite business-headed in recent weeks. “We have only just opened the shop, so we are very much in the mindset of selling on right now,” he laughs.

Jess worked at Tasty for three years and said she has used everything she’s learnt during that time to help her create the best version of Gatekeep she can. Her years of working in the music industry, and her encyclopaedic knowledge of what makes a copy rare or not also happens to help.

Asked what made Tasty so beloved with the music collector community, Jess says it was that expertise and customer service that fid set them apart from the rest. “You can go to loads of record shops and people can be arses,” she says. “People don’t want to talk to you or will judge you for what you’re buying.

“Whereas, with what we did at Tasty and what we’re doing here, we are the opposite. There is never any judgement, we’re happy to share our expertise and learn from others, and also just share in our love for music.

“The name of Gatekeep came about because some record shops like to be quite guarded and judgey, whereas we want to share. Nothing is too uncool. We want to stock as much variety as we can.

“We’ll always ensure we have records from Bruce Springsteen and the big-selling artists but, at the same time, we’re not gatekeeping tastes and we’ll try and have a good mix of everything – we even have a Jojo Siwa shirt for sale!”

For Jess and Billy, they will be continuing to roll out more products as they settle in, as well as launching the online operations of the business very soon. They also plan on working with some of the local venues, businesses and creatives that make up the Sale neighbourhood, where the couple are from.

“We actually almost opened up somewhere here last year,” Billy says. “But the timing wasn’t quite right and we weren’t ready. We had been selling records at markets as a little side hustle, but when Tasty closed, it sort of forced us to make the move.”

“I did initially apply for some jobs,” Jess added of when Tasty closed. “But an office job isn’t for me. I had sorted of made up my mind about opening our own store – especially when we took on Tasty’s collection.

“We’re both big music and film fans, so we’re in our element here. It’s what we love and being able to where our knowledge with others, and also learn from them, is just something we love being able to do.”

Gatekeep are on Instagram, whilst there website is here. Gatekeep is at Emporium M33, 3–7 Tatton Road, Sale, M33 7EB.

Trains to and from Heathrow Airport were halted after a trackside grass fire caused delays and cancellations.

National Rail said there was a “major disruption” to services following the incident which began shortly after 16:00 BST.

A statement said all lines were blocked between London Paddington station and Heathrow’s terminals, as well as Reading, due to “a failure of the electricity supply caused by a fire next to the track”.

In an update on Sunday morning, rail operators said the fire had been extinguished and normal services had resumed.

Pictures on social media showed crowds of stranded passengers at Paddington, one of London’s main rail hubs.

London Fire Brigade said six fire engines and around 40 crew members were tackling the blaze near Scrubs Lane, North Kensington.

Great Western Railway, external cancelled its services to Reading and no Elizabeth line or Heathrow Express services were running between Paddington and Heathrow on Saturday night.

The airport advised passengers to leave extra time for their journeys, adding that the Piccadilly line, which runs services to the airport, also has delays.

Network Rail Western said some services on Sunday morning could face delays and cancellations, caused by trains being displaced by the disruption.

Earlier on Saturday, Heathrow’s southern runway was closed while crews tackled a grass fire on the airfield.

It caused some disruption with at least two flights diverted elsewhere. Heathrow apologised for any disruption and said the fire was extinguished quickly.

That comes weeks after another grass fire near Heathrow’s southern runway which forced 18 flights to divert and destroyed a large area of grassland.

While weather has cooled across much of the UK in recent days following record-breaking heat over the summer, fire crews have still been warning of wildfire risks.

The Met Office’s Fire Severity Index, external shows that if a wildfire was to occur, it would have a “high” fire severity in most of south-east England and some of the Midlands.

The fire severity is “exceptional”, the highest level on the index, in some parts of London including Heathrow, as well as on the Essex and Suffolk coasts.

BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — Lane Kiffin’s LSU debut was delayed, but by no means derailed.

Sam Leavitt complemented his 113 yards and two rushing touchdowns with 230 yards and a TD passing, edge rusher Jordan Ross returned an interception for a score, and No. 11 LSU rode the “Lane Train” to a resounding 51-10 victory over Clemson on Saturday night.

“Imagine if we had pro players,” Kiffin said lightheartedly at the end of a brief TV interview at halftime, by which time LSU led 31-3, had outgained Clemson 336 yards to 54, and had 21 first downs to Clemson’s one.

Kiffin has gotten commitments from two of his former Mississippi players — tight end Dae’Quan Wright and defensive tackle Zxavian Harris — who spent part of this offseason with NFL teams. A Louisiana court ruling cleared the way for him to place them on his roster this week. But in the face of fervent opposition from the NCAA and SEC, he elected not to do so. At least, not yet.

A sellout crowd at 102,000-seat Tiger Stadium was scattered by a downpour and a lightning delay that pushed kickoff back nearly two hours. Still, Death Valley was packed when the game began — and fans didn’t have to watch more than one quarter to see Kiffin’s up-tempo offense live up to its reputation, running 23 plays for 140 yards.

LSU finished with 644 yards of offense while handing Clemson its worst loss in about 30 years.

Dilin Jones, a transfer from Wisconsin who finished with 113 yards and two TDs rushing, gave LSU the lead for good with a 1-yard run that made it 10-3. Ross’ 30-yard interception return made it 17-3 before Leavitt’s frenetic scoring runs of 8 and 13 yards put LSU up by four TDs late in the second quarter.

Clemson’s offense struggled so much that coach Dabo Swinney subbed starting QB Christopher Vizzina out of the game in favor of freshman Tait Reynolds late in the second quarter.

LSU pulled farther away when Leavitt found Ole Miss transfer Winston Watkins Jr. for a 32-yard TD down the left sidelined in the third quarter. Jones’ 12-yard TD made it 44-3.

Leavitt given the rest of the night off after that, giving reserves Landen Clark and Husan Longstreet a chance to play.

Sign up for Top 25 poll alerts here, visit the Top 25 here and see AP’s full college football coverage here

Here is your round-up of the key cases that were heard before Northern Ireland courts during the week of August 31 to September 4

Cases before the Northern Irish courts this week included a man awaiting sentencing for a fatal hit-and-run being charged with disorder in Belfast City Centre.

Another case heard a trial date being set for the murder trial of Chloe Mitchel along with a man facing an attempted murder charge for a knife attack in North Belfast having his trial fast-tracked.

A Belfast business owner also pleaded guilty to a loyalist hoax bomb targeting Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney.

‘Belfast beauty salon subjected to harassment and threats from customer’

A special court sitting on Monday heard a Belfast beauty salon customer allegedly subjected it to a campaign of harassment, threats and theft over a two-week period.

The accused also faced charges of domestic abuse after an incident involving her mother.

Stephen Feeney – who prefers to be known as Shanelle with female pronouns – from Altan Drive in Dunmurry was initially accused of the harassment of the male and female salon owners on August 15 and making off without paying for nail extensions.

On August 17 she also allegedly threatened to destroy the salon and five days later stole a lamp from the premises. Then on August 27 Feeney allegedly assaulted her mother and threatened to destroy her home.

A police officer told Lisburn Magistrates Court the charges could be connected. He explained police received a report that Feeney had nail extensions costing £40 at the salon in Belfast then claimed to going out for cash, but did not return.

Read the full story here

Mental health assessment to be carried out on teen charged with murder

A judge has ordered a mental health assessment to be carried out on a teenage boy charged with murdering a man in Co Tyrone.

The 16-year-old appeared in the dock at Omagh Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday where he also faced two charges of attempted murder and one of making a threat to kill.

Police and emergency services attended an incident at the Lisnahull Road area of Dungannon on Saturday.

A 61-year-old man was found dead next to his seriously injured daughter at a house. Police have said the girl is in a stable condition.

The dead man’s wife, who was also in the house at the time and sustained non-life threatening injuries, has been released from hospital.

Read the full story here

Man hit over head with wine bottle at student union in ‘premeditated’ attack

A Co Antrim man who hit an ex-friend over the head with a wine bottle in a “premeditated” attack was jailed for six months on Tuesday.

Tyler Boyd, of Drumlee Road, Ballymoney, had previously pleaded guilty to charges of wounding a man and possession of an offensive weapon, namely a glass bottle.

Belfast Crown Court heard on the afternoon of Thursday, May 8, 2025, the victim was with some friends in the Student’s Union bar on Elmwood Avenue in south Belfast

A friend advised him that 20-year-old Boyd, who he knew reasonably well, had been “critical of him to others”.

The victim sent a text message to Boyd in an effort to resolve the matter. He said he was angry with Boyd as he believed he had been “spreading lies about me which were hurtful”.

Read the full story here

Belfast gym owner pleads guilty to charges over loyalist hoax bomb alert

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A Belfast businessman today pleaded guilty to charges arising from a loyalist bomb hoax targeting Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney.

Darren James Service, 45, of Ballysillan Road in north Belfast, appeared in the dock of Belfast Crown Court for his case which had been listed for mention.

His non-jury Diplock-style trial before a judge sitting without a jury was due to start next Monday, September 7.

Senior defence counsel Joseph O’Keefe KC told Judge Gordon Kerr KC that he had an application for gym owner Service to be re-arraigned on two of the three charges he faced which he had previously denied.

Read the full story here

Man who left lewd and threatening voicemails for PSNI officer jailed

A Belfast man who left a series of lewd and threatening voicemail messages on a policewoman’s phone was jailed for seven months on Wednesday.

Thomas Fisher, 43, targeted the PSNI officer with recordings asking about her underwear and saying he would report her to the IRA.

District Judge Steven Keown declared: “It was an outrageous and sinister offence against a female public servant.”

Fisher, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to persistent improper use of a public electronic communications network over a nine-day period in March this year.

Belfast Magistrates’ Court heard he initially came into contact with the victim during an arrest for a separate incident the previous month.

Read the full story here

Dad who claimed he was coerced into selling contraband cigarettes avoids jail

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A 55-year old man who claimed he was coerced into selling contraband cigarettes and tobacco was handed a suspended sentence on Wednesday.

Alex Main, from Renfrew Walk in Belfast, had a four-month sentence imposed which was suspended for two years.

Belfast Crown Court heard on Wednesday Main’s criminality resulted in HMRC suffering a loss of around £35,000.

On June 14, 2024 officers from HMRC’s fraud investigation services branch attended Main’s home with a warrant.

The property was searched and the officers seized 63,022 cigarettes and 3.57 kg of rolling tobacco.

Main was arrested on that date and was found to be in possession of £440 in cash.

Read the full story here

Man accused of serious Belfast knife attack to have case fast-tracked to trial

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A man accused of a serious knife attack which triggered rioting across Belfast is to have his case fast-tracked to a Crown Court trial, a judge confirmed on Wednesday.

Sudanese national Hadi Alodid, 31, is charged with attempted murder over the stabbing in the north of the city which left victim Stephen Ogilvie partially blinded.

Video footage which was circulated widely online showed members of the public intervening in a bid to stop the incident at Kinnaird Avenue on June 8 this year

One of those who went to Mr Ogilvy’s aid repeatedly struck the assailant with a hurling stick before PSNI officers arrived.

Police later disclosed that Mr Ogilvy had lost one eye and sustained severe damage to the other.

Read the full story here

Man brandished knife and assaulted ex-partner in nursery school

A Belfast man who brandished a knife and assaulted his ex-partner in her workplace was jailed for two years on Wednesday.

When he is released from prison Robert Martin Braniff, who has 121 previous convictions on his criminal record, will spend an additional two years on supervised licence.

From Norglen Road, the 41-year old appeared at Belfast Crown Court where he was sentenced for a number of domestic-related incidents.

On the morning of March 3 last year, the injured party was working in a children’s nursery in the west of the city. She had received multiple missed calls from a private number and a call from a relative of Braniff’s who told her he was on his way to her workplace.

At around 11.45am Braniff gained entry to the nursery after a parent and their child left the premises. The injured party was in the kitchen when Braniff walked in and began shouting at her and demanding she hand over her phone.

Read the full story here

Man to stand trial in November for murder of Chloe Mitchell, judge rules

A Co Antrim man will stand trial for the murder of Chloe Mitchell this year, a judge ruled on Thursday.

Brandon John Rainey (30), formerly of James Street, Ballymena, denies murdering Ms Mitchell and preventing the lawful and decent burial of her remains.

He was due to stand trial in March this year but Rainey’s previous legal team walked away from the case stating that they had been “professionally compromised” and said the defendant had told them that he no longer wished them to represent him.

A new legal team headed up by senior defence counsel Des Fahy KC and Andrew Moriarty BL, instructed by Phoenix Law, came on record a few weeks later.

Read the full story here

Man threatened to post ex’s fingers and toes to her dad, court told

A Co Fermanagh man allegedly threatened to cut off his ex-partner’s fingers and toes and post them to her father, the High Court heard on Thursday.

Prosecutors also claimed Gareth Parker knocked out the woman’s tooth and stated he would set her alight as part of a three-year campaign of violent intimidation. On one occasion the 33-year-old accused declared in a phone call that she was going to be murdered, a judge was told.

Details emerged as he was granted bail under orders not to begin any new romantic relationship without informing police. Parker, of Rosnarick Close in Derrygonnelly near Enniskillen, is charged with a domestic abuse offence, threats to kill, threatening or abusive behaviour and breach of a non-molestation order.

He also faces counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and common assault against his former girlfriend.

Read the full story here

Men jailed for “savage” train station attack filmed for social media

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Two males who launched a “savage” attack on another man at Ballymoney train station were both jailed on Thursday for six months.

Part of the assault in April 2024 was recorded and shared on social media which Judge Laura Ievers KC said added to the injured party’s “degradation.”

Ryan Hanna (38) from Mill Street in Coleraine and 32-year old Alan Steven Stewart from Crocknamack Street in Portrush appeared alongside each other in the dock of Belfast Crown Court.

They admitted a joint charge of causing their victim grievous bodily harm and both were handed a two-year sentence divided between six months in prison followed by 18 months on supervised licence.

The court heard that around 7.40pm on April 22, 2024 a member of the public contacted the PSNI after witnessing two males attacking another man on the footbridge at Ballymoney train station.

Read the full story here

Former French Foreign Legionnaire jailed for stabbing a man during drunken row

A wheelchair user and former French Foreign Legionnaire was jailed for 15 months on Thursday after he stabbed a man during a drunken row.

Desmond Samuel Doak, 54, of Eglantine Place in south Belfast, had previously pleaded guilty to a single count of wounding a male neighbour.

Belfast Crown Court heard Doak and two males were drinking in his apartment on August 21, 2024, where they spent up to three hours drinking shots of Southern Comfort.

Doak had a small knife in his hand which he used to gesture with when he talked about his days in the Legion.

The injured party described it as an Army knife, about five inches in length and said a row broke out over “something trivial” and the victim stood up and pointed or gestured at Doak.

Read the full story here

Street preacher sentenced after foul-mouthed rant and assault appeal ditched

A controversial street preacher has abandoned his bid to avoid being jailed for subjecting the former deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast to a foul-mouthed rant.

Colin Houston, 61, was set to appeal the five-month sentence imposed over shouting abuse at Councillor Paul Doherty and calling security staff “SDLP sodomites” when they asked him to take down a religious flag at City Hall.

But his barrister told Belfast County Court today that the challenge was being withdrawn following “a few moments of quiet reflection”.

As the Christian pastor was led to the cells in handcuffs, Her Honour Judge Natalie Pinkerton indicated the sentence would have been doubled if he had persisted with the appeal.

“You have taken a very sensible course,” she said.

Read the full story here

Man awaiting sentence over fatal car crash in court over ‘disorderly behaviour’

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A man awaiting sentence over a fatal car accident appeared in court today facing two charges of disorderly behaviour.

Standing in the dock of Belfast Magistrates Court, 28-year-old Martin Olali confirmed his identity and that he understood the two charges against him.

Olali, with an address at Springhill Crescent in Belfast, faces two charges of using disorderly behaviour on North Street in the city.

While a police officer gave evidence that she believed she could connect Olali to the offences, defence counsel Sean Devine told the court there was a challenge to that formal connection.

He argued that the statement of the arresting officer did not make it clear that she herself had seen Olali’s alleged behaviour.

Read the full story here

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Natalie Portman has welcomed her third child.

The 45-year-old Oscar winner’s new bundle of joy is her first with French partner, Tanguy Destable, a 46-year-old musician and music producer.

Portman and Destable welcomed their child in Paris last month, a source told People on Saturday. 

The Daily Mail has reached out to Portman’s representatives for comment and has yet to hear back.

Portman has two children from a previous marriage to director-choreographer Benjamin Millepied: 15-year-old son Aleph and nine-year-old daughter Amalia. The couple split in 2023 and finalized their divorce in 2024.

Back in April, the star announced that she was pregnant with her third child.

The 45-year-old Oscar winner’s new bundle of joy is her first with French partner, Tanguy Destable, a 45-year-old music producer  (pictured right)

‘Tanguy and I are very excited,’ she told Harper’s Bazaar at the time. ‘I’m just very grateful. I know it’s such a privilege and a miracle.’

Portman is the child of a fertility doctor. ‘I grew up hearing about how hard it is to get pregnant,’ she noted.

‘I have so many people I love who’ve had such a hard time with it that I want to be respectful around that as well. It’s such a beautiful, joyous thing, and it’s also not an easy thing.’ 

The actress added, ‘And so I know how lucky it is. I’m very aware, and I’m very grateful. I have deep appreciation and gratitude.’

Portman was first linked to Destable in March last year. 

Destable is a musician also known as DEPR who creates melodic dance and techno tracks.

Notoriously private, the last time Portman was seen at a red carpet event was in January, as she posed alongside Jenna Ortega and Charli xcx at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. 

‘Tanguy and I are very excited,’ she shared with Harper’s Bazaar in April. ‘I’m just very grateful. I know it’s such a privilege and a miracle.’ The couple were first linked last year

Notoriously private, the last time Portman was seen at a red carpet event was in January, as she posed alongside Jenna Ortega and Charli xcx at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival in Utah 

Portman seemed to be displaying a hint of a baby bump in her double-breasted coat

She has two children from her previous marriage to choreographer Benjamin Millepied

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The movie star has previously praised the privacy that comes with living in Paris. 

‘There is a gratitude that when you’re young, you don’t necessarily grasp,’ she told Harper’s Bazaar. 

‘And there’s a calm and knowing myself: who I want to spend time with, what kind of energy I want around me that makes the experience so beautiful every day. And knowing it’s probably the last time, I cherish every moment.’

She also said she feels good. ‘I have more energy than I thought I might,’ she said.

The Hollywood star added she is swimming and doing gyrotonics to ‘keep strong.’

And she is taking time out to be with her two children, Aleph and Amalia, ‘which is always the best,’ she said.

Portman does not allow her children to be in the public eye.

She told Interview magazine: ‘I’m not a particularly private person in real life – I’ll tell you anything – but in public, it was so clear early on that if you tell people how private you are, your privacy gets respected a lot more.’

The Professional actress added: ‘I set up a little bit of a barrier to be like, “I’m not going to do photo shoots with my kids.”‘

She also said: ‘My kids are always a source of excitement, because you just see them develop into the individuals they are,’ she told Ortega for the magazine. ‘Also, I’ve been spending a lot of time with my friends, with their kids and my kids; that’s pretty fun.’

Egyptian television presenter Sarah Khalifa and 11 other people have been sentenced to death by hanging after being convicted of drugs charges.

According to state-owned al-Ahram newspaper, they were part of a criminal gang which imported ingredients used to make drugs with the intent of selling them.

They also had illegal firearms and munitions.

Khalifa, 39, is best known for her TV programme Mission Impossible which dealt with crime issues. She has denied the charges.

Nine fellow defendants have been sentenced to life imprisonment, while seven have been acquitted.

Khalifa’s lawyer said she would appeal the death sentence.

The verdict was first announced last month.

However, it was only confirmed a month later after the court obtained a religious opinion from the grand mufti of Egypt – a legal requirement in death sentence cases.

During the trial, the court heard that authorities had seized more than 750kg (1,653lbs) of narcotics and the imported raw materials to make them.

Twenty witnesses had given statements to the prosecutors, al-Ahram said, in addition to electronic evidence that included conversations and video clips.

According to the state-run Akhbar al-Youm newspaper, when asked by the judge about her alleged role during a court appearance last September, Khalifa said she had never seen any drugs until she was photographed with them inside the anti-narcotics authority offices.

According to a 2025 Amnesty International report, there were 492 death sentences in the course of the year, 23 of whom were executed, external.

The defendants were found guilty of drug trafficking and rape, “crimes that did not amount to ‘intentional killing’ to which the use of the death penalty must be restricted under international law and standards”, the report said.

Maya Jama has signed up for series three of The Gentlemen according to reports, after stars of the show dismissed rumours Meghan Markle would join the cast. 

The Love Island presenter, 32, made her scripted acting debut in the second series of Guy Ritchie’s Netflix hit, in which she plays Aisha, the wife of a criminal associate of Theo James‘s character, Eddie Horniman.

Maya is said to have confirmed she will be returning for series three at the premiere earlier this week. 

A source told The Sun: ‘Maya was great in season two and bosses will be glad to see her back for the third series. She’s pulled in even more viewers and was a natural on set.’

Meanwhile, Maya told the publication how director Guy was really reassuring when it came to filming her scenes.

She said: ‘He doesn’t feel as intimidating as you’d think, being who he is.

Meghan, 45, has not given up hope of appearing in Guy Ritchie’s crime drama now she is back in the UK, a source has told the Daily Mail

‘He’s very personable and he would be like, ‘Yeah, you’re doing well’, and reassure me, which was really nice.

‘He’s just really involved and kind of a genius to watch, because everyone’s practising their lines and then he says something that’s way better than the original.’

The Daily Mail has contacted Maya’s representative for comment.  

The new glimpse at the upcoming series shows James’s character Eddie take on the Glass family’s empire as he makes a bid to resume complete control of his estate.

At the start of the clip, he says: ‘400 years ago, this estate spread out as far as the eye could see,’ over sweeping shots of his sprawling grounds. ‘I want it all back.’

However, the path to total domination never runs smooth, especially when the opponent is drug baron Bobby.

Bobby is aware of Eddie and Susie’s ambitions to expand their criminal empire, as he tells them he knows they are hoping he might support their efforts to ‘decriminalize marijuana’.

It comes after cast members ruled out The Duchess Of Sussex joining the show on the red carpet at the London premiere of the second season.

Meghan, 45, has not given up hope of appearing in Guy Ritchie‘s crime drama now she is back in the UK, a source has told the Daily Mail. 

The Love Island presenter, 32, made her scripted acting debut in the second series of Guy Ritchie’s Netflix hit, in which she plays Aisha, the wife of a criminal associate 

The new glimpse at the upcoming series shows James’s character Eddie take on the Glass family’s empire as he makes a bid to resume complete control of his estate

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In his typically direct style, British actor and former professional footballer Vinnie said: ‘I think it’s hot air.’

He added: ‘We’ve got a lot of pretty women in this series, so I’m not sure there’s room for any more.’ 

Theo, when asked about the Sussex rumours, joked: ‘No. Prince Harry is playing one of my love interests. So that’s the Meghan Markle thing.’

He later said: ‘I think it’s a spurious rumour. She’d fit in well because she’s actually from the Royal Family, but I think the practicalities of that are impossible.’

Fellow Londoner Ray Winstone added: ‘It’s the first I’ve heard of it,’ but added that she would be a ‘better-looking’ addition than him.

And Hugh Bonneville was equally dismissive, describing it as ‘a genius bit of marketing by the person who dreamt up that idea’. And new star Maya said: ‘I’d be the last person to know.’

Guy  declined to give any interviews on the red carpet where he could have quashed rumours that he had held preliminary talks with Meghan over a possible role in the hit’s third series. 

People across the country are encouraged to explore the stories, places and people that make Northern Ireland unique during European Heritage Open Days 2026.

Hosted by the Department for Communities, EHOD is NI’s largest celebration of built, cultural and natural heritage, offering free access to hundreds of events, historic sites, and unique experiences across the region.

Each year, thousands of people take part by visiting heritage sites and attractions across Northern Ireland.

Taking place on September 12 and 13, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said it is a “fantastic opportunity” to learn more about the wonderful places that make NI special.

The Minister said: “European Heritage Open Days are a fantastic opportunity for people to explore the rich and diverse heritage that surrounds us. This year’s theme is ‘Heritage at Risk – Revive, Resist, Reimagine’, focusing on vulnerable or changing heritage and the efforts to protect and revive.

“So whether you are interested in history, architecture, culture or simply discovering somewhere new, it offers something for everyone. I encourage everyone to browse the full programme and plan your visits, completely free of charge.”

With hundreds of free events taking place across the weekend, the Department for Communities has rounded up a handful of exciting events in each county to give an idea of what people can enjoy during EHOD 2026.

Co Tyrone

Killymoon Castle (All American WW2 GI Tour)

Set within the picturesque grounds overlooking the Ballinderry river Killymoon Castle stands as a striking architectural masterpiece designed by the renowned John Nash, once described in the 1841 Irish Penny Journal as “one of the most aristocratic residences in the province of Ulster “The Castle provides the perfect setting for a truly immersive historical experience.

The perfect setting to enjoy an authentic WW2 experience by fully trained Living History tour guides.

Visitors will be captivated as they steep back in time to experience what life was like for the young American soldiers from the 82nd Airbourne Division was like before heading off to D Day.

Have the opportunity to explore the original cellars which lay untouched since the end of WW2

Meet with members of the Coulter family who will tell you what it is like to have a castle as their family home, the high’s and low’s of life at the castle and the challenges they meet.

Benburb Priory & Castle

Benburb Castle and Priory Estate invite visitors to explore over a thousand years of history set within the scenic Blackwater River valley.

Highlights include guided tours of Benburb Castle and the 19th century Priory Manor House, with access to areas normally closed to the public, including the Library and Museum. Talks, cultural activities and exhibitions bring the site’s rich past vividly to life.

Associated with Shane O’Neill, the Castle is central to understanding Gaelic Ireland before the Plantation of Ulster, later connections with the Wingfield family and Powerscourt, and the pivotal Battle of Benburb (1646). This year marks the centenary of the Castle being in state care, underlining its national importance. The Priory community acts as keyholders for Benburb Castle, working in partnership with the Historic Environment Division to support access and active use of the monument—demonstrating how collaboration and community engagement help sustain historic places.

The Priory Manor House, now home to the Servite Order, was once the residence of Belfast born philanthropist and whiskey distiller James Bruce and later served as a US Army field hospital during the Second World War. Woodland walks and riverside views complete a visit that blends history, landscape and living heritage.

Gray’s Printing Press Strabane

Take a step back in time and discover a treasure trove of ink, galleys and presses hidden behind an 18th-century shop front in the heart of Strabane, once the famous printing town of Ulster.

Gray’s Printing Press is now being staffed with local volunteers who have gained expert knowledge about the Press.

Relax and unwind in the beautiful surroundings.

Lissan House Cookstown

Lissan House is a 400-year-old property set within 260 acres of ancient woodland in the foothills of the Sperrins. The family home of the Staples family, Baronets of Lissan and Faughanvale from 1628, the house and estate were gifted to the community by the last owner, Hazel Radclyffe Dolling, following her death in 2006. Today, Lissan House is entirely volunteer-run, with all running, insurance and restoration costs supported through fundraising efforts.

This EHOD mini tour offers an engaging introduction to the many colourful and eccentric characters associated with Lissan, from the renowned artist Sir Robert Ponsonby Staples, known as the “Barefoot Baronet,” to Handsome Kitty Hawkins, as well as the estate’s ancestral connection to C.S. Lewis.

Reflecting the theme of Heritage at Risk, visitors will also have the opportunity to view ongoing restoration work in the yard buildings. Volunteers have been carefully undertaking repairs to stabilise these structures, revive once-derelict spaces and reimagine their future use, helping to ensure the long-term sustainability of Lissan House.

This is a unique chance to experience a living heritage site, where dedicated community efforts are actively preserving its history for future generations.

Wellbrook Beetling Mill Cookstown

Nestling in an idyllic wooded glen offering lovely walks and picnic spots this, the last working water-powered linen beetling mill, offers a unique experience for all the family.Enjoy a guided tour of the mill, which lasts approx 45 mins to 1 hour.

Co Fermanagh

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Castle Coole Enniskillen

Set within a beautiful wooded landscape park, Castle Coole is one of Ireland’s finest Neo-classical mansions, offering the perfect setting for peaceful walks and family exploration.

This impressive 18th-century house provides a fascinating glimpse into life at the home of the Earls of Belmore, from the grandeur of the main rooms to the often-hidden world below stairs. The restored servants’ quarters and service rooms reveal the stories of those who lived and worked behind the scenes, bringing the house’s social history vividly to life.

Visitors can also enjoy a second-hand bookshop and explore the surrounding grounds through self-led walks, taking in the scenic beauty of this historic estate.

Reflecting the theme “Heritage at Risk: Revive, Resist, Reimagine,” Castle Coole highlights the ongoing work needed to protect and preserve historic places. Since the late 20th century, the National Trust has undertaken extensive conservation, including structural repairs, restoration of interiors, and the care of significant collections—ensuring this remarkable property can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Headhunters Barber Shop & Railway Museum Enniskillen

How many places can you get a haircut and explore the golden age of steam travel at the same time?

The Johnston family’s blend of traditional barbering and a passion for local railway history has created one of Northern Ireland’s most unusual attractions. Headhunters Barber Shop & Railway Museum displays one of the largest collections of Irish railway memorabilia on public view.

Beginning in a reconstructed booking office, where the ticket collector invites you to step on board, visitors follow the story of railway travel through Fermanagh and the border counties until the closure of the lines in 1957. Highlights include the Station Master’s office, signal cabin and a large model railway enjoyed by all ages.

The museum reflects the importance of safeguarding vulnerable heritage collections. Several exhibits on display were once at risk but have since been restored, demonstrating how small, volunteer run museums play a vital role in protecting local history.

The collection also touches on wider world events, including the Second World War, when American troops stationed in County Fermanagh relied on local railways—an evocative reminder of enduring transatlantic connections.

Enniskillen Workhouse: A Guided Tour

Step inside history at the beautifully restored Enniskillen Workhouse Entrance Block.

Join Catherine Scott for a powerful 90-minute guided experience exploring over 100 years of Workhouse life. Walk through the heritage spaces, discover newly restored interiors, and uncover the real stories of the people who lived and worked here.

Enniskillen Workhouse Entrance Block has been carefully restored and reopened as both a heritage space and a vibrant business hub. This historic landmark, transformed into a modern enterprise facility, now offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience its past while seeing how the building has been brought back to life for the present day.

Thanks to the generous £2.3 million investment from The National Lottery Heritage Fund in 2019, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, in partnership with South West College, has sympathetically conserved this magnificent Victorian stone building—preserving its architectural character while creating a compelling and immersive visitor experience.

Murphy’s on Main Street Community Hub Ederney

Come along to Murphy’s on Main Street Community Hub, a restored Grade B1 Listed building in the heart of Ederney village, for a vintage tea party.

Through music, stories, laughter, and the sharing of food, our community will celebrate the memories of this unique historic property that has served as a gathering place for generations of our community.

Co Derry

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Bridewell Gaol Magherafelt

Step back to the Magherafelt of 1839, with a visit to the town’s Bridewell – a gaol for the criminals of the town

Meet with Mrs McKinley, one of the strict wardens, and walk the gloomy cells as she tells you of life within the Bridewell walls, the fate of the prisoners and the ancient graveyard attached to the prison.

Remember though – it is very easy to enter the Bridewell, but far harder to leave it…

Coleraine Town Hall and Walking Tours

Join Coleraine Museum at Coleraine Town Hall on Saturday 12th September for European Heritage Open Days 2026!

We will be offering a series of guided walking tours, exploring Coleraine’s rich built heritage and history.

Enjoy a free copy of our new publication ‘The Coleraine Heritage Trail’, and join Museum Staff to learn more about the historic buildings and stories of Coleraine town.

Tours will last approximately 1.5 hours – starting at 10.30 and 13:00.

Members of the public will also be welcome to drop in throughout the day to the new Coleraine Heritage Hub at the Diamond Centre to explore Coleraine’s historic collection, and to visit the USA 250: Showbusiness, Culture and the Causeway Coast exhibition at Coleraine Town Hall.

Katie’s Cottage Bellaghy

The cottage is a wonderful example of a vernacular building and is a rare one and a half storey Grade B+ Listed thatched cottage circa 1830. It was fully restored and renovated to a high standard in 2016/2017.

It is a very well-known landmark within the Bellaghy area which is loved and appreciated by both the local community and far beyond. The ground floor consists of a small entrance hall which leads to the living room off which the rest of the ground floor flows. There is a kitchen/dining area, utility room, single bedroom, double bedroom and a small wet room.

The living room and both bedrooms have working open fireplaces and there is a woodburning stove located in the kitchen/dining area. The stairs in the cottage are located at the rear of the living room fireplace leading to a spacious landing off which are a double bedroom, a bathroom with shower and bath and a further double bedroom with ensuite. The cottage is flooded with natural daylight making it a beautiful and relaxing environment.

There are lawns to the front and one side of the cottage. To the rear there is a spacious gravel yard for parking and several outbuildings used mostly when this was previously a working farm. This event will provide a full tour of the cottage and back courtyard including some history of the cottage and those who lived there.

We will be providing Tea, Coffee and tray bakes etc. for charitable donations. Our chosen charity this year is Charis Cancer Care.

Magilligan Martello Tower

This well preserved Martello Tower at Magilligan Point, built between 1812 and 1817 during the Napoleonic Wars to guard against possible invasion, is an important historical site in Northern Ireland.

The Tower is a well known landmark, marks the entrance to Lough Foyle and is one of the most northerly of the towers built all around the coasts of Ireland.

It was one of 74 constructed in Ireland, 40 or so survive. They were placed at strategic points all around the coast and designed to fire on any invading fleet or withstand lengthy sieges. This tower marks the end of a long tradition in Ireland of defensive buildings stretching back over 3,000 years to Bronze Age forts.

Martello Tower lies within Magilligan Point Nature Reserve which is the tip of Northern Ireland’s largest sand dune system. The ever changing tides and storm events constantly change the profile of the beach, dunes and shape of the ‘Point’ itself. The mature or ‘grey dunes’ have established populations of various mosses, lichens, grasses, herbs and higher flowering plants providing a good nectar source for a variety of bee, butterfly and moth species. The rare Scarce Crimson and Gold moth, which is only found on the North Coast, has been recorded here.

Visitors will be able to explore the three floors of the tower, and learn from a re-enactor what life was like for soldiers in the early 1800’s – including the rations, weapons and kit that would have been used at the time.

Co Down

Saint Patrick Centre Downpatrick

USANI 250 Exhibition: Ulster-Scots and the American Story

The Schomberg Society presents its USA NI 250 Educational Exhibition, on display at the Saint Patrick Centre, Downpatrick.

This informative exhibition explores the Ulster-Scots connections to the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, highlighting the role and influence of Ulster people in shaping early American history.

Discover the stories, links and legacy that connect this region to one of the most significant moments in global history.

Donaghadee Heritage Preservation Society

As part of European Heritage 2026, the Donaghadee Heritage Preservation Society invites visitors to discover the dramatic maritime history of the town through an immersive exhibition of shipwrecks and sea rescues in local waters. Set within the evocative setting of the historic Sir Samuel Kelly lifeboat, the exhibition brings Donaghadee’s seafaring past vividly to life.

Through guided interpretation, storytelling and engaging displays, visitors will hear powerful accounts of courage, loss and community resilience, including the story of the Princess Victoria disaster. These experiences offer a direct connection to the realities of life saving at sea and the people who risked everything to protect others.

At its heart, the exhibition highlights the importance of caring for both physical heritage and living memory. By preserving the lifeboat and sharing the stories connected to it, the project shows how fragile maritime heritage—vessels, skills and personal testimony—can be protected and passed on, ensuring these powerful coastal stories continue to resonate with future generations.

Downpatrick and County Down Railway Society

Step back in time and experience Ireland’s only full-size heritage railway. Discover the station museum, explore the vintage signal cabin, and visit the carriage gallery featuring beautifully restored locomotives and carriages spanning more than a century of railway history.

Join us this EHOD for a special weekend of free access to our carriage and locomotive museum. Enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes tours of our restoration workshop and rarely seen areas of the railway.

Inspired by the EHOD 2026 theme, “Heritage at Risk – Revive, Resist and Reimagine,” this unique weekend offers a fascinating insight into the work being done to preserve and celebrate Ireland’s rich railway heritage for future generations.

Trains will be running from 13:00 – 16:00. – Trains will run to Inch Abbey, where visitors can disembark and take a short walk up to Inch Abbey, the ruins of an ancient Cistercian Abbey, which was also used as a location for the TV Series ‘Game of Thrones’. Please note fares will apply for train rides

Jordan’s Castle Ardglass

100 years ago Jordan’s Castle was bequeathed to the State by Francis Joseph Bigger. The castle was his weekend retreat. For European Heritage Open Days two tours have been organised showcasing the rich heritage of Ardglass, a quiet coastal village with no less than six castles!

Additionally, talks have been organised in the Castle which cover the life and legacy of FJ Bigger. The Castle will remain open during the day for visits and will give a rare opportunity to see this unique building.

Co Armagh

Archbishop’s Palace Tour

Take a rare opportunity to step inside The Primate’s Palace, Armagh. This elegant neo-classical building was constructed in 1770 as the residence of Archbishop Richard Robinson and remained home to successive Church of Ireland Archbishops until the 1970s. Dante’s Deli, located adjacent to the Palace building, provides an ideal spot to relax and enjoy refreshments before or after your visit.

Led by an expert guide, this 60-minute tour offers a fascinating insight into the Palace’s history and architecture. Designed by renowned architect Thomas Cooley, the building was originally two storeys over a basement, with a third floor and raised portico added in 1825 during the primacy of Lord John George Beresford.

Discover the story of Archbishop Robinson (1765–1794), often known as the “Builder of Armagh,” whose vision helped shape the city.

Visitors will also enjoy an exhibition by Artist in Residence J.B. Vallely, a celebrated local figure whose career in art and music spans more than six decades. His work, recognised nationally and internationally, explores themes including music, sport, mythology, dance and history.

Ardress House Portadown

This charming 17th-century farmhouse, elegantly remodelled in Georgian times, offers fun and relaxation for all the family.Set in 40 hectares (100 acres) of countryside there are apple orchards, charming woodland and riverside walks.The atmosphere of a working farmyard has been rekindled with the return of small animals.

HED Conservation Works Depot Moira

Step Inside Heritage Craft and Help Protect “Heritage at Risk”

Discover the vital role traditional skills play in safeguarding our historic environment at the Historic Environment Division’s Conservation Works workshops in Moira.

As part of the European Heritage Open Days theme “Heritage at Risk”, this special event highlights how expert craftspeople work to preserve buildings and structures that might otherwise be lost. Meet the Conservation Works Team and experience live demonstrations that bring conservation to life.

Watch skilled specialists showcase stone carving, lime mortar techniques, joinery, traditional blacksmithing, heritage carpentry, painting, and signwriting—all essential skills used to repair and protect vulnerable historic sites.

Explore behind the scenes in a real working conservation workshop and learn how these time-honoured crafts are helping to tackle the challenges facing at-risk heritage today.

Whether you’re a heritage enthusiast, a family looking for an inspiring day out, or simply curious about traditional trades, this is a unique opportunity to see how the past is preserved for the future.

The Fair Day, Poyntzpass

The idea is to replicate some of the activities associated with the Fair Day as it would have happened in the era 1920. We will open with the unveiling of the village Mural. This will be followed by Soda Bread making. Music from local silver band, local Ballad Group and a Harpist. The local set dancers will be present. The amateur dramatics society will perform a sketch relating to village life in 1899. There will be displays of farm machinery, small farm animals, sheep shearing and there will also be a Farrier showing his trade. There will be people crocheting also. We ask people to dress in clothing in fitting with the era if possible.

There will be a number of stalls selling, Arts, crafts and home made produce.

There will be an exhibition showcasing the Models made locally by the Savage sisters depicting rural life. Local school children will be involved in a project relating to History and local heritage. This will all be on display in the Meeting Place, Church Street, Poyntzpass, From 2-5.The Fair Day will close with a Tour of the Village. The Railway Cabin will be open for visitors in the Afternoon.

Co Antrim

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Old Courthouse Antrim

Step inside one of Northern Ireland’s most remarkable historic buildings during European Heritage Open Day. Built in 1726 by the Grand Jury, the Grade A Listed Old Antrim Courthouse is the oldest courthouse still standing in Northern Ireland.

Over the centuries, the building has served many purposes, including a temporary bridewell (jail) and later a public library. Various alterations during the 20th century concealed many of its original features, including its elegant Doric columns, until an extensive restoration brought the building back to life.

To mark the 300th anniversary of this historic landmark, the theatre will be transformed into a traditional courtroom where visitors can experience fascinating re-enactments of real historical cases drawn from the courthouse’s long and colourful past.

Court sessions will take place throughout both Heritage Open Days, offering a unique opportunity to step back in time and witness justice as it may have been administered over the last three centuries.

Five courtroom re-enactments each day -10:30, 11:40, 13:10, 14:20, and 15:30

Sentry Hill Newtownabbey

A 19th century Victorian farmhouse that was home to the McKinney family who came to Ireland from Scotland in the early 1700s.

The contents of the house have survived almost intact, and the archive and collections of books, photographs, souvenirs from travels around the world, natural history specimens and items of local history assembled by William Fee McKinney and his family, make it a fascinating visit.The following activities will be taking place over the EHOD weekend:

• Conservation tours that show the practicing of preventative conservation techniques, with tools etc.
• Supervised peek into some of the many documents kept in our archive that are not on display and why it’s so important to document and preserve them.
• Demos of Heritage and Conservation crafts.
• Living history with stories about the family.
• Display of old photos.
• Music on both days and performance by Ballyduff Silver Band on Sunday afternoon.
• Garden games.
• Craft activities.

Andrew Jackson Cottage and US Ranger Museum Carrickfergus

Enjoy a guided tour or explore at your own pace at the carefully restored Andrew Jackson Cottage and US Rangers Museum, where visitors can discover the story of Ulster emigration and its lasting transatlantic connections.

Learn about the cottage, ancestral home of Andrew Jackson’s family, and hear how the US Rangers formed in Carrickfergus, alongside engaging stories of how American soldiers spent their time in the town. A local craft demonstration adds an interactive element to the visit.

Reflecting the theme of Heritage at Risk, the site highlights the importance of preserving both historic buildings and the stories and traditions they represent. Through restoration and interpretation, this unique heritage is being safeguarded and shared with new generations. Linking to the US‑NI 250 the cottage tells a powerful story of migration from Ulster to America, connecting local history with the wider story of the United States in the years following the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

This is a distinctive opportunity to experience a site where local and international heritage come together.

Gracehill Conservation Area

Visit the 18th century Moravian Settlement of Gracehill and experience the unique atmosphere and heritage of Northern Ireland’s first Cultural World Heritage site, inscribed in July 2024. This is a transnational listing with partners in USA, Germany and Denmark.

Guided Walking Tours in the square take place hourly from 12.30 to 4.30pm. Meet up with the tour guides outside the Church doors for an informative and entertaining time. Enjoy a stroll around the unique Brothers and Sisters walk up to “God’s Acre”, Bishops Walk, Widow’s walk and the Village Square. Call at The Old Village Shop and hear all about the ongoing restoration and the historic postal links to the USA.

Ulster Aviation Society Lisburn

Step inside the Ulster Aviation Society and explore one of the UK and Ireland’s finest independent aviation collections, housed within two original Second World War hangars.

Following record-breaking EHOD crowds of 7,000 in 2024 and more than 7,200 in 2025 despite wet weather, the Ulster Aviation Society has become one of the largest attractions at EHOD. Families know this is somewhere special: a warm welcome, hands-on discovery, and the kind of memorable day out people talk about long after the weekend ends.

Big in scale, rich in history and genuinely memorable, the Ulster Aviation Society is one of the true highlights of the EHOD weekend.

For EHOD 2026, visitors can get up close to — and into the cockpits of — many historic aircraft, helicopters, engines and artefacts, explore multiple display rooms, and enjoy state-of-the-art flight simulator and VR suites. Expert, knowledgeable volunteers share the stories behind the machines, the people and the preservation work that keeps this aviation heritage collection alive. See our new arrivals, including a Harrier jump jet.

A fantastic family-friendly day out with real scale, atmosphere and significance. Children and adults alike can climb into many open aircraft cockpits, including big jets and helicopters, while aviation enthusiasts can enjoy the depth of the collection and heritage visitors can experience an extraordinary piece of living history within this scheduled monument.

Belfast

Blackstaff Mill – 19th Century Linen Mill

Step inside Blackstaff Mill for a rare chance to explore one of Belfast’s historic linen mills and uncover the stories behind its industrial past. Wander through spaces once filled with activity—from cutting rooms to ornamenting areas—and discover how this “community within a community” helped shape the city’s identity as Linenopolis.

Through guided tours, photographs, plans, and an impressive scale model, visitors can trace how the mill has changed over 200 years and learn about ongoing efforts to preserve its legacy.

Reflecting this year’s theme, Heritage at Risk: Revive, Resist, Reimagine, Blackstaff Mill highlights the importance of protecting Belfast’s industrial heritage and finding new life for these historic spaces. It also connects to USA 250, exploring how the linen industry thrived during the American Civil War, when cotton shortages in the United States strengthened Belfast’s global role in textile production.

A fascinating opportunity to experience a key piece of the city’s heritage up close.

NI Regional War Rooms

Step inside a remarkable piece of Cold War history at this 1950s former bunker, one of just 13 regional “War Rooms” designed to coordinate civil defence in the event of a nuclear attack. Hidden in plain sight, this unique site offers a rare glimpse into a time of global tension and local preparedness.

Recently restored and given a new purpose, the bunker now houses the archives of the Historic Environment Record of Northern Ireland—bringing together past and present in one fascinating space. Visitors can join Historic Environment Division staff for an exclusive guided tour, exploring its original features while uncovering the stories behind its vital role during the Cold War.

Reflecting the theme of Heritage at Risk, the site is a powerful example of how historic buildings can be sensitively reused and revitalised, ensuring their preservation while giving them a meaningful role today. This is a must-see opportunity to experience a hidden heritage asset brought back to life.

Belfast City Hospital Tower Block Tour

An icon of the Belfast skyline, the City Hospital Tower Block tends to provoke a ‘Marmite’ response. Love it or hate it, the Tower has a fascinating history. It welcomed its first patients forty years ago in 1986, but the construction process had been so arduous that the building was dubbed ‘the baby born with grey hair’ in the media when it finally opened its doors.

The Tower was conceived as the focal point of a new health ‘precinct’ in the early 1960s. This was an era when modern, large-scale developments would sweep away entire districts and the Tower represented a significant transformation of the historic City Hospital site. The Belfast Union Workhouse of 1841 and several other buildings were demolished to make way for it. But the designers and builders faced numerous challenges to completion over almost a quarter of a century.

Financial constraints, industrial strife and changes to the design were all set against the backdrop of the conflict.

Today the Tower remains a hub of healthcare in Belfast, including a busy outpatients department, cancer treatment facilities and cutting edge research connections.

Join the Belfast Trust Estates team, who keep the Tower and its systems running around the clock, for this special behind-the-scenes tour, new for EHOD 2026.

History Tour: The Victorian Corridor at RVH

The Victorian Corridor was at the heart of the Royal Victoria Hospital from 1903 until the modern ‘Phase One’ building opened a century later in 2003. Although the original 20 ‘Nightingale’ wards were demolished to make way for modern expansion, the Victorian Corridor itself still stands and is used by hundreds of staff and service users every day.

Along its walls can be seen numerous heritage artefacts that provide a glimpse into the fascinating history of the Royal: from plaques memorialising the ‘great and the good’ of late Victorian Belfast, to historic archive photographs, drawings, sculptures and paintings. Key figures involved in the development of the hospital were drawn from Belfast’s high society of the late Victorian era: shipbuilders, merchants, landowners and industrialists. But significantly, in an era before the NHS, the hospital also depended on many thousands of smaller contributions from ordinary people throughout the city.

Join us for this guided tour to explore the unique architectural and engineering history of the Royal, philanthropy across the social spectrum, and how pioneers of medicine responded to social conditions in Belfast through the turbulent 20th century.

N.B. – Booking is required for a number of events taking place for EHOD – ensure you check times, dates and availability before attending.

For the full list of events, see the EHOD guide here or read more on the Discover Northern Ireland website here

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our What’s On newsletter.