Tours to showcase literature in Northern Ireland

12 May 2009 -

Throughout the summer, two new tours will allow those interested in literature in Northern Ireland to follow in the footsteps of the country's writing giants.

Every Sunday afternoon until September 27th, visitors to Belfast can explore the many locations that inspired the stories of CS Lewis, from the author's childhood home of Ballyhackamore to Campbell College, St. Mark's Church and the Castlereagh Hills.

Meanwhile, the Belfast Literary Walking Tours will set off from the Crown Bar each Monday at 17:00 BST and take in landmarks such as the Linen Hall Library, loved by Tom Paulin and 20th Century novelist Forrest Reid, and the site of the former International Hotel, setting of Glenn Patterson's novel of the same name.

Michael Browne, chairman of Belfast City Council's development committee, commented: "I hope that these tours will inspire both residents and visitors to find out more about our literary heritage and explore it further."

From now until the end of September, Belfast's cultural hub, the Cathedral Quarter, will host special events, workshops, festivities and extended openings every Sunday.