Gracehill achieves UNESCO World Heritage

Landmark acquisitions and investment plans represent a major uplift and confidence in Northern Ireland’s hospitality and tourism industry

Galgorm Collection, Northern Ireland's premier luxury hospitality group, today Monday 11 November 2024, announced a landmark £50 million investment in the region’s hospitality and tourism sector following the acquisition of two of the region’s most iconic properties: Galgorm Castle Estate in Ballymena and Roe Park Resort in Limavady.

This combined spend, which includes acquisition costs and a multimillion-pound transformation plan for both properties, represents one of the region’s largest investments in Northern Ireland’s hospitality sector and underlines Galgorm Collection’s position as the leading provider of luxury hospitality in the region.

Galgorm Collection, which owns a suite of leading properties including the iconic Galgorm, The Rabbit Hotel and Retreat, and The Old Inn, acquired the historic, internationally renowned Galgorm Castle Estate in Ballymena and the four-star Roe Park Resort & Spa, set in in a magnificent countryside estate in Limavady, for a combined £28 million.

In addition to acquiring both properties, Galgorm Collection has committed an additional £22 million to enhance the properties and estates over the next five years, further enriching their local, national and international appeal.

Building on Galgorm Collection’s vision for exceptional luxury experiences, this investment promises to transform and confirm both properties as must-visit destinations.

At Roe Park Resort, guests will experience an enhanced family-friendly atmosphere, a new bespoke adult-only spa designed for ultimate relaxation, and continued improvements to its renowned golf offering. The developments will position Roe Park as a top destination for families, golf enthusiasts, and those seeking a luxurious escape.

Meanwhile, golf enthusiasts can look forward to significant developments at Galgorm Castle Estate, as its already impressive golf course is elevated with the bold ambition of becoming the top parkland course in Ireland. Detailed plans will be unveiled in the coming months, solidifying the Estate’s reputation as a premier destination for world class golfing experiences.

Colin Johnston, Managing Director of Galgorm Collection, said:

“We are delighted to welcome both Galgorm Castle Estate and Roe Park Resort to the Galgorm Collection family. These are two iconic properties with strong legacies, and we are committed to building on their successes. Our £22 million investment will further enhance their offerings, creating new opportunities for guests to enjoy unparalleled experiences.

“Most importantly, we are excited to welcome the dedicated teams from Galgorm Castle and Roe Park into our collection. Together, we will continue to drive innovation and excellence, shaping an exciting future for these renowned destinations.

“We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the people of Ballymena. As the home of our flagship property, Galgorm, Ballymena has been at the heart of our journey, and its support has been integral to our success. We look forward to continuing our commitment to this community as we grow Galgorm Collection and welcome these new properties into our family.”

Conor Murphy MLA, Northern Ireland’s Minister for the Economy, said:

“This significant £50 million investment by Galgorm Collection represents a major boost to the wider economy and local communities and will also help cement the north’s international tourism reputation. Galgorm Collection is already a key player in our hospitality offering and this investment demonstrates their commitment to the sector and is a vote of confidence in the tourism potential here for local and international visitors.

“The investment very much aligns with my economic plan of delivering good jobs and a regionally balanced economy where economic development is felt beyond our main urban centres. This kind of investment helps ensure that the benefits of tourism are felt across the north, supporting long-term growth and prosperity.”

John McGrillen, Chief Executive of Tourism NI, added:

“These landmark acquisitions by Galgorm Collection represent a new and transformative milestone for Northern Ireland’s growing tourism industry. The significant investments planned for Roe Park Resort and Galgorm Castle Estate will greatly enhance Northern Ireland’s attractiveness to local, national, and international visitors, helping us drive tourism’s positive impact on the local and regional economy.

“By further developing these iconic destinations, Galgorm Collection is reinforcing Northern Ireland’s reputation as a world-class tourism destination, creating a lasting positive impact on our international brand and the guest experience.”

Christopher Brooke, Owner of Galgorm Castle, said:

“We are both delighted and saddened with today’s announcement - developing Galgorm Castle estate from a state of disrepair to a thriving development has been a life’s work. Securing its future was critical and we have now achieved this; it has been an honour and a privilege to have played a small part in Galgorm Castle’s rich history.

“We felt the time was right for the estate to further evolve and becoming part of a larger organisation will help achieve this. In particular, the Galgorm Collection team has the expertise to develop the Castle into something very special. We wish them well on the next phase of Galgorm Castle’s story.”

Speaking on behalf of the Roe Park Resort, Alan Wilton, Board Chairman said:

“Roe Park Resort holds a special place in our hearts, and we are extremely proud of the team and all that’s been achieved as we’ve grown and developed. The resort’s continued success is a direct result of the hard work and dedication of our exceptional team. Their commitment to providing top-class service and excellent hospitality is the reason that our guests return to the resort time and again.

“After almost 30 years at the helm, we believe now is the right time to hand over the reins to new ownership, ensuring the resort is poised for the future. This transition marks a significant milestone for Roe Park Resort, and we are confident that this new ownership will bring fresh vision and drive continued growth.

“Galgorm Collection has an outstanding reputation in the hospitality industry, and we are confident that the resort will go from strength to strength under its ownership. We extend our sincere gratitude to those involved in the resort’s success over the last 30 years and wish the new owners the very best of luck as they embark on this exciting new venture. We would also like to thank CBRE who acted for us on the sale.”

Through this significant investment, Galgorm Collection reaffirms its commitment to excellence, innovation, and enhancing Northern Ireland’s standing as a world-class destination for both local and international visitors.

With exciting plans set to unfold over the coming years, this transformational investment will contribute to the continued growth of Northern Ireland’s tourism industry, benefiting both visitors and local communities.

Galgorm has been recognised with an impressive six awards at the 2024 gala ceremony including two worldwide awards for Best Luxury Golf Resort and Best Luxury Golf Resort Spa

The leading luxury Resort Galgorm has won a host of international gongs at The World Luxury Awards.

The crown jewel of the North picked up Best Luxury Golf Resort Worldwide and Best Luxury Golf Resort Spa Worldwide along with Best Luxury Resort in Northern Europe, Best Luxury Spa Resort in Northern Europe, Best Luxury Destination Spa in Northen Europe and Best Luxury Resort Spa in Northern Europe.

Celebrating excellence, the internationally renowned retreat picked up the awards at the glittering gala ceremony at Galgorm itself on 19 October 2024.

The World Luxury Awards are the pinnacle of recognition for the global luxury hospitality industry, committed to recognising and rewarding excellence, and this year chose Galgorm to host one of two prestigious ceremonies. 

Located in the heart of Northern Ireland and set within 450 acres of gardens and woodlands, Galgorm has carved out a reputation as one of the world’s premier, luxury destinations. Following investments of more than £60million since 2010 and a further £30million to expand and enhance the resort and spa facilities by 2027, it is renowned as a world-class international tourism destination choice for visitors from across the globe.

Colin Johnston, Managing Director of Galgorm said: “We are very honoured to have won six awards for Galgorm including two worldwide accolades for both our hotel and our Thermal Spa Village at The World Luxury Awards this year. 

“To enjoy incredible success at such a high-profile awards is true recognition of our significant investment, our focus on delivering an unrivalled guest experience and the hard work and dedication of our talented team at Galgorm.

“We are also delighted with the tremendous success of hosting the World Luxury Awards this year and to be recognised ourselves during this successful evening. It’s been a privilege to welcome the very best from the global luxury hospitality industry to Northern Ireland. This event has truly highlighted what our region can offer, strengthening our commitment to promoting tourism and delivering exceptional experiences. 

“We’re very proud to have showcased Northern Ireland’s outstanding hospitality, further enhancing its reputation as a premier destination for international visitors.”

Anton Perold, Managing Director of the World Luxury Awards said: "These events are a testament to the dedication and passion of the luxury establishments that continue to set new standards of excellence. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and participants."

John McGrillen, CEO of Tourism Northern Ireland, said: “The World Luxury Awards 2024 taking place at Galgorm, along with the associated destination event, was a wonderful opportunity for Northern Ireland to show what it has to offer to the luxury hospitality market worldwide.

“The last time the awards were hosted at Galgorm, attendees stayed an average of five days in the region and it is anticipated it will be the same this time around.

 “Having so many luxury operators from around the world visit Northern Ireland gave the region the opportunity to shine as the sustainable, inclusive and innovative year-round world-class destination that it is.”

NI Hospitality School Joins Forces with Private Business Securing 36 Jobs

Jobs Secured by Graduates in Ballymena via NI Hospitality School to Tackle Skills Development and Employment Deficit in Sector.

A TOTAL of 36 individuals from the Ballymena area are celebrating this week after graduating from the NI Hospitality School and securing full-time employment within local award-winning hotels. 

The NI Hospitality School was established in 2021, following collaboration between three Ballymena-based hotels – Galgorm Resort, the Tullyglass House Hotel and the Adair Arms. With courses delivered by Northern Regional College and South Eastern Regional College, the school was set up to provide opportunities for skills development, to address the challenges of recruiting staff and to highlight that a career in hospitality can offer a plethora of rewarding career development opportunities. 

Initially funded by independent charity, The Gallaher Trust, the NI Hospitality School has successfully attracted private sector funding from several high-profile organisations including Henderson Foodservice and Britvic Ireland, which is a demonstration of commitment from the wider sector. 

According to Eddie McKeever, Managing Director of McKeever Hotel Group and Chairman of the NI Hospitality School, the initiative has far exceeded its goal and is playing an essential role in elevating skills and helping to secure the sector’s future.

“At the NI Hospitality School, we recognise the significant challenges the industry faces, particularly around recruitment and developing a sustainable and highly skilled workforce,” explained Eddie. 

“Through targeted training and support, we’re working to bridge these gaps by equipping individuals with the expertise and confidence needed to maintain a thriving career within the hospitality sector. By creating opportunities for meaningful employment and continuous professional development, we’re ensuring that both employees and employers have the tools they need to succeed, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and dynamic hospitality industry in Northern Ireland. 

“I would like to pay homage to The Gallaher Trust, whose initial funding enabled the NI Hospitality School to come to fruition. The fact that we have now attracted funding from the private sector is evidence of the enhanced reputation and success of the school since it was established three years ago. A number of businesses within the private sector have recognised the importance of securing a pipeline of future talent and we are truly very grateful for their support. We are looking forward to the future of the school and to providing greater benefits to our participants and to the hospitality industry as a whole.” 

The NI Hospitality School encompasses a number of academies including a bar academy, a chef academy and a food service academy. 

Formerly a Chef, Skye Hanley aged 23 from Ballymena, is an NI Hospitality School food service academy graduate, who has pivoted her career and now works in a guest facing role as a Food and Beverage Assistant in Gillies Grill and Elements at Galgorm Resort. 

“Transitioning from working in the kitchen to a guest facing role has been a very rewarding experience,” she said. 

“The training I received at the NI Hospitality School gave me the confidence and skills I needed to thrive in my new role. Taking part in the course has shown me the wealth of growth opportunities that are available to me – I’m really excited for my future.”

If you’re interested in a career in hospitality and would like more information, visit:

https://www.nihospitalityschool.com/

Portavogie Prawn & Chilli Pasta

Serves 2

• 150g peeled Portavogie prawn meat
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 red chilli, de-seeded & finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, finely sliced
• 2 tablespoon chopped flat leaf parsley
• 200g linguini

1) Heat the olive oil in the pan and fry the garlic and chilli over low heat for 2 minutes. Turn up the heat (be careful not to burn the garlic) add the prawns and cook for 2 minutes, until the prawns are pink.

2) Cook the Linguini in a large pan of boiling salted water until al dente. Using tongs, remove the pasta from the boiling water and add it to the frying pan with the prawns, along with 3 tbsp of the cooking water. Toss together and cook over a low heat for about 2 minutes.

3) Place the pasta between the serving bowls. Top with Parmesan and chopped parsley.