Fingal County Council launches new Explore Fingal destination tourism brand

Pictured at the launch of the new destination tourism brand Explore Fingal at the Grand Hotel, Malahide, were:
Back l-r: Aidan Power, Tourism Ireland; Declan Power, Fingal County Council; Paul Keeley (Fáilte Ireland), John Quinlivan, Fingal County Council Photograph: Fintan Clarke/Coaslesce

Front: Catherine Flanagan (AVEA), Mayor of Fingal Cllr. Tom O’Leary, AnnMarie Farrelly, Fingal County Council

Fingal County Council has today (Monday, 23rd February 2026) launched a new destination tourism brand: Explore Fingal. The gala event at the Grand Hotel, Malahide, unveiled the new destination brand identity, complete with a dedicated website and social media platforms. Explore Fingal is a key milestone in the implementation of the Fingal Tourism Strategy 2024-2029 and includes a full programme of marketing and development initiatives that will support Fingal’s tourism growth.

Through Explore Fingal, the county will enhance its distinctive, authentic destination positioning as a premier cultural, coastal, and culinary destination. Explore Fingal sits under the Visit Dublin brand and is aligned with the national tourism strategy through Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland. Together tourism, hospitality, and wider industry partners will combine to activate the next phase of Fingal’s destination growth.

Speaking at the launch, Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary, said: “The launch of Explore Fingal, the new destination tourism brand, is a significant step in consolidating and highlighting the tourism offering within Fingal. It represents a real opportunity for our communities and businesses to benefit from a heightened profile. We have a wealth of natural assets in tourism and an unparalleled location within easy reach of Dublin city.”

The essence of the Explore Fingal brand is the surprising and rewarding nature of this familiar yet relatively unexplored area of North County Dublin. The Explore Fingal colour palette reflects a place that’s vibrant, surprising and full of contrast. The core colours are nature-based – sea green, deep-rooted green and warm sand. These are supported by a swatch of bright and vivacious accent colours.

Fingal offers a refreshingly authentic and emotionally rewarding Irish experience — one that’s easy to reach, rich in story, and powered by people. By building on the county’s proven assets and strengths and leading with mature, well-known products and experiences, clustered with those still developing, Fingal will consolidate its position as a tourism destination.

Fingal media personality Simon Delaney acted as MC for the Explore Fingal launch event, and the keynote speech was delivered by Catherine Flanagan, CEO of the Association of Visitor Experiences and Attractions (AVEA). Significant tourist attractions in Fingal include Malahide Castle & Gardens, Newbridge House & Farm, Farmleigh House, Howth Castle, Ardgillan Castle & Gardens, Skerries Mills, Shackleton Garden and the Seamus Ennis Arts Centre.

AnnMarie Farrelly, Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, commented: “Explore Fingal showcases Fingal as a proactive, forward-looking local authority delivering on its commitments. We recognise the significance of the tourism and hospitality sector within the county, and launching Explore Fingal is a key milestone in the implementation of the Fingal Tourism Strategy (2024-2029). We see ongoing opportunities for investment and growth and are confident that the sector will expand and thrive”.

The Fingal Tourism strategy recognises the crucial role of sustainable tourism in preserving the essence of Fingal for future generations. The approach emphasises responsible practices, prioritising the conservation of the environment and the celebration of Fingal’s identity.

Fingal boasts a thriving food and drink sector encompassing diverse culinary traditions, local producers and a flourishing hospitality sector. Recognising the ongoing importance of fostering a long-term, sustainable and thriving food sector, Fingal County Council developed the Fingal Food & Drink Policy 2024-2029, which is being implemented in conjunction with the Tourism Strategy.

Visitors and industry partners can explore the new destination brand and discover experiences across Fingal on the evolving new destination website www.ExploreFingal.ie.

Information and Links

Website:            www.ExploreFingal.ie
Instagram:       www.instagram.com/explorefingal
Facebook:        www.facebook.com/explorefingal
YouTube:           https://www.youtube.com/@ExploreFingal

Fingal Tourism Strategy link
Fingal Food Policy link