County Down, with its scenic landscapes and rich heritage, is establishing itself as an appealing destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism. Combining modern facilities with cultural attractions, Down offers a practical and engaging setting for business travellers seeking to blend work with memorable experiences.
The county features a range of venues tailored for professional gatherings. The Slieve Donard Resort and Spa in Newcastle provides conference spaces for up to 850 delegates, equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, advanced audio-visual technology, and flexible room configurations. The Canal Court Hotel in Newry offers meeting rooms for up to 600 guests, with tailored catering and modern amenities. For exhibitions or smaller gatherings, the Millbrook Lodge Hotel in Ballynahinch boasts versatile function rooms, accommodating up to 200 delegates with on-site technical support.
Incentive travel in Down draws on the county’s natural beauty and historic sites. Organisers can arrange team-building activities such as guided walks in the Mourne Mountains or private tours of Castle Ward, a filming location for Game of Thrones. Coastal experiences, like boat trips along Strangford Lough, provide unique opportunities for group bonding. Down’s accessible layout ensures these attractions are within easy reach, seamlessly integrating leisure into business itineraries.
Down’s connectivity enhances its MICE appeal. Belfast International Airport and George Best Belfast City Airport, both within an hour’s drive, offer flights to major European cities. Regular bus and train services, including Translink routes, connect Newry, Bangor, and other towns to Belfast and Dublin, with good road networks and on-site parking at venues simplifying logistics. Local event planners, supported by Tourism NI, provide expertise in delivering tailored programmes, ensuring smooth execution of conferences and incentive trips.
Accommodation options cater to business needs, with hotels like the Slieve Donard and Burrendale Hotel in Newcastle offering comfortable rooms alongside meeting facilities. Smaller venues, such as the Killyleagh Castle Towers, provide unique spaces for executive retreats or product displays, complemented by locally sourced dining. The county’s hospitality sector focuses on delivering professional yet welcoming experiences for delegates.
Down’s blend of modern infrastructure and authentic attractions makes it a compelling choice for MICE tourism. From well-equipped conference venues to engaging incentive activities, the county offers a balanced environment where business and leisure complement each other effectively.
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