A History of 'our wee country'
Click on the buttons Beside County names below to see some Amazing photos from local Photographers
Our story begins over 60 million years ago.
As ancient continents began to pull apart, molten basalt surged through the earth’s crust, cooling to form the iconic hexagonal columns of the Giant’s Causeway. This is the volcanic foundation upon which our six counties were built.
From the linen mills that once clothed the world to the shipyards that defined an era, the spirit of Northern Ireland has always been one of quiet strength. It’s a landscape of industry and endurance—a place where the mountains meet the sea and the history of our ancestors is written in every stone wall and rolling field.. . . and let’s be honest, it’s also officially the best place on earth to sit back, ignore the rain, and enjoy a drop of whiskey. Purely for medicinal purposes, of course
From volcanic eruptions to the fine threads of our mills, we invite you to explore a heritage as enduring as the basalt columns themselves.
Co. Antrim:
Known as the Glens County for its nine deep glacial valleys—from Glenarm to Glenshesk—carved into the plateau by the last ice age.
Co. Armagh:
The Orchard County is famous for the Bramley apple and has been the heart of Irish cider and apple growing for over three thousand years.
Co. Down:
The Mourne County is where twelve distinct peaks rise over two thousand feet including Slieve Donard which is the highest point in the North.
Co. Fermanagh:
The Lakeland County is defined by Upper and Lower Lough Erne which together create a natural water-highway of one hundred and fifty islands.
Co. Londonderry:
The Oak Leaf County is named for the ancient Doire or Oak Grove where the city was founded amongst prehistoric forests.
Co. Tyrone:
The Red Hand County takes its name from the ancient O'Neill dynasty and the legendary race to claim the Ulster coastline.
