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.

At Galgorm, guests can experience the future of skincare with the ELEMIS BIOTEC Facial - an advanced, results-driven treatment designed to deliver immediate, visible results. Combining cutting-edge technology with powerful active ingredients, this intelligent facial works to visibly lift, brighten, hydrate and rejuvenate the skin, while still offering a deeply relaxing experience.

Unlike traditional facials, the ELEMIS BIOTEC Facial is fully tailored to the skin’s individual needs, targeting concerns such as visible signs of ageing, dehydration, congestion and dullness through a combination of advanced skincare technologies.

Deep Cleanse & Glow

The treatment begins with Ultrasonic Technology, which uses gentle ultrasonic waves to deeply cleanse and exfoliate the skin. This helps clear pores, remove dull dead skin cells and reveal a brighter, smoother complexion with an instant glow. Gentle yet effective, it is suitable even for sensitive skin.

Lift, Tone & Firm

Microcurrent Technology works to visibly lift, tone and sculpt the facial contours using gentle microcurrents. Often described as a non-invasive facelift, this technology helps support collagen and elastin production, leaving skin looking firmer, smoother and more youthful over time.

Deep Nourishment & Balance

Using Galvanic Technology, professional grade serums are encouraged to penetrate deeper into the skin where active ingredients can work more effectively. This also helps draw out impurities, leaving the complexion feeling balanced, refreshed and deeply nourished.

Repair & Restore

LED Light Therapy targets multiple skin concerns at once to help strengthen and restore the skin.

Red light helps stimulate collagen to improve firmness and soften the appearance of fine lines, while blue light helps reduce breakouts and congestion. Near-infrared light works deeper within the skin to support repair and reduce inflammation, helping reveal a clearer, healthier-looking complexion.

Cool, Calm & Refresh

Cryotherapy delivers an instant cooling effect to help calm redness, reduce puffiness and tighten pores. The skin feels refreshed, smoother and revitalised, while the complexion appears brighter and more refined.

The Ultimate Glow Finish

To complete the treatment, Oxygen Therapy helps energise and deeply hydrate the skin while enhancing the absorption of targeted serums. The result is a complexion that looks plump, radiant and healthy, with superficial lines softened and skin visibly glowing.

No two skins are the same, which is why every ELEMIS BIOTEC Facial at Galgorm is expertly tailored to individual skin concerns, whether the focus is lifting and firming, calming and hydration, or achieving a brighter, more radiant complexion.

Combining advanced skincare technology with hands-on expertise, the ELEMIS BIOTEC Facial delivers visible, long lasting results for skin that looks refreshed, sculpted and revitalised.

Discover the next generation of skincare with the ELEMIS BIOTEC Facial at Galgorm.

Visit Belfast has announced a major tourism partnership, advancing its longstanding relationship with one of Northern Ireland’s leading hospitality groups, in a bid to enhance and strengthen the city’s global reputation as a premier destination.

The five-year strategic partnership with Galgorm Collection will focus on increasing visitor numbers, elevating global visibility and maximising economic impact across the region.

The partnership marks a pivotal advancement in Visit Belfast’s ongoing strategy to forge collaborative alliances with key industry stakeholders. By cultivating a unified approach to destination development and promotion, the initiative is aimed at ensuring Belfast remains competitive and thrives on the international stage.

Galgorm Collection will play a vital role as a strategic partner, enhancing Visit Belfast’s initiatives to promote the city and region internationally.

The partnership will leverage Galgorm’s extensive portfolio of award-winning hotels, luxurious spas, and fine dining restaurants, integrating them into a comprehensive destination offering, particularly within the luxury and experiential tourism sectors, while building on its established investment in the tourism and hospitality sector in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland.

Gerry Lennon, CEO of Visit Belfast, said collaboration is essential to driving sustainable tourism growth, adding: “We are delighted to welcome Galgorm Collection as a strategic partner, formalising a relationship built over more than two decades of collaboration across tourism and destination development initiatives.

“Their dedication to quality and innovation aligns perfectly with our goal of positioning Belfast as a world-class destination.

“Together, we can amplify our international reach, attract diverse audiences, and deliver substantial economic benefits for the city and the wider region.”

Colin Johnston, CEO of Galgorm Collection, said “This strategic partnership represents a significant opportunity to further strengthen Belfast and Northern Ireland’s position as a world-class tourism destination.

“Galgorm Collection and Visit Belfast share a common ambition to invest in tourism, enhance the local economy, and create jobs in our community.

“By working collaboratively, we will continue to elevate the region’s reputation and deliver exceptional experiences that encourage business and leisure visitors to stay longer, explore more and return time and again.”

The partnership will actively support Visit Belfast’s broader strategic objectives, including the growth of international tourism, the enhancement of the city’s competitiveness, and the delivery of inclusive economic growth. 

With Galgorm Collection’s properties serving as gateways to both Belfast and the wider Northern Ireland tourism landscape, this collaboration will help strengthen the overall visitor proposition and inspire deeper exploration of the destination.

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!

Galgorm Resort Welcomes Local students as Part of Growing Mid and East Antrim Initiative.

Galgorm Collection, in partnership with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, recently welcomed 40 local students from Cambridge House Grammar School as part of the ‘World of Work’ programme, which aims to increase awareness of the vast array of career opportunities in the hospitality and tourism sectors among primary and post-primary pupils.  

Following a successful pilot in 2025, the Council funded programme demonstrates how classroom skills and learning translate directly into the workplace, and to challenge some of the common misconceptions that still surround the industry by showcasing the variety of rewarding pathways available.

The World of Work initiative follows an expanded programme this year, which will see a total of 54 sessions delivered across seven primary schools and eight post-primary schools at various hospitality and tourism venues within the Mid and East Antrim area. 

Speaking at the event in Galgorm Resort, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Councillor Jackson Minford, welcomed the programme, saying: “It is fantastic to see the continued success and expansion of the World of Work programme. Hospitality and tourism are vital to our local economy, and initiatives like this will help young people understand the exciting and diverse career opportunities available right here in Mid and East Antrim. 

“By engaging directly with employers, pupils are gaining valuable insight, building confidence, and developing skills that will support them in their future careers. We hope all the pupils will enjoy the sessions and consider entering either of these sectors and work locally.”

Partner organisations involved in delivering sessions alongside Galgorm Resort include the Tullyglass House Hotel, the Adair Arms Hotel, the Harbourview Hotel, Papa Browns and Tourism NI which provided VR-based experiences for primary and secondary pupils.

The initiative also aims to strengthen relationships between schools and local employers, while encouraging young people to consider future careers within a growing and dynamic sector.

Prior to the site visit, members from Galgorm Collection’s People and Development Team visited Cambridge House Grammar School to give students a presentation about the world of hospitality. They also provided an interactive teambuilding exercise, which allowed the students to become part of the events and marketing team, creating their own events at Galgorm Collection, ranging from brunch at Parisien, murder mystery at The Old Inn, and a private pool party at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat. Students then worked together to decide how to market these events and then presented it to the class.

Following the school visit, Cambridge House Grammar School was invited to take part in a site visit to Galgorm Resort, where they were immersed in a series of hands-on experiences, designed to bring real career pathways vividly to life. From crafting mocktails behind the bar and decorating cupcakes with a Pastry Chef, to planting biodegradable plant pots to take home with the Grounds team, each activity offered a practical insight into different roles across the resort. They also explored the art of Housekeeping through bed-making and creative towel animal folding, enjoyed relaxing wellness sessions with a Spa Therapist, and gained valuable knowledge around food and nutrition, with a qualified Personal Trainer who demonstrated exercises that can be done at home, and lastly met with the Health and Safety (H&S) team who provided hands on learning about the resorts sustainability and green tourism, as well as the importance of H&S protocols in the workplace.

Laura Millar, People and Development Associate Director, Galgorm Collection added: “Programmes such as this are an invaluable way of engaging with children, their parents and schools at an early stage to open everyone’s minds to the world of careers in hospitality and tourism. At Galgorm Collection, we are delighted to deliver sessions that are both creative and practical, giving a great insight into what the various roles in our sector have to offer. 

“The enthusiasm and engagement shown by the students has been really encouraging. It underlines the importance of initiatives like this in developing future talent by showcasing the wide range of opportunities available within the industry, challenging common misconceptions, and helping students recognise hospitality and tourism as a dynamic and rewarding career path. We are proud to play a role in supporting the next generation.

“The programme continues to attract strong positive feedback from both schools and employers, with high levels of pupil participation demonstrating the value of practical, experience-based learning in influencing and shaping future career ambitions.”

Mr Bleakley, Careers Teacher at Cambridge House Grammar Schools, said: “Our Year 11 students are studying for their GCSE in Food and Nutrition, so this programme was a perfect addition to their studies. It was exceptionally well received, and it was a wonderful opportunity to get outside the classroom and get a taste of the world at work.”

Through initiatives like World of Work, Galgorm Collection continues to invest in skills development locally, helping young people explore career pathways and supporting the long-term growth of hospitality and tourism across Mid and East Antrim.

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

We haven’t stopped talking about what an amazing time we have had.

My mum and I where heading away to spend our first Christmas without my dad - I was so worried about her and for the first time in my life she didn’t put Christmas decorations up at the house. From the moment we arrived she smiled - she laughed and I couldn’t have asked for a better Christmas. Her Christmas Day was made with a ride in a Bentley for lunch.

Your staff deserve everything. Tracey the door person, the driver, the server Conor, Stephen who dealt with the reservation in fact all off you!

I can not express how much you made our Christmas. Thank you!

When it comes to results-driven skincare, there are non-invasive treatments options for those who want to target concerns from blemishes to radiance and sensitivity, with zero-downtime. LED (Light Emitting Diode) Light Therapy is a standout option in modern skincare combining relaxation with clinically recognised skin benefits to support overall skin health, with no downtime and gradual, visible improvements over time.

Whether you’re looking to enhance radiance, support clearer skin, or complement an age-supporting routine, LED light therapy is a versatile addition to your skincare journey, perfect between spa moments or as part of a longer day of relaxation.

How LED Light Therapy Works 

LED therapy delivers controlled light energy into the skin at varying depths. Each wavelength is associated with specific skin supporting effects, helping to stimulate natural processes such as collagen production, skin repair and the reduction of acne-causing bacteria. 

The treatment is pain-free, relaxing and suitable for most skin types. It can be enjoyed as a standalone experience or as an enhancement to other spa treatments. 

Understanding the Light Spectrum 

Red Light Therapy - For Skin Support & Radiance 

Red light works on the surface and just below the skin to support collagen and elastin production.  

This may help to: 

• Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles 

• Improve the look of firmness and elasticity 

• Enhance circulation for a healthy-looking glow 

• Support overall skin rejuvenation 

Ideal for those looking to support ageing skin or restore radiance. 

Blue Light Therapy - For Blemish Prone Skin 

Blue light targets bacteria associated with acne and breakouts, making it suitable for oily or blemish prone skin.  

It may help to: 

• Reduce acne-causing bacteria 

• Calm active breakouts 

• Support clearer looking skin 

• Reduce the appearance of redness and inflammation 

Best results are typically seen with consistent use as part of a wider skincare routine. 

Near Infrared Light - For Deeper Support & Recovery 

Near infrared light penetrates deeper into the skin than red light and is associated with supporting cellular repair processes.  

It may help to: 

• Support deeper skin recovery 

• Improve circulation 

• Reduce the appearance of inflammation and sensitivity 

• Enhance the results of other treatments 

It is often combined with red light to complement overall skin support.

LED Light Therapy Treatments at Galgorm 

LED light mask therapy is available within the spa as an optional enhancement to your treatment. Seamlessly integrated into your experience, it allows you to relax while your skin benefits from targeted light therapy. 

Whether added to a facial, massage or spa day, it’s a simple yet effective way to elevate your experience. 

Speak to our Spa Reception team when booking or on arrival and they will be happy to tailor your experience - leaving you feeling restored, radiant and renewed. 

Leading Northern Ireland hospitality group Galgorm Collection is proud to announce its inaugural sponsorship of the 2026 Briggs Equipment North West 200 which takes place on May 4-9.

With a portfolio spanning hotels, resorts, restaurants and golf experiences in Northern Ireland, Galgorm Collection is one of the province’s major employers and a longstanding champion of initiatives that drive tourism, sport and economic development in local communities. 

The internationally renowned road race attracts tens of thousands of spectators to the North Coast each year, cementing its place as one of motorcycle sport’s most thrilling spectacles and one of Northern Ireland's most prestigious sporting events.

‘Northern Ireland has a rich and proud history with road racing and that heritage is exactly what drew us to the North West 200,’ Colin Johnston, Galgorm Collection CEO, said.

‘Becoming a sponsor for the first time this year felt like a natural step. Supporting economic development in the communities where we operate is central to what we do at Galgorm Collection, and the North West 200 shares that ethos entirely. The event delivers real, tangible benefits, for local businesses, for tourism and for the wider region.’

‘We're genuinely excited to be part of it, and our team at Galgorm is looking forward to attending in just a few weeks’ time and would like to wish the organisers and riders the very best of luck.’ 

Leigh Heggarty, Director of Business Development at Galgorm Collection, added.

‘The sponsorship forms part of the Collection’s wider community engagement which includes charitable initiatives, educational partnerships and collaboration with schools, clubs and organisations across Northern Ireland. Galgorm Collection remains committed to delivering positive economic and social impact alongside its continued growth.

‘This race has been part of the fabric of Northern Irish life for almost a century,’ Mervyn White, Briggs Equipment North West 200 Race Director, said in welcoming the support.

‘That is a remarkable legacy and one we could not sustain without the backing of our sponsors. Galgorm Collection’s involvement will help us deliver a memorable world class event that attracts riders and fans from around the world, while generating a significant economic boost for the area.’

Hospitality group continues its long-term support for people experiencing homelessness with six relay teams set to run in Belfast Marathon this May.

Galgorm Collection, Northern Ireland’s leading hospitality group of luxury hotels, restaurants and bars, is marking 15 years of support for Simon Community, having raised £180,000 to support people experiencing homelessness, over the course of the partnership. This marks Simon Community Northern Ireland’s longest-running corporate partnership, reflecting a sustained and deeply embedded commitment between the two organisations.

Since 2011, the group has supported the charity through fundraising initiatives, staff engagement activities, and community campaigns, helping Simon Community deliver vital services to people in need.

To mark the milestone, Colin Johnston, CEO of Galgorm Collection, visited Simon Community’s Ballymena temporary accommodation service yesterday (Monday 23 March) to meet staff and people currently receiving support, and see first-hand the outreach and wellbeing services provided to those experiencing homelessness.

This year, Galgorm Collection will field six relay teams in the Belfast Marathon, with all proceeds going directly to Simon Community. The teams will include staff from across the Group’s hotels, restaurants, and bars, bringing colleagues together to raise both awareness and funds for a cause that affects so many in the local community. 

Colin Johnston, CEO, Galgorm Collection, said:

“We are incredibly proud to support the vital work of Simon Community Northern Ireland. At Galgorm Collection, we aim to create a ‘home from home’ for our guests, yet we know that many in our community do not have a safe place to sleep. This is why our partnership with Simon Community is so important - it allows us to contribute in a meaningful way to people’s lives, providing support where it’s needed most.

“Over the past 15 years, the £180,000 we have raised reflects the generosity and commitment of our team, our guests, and the wider community. But beyond the numbers, it is about standing together to make a real difference. We remain fully committed to the partnership and look forward to continuing our support through initiatives like the Belfast Marathon, which gives our team the opportunity to actively contribute to this vital cause.”

Since its establishment in 1971, Simon Community Northern Ireland has been the region’s leading homelessness charity, with a clear vision of creating a society where everyone has a place to call home. 

Operating across Northern Ireland, the charity provides preventative services, temporary accommodation, and specialised support tailored to the unique challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness. For every £1 received, 94.8p goes directly to front-line services, 4.2p towards fundraising, and just 1p to governance. 

Jim Dennison, CEO, Simon Community Northern Ireland said:

“We genuinely couldn’t do what we do without partners like Galgorm Collection. For 15 years now, they’ve stood right beside us. In that time, they’ve raised an incredible £180,000 to support people experiencing homelessness across Northern Ireland. That support has helped us keep doors open, provide somewhere safe to stay when someone has nowhere else to go and reach people who urgently need help.

“The Galgorm team has rolled up their sleeves time and time again - organising events, taking on challenges, even running the Belfast Marathon - all because they believe in making a difference. 

“Right now, homelessness in Northern Ireland is rising, and the scale is heartbreaking. There are 62,000 people without a home - including almost 20,000 children. Every bit of support matters more than ever and we’re incredibly proud and thankful to have Galgorm as a partner.”

The partnership with Simon Community forms part of Galgorm Collection’s wider Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy, which focuses on supporting local communities, championing sustainability, and delivering positive social impact. With a workforce of over 1,100 people, the group encourages team members to engage in charitable initiatives, reinforcing a culture of giving back and shared responsibility.

Galgorm Collection’s long-term approach to CSR also includes environmental initiatives, responsible visitor policies, and support for local societies, clubs, and sports groups. The partnership with Simon Community underscores the group’s ongoing commitment to creating a meaningful, positive change across Northern Ireland.

For more information about Simon Community please visit

https://simoncommunity.org/ 

Spring is a perfect time to refresh skincare routines, as explained by Zoe Clayton, ELEMIS Ambassador.

Spring is a time to declutter our wardrobes and homes and our skincare routines deserve the same refresh. Seasonal environmental changes can affect everything from hydration levels to skin sensitivity, making spring the perfect time to reassess what your skin truly needs.

Your spring skincare routine isn’t about throwing everything away. Instead, it’s about simplifying your routine to support and prioritise your skin health, introducing products that hydrate, balance and support the skin barrier.

How to refresh your skincare routine for the Spring season

1) Review your current skincare shelf

Review expiry dates, discard products you no longer use and simplify your routine to the essentials. Using too many active ingredients at once can overwhelm the skin, so it’s best to stick to a small number of well-formulated products that work effectively together.

2) Refresh Your Cleanse

Cleansing is the cornerstone of healthy skin and as the seasons shift, embracing a gentle yet effective cleanser can truly transform your complexion.

A beautiful option for spring is the ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Hydrating Cleansing Mousse. This luxurious cream-to-mousse formula creates a soft, cloud-like lather that deeply cleanses while keeping skin hydrated and comfortable.

Formulated with marine actives like Padina pavonica ferment and mineral-rich marine water, it helps support hydration and skin softness and is clinically proven to boost skin hydration after just one use, making it perfect if your skin feels dull or dehydrated after the cold winter months. 

3) Reintroduce Hydration

After months of cold weather and central heating, skin often needs a serious hydration boost.

A skincare essence is the perfect step between cleansing and serums, helping skin absorb the rest of your routine more effectively. The ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Rose Essence-In-Lotion is a beautiful option for spring. This lightweight yet deeply hydrating formula preps the skin while delivering an instant moisture boost.

It contains rose hydrolat made from English roses, along with marine extracts such as Padina pavonica and chlorella. Together, these ingredients help boost hydration and soften the appearance of fine lines.

Clinical testing even showed it can double skin hydration after just one use*, leaving skin smoother, softer and perfectly prepped for the next steps in your routine.

Simply press a few drops into the face, neck and décolletage morning and evening for beautifully hydrated skin.

4) Prioritise Skin Barrier Health

If winter has left your skin feeling sensitive, dry, or a little “tight,” focusing on your skin barrier is key. The skin barrier is your body’s frontline defence, protecting against environmental stressors like pollution, UV rays and harsh weather. When it’s compromised, you may notice redness, irritation, or moisture loss, so spring is the perfect time to repair and strengthen it.

Top tip: Layering your products correctly also helps the barrier. Start with lighter, hydrating formulas like the ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Rose Essence-In-Lotion before richer creams or serums. This ensures ingredients penetrate efficiently while keeping your skin calm and nourished.

The Takeaway

Spring is the perfect opportunity to refresh your skincare routine and focus on hydration, balance and simplicity. 

By decluttering your shelf, introducing lightweight hydrating products and prioritising skin barrier health, you can create a routine that leaves your complexion glowing and ready for the season ahead.

A combination of gentle cleansing with the ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Hydrating Cleansing Mousse and hydrating preparation with the ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Rose Essence-In-Lotion is a beautiful way to reset your routine and give your skin the fresh start it deserves.

*Independent clinical trial 2021. Results based on 37 people over 4 weeks.

Galgorm Collection has announced a new sponsorship partnership with the Antrim Camogie Minor squad, reaffirming its ongoing commitment to supporting local communities and the development of young sporting talent across Northern Ireland.

As a leading hospitality group and major employer in the region, Galgorm Collection continues to invest not only in tourism and employment, but also in initiatives that positively impact the communities in which it operates. The new partnership will provide valuable support to the county’s Minor team as they build on recent success and prepare for the season ahead.

The Antrim Camogie Minors have delivered a series of strong performances, most notably securing the All-Ireland Minor A Shield title in 2025 following victory over Laois. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to development, teamwork and supporting the next generation of sporting talent within the local community.

Speaking about the sponsorship, Tiarnán O’Neill, Chief Financial Officer at Galgorm Collection, said: “Camogie has a proud sporting heritage in Antrim, and we are delighted to support a squad that represents the future of the game in the county. As a locally rooted employer, we see first-hand the positive impact that sport has in fostering teamwork, resilience and confidence among young people.

“Supporting the Antrim Camogie Minor team reflects our wider commitment to investing in local talent and strengthening the communities in which we operate. We are pleased to support the squad and wish them every success for the season ahead.”

The partnership forms part of Galgorm Collection’s broader community engagement programme, which includes sponsorships, charitable initiatives, educational partnerships and ongoing collaboration with local schools, clubs and organisations across Northern Ireland.

Sean Kelly, Antrim Camogie Public Relations Officer, welcomed the support, adding: “Galgorm Collection’s backing is hugely significant for our players and the wider development of the squad. This support will make a meaningful difference as we continue to develop the team and prepare for the challenges of the season ahead.

“We are extremely grateful to have the support of a respected local organisation that shares our values around development, teamwork and community. We look forward to building a positive partnership both on and off the pitch.”

With a portfolio of hotels, resorts, restaurants and golf experiences across Northern Ireland, Galgorm Collection remains committed to delivering positive economic and social impact alongside its continued growth, supporting initiatives that promote wellbeing, youth development and community participation.

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.

When your skin dries out, it can cause many skin issues, such as irritation, flaking and more instances of breakout. This is because the oil glands try to counteract the dryness by overworking and can clog your pores and cause tiny infections and breakouts.

It is also a protection product, if we fill our pores with levels of hydration from the moisturiser, there is less chance of everyday pollutants building up in the pores, therefore less damage overall to the skin.

Pro Choice- Pro Collagen Marine cream SPF 30; the product where Elemis began! This moisturiser is clinically proven to reduce fine lines in 2 weeks, offering the skin 24 hours of hydration. It is a lightweight gel-cream, perfect for all skin types, with added protection from UVA and UVB rays.

If you are a 2024 bride and want to invest in your skin for the big day, book in for a skin consultation today with one of our skin experts at The Skin Clinic!

At Galgorm, our Wedding Planners are at the heart of every celebration, ensuring every detail of the wedding planning process is immaculate. From coordinating our in-house wedding team to working alongside trusted suppliers, what moments with the jouney do our Wedding Planners cherish most?

Enya 

What I love most about being a wedding planner at Galgorm is getting to be part of the whole journey. From that first chat where the couple tell you all about their plans (and you can see how excited they are), right through to the big day when everything comes together.

Jenny 

What I love most about being a wedding planner at Galgorm is the absolute honour of walking alongside my couples from that very first viewing appointment right through to the moment they say ‘I do!’. Being a part of their journey is something truly special.

I love those initial viewing appointments. There is nothing quite like watching each couples face light up as they step into one of our gorgeous spaces, such as the Renaissance Suite or the romantic Phantom House. You can almost see the moment it becomes real for them, when they start picturing themselves standing at the top of the aisle or sitting at the top table. I love hearing them excitedly chat about their décor ideas, how they will personalise the reception suites to reflect their style, and the little touches that will make their day uniquely theirs. Then that wonderful moment when we confirm their date, the excitement, the happy nerves, it never gets old!

What makes it even more rewarding is knowing the Galgorm packages are thoughtfully designed to take the stress away. Couples can truly enjoy the planning process rather than feel overwhelmed by it all. With us as the planners by their side every step of the way the experience becomes not just seamless, but genuinely enjoyable.

Sarah 

For me, it’s the first appointment. Watching couples experience their chosen ceremony and reception space for the first time, you can feel the nervous excitement begin to build as they start envisioning their wedding day with all their loved ones in the room. This moment gives me chills everytime.  I also love getting to know my couples throughout the process, so when their wedding day arrives, it feels so personal. Seeing everything come together for them is incredibly rewarding.

Donna 

My favourite part of being a wedding planner at Galgorm is the opportunity to play a part in one of the most meaningful days of the couples life. I love getting to know each couple, understanding their vision and helping them to plan a day that feels uniquely theirs. Watching their excitement build as everything comes together and seeing how happy they are on the day reminds me why I love my job.

There’s also something uniquely satisfying about the behind‑the‑scenes magic. Coordinating suppliers, keeping everything flowing smoothly, those quiet victories make the day feel effortless for the couple, even though so much planning happens in the background. I love being the calm presence they can rely on, the person who makes everything feel possible.

 At Galgorm, weddings aren’t just events, they’re experiences filled lifelong memories. Being part of a team that creates that atmosphere and delivers those memories is something I truly cherish. It’s not just a job, it’s an honour, and a joy to be part of so many love stories.