Press Release - Saint Patrick's Trail Launch

Foster Launches Saint Patrick’s Trail

26 March 2009

Tourism Minister Arlene Foster has announced the completion of Northern Ireland’s latest tourist attraction, the Saint Patrick’s Trail, following the installation of directional signage.

White on brown road signage has been installed to mark the trail, which covers a two-way, sixty-two mile long driving 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 (NITB) as offering the best opportunities for tourism growth and to create world class excellence for Northern Ireland.

The Minister announced the completion of the signage alongside the Northern Ireland Tourist Board Chairman, Howard Hastings.

Arlene 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.  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.”

Howard Hastings, Chairman of NITB said: “The Northern Ireland Tourist Board chose St Patrick and Christian Heritage as one of its five Signature Projects, because of their potential to create international stand out for Northern Ireland.

“The St Patrick’s Trail will spread the tourism benefits of our unique heritage, ensuring that many towns and visitor attractions gain from the increasing number of tourists who visit our shores.”