International tour operators explore ‘Best of West’ in Northern Ireland

Top international tour operators have been visiting Glenshane Country Farm in the Sperrin Mountains as part of a fact-finding trip to Northern Ireland. The tour operators were invited here by Tourism Ireland, in conjunction with Tourism NI – to participate in the annual Meet the Buyer workshop in ICC Belfast. Ahead of the workshop, they enjoyed a ‘Best of the West’ themed tour of Northern Ireland.

During their visit to Glenshane Country Farm, the tour operators learned about life on a working farm and got to meet owner Jamese McCloy and his team of sheepdogs, as well as some spring lambs. The group also visited the Ulster American Folk Park, Marble Arch Caves, Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail and Belleek Pottery, as well as Blessingbourne Country Estate. 

Alice Mansergh, Chief Executive of Tourism Ireland, said: “Tourism Ireland is delighted to bring 150 top international tourism buyers from 135 companies to Northern Ireland for Meet the Buyer 2024 – including 25 companies who are joining us for the first time. This is an important event in the industry calendar and a great opportunity for our local tourism partners to connect with international tour operators who bring valuable tourists to Northern Ireland and the island.

“Tourism Ireland has an extensive programme of promotions well under way for 2024. Our ‘Fill your heart with Ireland’ campaign, featuring Derry Girls, is live across media this spring, with a goal of driving consideration of Northern Ireland and the island of Ireland as a destination to visit. Belfast 2024 programme of culture and the Irish Open taking place at Royal County Down are key moments to promote this year. We know visitors are inspired to visit the island based on our scenery, heritage and warm people and these strengths abound in Northern Ireland, from the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Geopark to the Causeway Coast, Fermanagh Lakelands and more.

“We’re taking every opportunity to shine a spotlight on Northern Ireland, showcasing iconic reasons to travel here and expanding people’s bucket lists from best-known spots to hidden gems."

International tour operators at Glenshane Country Farm in Maghera, with Viktoria Albrecht, Tourism Ireland (front right); and Jamese McCloy, Glenshane Country Farm (back, fourth right).