Tourism grows by 10% in 2015

Holiday visitors accounted for almost 544,000 overseas visitors, while overseas revenues grew by 8% during the year to £484 million.

“Visitor numbers from GB increased by 10%, from mainland Europe by 17%, from North America by 1% and from the rest of the world by 6%,” said Tourism Ireland CEO Niall Gibbons.

“Tourism Ireland is determined to ensure that tourism growth continues and we are rolling out an extensive programme of promotions throughout 2016, to highlight Northern Ireland around the world.

“Our activity includes a major focus on this special Year of Food and Drink. And, once again, we have joined forces with Game of Thrones creators HBO this spring, leveraging the huge popularity of the TV series to showcase Northern Ireland.

The agency also plans to promote The Gobbins Cliff Path, he added, while continuing to place a major focus on other iconic experiences like Titanic Belfast, the Giant’s Causeway and unique National Trust properties.

“We continue to target people of Ulster-Scots descent; and to promote Northern Ireland as a top golf and business tourism destination.”