Hill Of The O'Neill climbs to heights of tourism award nomination

Hill of The O’Neill and Ranfurly House has been shortlisted for a Northern Ireland Travel and Tourism Award.

It’s the only spot west of the Bann to make the grade – and it’s up for the Best Visitor Attraction.

The Hill Of The O’Neill will battle with three Goliaths of the tourism sector - Carrick-a-Rede, Titanic, and the Giant’s Causeway.

The winner will be announced at the end of the month.

For the past 24 years, the awards ceremony has been attended by over 400 decision-makers from the travel and tourism industry.

Chairman of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Trevor Wilson says they’re absolutely delighted that a jewel in the crown of Mid Ulster heritage, which offers a modern view from an ancient site, has been nominated.

“Our area has much to offer the culturally curious visitor and this nomination is testament to the importance and value of this site to the region’s tourism product,” he says.

Mid Ulster District Council has recently extended facilities on the site with a new events space, conference facilities and a 360° panoramic viewing tower.

It was opened this year as part of a £7 million project.

Ranfurly House, opened in 2012, includes a multi-media exhibition narrating the story of the Flight of the Earls and the Plantation of Ulster.