Record number of visitors for European Heritage Open Days

It has been revealed that a record number of visitors took part in a European celebration of Built Heritage, taking the opportunity to discover Northern Ireland’s rich architecture.

Environment Minister Edwin Poots today confirmed that over 56,000 people in Northern Ireland took part in over 260 events during this year’s annual European Heritage Open Days (EHOD) on 12 and 13 September.

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA), which organises the event, confirmed EHOD participants increase by over 4,000 people on last year’s figures.

Speaking at an event to thank the owners who opened their homes and properties over the weekend, the Minister said: “EHOD celebrates Northern Ireland’s impressive architecture and culture by offering free access to properties that are normally closed to the public or that usually charge admission.

“Once a year the owners of these buildings generously throw open their doors offering the public a rare opportunity to see inside.  It is their knowledge and enthusiasm that makes European Heritage Open Days such a success.

“This year we attracted a record number of visitors which is a reflection of the popularity of our local built heritage both to Northern Ireland visitors and those from further afield.”

This year’s events ranged from walking tours, bike rides and boat trips to historical re-enactments.

NIEA Director of Built Heritage Michael Coulter said: “Celebrating Northern Ireland’s rich and diverse built heritage is of paramount importance to the Northern Ireland Environment Agency.  These figures show that in Northern Ireland EHOD is going from strength to strength, when it started in 1997 there were 12,500 visitors and 125 buildings open.”

Notes to editors:

1. Every September millions of Europeans visit buildings and sites throughout Europe during the European Heritage Open Days which are a joint initiative of the Council of Europe and the European Union.
2. The top 10 most popular EHOD locations in Northern Ireland this year were Stormont Castle, Parliament Buildings, Palm House, Meter House, Belfast Castle, Carrickfergus Castle, Dunluce Castle, Richill Castle, Ballywalter Park and Castle Ward.
3. All media enquiries should be directed to the DOE Press Office on 028 9054 0003. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.