TOURISM Ireland has launched a campaign in three British cities to promote the wonders of the country’s Ancient East.
The question of a post-Brexit border may have dominated the headlines on Monday and caused some friction between the nations.
However the tourism body, which promotes the whole island of Ireland, is hoping to entice visitors from London, Birmingham and Glasgow with the lure of Ireland’s eastern delights.
Some 1.2 million people across the three cities will be seeing eye-catching images of Ireland’s Ancient East on street panels over the coming weeks.
The aim is to drive awareness of Ireland’s Ancient East in Britain, particularly in cities with good air connections.
Julie Wakley, Tourism Ireland’s Head of Great Britain, said: “Our extensive programme of promotions continues, reminding British travellers about all the great reasons to choose Ireland and Ireland’s Ancient East for a short break or holiday.
“Great Britain is a vital market for tourism to the island of Ireland. It delivers 47 per cent of all overseas visitors and around 30 per cent of all overseas tourism revenue.
“However, the decline in the value of sterling is certainly a challenge for Irish tourism from Britain right now, which means that competitiveness and the value for money message are more important than ever.
“Our programme of promotional activity continues to year end – keeping Ireland ‘front of mind’ with British travellers and helping to position us well for 2018.”
Ireland’s Ancient East covers the area outside of Dublin and east of the River Shannon, extending from Carlingford to Cavan and south to Cork City, including East County Cork and East County Limerick.
A touring region full of legends and stories, from ancient times to modern day, it includes mystical sites such as the Newgrange monument and the Hill of Tara, set against the backdrop of 5,000 years of heritage.