W5

HERITAGE HOT SPOTS What is it?W5, which stands for Who, What, Why, When and Where, is an interactive centre with 250 hands-on exhibits that allow children to explore the world through games and activities. It is in the Odyssey Centre in Belfast.

Why visit?

It’s a great place for children to learn about science, technology and the natural world without even trying. Young children can build houses, cars, roads and railway lines; older children can explore health, geology, sustainable development and electronics. The upper floors of W5 offer spectacular views over Belfast city and beyond.

Why now?

There’s a fun Santa experience in which children walk through pages of a giant book that reveals some of Santa’s secrets. For example, does he really live in the North Pole? How do reindeers learn to fly? How does he know which present to give each child from his sack? And, after all those answers, children meet Father Christmas himself. Santa’s Secrets is open today from 10.15am to 7.45pm and tomorrow from 12.15pm to 5pm. The Winter Express miniature train, which takes passengers through forests and ice caves, remains open until January 6th.

How do I get there?

W5 is at 2 Queen's Quay, a five-minute walk from Laganside Bus Centre and 15 minutes from Belfast Central Train Station. By car from central Belfast, follow signs for the A2 to Bangor, crossing Queen Elizabeth bridge. It is open Monday to Friday 10am-5pm; Saturdays 10am-6pm and Sundays noon-6pm. Closed December 24th-26th. Admission is £7.90 for adults, £5.90 for children and £6.40 for students and senior citizens; 048-90467790, w5online.co.uk.