Shaped By People

Mid and East Antrim is a place of breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, and coastal charm. But beyond the scenery and heritage lies its greatest asset: the people. Shaped by People is a celebration of those who bring the borough to life, day in and day out, through their work, creativity, and warm hospitality.

This section shines a light on the individuals behind the experiences that make Mid and East Antrim so memorable. Whether you’re welcomed by a friendly B&B owner, guided through hidden gems by a local storyteller, or served a dish crafted with care by a passionate chef — every encounter is shaped by someone who loves this place and is proud to share it.

From artists and crafters to tour guides, drivers, and venue managers, these are the voices that define the character of our borough. Their stories are rooted in tradition, community, and a deep connection to the land and sea. They are the reason visitors return, not just for the sights, but for the people who make them feel at home.

Shaped by People is an evolving collection of real stories that reflect the heart and soul of Mid and East Antrim. It’s part of our wider Shaped by Sea and Stone brand — a tribute to the natural and cultural forces that have shaped our region — now enriched by the human stories that continue to shape it today.

Here, you’ll meet locals who have turned their passions into professions, who greet every visitor with genuine warmth, and who embody the spirit of this place in everything they do. Their voices offer a glimpse into the everyday magic that makes Mid and East Antrim not just a destination, but a community.

We invite you to explore these stories, connect with the people behind them, and discover the borough through their eyes. Because while the landscapes may draw you in, it’s the people who will stay with you. Welcome to Shaped by People. Welcome to the heart of Mid and East Antrim.

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Experience adventures

William Rainey: Glenarm Castle & Estate

In the picturesque village of Glenarm, where forest trails lead to castle gates and the sea breeze carries centuries of stories, you’ll find William Rainey, a dedicated and passionate figure in Mid and East Antrim’s tourism landscape. As Visitor Attraction Supervisor at Glenarm Castle & Garden, William is not just a staff member—he’s a storyteller, a guide, and a proud ambassador for the region.
Mary Johnston-Watterson: Arthur Cottage

Nestled in the quiet charm of Cullybackey, Arthur Cottage is more than just a historic site - it’s a living, breathing window into the past. And at the centre of it all is Mary Johnston-Watterson, a woman whose passion, creativity, and curiosity have transformed this humble cottage into a vibrant experience for visitors from near and far.
George McGrand: Andrew Jackson Cottage & US Rangers Museum

Nestled in the heart of Carrickfergus, where history whispers through the walls of the Andrew Jackson Cottage and U.S. Rangers Museum, you’ll find George McGrand – a man whose journey through life and landscapes has shaped him into one of Mid and East Antrim’s most engaging storytellers.