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Northern Ireland’s cultural heritage and its colourful mix of wild coastal ways, calm countryside lakes and soaring mountains have inspired generations of writers.

St. Patrick’s legacy is part of the fabric of Northern Ireland – enshrined in churches, cathedrals and the many abbeys, high crosses and round towers that evoke his time and his history. More than 1,600 years after his birth, myths, legends and stories about him live on in the land that he converted and loved. So, whatever your interest, there’s always more interesting facts to discover about St Patrick.

With over 25 million people claiming Northern Irish decent in North America alone, tracing your ancestors may seem like looking for a needle in a haystack. But you'd be amazed what you can find. We’ve collected some useful resources and information below, to help you on your way to discovering your family heritage.

Belfast is a wonderful city for walkers. There’s always something new to discover and its compact size makes it an easy and inviting spot to explore on foot. Go just a little further afield though and you’ll find yourself in the tranquil Belfast Hills. Only minutes from the city, there are fantastic views of Belfast’s famous landmarks and some amazing walks and trails to investigate.

Renowned for its stunningly beautiful driving route, the Causeway Coastal Route is also home to some of Northern Ireland’s finest walks.

Discover secret waterfalls and magical forests in a place where your kids’ imaginations can run wild, you can take a mindful few minutes or walk in the footsteps of your favourite Game of Thrones® hero or villain. There are loads of reasons to explore Northern Ireland’s rugged landscape and forest walks. Here are some that are truly a sight for sore eyes!

They said: “Winter is coming”. We were ready. In January 2016, Storm Gertrude wreaked havoc across Northern Ireland, felling iconic trees along the highway known to Game of Thrones® fans as the Kingsroad. But from the devastation of the Dark Hedges came a bright shining idea that showed our giant spirit to the world.

The spirit of Northern Ireland is evident in every season of Game of Thrones®, and a new element has been added to further enhance the experience for fans through the ancient art of stained glass.

Ye haven’t seen Derry Girls yet? Ah, catch yerself on! 

If you haven’t seen Derry Girls, you’re in for a treat. The Lisa McGee-penned comedy following the hilarious exploits of a group of teenagers, their families and friends - oh, and their school principal, Sister Michael - in the early 1990s is a joy to behold.

Nothing captures the spirit of a place like a beautifully crafted item, locally and lovingly made. These are pieces or produce born of Northern Ireland, inspired by its heritage and traditions, though sometimes with a modern twist. 

You could spend a lifetime in Northern Ireland and still not see it all. Much of that is down to the ever-changing mood of the surrounding seas and the seasonal shifts in colour on the slopes of mountains and the shores of lakes. It has much to do with our people, their endeavour and their giant spirit. 

If it’s a short break you’re looking for, you couldn’t pick a better place than County Fermanagh, especially if you’re a fan of water and all things that happen on and in it. What’s more it’s just 90 minutes from Belfast and two hours from Dublin by road, so it’s a very doable place while feeling very much away from it all. A weekend is all it takes to get the measure and the flavour of the place.