The highly-anticipated opening of one the most unique attractions on the island, The Gobbins, has been confirmed as Wednesday 19th August.
After months of speculation, the public will get their chance to experience the newly restored tourist attraction, located in Islandmagee that has already captured the imagination of tourists from around the world.
The original development by visionary Berkeley Deane Wise, Chief Engineer of the Belfast and Northern Counties Railway Company, is poised to enjoy a new era of discovery. It is expected to see thousands of tourists flock to the attraction in the year ahead. In its heyday it attracted more visitors than the Giant’s Causeway.
Speaking on the upcoming opening, Chief Executive of Mid & East Antrim Borough Council, Anne Donaghy said: The Councillors of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council are delighted to be opening The Gobbins cliff path to the public on 19 August 2015.
The Chief Executive, Anne Donaghy said: “This path offers a natural rugged beauty that can only be appreciated by a visit. The Gobbins holds a special place in the hearts of local people and it is extremely rewarding that the Council has been able to reinvigorate what is one of the best tourism attractions, not only in NI, but across the whole of the UK.
“In fact, people have booked a tour of The Gobbins cliff path from as far away as Australia, New York, Sweden, France and Germany and beyond – we have been overwhelmed with the world wide interest in this local tourist attraction. It is fantastic to see such interest from across the globe but what has impressed me the most is the eagerness and excitement of local people at the opening of The Gobbins.
“The Gobbins brings a modern day twist to an Edwardian tourism attraction with 23 bridges, paths and walkways. The path is steep in places but reveals a wealth of stunning unrivalled views of the Irish Sea. Caves, steps, and tunnels carved through the rock, and offers a real mix of wildlife, flora and fauna on the numerous cliffs – it truly is a remarkable attraction soaked in heritage.”
Anne continues: “The Gobbins not only promises a dramatic and beautifully stunning walk, but it offers much more with its new visitor’s centre and exhibition area, a café serving the world famous Rinkha ice-cream and a gift shop stocking local arts and crafts. A unique feature of ‘The Gobbins’ is the local people. Council are proud to have so many local tour guides involved, who can bring to life the stories, myths and legends of The Gobbins and give all visitors a warm welcome.
“I would encourage everyone to come and experience this dramatic coastal path for themselves as words cannot describe the experience. A personal highlight for me is the iconic tubular bridge on the walk, which took my breath away. The Gobbins is a must do for local people as well as international tourists.”
Please visit the website for more information www.thegobbinscliffpath.com