Less scrolling more strolling: Embrace Autumn Unplugged in Northern Ireland
As the nights grow longer and screen time surges by almost 30% to a quarter of our waking day, Tourism Northern Ireland has the perfect antidote to hours of mindless scrolling.
The tourism body’s Autumn Unplugged campaign is encouraging people to embrace analogue adventures in Northern Ireland that demand to be experienced, not scrolled past.
With the average UK adult increasing their screen time to four-and-a-half hours per day, there is a growing realisation that we need to reconnect with the world around us.
Deloitte Ireland’s 2026 Digital Consumer Trends reports 70% of adults believe they spend too much time on their phones.
Online search habits reveal the same growing desire. Google Trends data points to steadily increasing interest in ‘digital detox’ and ‘how to reduce screen time’.
Research shows 62% of us are prioritising in-person analogue activities this year to counteract time spent online, restore mental clarity and physical wellbeing.
From forest bathing in the Mourne Mountains, feeling the ocean spray as you gallop along the Causeway Coast's golden beaches or experiencing the excitement of a Raku firing during a pottery experience in Fermanagh, Northern Ireland invites you to embrace unplugged adventures.
As part of the campaign, Tourism Northern Ireland is helping inspire audiences to take a short break with its Autumn Unplugged taster series.
Hosted by presenter Ralph McLean, these short-form videos highlight just some of the incredible screen-free adventures that can help you reset. The series explores RSPB Belfast’s Window on Wildlife, Corranny Forest Pottery in Fermanagh, Kinedale Donkeys and Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes both in County Down and painting with renowned artist, Dermot Cavanagh in Tyrone.
Among the experiences featured in Autumn Unplugged is Mourne Shack, who specialise in immersive experiences in the Mourne Mountains for adults, kids, families and groups.
Chris MacBlain, founder of Mourne Shack, said: “When you are enjoying the wonders of Northern Ireland, your phone becomes the last thing on your mind.
“We’re all trying to escape the noise from the busyness of life, and the immersive experiences we offer, such as wild river dipping are an invigorating way to recharge in nature.
“All our activities incorporate an element of being adventurous and trying something that you haven't done before. It's back to nature and a craving for simplicity.”
Fiona Cunningham, Tourism NI PR Manager, said: “We know it can be difficult to avoid screen distractions as the nights close in, but getting outside and trying something new is the perfect reset.
“Autumn means more in Northern Ireland. From coastal walks to standout dining, characterful places to stay and a vibrant cultural calendar, there are countless ways to switch off, reconnect and savour the season, all accompanied by the warmest of welcomes.
“Every year we hear from people who had meant to book that class, walk or weekend away, but then the noise of the end of year takes over.
“Our advice is simple: book now, try something new - without the distraction of a screen - and make time to go offline.”
Other experiences to help you embrace Autumn Unplugged include guided walks along the waters’ edge with Sustainable Journeys Ireland. Or book a stay with Irish Landmark Trust with properties in stunning, remote locations across Northern Ireland providing cosy escapes and offering great value for money with a digital detox.
Watch the Autumn Unplugged series at Discover Northern Ireland’s YouTube channel. To unplug and make more of autumn, book your next short break at discovernorthernireland.com.