Shaped by Sea and Stone tourism campaign is making waves across NI – and the world

Mid and East Antrim’s hidden tourism gems are being showcased to the world as part of a new campaign, Shaped by Sea and Stone.

Trips to spectacular attractions such as The Gobbins, Carrickfergus Castle, Slemish Mountain, the globally acclaimed Causeway Coastal Route and backdrops to HBO blockbuster Game of Thrones, are being added to bucket lists as far afield as America, Australia, New Zealand and China.

The area’s tourism treasures are also being promoted much closer to home, including in the heart of Belfast, where visitors to the city and locals alike are being invited to immerse themselves in a land Shaped by Sea and Stone.

Mid and East Antrim’s rolling hills, rugged coastline and mighty castles are drawing an ever-growing legion of fans, with an increasing number of tourists heading to Mid and East Antrim, and the local council is determined to make sure more potential visitors get to hear about the area.

Mid and East Antrim is being forward-looking in using an array of tools to make sure the world knows the borough is a must-visit.

A destination website has been developed, social media campaigns rolled out and the visitor guide has been given a new look. The council is also working with local government partners, Tourism Ireland, Tourism Northern Ireland and the trade to further promote the area.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s chief executive Anne Donaghy, said: “Shaped by Sea and Stone gives us the chance to showcase the many gems throughout the borough, as well as the local people who make this place a great destination to visit.

“We have coastline and countryside which are the envy of the world and our new brand will make sure more and more visitors get to immerse themselves in this great borough before spreading the word about their experience.

“By promoting the fantastic tourism products we have in Mid and East Antrim, whether it’s an attraction, accommodation or food and drink, we can encourage visitors to stay longer and spend more in our borough.

“To do that, our tourism team is on the road all over the world to promote the borough at tradeshows and to encourage visitors to come and stay with us.

“While the headline attractions are obviously big sellers, the less well-known, untapped side is also part of the offering. We know there are countless hidden gems in this region but we don’t want to keep them to ourselves.

“We’re determined not just to tell the world about Mid and East Antrim, but to make sure everything is in place to ensure they have a fantastic time when they’re here.

“Luckily, this is a great place to visit so we just need to shout about it.”

ENDS

ATTACHED: Nicola McNaughton from PML, Lauren McNerlin from ClearChannel, Emma Weir AV Browne and Mark McGrann from Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, pictured in Belfast City Centre