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.”

Homegrown team crowned national champions as Galgorm Sauna Masters progress to world championship playoffs.

The team at Northern Ireland’s premier luxury hotel and spa resort Galgorm have celebrated a major success at this year’s UK Aufguss Championships. Sauna Masters Zak Moore and Jack Strange were crowned Team Performance Champions at the 2026 competition, hosted in Galgorm’s Thermal Spa Village. The duo, whose win comes after a highly competitive two-day contest will now represent the UK at the Aufguss World Masters (Aufguss WM) Playoffs in the Netherlands this August.

The victory marks a standout moment for the Ballymena-based team, with Zak Moore also securing second place in the newly introduced Modern Classic category, further cementing his position as one of the UK’s leading Aufguss practitioners. Zak entered the year as the reigning UK Aufguss Champion, having represented the UK at the World Championships Finals in Verona, Italy in September 2025, and continuing an impressive run on the national stage.

Hosted at Galgorm from 20–22 April, the UK Aufguss Championships for 2026 brought together top Sauna Masters from across the country to compete in a series of immersive sauna performances, judged by an international panel of experts including Deborah Carr, Director of the British Sauna Society, and Lasse Eriksen, President of Aufguss WM.

Deborah Carr, Director of the British Sauna Society, commented: “Bringing the UK Aufguss Championships to Galgorm has been a real highlight. They’ve created an exceptional platform for Sauna Masters, and their passion for authentic sauna experiences makes them a natural partner for this event. 

“What’s most exciting is the continued growth of the UK Aufguss scene, with increasingly creative and confident performances each year. We’re proud to see this year’s winners go on to represent the UK internationally.”

Aufguss - meaning “infusion” - is a European sauna ritual that combines heat, essential oils, music and choreographed towel techniques to create a deeply sensory wellness experience. While the Performance category - where Zak and Jack claimed the Team title - showcases theatrical storytelling and creative expression, the Modern Classic category, in which Zak placed second, strips the ritual back to its core elements, focusing on technical precision, atmosphere, and the mastery of heat and fragrance.

Speaking following the Galgorm team’s win, Zak Moore said: “To win gold for the Team Performance title at the UK Aufguss Championships, on home soil at Galgorm and in front of a home crowd, is incredibly special. Competing alongside Jack and representing the place where my Aufguss journey began made it even more meaningful. 

“The Modern Classic category was a completely different challenge - it really tests your fundamentals - so to place in both is something I’m really proud of. We’re excited to take our experience forward, build on our craft, and see how we can perform at the next level.”

Jack Strange added: “There’s a real sense of momentum around Aufguss and sauna culture in the UK right now, so to be part of that - and to bring a title home to Galgorm - is a fantastic feeling. 

“Competing as a team with Zak adds another level of connection and trust, and I think that really came through in our performance. The atmosphere across the championships this week has been incredible, and we’re really looking forward to taking that energy with us as we step onto the international stage.”

Zak and Jack will compete in the Aufguss WM Playoffs at Thermen Bussloo in the Netherlands from 27–30 August, where they will be aiming to secure a place at the Aufguss World Championships finals in Germany in September.

Their success reflects Galgorm’s continued investment in sauna culture and its growing reputation as a leading destination for immersive thermal spa experiences.

Tara Moore, Associate Director of Spa Operations at Galgorm, commented: “We are incredibly proud of Zak and Jack and what they have achieved this week. Hosting the UK Aufguss Championships once again at Galgorm, and seeing our own team succeed at this level, is a powerful reflection of the passion, skill and dedication within our spa team. 

“Aufguss is an integral part of the spa experience we offer to our guests, and moments like this reinforce Galgorm’s position as a leading destination for authentic sauna ritual in the UK and Ireland.”

With a destination spa that attracts visitors from across the UK, Ireland and beyond, Galgorm continues to champion the evolution of modern wellness, blending time-honoured sauna rituals with contemporary wellbeing experiences and spa treatments.

To find out more about the transformative Celtic Sauna Infusion experience at Galgorm, led by the 2026 UK Aufguss Team Champions Zak Moore and Jack Strange, visit: 

https://www.galgorm.com/celtic-sauna.html

Northern Ireland's Luxury Spa Resort Crowned Best in Northern Europe at World Luxury Hotel Awards

Galgorm has been crowned winner of Best Luxury Spa Resort in Northern Europe at the World Luxury Hotel Awards.

The awards, which were held in Finland, celebrate the best in world-class hotel service excellence and represent the pinnacle of achievement in the luxury hotel industry.

Over the past ten years, Galgorm has invested more than £50 million into its facilities and has plans for further expansion of over £15 million over the next five years. The investment has helped lead to a string of accolades for the Resort as it takes its place on the world-stage as a luxury spa destination, beating competition from some of the world’s most iconic spa retreats.

After last year’s Global Luxury Hotel Spa of the Year win, which firmly cemented Galgorm’s position as a world-leading hotel and spa resort, Galgorm continues to gain worldwide recognition for its brand and best-in-class facilities and service. This year, Galgorm was one of eight resorts around the globe to receive the prestigious regional title and one of only three hotels in the island of Ireland to be officially recognised by the awards.

Commenting on the win, Colin Johnston, Galgorm Managing Director, said; “We are thrilled to win Best Luxury Spa Resort for the Northern Europe region and to continue to be recognised for our sustained commitment to excellence and outstanding achievement in the international luxury hospitality industry. The World Luxury Hotel Awards offers us a chance to showcase our unique spa facilities and wider destination offering to a global audience and cements our reputation as a world-leading spa destination. In recent years we have invested heavily in upgrading our spa facilities and providing an unrivalled customer experience and we’re delighted to add this award to our burgeoning list of accolades.”

Voted by guests, travellers and industry players alike through an online public vote, the accolade reflects the hard work and dedication exhibited by Galgorm’s exceptional staff and its unparalleled service offering.

Attended by over 300 guests from across the globe, the awards took place at a prestigious ceremony in Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland, on Saturday 12 October.

World Luxury Awards Marketing Director, Michael Hunter-Smith, said; “We congratulate this year’s winners. True luxury is not easily attained. It takes highly efficient and dedicated staff who are willing to go the extra mile and stop at nothing to ensure that every guest feels cared for and no challenge goes unresolved. This is the definition of luxury. It is what makes the winners shine.”

Our son Matthew was nine this Christmas. He absolutely loves Christmas and wants everything to be perfect. When we told him and his older brother that we would be spending the holiday at a hotel instead of at home, he asked a worried question: “What if it’s not magical?”

We reassured him that if he didn’t like it, next year we would stay at home again. He needn’t have worried.

Within five minutes of arriving we were sitting down for festive afternoon tea, and within ten a magician was at our table performing coin tricks that left Matthew completely stunned. While Mummy and Daddy enjoyed a glass of mulled wine, Matthew was off exploring with his camera in one hand and his best friend Sneaky the toy elf in the other.

Every member of staff was wonderfully kind to him. They all happily posed for photos with Sneaky, and by the end of the stay Matthew had created a whole scrapbook of memories. The pianist even sat Sneaky on her lap while she played. The magician posed, management posed, and on Christmas Day he even managed to get a photo with the man in red himself.

At our incredible Christmas lunch, when Matthew asked for a picture, the manager offered to take him on a tour of the kitchen. Sneaky toasted marshmallows by the fire and even watched Elf in the Christmas cinema.

I could talk about our beautiful family room complete with its own Christmas tree. I could mention the Christmas Eve box with personalised gingerbread men, the key card, milk and carrot all prepared for Santa’s visit. I could talk about the thoughtful gifts chosen for the boys based on their interests rather than a generic grotto present. I could talk about the boys loving their Christmas Eve swim, and how the grown-ups found time for a festive cocktail in the Conservatory after a happily tiring Christmas Day.

But what I’d really like to talk about is a boy who smiled non-stop for the entire visit. On the drive home Matthew made me promise we would come back again next year and no one disagreed, especially not Sneaky!

The Staysure Legends Tour welcomed professionals, sporting personalities, special guests and media to Galgorm today for a Par 3 Challenge against the clock as preparations continue for this summer’s NI Legends tournament that takes place at the same venue from September 4th – 6th, 2026.

Home players from the Staysure Legends Tour, Gary Murphy, Damian Mooney and Cameron Clark, led the teams alongside local celebrities and sporting heroes.

Teams of three took to the signature par-three 7th hole on the championship Castle Course at Galgorm to try and make as many pars as possible within their five-minute window. The professionals hit the tee shots before other team members gathered around the green to play alternate shots as they tried to beat the clock.

Former Northern Ireland internationals Keith Gillespie, John O’Neill, Jim Magilton, Tommy Wright, George McCartney and Steven Penney were present alongside former Ulster rugby star Ian Humphreys. Galgorm’s own icon Liam Beckett put local knowledge to good use along with UTV’s Ruth Gorman and BBC NI’s Stephen Watson.

In the end it was the team of Clark, O’Neill and Wright that came out on top after a tense play-off, beating Mooney’s team of Galgorm experts, Beckett and Penney with an impressive tally of seven pars in sudden death.

As the May heatwave continues, Galgorm provided a morning of fun as player interviews, filming and content creation gave a flavour of what’s to come during tournament week in September.

Clark, who was born in Ballymena, was excited to return to his hometown. “I was born at the Cottage Hospital here and my dad was Head Pro at Ballymena golf club so it’s wonderful to be back here. It’s the first thing I looked for on the schedule and I’m so excited to be coming back with the family for the tournament in September. It’s going to be a special week.

Today has been really good fun. Obviously, I’ve known Murph and Damian for a long time and it was great to have the footballers and the sports people involved. I really enjoyed it and it was great to get the win!”

Murphy added: “I'm a big fan of Galgorm. My first experience here was with a microphone commentating and I thought the course looked pretty easy. And then when I got the clubs out, I realised it wasn't. It's a really good test of golf and last year, even though the weather was so inclement, the course held up extremely well. It tests all parts of your game and really looking forward to the challenge again this year. “

Mooney added: “It’s a great venue for a tournament and spectators coming for free will be able to watch the feature holes and then the stadium finish. It's a fabulous 18th hole, with the water protecting the left side of the green and a grandstand so people see plenty. There will be plenty of big names to enjoy watching, names that people recognise from the main Tour, so it’s going to be an exciting week in September for sure.”

The NI Legends is set to attract another world-class field featuring Major champions, Ryder Cup legends and Tour winners, with some of the biggest names in senior professional golf lined up to return to Northern Ireland as part of the Staysure Legends Tour’s international schedule. Tickets for the NI Legends in September are free. Register to attend

HERE.

In 2025 Austria’s Markus Brier produced a composed final round performance in difficult conditions to secure victory by two shots over Sweden’s Mikael Lundberg, claiming his first Staysure Legends Tour title since 2021. Brier is in line to defend his NI Legends title at Galgorm in September.

Galgorm is recognised as one of Northern Ireland’s premier tournament venues and this year’s NI Legends event will mark the 21st professional event staged there since 2010. Galgorm previously hosted the Irish Open on the DP World Tour (2020), four World Invitationals (2019, 2021-23), a tri-sanctioned event between the DP World Tour, LPGA and LET. The Ballymena venue also hosted the homegrown NI Open on the Hotel Planner Tour for years.

Alongside the championship action, the NI Legends provides amateur golfers a unique opportunity to be inside the ropes and play alongside Ryder Cup legends, Major champions and Tour winners in the Pro-Am or as part of the Legends Experience during tournament rounds. For more information on playing experiences and ticketing, visit

HERE

“We are delighted the NI Legends is returning to Galgorm in September, and today’s Par 3 Challenge was great fun and a great way to launch the 2026 event,” said Ross Oliver, Director of Golf at Galgorm. “Galgorm has a rich pedigree of tournament golf over the years, and we look forward to working with the Staysure Legends Tour once more.

“The Pro-Am format on the Staysure Legends Tour lends itself so well to enhanced player experiences, both for the professionals and amateurs. Tournament week is like a festival of golf, especially when spectators can come and watch household names, former Major winners and Ryder Cup players for free.”   

Further tournament details and player announcements for this year’s NI Legends at Galgorm will be announced in the coming weeks.

Galgorm is pleased to announce the Academy at Northern Ireland’s premier tournament venue is now powered by Toptracer Range and available to use by golfers of all abilities. 

Most golfers will be familiar with Toptracer from televised global golf coverage. Toptracer technology is used on PGA Tour and DP Tour World coverage to track the shots of the game’s best players. Viewers will have seen it in use when world number one Rory McIlroy won this week’s Hero Dubai Desert Classic on the DP World Tour.

The Galgorm golfing experience just got even better as it becomes one of only a handful of venues in Northern Ireland that has Toptracer technology. “Toptracer is transforming the everyday driving range experience, where guests of all ages and ability can play a variety of fun and skill-based games. They can compete against friends, see their shot trace, and receive instant data on interactive game screens in the dedicated bays.

“We are delighted to partner with Toptracer and for Galgorm to become the latest Toptracer Range in this part of the world,” explains Ross Oliver, Director of Golf at Galgorm. “Toptracer technology brings the range experience to a whole new level and it’s great that we can roll it out here at Galgorm to complement the other top-class facilities we have on site.

“This really is a facility for golfers of all ability, and for non-golfers who perhaps want to try the game but have never been sure how to get started. At Galgorm, anyone can use the Toptracer Range; it’s a great option for warming up before your game or your group golf day, beginners can hit their first shots, while elite players can work on their game and get the data and feedback they require.”

The new Toptracer Range can also be enjoyed socially where friends can get together to play their favourite virtual courses. Toptracer is a great experience for families to spend a few fun hours before grabbing a bite to eat at Castle Kitchen + Bar or enjoying the newest clubhouse offering in the Barn. Similarly, hotel guests at the resort can now enjoy a new leisure activity as part of their stay.

Toptracer is the market leader in range technology and has over 750 installations globally, including renowned venues such as the Home of Golf at St Andrews Links. It is also the ‘Official Range Technology’ of the PGA of America. Toptracer technology has transformed the range experience and now golfers in Northern Ireland have a new facility they can use at Galgorm. Bays at the Toptracer Range at Galgorm are currently available on a first come, first served basis.

Galgorm is already recognised as Northern Ireland’s premier tournament venue. It is home to the ISPS HANDA World Invitational that will be played from August 17-20, 2023 as a $3 million tri-sanctioned event between the DP World Tour, LPGA Tour and Ladies European Tour

First Minister Arlene Foster welcomes Galgorm's newest tourism investment as guests are safely welcomed back.

First Minister Arlene Foster welcomes Galgorm's newest tourism investment as guests are safely welcomed back.

Northern Ireland’s premier luxury hotel and spa destination, Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort, has unveiled its new, dramatically enhanced Thermal Village and Spa provision, representing an investment of more than £2 million into the popular Resort’s tourism credentials.

Work on the expansion project commenced in March this year after closing its doors in line with government safety restrictions.

The newly-reopened Resort now boasts a suite of new attractions for spa guests, including a 10 metre infinity pool on the shores of the River Maine, a 200m2 Palm House relaxation area encompassing six heated loungers, and a brand new Salt Room for halotherapy experiences.

With over 90 per cent of its Thermal Village and Spa offering located outdoors, Galgorm has also installed two group hot tubs and saunas, three additional private hot tubs with waterfall views and six brand new riverside cabanas.

First Minister, Arlene Foster, welcomed Galgorm’s return and its continued tourism investment:

“A world leader for local tourism, Galgorm is undoubtedly a premier destination and, with more people choosing to vacation at home this summer, this investment into its award-winning spa facilities is timely and welcomed.

A major player in the local, national and international tourism industry, Galgorm has continually demonstrated their commitment to Northern Ireland, leading and innovating with the supported development of its team in skills and best practice training.

As our tourism and hospitality industry focuses on rebuilding, it is encouraging to see one of the best-known businesses continue to invest and innovate, bolstering the recovering economy and cementing its reputation as a world-class destination.”

The new Spa expansion project is the latest venture in Galgorm’s investment into the Resort. Over the last decade, the premier estate has undergone a £60 million transformation and there are further plans to invest an additional £20 million by 2025.

Colin Johnston, Galgorm Collection Managing Director, said:

“We’re delighted to welcome the First Minister to Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort to see the dramatic transformation of our Thermal Village & Spa and to experience first-hand all of the comprehensive safety and hygiene measures we have in place for the health and wellbeing of our team and guests.

As an internationally renowned luxury resort, we are continually seeking ways to enhance the guest experience, and with the closure of The Resort in March, we had the opportunity to further invest and expand.

In addition, and as a priority, we focused on implementing safety measures throughout the Resort and we are delighted to be among the first hotels in the UK to receive the coveted AA COVID Confident Mark for our commitment to safety.

It’s fantastic to see the Resort reopen for business and guests safely enjoying our new amenities and world-class facilities. For staycationers choosing a relaxing break at Galgorm, the experience really is unrivalled, and we look forward to welcoming existing and new guests through our doors this summer. We thank everyone for their continued support.

We are also delighted to announce that all existing jobs will be protected with the creation of 40 additional jobs throughout The Collection.”

In addition to the £2 million investment throughout The Resort, Galgorm Collection has recently completed the £2.5 million first phase at The Rabbit, formerly known as The Templeton.

For more information please visit

www.galgorm.com.

Galgorm is celebrating after receiving the prestigious AA Four Red Star Award for its excellent levels of quality throughout the Resort and outstanding levels of hospitality and service, presented at a glittering ceremony at Grosvenor House in London this week. 

Galgorm is celebrating after receiving the prestigious AA Four Red Star Award for its excellent levels of quality throughout the Resort and outstanding levels of hospitality and service, presented at a glittering ceremony at Grosvenor House in London this week. 

Each year, AA inspectors select the best hotels within each star rating, representing the very best in the British Isles and are known as 'Inspectors' Choice' hotels. Galgorm is the only Northern Irish hotel to receive the prestigious accolade. 

The award complements the Resort's existing three AA Rosettes award for culinary excellence at fine-dining restaurant, the River Room. Led by Chef Chris Rees, the River Room is one of only four establishments in Northern Ireland to hold such a coveted title and is awarded to outstanding restaurants that 'demand recognition well beyond their local area', and that demonstrate excellence in timing, seasoning and judgement of flavour combinations, as well as boasting a select wine list. 

Colin Johnston, Managing Director of Galgorm, said: "We are delighted to accept this award which is testament to the continual hard work and dedication of our fantastic staff. Their commitment to delivering excellence across all our offerings at Galgorm is unparalleled, from luxury accommodation, to famous golfing greens, a world-renowned spa offering and an award-winning fine dining restaurant. 

In 2015 we were honoured with the triple AA Rosette award for our River Room restaurant and we are delighted to build upon this with the prestigious AA Four Red Star Award. We are very proud to be the only hotel in Northern Ireland to receive this rating and to be recognised officially for the high quality service and hospitality offering which Galgorm is renowned for."

Galgorm has been recognised with an impressive six awards at 2023 World Luxury Awards, including Global Award Winner for Best Luxury Spa Resort and named Best Destination Spa 2024 in the recent Conde Nast Johansens Awards. 

 Galgorm Resort has been recognised by two global platforms, winning an unprecedented six awards at the prestigious 2023 World Luxury Awards hosted in Athens, and securing the Best Destination Spa 2024 title at the recent Conde Nast Johansens Awards in London. 

Galgorm’s internationally renowned retreat, has been widely commended for its sustained commitment to excellence and its outstanding achievement within the wider international luxury spa and wellness industry, adding a string of new awards to its growing collection.

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 worth more than £60 million since 2010, Galgorm is also investing a further £30 million to further expand and enhance its resort and spa facilities by 2027, embedding its position as a world-class international tourism destination of choice for travellers from across the globe. 

Tara Moore, Head of Spa Operations for Galgorm said: “We are thrilled to have enjoyed such incredible success on a global stage as part of the World Luxury Awards and the Conde Nast Johansens Awards in recognition of our significant investment, our focus on delivering an unrivalled customer experience, not least all the hard work and dedication of our talented team at Galgorm.”

“To receive recognition on this scale against such strong international competition not only reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence in every area but also to enriching the tourism industry of Northern Ireland.”

Named Global Award Winner for Best Luxury Spa Resort, the resort’s famous Thermal Spa Village also took home the top awards for Best Luxury Resort and Best Luxury Spa Resort in Northern Europe; Best Luxury Riverside Resort across the continent; Best Luxury Resort Spa and Best Luxury Golf Resort Spa in the UK; and the Best Destination Spa 2024 at the Conde Nast Johansens Awards. 

Committed to working towards a sustainable future, protecting the environment and reducing its carbon footprint through its Green Policy 10-Point Plan,  Galgorm recently became the first hotel in Northern Ireland to achieve gold in two top sustainability accolades from Green Tourism, in recognition of its “exceptional commitment to sustainable practices”, while earlier this year, the Galgorm Collection became the first hospitality group on the island of Ireland to achieve official ‘Great Place to Work’ certification, based on exceptional employee experience.

Leigh Heggarty, Galgorm Collection's Business Development Manager was elected as the new President of the Chamber on Wednesday evening at the Ballymena Chamber of Commerce and Industry annual AGM at Galgorm Resort. 

On Wednesday evening Ballymena Chamber of Commerce and Industry held its annual AGM at Galgorm Resort. At the AGM Leigh Heggarty, Galgorm Collection's Business Development Manager was elected as the new President of the Chamber.

In his speech the outgoing President, Councillor Eugene Reid said how honoured he had been to have served as Chamber President for the preceding two years. Eugene said ‘The last two years have been some of the most difficult for our communities and our businesses. These have been unprecedented times and as a Chamber we had to adopt new practices to meet the challenges posed by the pandemic. I must also say that our businesses have shown remarkable resilience and our local economy remains strong a testament to the strength of our local entrepreneurs’. Eugene then went on to thank the members of the Management Committee who had given up their free time to attend meetings and provide as much support as they could to Chamber members. Eugene went on to say, ‘Leigh Heggarty has extensive business knowledge accompanied by a great deal of common sense – I know Leigh will be an excellent President and it is my honour to formally propose that Leigh becomes the next President of Ballymena Chamber’ This proposal was passed unanimously by those attending the meeting.

In her acceptance address Leigh said ‘It is an honour to be elected as President of Ballymena Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry’ Leigh thanked Eugene for his leadership during such a difficult period and she knew that he had given up a considerable amount of time to not only lead Chamber but to ensure Chamber’s members received support during the crisis created by the pandemic. 

The new President continued ‘Born and bred in Ballymena my passions are business and tourism and I’m very fortunate that my career path has afforded me the opportunity to pursue both.

Ballymena has always punched well above its weight in terms of business. The manufacturing heartland and market town has consistently showed its resilience and determination to succeed. Wrighbus now owned by Jo Bamford continues to expand into new areas throughout the world, creating more local jobs. 

Galgorm Resort have invested heavily to establish the Resort as an award-winning international and world-class tourism destination, remaining firmly focused on investment and innovation attracting major events such as the Irish Open and ISPS Handa Golf events to the borough. I believe that organisations such as the Chamber play an important role, not just as the voice of the business community, but also as a mirror to society. We as a Chamber can reflect not just the concerns of our members, but also those of society as a whole. My personal goal is to set up more stakeholder engagement with government departments and local authorities and show that Ballymena is a great place for business, it’s a great commuter town, very accessible, we have excellent educational establishments providing our children with skills that our businesses require and we are a world class tourism destination’.

Leigh then proposed Mark Wiggins, Power NI, as her Vice President and this was also unanimously passed by the attendees. Mark stated ‘It is a privilege to take on this new role. I know we have a Management Committee who are committed to working hard to support and grow business in the area and I look forward to working with Leigh and the Committee to drive Chamber and ensure our members are at the heart of the economic recovery as we exit the worst excesses of this pandemic’

The meeting closed and attendees were given the opportunity to chat over coffee and tea and to liaise with the President and members of the Committee. This is the first in a series of events being organised by the Chamber in 2022 which will include a range of business breakfasts together with its two showpiece events – The Charity Golf Day in aid of the NI Hospice and Children’s Hospice (which raised £25,000 in 2021) and The Ballymena Business Excellence Awards.

The time to think about your skincare routine is not for the week before your wedding, in fact it is ideal to prep a few months out. Ideally 3-4 months prior to the wedding, you want to prioritise your routine. This is how you are going to achieve that bridal glow!

From deep hydration, thorough cleansing, and exfoliation, these all play a crucial role in the optimum health of your skin.

Regular facials can help to combat specific concerns like acne, pigmentation, or dullness, or you can opt for our noninvasive skin treatments that will not only treat skin concerns, but help to brighten, tighten, and lift the facial contours, with the help of our Elemis Biotec 2.0 machine.

Alongside professionally driven facials, it is important that you maintain of your skin with a strict routine at home, on the lead up to the big day. This will not only benefit the professional strength treatments you will have done but will preserve your skin’s radiance and health in between each session. Think of it like going to the gym for your regular fitness sessions. They will have no great effect if you do not continue your healthy approach at home with your nutrition and wellness.

Cleansing:

Cleanse twice per day! Cleanse in the morning and at nighttime. A nighttime cleanse is essential to remove the built-up debris from the day. So that your next products in your routine can work to their full potential. It is also important to cleanse and prepare the skin in the morning, as without knowing it your skin will eliminate toxins while you sleep, and your body goes into repair, so you need to ensure you wash these off before applying your products and SPF.

Pro Choice- Elemis Pro Collagen Energising Marine cleanser, for dry, dull skin. To help break down dean skin cells, whilst also providing moisture, reveal bright, luminous, hydrated skin.

Exfoliating:

This is a crucial step in healthy glowing skin. While dead skin is not visible to the naked eye, this is what will make your skin appear dull and lack luster. Perform an exfoliation twice per week for optimum results.

Pro Choice- Elemis Pro Collagen Ti-Acid peel is an anti-wrinkle exfoliant. Actobionic, Asiatic and Mandelic acids, help to lift away dead skin cells while hydrating the skin for a renewed appearance. Not only does it remove dead skin, but it is also clinically proven to improve fine lines and wrinkles.

Serums and oils:

Using serum in your routine is like adding protein powder into your morning porridge. Serum is a super charger for the skin! Depending on the skin’s needs there will be a specific serum for you. My favourite serums will always include Hyaluronic Acid or Vitamin C.

Hyaluronic Acid is known as the hero of skincare ingredients, to hydrate and plump the skin out, reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Whereas Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, protecting the skin from environmental damage and it can promote collagen production in the skin, helping rebuild your skins strength and structure (a built-in facelift).

Pro Heroes -

Elemis Rose micro serum is for those needing hydration and plumping effects. This is a dual phase formula of oil in serum. This will not only hydrate but replenish lost moisture. This product contains an ingredient called red algae which is proven to be x3 times as effective as hyaluronic acid. X3 the plump, x3 the hydration and x3 the glow!

Elemis Dynamic resurfacing super C serum, ideal for glass like, smooth, congestion free skin. With ingredients like red clover, which reduces the amount of oil produced in the skin and Swiss alpine to help the reduction in pigmentation, this serum gets to work and has been clinically tested to brighten and smooth the skin in as little as 5 days!

Moisturisers:

Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise! Whether you have dry, oily or combination skin, moisturiser is an essential product to incorporate into your routine. As we age, the oil glands in our skin begin to slow in production, therefore we begin to dry out. By moisturising daily, you can help to maintain the health of your skin.

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Luxury resort expands offering with nature-inspired wellness retreat and enhanced in-room spa facilities.

Northern Ireland’s premier luxury hotel and spa resort Galgorm has announced a £3 million investment - unveiling a major guestroom refurbishment programme and plans for a nature-immersive Forest Spa Garden. These significant developments further enhance the resort’s world-renowned Thermal Spa Village and reinforces its commitment to investing in Northern Ireland’s growing tourism sector.

£2 million has been invested to renovate Galgorm’s six junior suites - which are now complete with private hot tubs on the balconies overlooking the River Maine - and to refurbish 45 superior rooms which are due for completion by July 2025. The upgrades blend modern luxury with Galgorm’s timeless aesthetic, enhancing guest comfort while elevating the spa experience.

Set to open in autumn 2025, a new Forest Spa Garden represents an additional £1million investment, designed to offer guests a deeper connection to nature. Located across the River Maine and opposite the existing Thermal Spa Village, this tranquil retreat will be nestled within the resort’s woodland area and feature four luxurious relax cabanas, three private hot tubs, a sauna, and serene forest walkways. A bespoke bridge will seamlessly connect the new Forest Spa Garden to the main spa, creating a fully immersive wellness journey.

Colin Johnston, Managing Director, Galgorm Collection, said:

“These investments allow us to push boundaries in creating exceptional guest experiences. The junior suites’ private balcony hot tubs offer guests a spa retreat within their own room, while the Forest Spa Garden introduces an entirely new way to relax and reconnect with nature. Our guests both from home and overseas can expect even more from Galgorm, and this latest chapter reflects our vision for world-class hospitality here in Northern Ireland.”

The new Forest Spa Garden will be open to all overnight and day spa guests, whilst also aimed at specifically providing an accessible wellness experience for guests staying in Galgorm’s newly opened Forest Dens, the resort’s unique eco-friendly accommodations which have quickly become a popular choice for those who want to combine luxury with an experience immersed in nature. This new development ensures that Forest Den guests can enjoy the same high standard of Galgorm’s Thermal Spa Village facilities close to their accommodation, offering convenience without compromising on luxury.

The Forest Dens, featured in The Irish Independent’s Fab 50 list of Ireland’s best places to stay in 2025, provide a distinctive combination of nature and comfort, with a private garden terrace, outdoor shower, wood-fired bath, and private sauna, nestled under a canopy of trees for the ultimate secluded retreat.

This latest investment forms part of Galgorm’s broader £40 million expansion strategy to 2027, reinforcing its role in growing and futureproofing Northern Ireland’s tourism and hospitality industry. The resort, the flagship property in the Galgorm Collection portfolio, has already seen over £60 million invested since 2010, whilst the hospitality group also recently announced it had acquired Galgorm Castle Estate in Ballymena and Roe Valley Resort in Limavady for a combined £28 million, committing an additional £22 million to enhance the properties and estates over the next five years. Galgorm Collection opened the £15m Rabbit Hotel & Retreat in Templepatrick, Co. Antrim in 2019, and in 2021 acquired and revamped The Old Inn in Crawfordsburn, complete with £2.5m outdoor Treetop Spa and enhanced accommodation and dining facilities.

Colin added;

“As international travel continues to rebound and domestic tourism flourishes, our focus remains on delivering premium, experience-led hospitality across our entire property portfolio. We are proud to contribute to the vibrancy of Northern Ireland’s tourism offering and look forward to welcoming even more guests from domestic and overseas markets to experience everything Galgorm has to offer.”

Galgorm’s Thermal Spa Village, a highlight of the resort, continues to attract international recognition, with recent accolades including Best Spa Experience 2025 at the prestigious Condé Nast Johansens Awards, Best Luxury Golf Resort Spa at the 2024 World Luxury Awards, and Best Luxury Riverside Resort in Northern Europe at the 2023 World Spa & Wellness Awards.

For more information or to book a stay in a Galgorm Forest Den please visit

https://www.galgorm.com/accommodation-lodges.html#forest-dens-with-boho-backyard

To book a Superior Room visit

https://www.galgorm.com/superior-king.html

https://www.galgorm.com/junior-suite-with-hot-tub.html

Extended Three- Year Partnership with Galgorm Collection

Netball Northern Ireland (Netball NI) is delighted to announce the extension of its partnership with Galgorm Collection, confirming a renewed three‑year agreement that reinforces a shared commitment to supporting local sport, community wellbeing and meaningful member engagement.

A valued supporter of Netball NI since 2022, Galgorm Collection continues to lead the way in its support of local sport. This extended collaboration builds on a strong and trusted relationship, united by a belief in the positive impact that sport and active lifestyles have across Northern Ireland.

The renewed alliance will ensure that Clubs have the resources necessary to operate effectively and will also continue to support Netball NI’s delivery of educational programmes and pathways at every level of the sport, from grassroots participation through to performance environments.

In addition, funding will support training costs for the National team known as the Warriors, as they prepare for a busy international calendar of fixtures including the Commonwealth Games, which are currently taking place in Glasgow. The Warriors are competing in Pool A alongside Australia, England, South Africa, Malawi and Tonga. The experienced team will also be hoping to make it to the World Cup, with qualifiers taking place later this year.

Karen Rollo‑Stewart, Chief Executive of Netball NI, welcomed the partnership extension, saying:

“We are incredibly proud to extend our partnership with Galgorm Collection, an organisation that has consistently demonstrated leadership in supporting local sport. Their long‑term commitment is invaluable to Netball NI and, importantly, delivers tangible benefits for our members including exclusive offers to promote players’ health and wellbeing. This partnership allows us to reward our netball community while continuing to invest in participation, development and performance across Northern Ireland.”

Galgorm Collection’s focus on excellence, wellbeing and community aligns strongly with Netball NI values, making the partnership a natural and impactful fit.

Georgie Briota, Business Development Manager at Galgorm Collection, commented:

“As a major employer with a team of over 1,400 staff across Northern Ireland, we see every day how sport can impact both people and associations, showing that teamwork and commitment really do get results. We are delighted to extend our relationship with Netball NI and continue our support for a sports body that makes such a positive difference across communities. Netball NI’s focus on inclusion, development and empowering people through sport closely reflects our own values.

“We would like to wish them all the very best for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers and the Commonwealth Games, which they have qualified for on the last four occasions, and that is an amazing achievement. We’ll be behind them all the way.”

Netball NI looks forward to an exciting next chapter in this enduring partnership, continuing to work alongside Galgorm Collection to support the growth of netball and deliver meaningful benefits to its members.

Galgorm Collection is committed to supporting local communities which it does through charitable donations, educational partnerships and creative interactive initiatives for local schools and colleges, that showcase the wealth of careers in hospitality and inspire the next generation to take up one of the many rewarding roles in this sector.

The company is a major local employer and has dramatically scaled up its hospitality footprint and workforce over the last decade. As its growth continues, so does the company's unwavering commitment to both economic impact and community support.