Top GB journalists explore Belfast and Causeway Coastal Route

3.5 million to read why Northern Ireland is a ‘must visit’ destination in 2026

Top GB travel journalists – from major media outlets including The Guardian, Metro and Reach PLC (news publisher) – have been visiting Northern Ireland this week, as guests of Tourism Ireland and Tourism NI. The journalists have a combined reach of around 3.5 million readers across GB.

The group’s action-packed itinerary began in Belfast, with a heritage tour at The Harrison Chambers of Distinction, a music and art tour with Creative Tours Belfast, a visit to McConnell’s Distillery and a site visit of The Bedford Hotel. They attended a special screening of How to Get to Heaven from Belfast, the new comedy drama series from Derry Girls creator Lisa McGee, which is set to air on Netflix from 12 February. Ahead of the screening, the group also enjoyed a food tour with Taste & Tour and a Belfast Traditional Music Trail.

Then it was on to the Causeway Coastal Route and a stop at Gleno Waterfall. The journalists continued to The Harbourview Hotel – a key filming location in How to Get to Heaven from Belfast – where they had the opportunity to meet the hotel’s resident star, Paddy the Irish Wolfhound! Glenariff Forest Park and Glenarm Castle also featured on the programme. 

Julie Wakley, Tourism Ireland’s Head of GB, said:“Northern Ireland continues to be a compelling destination for GB holidaymakers and 2026 offers even more reasons to visit – from our growing screen tourism offering to major cultural events such as the Fleadh Cheoil, which will take place in Belfast in August. The articles produced by these influential journalists will reach millions and are sure to inspire GB holidaymakers to put Northern Ireland on their ‘must visit’ list this year.”