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26/03/2009
Foster Launches St Paddy's Trail
Centuries of Co Down's rich history can now be traced along an informative 62 mile driving route, spanning from Newry to Bangor.
NI Tourism Minister Arlene Foster was on hand today to officially launch the new Saint Patrick's Trail.
With the final signage in place, tourists and locals alike can now follow the route from Armagh through Newry to Downpatrick and up the Ards Peninsula to Bangor.
It takes in various Saint Patrick and Christian Heritage visitor sites, including the Armagh County Museum, Bagenals Castle, the Saint Patrick Centre, North Down Museum and Saint Patrick's grave at Down Cathedral.
The Saint Patrick's Trail is one of five signature projects, identified by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board as offering the best opportunities for tourism growth and to create world class excellence for Northern Ireland.
Ms Foster said: "Northern Ireland has unique and long-established links with Saint Patrick. It was in Armagh where he began his mission and founded his first church, establishing the city as a spiritual centre.
"The Saint later died in Northern Ireland and was laid to rest in Downpatrick, County Down.
"Our links to Saint Patrick and Christian heritage offer significant tourism potential, and the trail is an excellent way of telling the story St Patrick’s journey," she said.
"As well as following in his footsteps, the trail provides visitors with an easy-to-follow driving route, which allows visitors to learn about our Christian heritage and experience this beautiful part of Northern Ireland and the many attractions on offer," she said.
(PR/BMcC)
NI Tourism Minister Arlene Foster was on hand today to officially launch the new Saint Patrick's Trail.
With the final signage in place, tourists and locals alike can now follow the route from Armagh through Newry to Downpatrick and up the Ards Peninsula to Bangor.
It takes in various Saint Patrick and Christian Heritage visitor sites, including the Armagh County Museum, Bagenals Castle, the Saint Patrick Centre, North Down Museum and Saint Patrick's grave at Down Cathedral.
The Saint Patrick's Trail is one of five signature projects, identified by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board as offering the best opportunities for tourism growth and to create world class excellence for Northern Ireland.
Ms Foster said: "Northern Ireland has unique and long-established links with Saint Patrick. It was in Armagh where he began his mission and founded his first church, establishing the city as a spiritual centre.
"The Saint later died in Northern Ireland and was laid to rest in Downpatrick, County Down.
"Our links to Saint Patrick and Christian heritage offer significant tourism potential, and the trail is an excellent way of telling the story St Patrick’s journey," she said.
"As well as following in his footsteps, the trail provides visitors with an easy-to-follow driving route, which allows visitors to learn about our Christian heritage and experience this beautiful part of Northern Ireland and the many attractions on offer," she said.
(PR/BMcC)
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Cycle Trail Launched
A new cycle and walking trail that passes through counties Donegal, Tyrone, Fermanagh, Leitrim and Sligo in the North West of Ireland has been opened. Cyclists and pedestrians on the 326km signed circular trail can now enjoy a wide variety of scenic landscapes, dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean, and picturesque rural towns and villages.
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A new cycle and walking trail that passes through counties Donegal, Tyrone, Fermanagh, Leitrim and Sligo in the North West of Ireland has been opened. Cyclists and pedestrians on the 326km signed circular trail can now enjoy a wide variety of scenic landscapes, dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean, and picturesque rural towns and villages.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
