Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre dubbed a ‘5 star experience’

The five-star accreditation was awarded under a new NITB scheme designed to provide visitors with quality grading information on Northern Ireland’s tourist attractions.

Congratulating the National Trust on their 5 star Visitor Attraction Accreditation, Howard Hastings, Chair of NITB said; “I’m delighted that the centre has now been rated as a five star experience under NITB’s Quality Grading Scheme for visitor attractions as it has set the bar high in terms of quality, customer service and the visitor experience. Accreditations such as this help the industry to remain globally competitive, help to showcase our world-class attractions and make the Northern Ireland tourism industry truly outstanding.”

Heather Thompson, Northern Ireland director for the National Trust said: “We are very proud of this amazing visitor experience which has welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors from across the world.

“We are also very proud of the economic benefit this site brings to the surrounding community and Northern Ireland as a whole with the Giant’s Causeway employing 181 people through a range of services.

“This visitor centre acts as a gateway to our only World Heritage Site. It provides a world class experience that is worthy of that unique status. It explains how the Giant’s Causeway was formed and highlights the essential conservation work carried out by the National Trust on the north coast and beyond.

“Visitors gain a deeper insight into the myths and legends of bygone days and discover the stories of the people who live in and around the Causeway today.

“There is also the chance to connect with and learn more about the local people for whom the Causeway Coast provides an important livelihood. This connection with local communities is key to the centre’s success.”

The Visitor Centre is shortlisted for the Stirling Prize for the UK’s best building.