A land of unspoilt beauty
Northern Ireland is a region of extraordinary natural beauty and rich, historical heritage. Behind much of its dramatic, archaeological landscape and magnificent castles, stone circles, forts and churches are tales of giants and saints, all adding to its mystical charm and romance.
Much of the value of this historic landscape lies in its complexity, regional diversity and local distinctiveness. Many sites reveal a wealth of information about the way in which past generations lived, worked and died.
Alongside the round towers and grand country homes that make up some of Northern Ireland’s 8,500 listed buildings, are thatched cottages, lighthouses, bridges and post boxes. These buildings scattered across the region’s towns, villages and countryside have been constructed over several centuries and as well as forming our architectural heritage reflects the use of local materials and traditions.
Dramatic Landscapes
With its dramatic cliff lines, majestic mountains, colourful lakes and stunning views Northern Ireland is a land of unspoilt beauty. Famous for its 40 shades of green it also boasts of golden beaches, blue mountains and a confetti of colours in its glorious gardens and grand estates.
The rugged Mountains of Mourne 
in Newcastle, Co Down, made famous by the Percy French song containing the line “Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea”, have 12 summits the highest of which, Slieve Donard rising steeply to 850 metres.
