A NEW heritage tourism guide has been launched to publicise the "amazing 6,000 story of Ulster's changing borders and over 50 historical sites located in Ireland's Northeast border region."

Borderlands features the attractions in a stunning new 100-page guide, website and promotional campaign to attract domestic and overseas tourists.

Tony Robinson, presenter of Time Team, Channel 4's archaeological investigation show, who has penned an introduction to the Borderlands guide, says: "I've always been fascinated by the search for new places to visit and explore, so Borderlands was a real find, a treasure trove of ancient stories and mysterious sites.

"Borderlands - the very name conjures up images of blood-stained swords, clan skirmishes, heroes in hiding and all the other paraphernaslia of Irish myth, doesn't it"

The guide details more than 50 diverse locations to discover, set in beautiful landscapes, picturesque villages and thriving counties of Armagh, Down, Louth and Monaghan. These historic (and pre-historic) sites span 6,000 years of this island's history and are distinct in their nature and appeal.

Those interested in early Ireland and archaeology can revel in the plethora of Neolithic stone tombs, Bronze Age burial grounds and hill forts to explore. Families and schools looking for a day out will find there is plenty of choice between outdoor exploration and an indoor trip to one of the many museums, mills or castles. Hikers and hill walkers will comea cross many of the historic gems on their trails.

Whatever the choice is, each venue provides an educational and enjoyable insight into our island's heritage. Many centres cater for group visits, special interest clubs, schools and colleges.

The cross-Border partnership between Armagh, Newry and Mourne, Banbridge and Louth and Monaghan has been inspired by the recent positive changes in the Border area and now easy access to the region.