Residents invited to explore district's tourism offering at Hidden Gems event

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Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell is photographed with, from left: Stephen Magorrian, Denvirs of Downpatrick; Michelle Boyle, Head of Tourism Product Development and Visitor Experience NMDDC; Orla Hayes, Canal Court Hotel; Vicki Canavan, LIFE Adventure and Amanda Smyth, Assistant Director – Economy, Growth & Tourism NMDDC, to launch the Council’s ‘Hidden Gems at Home’ event in Down County Museum on 14 March.

Local residents will have the chance to discover what's on their doorstep at a special tourism showcase next month, with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council hosting Hidden Gems at Home at Down County Museum on Saturday 14 March from 12noon to 4.30pm.

The event, which forms part of the Council's wider tourism marketing programme, will see the authority's refreshed tourism brand officially launched to the public. Shaped through local engagement, the brand positions Mourne Gullion Strangford as a distinctive geographic destination, underpinned by its sub brand, 'Ireland's True Nature' as its unifying essence. It reflects the district's three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty – the Mourne Mountains, the Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough & Lecale – while supporting its UNESCO Global Geopark designation and reinforcing a strong, unified destination identity.

Visitors to the showcase will be able to meet a wide range of local tourism providers and explore the district's diverse tourism offering, including outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, food and drink producers, accommodation providers and wellness experiences.

Councillor Philip Campbell, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, said the event is about celebrating the incredible tourism experiences available right across the district. "From outdoor adventures in dramatic landscapes to heritage, culture and local food, this event brings together the people and places that define Mourne Gullion Strangford," he said.

Speaking about the redefined tourism branding, Cllr Campbell said, "Our refreshed branding showcases the area's breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, welcoming communities and memorable experiences. Hidden Gems at Home brings this brand to life, showcasing the experiences, stories and local businesses that make our area so special, and inspiring residents to explore and take pride in what's right on their doorstep."

The free event is designed to inspire people across the district to explore and support local tourism, celebrating the people, places and lesser-known experiences that make Mourne Gullion Strangford special. Whether planning a staycation, seeking a new outdoor adventure, or simply looking for fresh ideas close to home, Hidden Gems at Home offers a welcoming day out for all the family.

For updates and event information, visit www.visitmournegullionstrangford.com and follow @VisitMourneGullionStrangford on social media.