Henry McNeil Mural

This mural, painted by local Northern Irish artist Eoin McGinn, depicts local legend Henry McNeill sitting in a surrealist flying ship based on a Daimler Wagonette.

McNeill was born on February 14, 1836, in Glenarm and moved to Larne in 1853 to start his own business. He believed the glories of the Antrim Coast should be known to more than just the few who lived there.

As the development of the Larne port and the railway line became more and more prominent in the area, his reputation as a holiday caterer and travel tours company grew. He was eventually able to buy several hotels, forming his own hotel empire in the area. He was also the first man in Ireland to introduce what is known today as a holiday package, with tourism visits, travel, hotel, and food all paid in the one package.

McNeill died on March 11, 1904 after a short illness, but his efforts in putting Larne Town and the surrounding area will never be forgotten. His remains are buried at the McGarel Cemetery in the town.