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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.

As we approach World Wellness Weekend this September, Leigh Heggarty Business Development Manager at Galgorm Collection discusses her take on the importance of incorporating wellness into your next event.

Wellness isn’t just the latest buzz word or workplace initiative, it’s a lifestyle choice.

More than green juices or journaling, wellness is big business and a key focus for businesses aiming to engage and energise their teams. However, often we could be considered foolish for believing in the power of employee wellbeing in motivating staff, making them feel appreciated and willing to go that extra mile. But it is exactly this which is so often overlooked when there are one hundred and one other tasks vying for our attention when it comes to running a successful business. Unfortunately, the way in which many companies relate to corporate wellness is simply a box ticking exercise. That is often the sad reality.

In an age where working hours are longer and we are perpetually connected with the assistance of our greatest friend and enemy, our phones; often some well-deserved down-time can fall to the wayside. More often than not it’s the high-flying executives and CEO’s, who often struggle to find the time to unplug themselves from their hectic work schedules.

When it comes to work, while conferences and work retreats offers great opportunities to network, share expertise and gain more from leaders in the field, they can also be a pressurised environments and not best suited to all employees. Conditions like depression and social anxiety can make a busy setting, filled with new faces and noise a real challenge for some people. Even if mental health has never been an issue, a long awaited or important work event can be overwhelming.

Incorporating practices and initiatives into our personal and professional lives that prioritise wellbeing is imperative in cultivating a balanced lifestyle, helping us thrive in all aspects of life. Understanding the pressures that can be affecting your team and recompensing employees for their dedication is an effective means of increasing staff morale and performance. This need not be challenging. Establishing workplace wellness initiatives in your organization is just one way to achieve this.

Wellbeing activities be it in the office or at a conference aren’t just a nice-to have. Not when workplace wellbeing is a concern for every industry. It is astounding the volume of working days that are lost in the UK every year due to stress, depression and anxiety and many leading companies are now making employee wellness and engagement a priority. It’s no secret that when a company has a mental health focused culture, they’ll be more engaged, productive, innovative, creative and loyal. Who wouldn’t want that!

Wellness initiatives at events can improve your attendees’ mood, making them happier and more open to new ideas and experiences. Of course, these ideas aren’t just for your events and attendees. You can also use them for your next team get-together to boost their morale, improve team-bonding, and help them unwind after a hectic event. After all, your event is only as good as your team.

Incorporating wellness into your conference doesn’t mean daily group meditation sessions, or eating your body weight in granola, it’s just small steps to help improve the work environment. It could be something as simple as taking some activities outdoors or moving dinner outside.

At Galgorm Resort we introduced the opportunity to create a Mindful Meeting for your delegates. Mindful Meetings promote the wellbeing of your colleagues, allowing them the ability to fully engage and learn from your event by incorporating a selection of experiences from Movement Breakout Sessions and Mindful breathing techniques to calm the mind & body to hot towels infused with oils designed to energise during breaks. This followed by a bespoke Spa Programme for some of our recent Incentive Groups has received such positive feedback.

Galgorm is an ideal setting to reenergise and embark on your workplace wellbeing journey, boasting an idyllic, tranquil setting with unique 6 acre Thermal Spa Village, the first of its kind in Ireland. Idyllically located on the banks of the River Maine, you and your team can immerse yourselves in nature and experience pure relaxation with an extensive selection of riverside hot tubs, indoor and outdoor heated pools, steam rooms and saunas.

Galgorm Resort’s emphasis on relaxation and escape from daily pressures align with the importance of work-life balance. Employees who feel their organization values their personal lives are more likely to be satisfied and perform better at work.

While a Spa Experience may not necessarily spark excitement amongst all your employees, there is so much more they an avail of. Encourage your delegates to reconnect with nature with a guided forage through the grounds of the Resort, with a food, drink or spa Foraging Experience or participate in a private Falconry experience on the Estate with a close and personal encounter with some of natures most beautiful birds of prey. There really is something to suit everyone.

Workplace wellbeing is no longer an optional consideration for organisations; it’s a critical factor that affects productivity, employee satisfaction and the bottom line. The link to Galgorm underscores the tangible benefits of prioritizing wellbeing in the workplace. By embracing a holistic approach to employee health, organisations can not only thrive but also contribute to the overall wellbeing of their employees, creating a win-win scenario for everyone involved. Galgorm Resort can design a corporate wellness package that is tailored specifically to the individual requirements of your team be it a conference, an incentive programme or an Exec Retreat.

Galgorm achieves gold status with Green Tourism and Green Meetings Gold certification for meetings and events.

Northern Ireland’s award-winning luxury hotel, Galgorm, has been recognised for its sustainability standards by Green Tourism.

Galgorm’s latest green credentials recognise the sustainable practices of the hotel across a wide range of areas spanning environmental initiatives, procurement processes, community projects, employee wellbeing and the hotel’s support of active travel initiatives.

Green Tourism champions sustainable business across the globe, promoting greener ways for businesses and organisations to operate, by offering advice on reducing energy use, saving water, waste disposal, ethical buying, community initiatives, biodiversity and more. Its awards certification programme recognises organisations that work responsibly, ethically, and sustainably.

In addition, the new Green Meetings standard recognises sustainable practices specific to meetings and events. This new standard further provides reassurance to clients and customers of Galgorm’s commitment to sustainability.

Speaking of the awards, Tara Moore, Head of the Sustainability Committee for Galgorm, commented: “We are delighted to achieve these awards from Green Tourism. They not only convey our commitment to sustainability, but also highlight the hard work, time, and investment from our wider team in this arena. We are continuing to invest in this area as a key pillar of our business going forward.”

Andrea Nicholas, CEO from Green Tourism, said: “In their application for these awards, Galgorm demonstrated an exceptional commitment to sustainable practices. They are leading the way in the hospitality industry in Northern Ireland, as the first hotel to have achieve this award. I have no doubt they will hold tight to this recognition, with many more promising initiatives to come.”

Last year, Galgorm unveiled a detailed plan of action to achieve carbon neutral status by 2030 in a bid to become the first premier hospitality group on the island of Ireland to go fully green as part of a new sustainability commitment.

Comprising the global award-winning Galgorm with its Thermal Village & Spa, the Rabbit Hotel & Retreat in Templepatrick and the Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, as well as two Belfast city centre restaurants, Fratelli and Parisien, Galgorm Collection’s new Green Policy 10-Point Plan will cement its position as one of the UK and Ireland’s most successful and ambitious hospitality leaders.

NI’s award-winning collection of luxury hotels and restaurants becomes the first hospitality group on the island of Ireland to achieve official certification based on exceptional employee experience.

Major Northern Ireland employer Galgorm Collection has become the first hospitality group on the island of Ireland to achieve official Great Place To Work certification across its entire portfolio of award-winning luxury hotels and restaurants.

The prestigious endorsement by Great Place to Work, a global authority on workplace culture and wellbeing, was awarded following an extensive independent employee survey which engaged Galgorm Collection’s workforce of around 1,000 team members.

Employees voted across all six properties - including the globally renowned Galgorm, AA Hotel of the Year The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat in Templepatrick, Ireland’s Blue Book recommended property The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, and its collection of restaurants Fratelli and Parisien in Belfast city centre - and concluded that their workplace is a great place to work.

The only hotel group on the island of Ireland to achieve the exceptional standard, the distinguished certification rewards outstanding employers who demonstrate a high-trust, ‘people-first’ workplace and cultivate a culture which embodies values such as credibility, fairness, respect, camaraderie, honesty and pride.

Laura Millar, HR Associate Director at Galgorm Collection said:

“What makes this accreditation so important to us is that it’s based on authentic employee feedback which is rigorously analysed using data-driven methodology and can be confident that staff feel trusted, valued and supported in their roles and enjoy the many benefits of working with the region’s premier hospitality group.

Our success has always depended on our great people. From chefs to bar tenders, spa therapists and managers, to facilities staff, housekeepers, drivers and night porters, our people are what makes us famous for our warm welcome and unforgettable hospitality experience. Through our dedicated People Strategy, we work hard to ensure we offer the most competitive benefits and lead in the development of skills, training and career development opportunities.”

Based solely on rigorous and validated employee feedback gathered by Great Place to Work – the global authority on workplace culture – the accreditation signifies that employees have a consistently positive experience in the workplace.

“At the heart of every organisation are its people, and looking after their wellbeing should be a priority for every employer,” Great Place to Work managing director Benedict Gautrey said. “We know when employees feel genuinely contented and at ease within their roles, they are much more engaged and productive, which leads to better results for everyone.”

A major local employer, Galgorm Collection has dramatically scaled up its hospitality footprint and workforce over the last decade following a £90 million investment into the ongoing expansion and refurbishment of its flagship property Galgorm, with its latest investment project aiming to add new accommodation types and spa facilities by 2027.

Since 2020, Galgorm Collection has acquired and opened two major new hotels, The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat in Templepatrick and The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, growing its workforce by 30%.

“Galgorm Collection’s award-winning customer excellence and reputation for first-class hospitality is down to the dedication, skills and professionalism of our team and that’s why we continually invest in our workplace culture, training and development and in enhancing career prospects for everyone to make this a great place to work. We’re thrilled that our team voted with their feet to endorse what we do, and we are grateful for the superb work they deliver for our customers and the group every day,” Galgorm Collection managing director Colin Johnston said.

As an officially certified Great Place to Work, Galgorm Collection will automatically be entered into the prestigious Best Workplaces ™ list which recognises organisations which demonstrate an effective management culture that focuses on the individual, their strengths and potential. All of this promotes innovation in the company and their associated economic success.

With sustainability at the heart of its business, Galgorm Collection last year announced a commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030, with a bid to become the first premier hospitality group on the island of Ireland to go fully green.

A year earlier, Galgorm Collection has also committed to the rollout of an enhanced benefits package for all eligible team members, including a £1 million investment into premium private health care cover over the next five years as part of its ongoing commitment to investing in its people.

In March 2021, Galgorm Collection announced 180 new roles across its range of hotels and restaurants to meet anticipated post-pandemic demand and announced its investment of more than £5m in annual wages in creating the new roles. For more information on current roles available across Galgorm Collection, and to apply, visit

galgorm.com/work-with-us.html

Galgorm ‘goes green’ on St. Patrick’s Day with launch of new Sustainability Plan with the aim to be carbon neutral by 2030.

Northern Ireland’s Galgorm Collection today unveiled a detailed plan of action to achieve carbon neutral status by 2030 in a bid to become the first premier hospitality group on the island of Ireland to go fully green as part of a new sustainability commitment.

Comprising the global award-winning Galgorm with its Thermal Village & Spa, the Rabbit Hotel & Retreat in Templepatrick and the Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, as well as two Belfast city centre restaurants, Fratelli and Parisien, Galgorm Collection’s new Green Policy 10-Point Plan will cement its position as one of the UK and Ireland’s most successful and ambitious hospitality leaders.

From waste management to water use, energy and transport, every area of the Collection’s operations will be positively impacted by its initial first-stage plans to 2026 – ultimately becoming carbon neutral across the entire estate by 2030.

As the largest property in the Collection spanning 380 acres, Galgorm is currently progressing installation projects to commence later this year in both solar and hydro power, harnessing the power of the River Maine which flows through Galgorm Estate.

An additional 3,000 native trees will also be added at Galgorm with a focus on improving biodiversity in the area. Galgorm is also engaged in activity with a number of partners in the local area to further enhance green space and open up access to the estate with additional walkways and cycle networks.

Galgorm Collection has also pledged to introduce a fleet of zero-emission vehicles and to increase the number of EV chargers available across all its properties.

With a focus on its guests, the comprehensive plan also prioritises a sustained focus on healthy living, wellbeing and diversity. Key initiatives include introducing new outdoor pursuits at Galgorm, developing a new £250,000 state-of-the-art fitness suite at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat, developing an outdoor spa at The Old Inn and introducing a refreshed wellbeing programme and revamped menus focusing on healthy eating across all properties.

Commenting on the launch, Tara Moore Head of Spa Operations and Chairperson of the Sustainability Committee said:

“Carefully considered and consulted at every level, our sustainability pledge and plan of action will realise our goal to create an exciting, fully sustainable destination that works for the environment, our guests, our team and communities.

We are open, transparent and ambitious in our plans and we are committed to continually reviewing and reporting on our progress and successes in the months and years ahead as part of our shared cleaner, greener future.”

At the heart of Galgorm’s ongoing and established plans is a focus on supporting local communities. From litter picks to charity fundraising events in aid of partners the Simon Community and Community Rescue Service, Galgorm’s team of over 800 employees are actively engaged in a programme to give back and support communities across Northern Ireland.

In April 2020, Galgorm donated £750,000 worth of experience vouchers to the Northern Health & Social Care Trust frontline staff in recognition for their hard work, bravery, and commitment to helping patients throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Additionally, Galgorm Collection confirmed the rollout of an enhanced benefits package for all eligible team members last October, including a £1 million investment into premium private health care cover over the next five years as part of its ongoing commitment to investing in its people.

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

Galgorm is delighted to announce one of the world’s leading short game coaches Dave Pelz will set up his Scoring Game School at the Northern Ireland venue to serve as one of his main European coaching hubs.

Pelz is one of golf’s most well-known coaches who has dedicated a large part of his life to analysing the golf swing and paying particular attention to the short game. Through his Scoring Game School and team of dedicated coaches, he has helped thousands of golfers improve their game.

The American has worked with the very best in the game to complete beginners and every time believes he can improve a player’s short game. Pelz’s most recognisable student is Phil Mickelson and he worked with the lefthander as he won his six majors. Pelz says 11 of the professionals he has worked with over the years have won 18 majors between them.

“I can’t tell you how much we are looking forward to working with Galgorm, it really is very exciting,” said Pelz, who will offer one day clinics to three-day Scoring Game Schools at the Ballymena venue in 2023. 

“Galgorm has some of the best facilities in the country. It is a wonderful property and has so many great features that we can use for teaching The Scoring Game. The coaching team who visited Galgorm were very impressed with the entire setup. 

“We all know about the many tour events staged at Galgorm on the DP World Tour, LPGA Tour and other tours. They have the wonderful Castle championship course, teaching academy plus the ‘wee course’, a six-hole par three layout that will be great for our teaching.”

The author of the highly acclaimed Dave Pelz’s Short Game Bible and Dave Pelz’s Putting Bible added: “We have specialised our coaching over the years. We love the game; we are all golfers and our family has been involved in the game for almost 50 years. We focus on the short game, wedges and putting. My background is in research. I used to be a research scientist working with NASA at the Goddard Space Flight Center.”     

In the early days, Pelz was a player with designs of making it on tour. He won a scholarship to Indiana University at the same time a certain Jack Nicklaus attended Ohio State University. 

“My record against Jack was zero and 22 in direct competitions. I simply couldn’t beat the guy - nobody could,” said Pelz, who majored in physics. “I wanted to play golf for a living, tried to make it on tour but wasn’t good enough. As an analytical scientist, I set about trying to figure out why I wasn’t good enough. From that moment it’s been a 50-year journey of research and coaching in golf.” 

As the only Pelz Scoring Game School in Northern Ireland, there will be at least two qualified coaches for the bespoke residential teaching schools and clinics at Galgorm. The Pelz philosophy is that up to 68 per cent of golf shots for golfers of all ability occur inside 125 yards and on the putting green, the area of the game he refers to as ‘The Scoring Game’.

Scoring Game Schools identify mechanical issues in any swing before fixing them. From there, coaches can start to fine-tune, work on timing, rhythm and provide golfers with the tools they need to improve their short game - and ultimately lower their scores. A lifetime of experience will now be available exclusively at Galgorm in 2023.

“We are delighted to be working Dave Pelz and his team to bring a world class coaching product here to Northern Ireland,” said Gary Henry, Galgorm Castle Managing Director. “Over the years we have built up a wonderful and wide-ranging golf product and it is entirely fitting that such a respected name as Dave Pelz and his Scoring Game School now have an Irish home here at Galgorm.    

“Golfers of all ability from Ireland, the UK and elsewhere in Europe will have the chance to tap into the short game experience and expertise of the Dave Pelz method. In conjunction with the Dave Pelz team, we will be running residential clinics and schools from May 2023 and key dates are now available to book online at pelzgolf.com.”     

Galgorm is recognised as Northern Ireland’s leading tournament venue, hosting 15 professional events in the last decade, including the 2020 Irish Open on the DP World Tour. Galgorm is also home to the $3 million ISPS HANDA World Invitational - a tri-sanctioned event between the DP World Tour, LPGA Tour and Ladies European Tour – and the Northern Ireland Open.  

For more information on Galgorm, please visit

galgormcastle.com

The Old Inn in Co. Down has joined Ireland’s Blue Book collection of country houses, historic hotels, and restaurants for 2023. The new additions bring the total number of properties in the Ireland’s Blue Book collection to 63.

Ireland's Blue Book is a unique collection of Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, Castles and Restaurants. Located throughout the island of Ireland, these charming and stylish hideaways are the perfect choice for your romantic escape or weekend retreat. Activities vary from golf, fishing, spas and cookery schools or just relaxing in warm and comfortable surroundings, there’s something for everyone. With a choice of elegant Georgian Manors, Stately Castles, Historic Hotels, Luxury Boutique Hotels and Designer Lodges, there is a property in the collection to suit everyone's tastes and requirements.

The Old Inn, dating back to 1614, is labelled as one of the region’s most historic hotels due in part to its links with author and 20th Century Literary icon C.S. Lewis. Nestled in the charming village of Crawfordsburn in beautiful County Down, located just 15 minutes from Belfast and 5 minutes from the seaside town of Bangor, The Old Inn is the perfect escape.

The hotel is bursting with character, from cosy corners and elegant interiors to the stunning views from the Treetop Spa over the beautiful country park.

Managing Director of The Old Inn, Colin Johnston, says “We are delighted to join such a prestigious group of unique and historic hotels and look forward to the journey ahead as part of the Blue Book family”. 

Galgorm is celebrating its success in Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Chamber Business Awards. The organisation won the Equality Trailblazer category.

Galgorm was awarded for promoting inclusion within the workplace, customer base and local community. This category recognises organisations which champion diversity and promotes inclusion. Corporate law firm A&L Goodbody was highly commended in the same category. As the Northern Ireland winner of this category, Galgorm will now go forward to the British Chamber Awards along with the winners of eleven other UK regions, where an overall National winner will be crowned. National winners will be announced online from Monday 17 October.

The Chamber Business Awards highlight the role of business in delivering growth and prosperity for the UK and local communities. With eight categories, the awards recognise and reward Northern Ireland’s leading exporters, green business initiatives, high-growth businesses, community engagement, entrepreneurs as well as companies which prioritise diversity, inclusion and workforce development.

Regional winners of other categories include Henderson Retail (The Community Champion); Alchemy Technology Services (The Game Changer); Almac Group (The Global Player); Shoosmiths (The Planet Saver); Encirc (The Problem Solver); Viberoptix (The Rapid Riser); and TODD Architects (The Workforce Developer). Highly Commended awards were also claimed by Encirc (The Community Champion); ShredBank (The Game Changer); MJM Marine (The Global Player); Atlas World (The Problem Solver); BLK BOX (The Rapid Riser); and Musgrave NI (The Workforce Developer).

Gillian McAuley, President of Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said:

“Each year our judges are impressed by the calibre of entries, and this year was no different. I would like to wish all of our member businesses who were regional winners and highly commended my sincere congratulations. We wish Galgorm every success as they represent Northern Ireland at the British Chamber Awards.”

Northern Ireland’s newest luxury hotel The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat, part of Galgorm Collection, was named Hotel of the Year Northern Ireland 2022 at the prestigious AA Hospitality Awards this week.

Coming back after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the glittering awards ceremony at JW Marriott Grosvenor House London was hosted by Gabby Logan, celebrating the UK’s top hotels, restaurants, and pubs and the people behind them. 

One of the industry’s most prestigious and highly anticipated events, the AA Hospitality Awards span 15 categories, honouring the best hotels, restaurants, and spas across the UK, and celebrating individuals with awards such as the Lifetime Achievement Award, Chefs’ Chef Award and more.

Opened in June 2020, the Rabbit Hotel & Retreat, a 33-bedroom boutique hotel and spa located in Templepatrick, has been dramatically transformed to include a £2 million Relaxation Burrow spa area which completed construction last year.   

Perched by the edge of a stunning lake, the spa area offers total tranquillity, boasts unique attractions including Swedish sauna, an aromatherapy steam room, halotherapy salt chamber and Roman inspired bath and hot tubs, and has recently unveiled a range of bespoke spa treatments ranging from an IMAGE Skincare personalized facial, or a herbal green tea massage, to a full body ritual inclusive of skin exfoliation, scalp relaxation and leg energizer.

The Rabbit is also the first hotel in the island of Ireland to offer a heated lakeside beach complete with a Lake Bar, sunken lounge and plush cabanas for a laid back, luxurious experience. A Day Spa package with full spa access, lunch, and 60-minute spa treatment is launching on 1st October.

In addition to the accommodation, spa and bar and restaurant offering, The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat also boasts a unique banqueting suite and wedding venue - The Loft - offering unabridged luxury in a magical setting, with high vaulted ceilings, chandeliers adorned with foliage, marble dining tables, dramatic fireplaces and a stunning romantic lake view from the spacious outdoor terrace.

Lynsey Gordon, General Manager at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat said:

“We are proud and honoured to be recognised by the AA at these most prestigious awards.  This is a fantastic endorsement of all the hard work that has gone into the extensive redevelopment at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat.  

This award reinforces our unwavering commitment to delivering an outstanding experience and recognises our team's talents, dedication and efforts. We are incredibly grateful to all our guests for their support and we look forward to creating many more memory-making moments at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat.”  

Galgorm is renowned for creating world-class hospitality experiences throughout their award-winning properties in Northern Ireland. Galgorm has received numerous awards and accolades for their stellar service and offering, including receiving the Four AA Red Star Award for excellence in quality and hospitality last year, as well as previously holding the coveted title of Global Luxury Spa Hotel of the Year. 

Since opening, The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat has been included in numerous prestigious listings including the Irish Independent’s #Indo50 Top 50 Hotels to visit on the island of Ireland.

For more information, please visit 

https://www.rabbithotel.com/

For further information about the AA Hospitality Awards 2022, please visit: 

https://aahospitalityawards.com

Historic hotel The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, has confirmed it will open a new outdoor spa offering exclusively for residents from 1 December following a £2.5 million investment to bring Galgorm’s renowned world-class hospitality and spa offering to the historic property.

Luxury historic hotel The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, has confirmed it will open a new outdoor spa offering exclusively for residents from 1 December following a £2.5 million investment to bring Galgorm’s renowned world-class hospitality and spa offering to the historic property.

Perched above Crawfordsburn Country Park, the new Treetop Spa at The Old Inn offers guests unrivalled forest views stretching out to the North Down coastline and will see the addition of a range of new experiences including a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna, hot tubs and relax space set within its tranquil grounds, offering residents an enhanced hospitality experience.

Occupying a prominent 1.5-acre site in the heart of Crawfordsburn village - just 20 minutes from Belfast – the iconic thatched-roof property is one of the UK and Ireland’s top hotels. With a rich history dating back to 1614 The Old Inn is primed for a new chapter of growth with Galgorm Collection at its helm.

Since acquiring the property in April last year, Galgorm Collection, which owns the world-renowned Galgorm and a number of other properties across Belfast and Antrim, has already invested more than £1 million in refurbishing the property to its exacting, first-class standards.

This has included revamping its cosy 1614 bar and refurbishing its 120-seater Old Inn restaurant which offers diners a brand new menu that marries homely classics with modern dining, featuring French-inspired dishes, seafood and salads.

Galgorm Collection is also upgrading all 32 guestrooms as part of plans to revitalise and upgrade the historic destination, in line with other Collection properties.

Individually styled and luxuriously appointed, The Old Inn offers five room types - petite, carriage, highway, junior suite and suite – with some of its premier room offerings already refreshed.

The Old Inn Suite now boasts its own private balcony complete with outdoor hot tub overlooking the Treetop Spa whilst the first of its Junior Suites also completed a makeover to include

bespoke finishing touches including a free-standing copper bath to complement the chic French-inspired furniture.

The property’s premier cottage accommodation set within the hotel’s grounds – and famed for being the honeymoon spot of world-famous local author C.S. Lewis – now comes complete with its own secluded outdoor hot tub for the ultimate tranquil forest bathing experience.

Plans to reimagine the hotel’s private dining space are also in progress, with refurbishment expected to be complete by early 2023.

Colin Johnston, Galgorm Collection Managing Director, said:

“The Old Inn is one of Northern Ireland’s most historic hotels and we have carefully considered our refurbishment works to ensure we remain sympathetic to the property’s history and retain its much-loved charm whilst also giving it the ‘Galgorm’ treatment, bringing this in line with our other award-winning properties.

After centuries of providing warm hospitality to guests and travellers, the time is right to further invest in this iconic property to expand its offering and widen its appeal to attract more local, national and international visitors.

Galgorm Collection is focused on investing in the region to support tourism, jobs and the wider economy. We’re confident that The Old Inn’s new-look offering will deliver a new chapter of growth for us and for Northern Ireland.”

Since opening its doors last year under the guardianship of Galgorm Collection, The Old Inn has already received accreditations for excellence and was ranked #11 in the prestigious Irish Independent’s ‘Fab 50 Best Places to Stay’ in the island of Ireland.

Charlotte McClean, Manager at The Old Inn, commented:

“As we continue to progress our planned redevelopment works, I’m delighted to confirm that the new Treetop Spa will open to residents from 1 December. This has been a long-awaited project and we’re already experiencing strong demand for bookings with guests eager to enjoy an exciting new outdoor spa offering within a stunning landscape.

Located next to a breathtaking country park and picturesque coastline, The Old Inn is the perfect rural retreat for guests keen to relax and connect with nature. We’re also excited to welcome our wonderful neighbours, who are the lifeblood of the property, to enjoy a new-look offering, with new seasonal menus available in our restaurant and our cosy 1614 bar undergoing a refresh to also welcome dogs for the first time.

It’s an exciting time for The Old Inn and we’re committed to providing a premier hospitality experience for all of our guests joining us from near and far.”

Galgorm is renowned for creating world-class hospitality experiences throughout its award-winning properties in Northern Ireland. Previously crowned Global Luxury Spa Hotel of the Year, Galgorm was most recently awarded Best Luxury Golf Resort and Best Luxury Golf Resort Spa in Europe and Best Head Chef in the Region by the World Luxury Spa Awards 2021. The Resort also picked up Best Spa Experience within the UK and Ireland at the Condé Nast Johansens UK, Ireland, Europe & the Mediterranean, Awards for Excellence 2021 and was crowned Resort Spa of the Year at the World Spa & Wellness Awards 2020.

Most recently, Galgorm was named Ireland’s Best 4* Spa Experience at the Hotel & Catering Review Gold Medal Awards 2022 in recognition for its excellence in hospitality and also picked up a silver award for Ireland’s Best Four-Star Resort. The property also picked up two gongs for its hospitality offering at the 2022 Bar of the Year Awards.

For more information, or to be among the first to experience the new Treetop Spa at The Old Inn, please visit theoldinn.com

NI Hospitality School extends partnership with three of the region’s top hotels to facilitate new training academy with guaranteed employment for six newly qualified chefs.

Aspiring chefs to step up to the plate with launch of new NI Chef Academy

NI Hospitality School extends partnership with three of the region’s top hotels to facilitate new training academy with guaranteed employment for six newly qualified chefs.

Aspiring chefs are being called to step up to the plate and enroll on a brand new training course, launched today by the Northern Ireland Hospitality School, offering students the chance to gain a chef qualification and secure guaranteed employment with one of Northern Ireland’s top hotels.

The brand new Chef Academy will see six successful candidates selected to undertake a year-long scholarship delivered through on-the-job training at one of Northern Ireland’s top hotels; Adair Arms Hotel, Galgorm Resort or Tullyglass House Hotel, where they will ultimately secure guaranteed employment.

Successful candidates will gain a nationally recognised qualification (FDQ Level 2 Diploma in Professional Chef - Northern Ireland), delivered by training partner South Eastern Regional College (SERC). The course involves not just classroom learning, but on the job training with our highly skilled kitchen brigade as well as unique experiences with our local food producers.

Representing an investment in year one of nearly £250,000 the new academy aims to recruit six locally based chef apprentices for its first intake in September, with applications now open.

The announcement follows the launch of the Northern Ireland Hospitality School last April, part funded by Ballymena-based charity The Gallaher Trust. To date, the school has already supported 24 students in gaining full-time employment with partnering hotels through its dedicated Bar Academy.

The launch of its new Chef Academy is the latest development in the school’s ambitious plans to support the hospitality sector locally and provide a pathway to employment for those seeking a career in the industry. Each year, the NI Hospitality School aims to facilitate employment for six chefs and 24 bartenders in a £685,000 annual investment, providing a significant boost to local employment.

You have probably heard of chemical peels and perhaps even know friends and family that have had peels in the past, but what exactly do they entail, and should you consider one? Dr. Mottram of The Skin Clinic, Galgorm, explains all... 

You have probably heard of chemical peels and perhaps even know friends and family that have had peels in the past, but what exactly do they entail, and should you consider one? Dr. Mottram of The Skin Clinic, Galgorm, explains all.

What Are Chemical Peels?

Chemical peels have been around for hundreds of years, dating back to Egyptian times when Queen Cleopatra was famously known for bathing in sour goat’s milk, to improve the look and texture of her skin. Fast forward to 2022 and while modern day peels are much more advanced, many are still derived from various fruits and natural ingredients.

Lauded for their glow-giving properties, the beauty of peels and the sheer variety of options available mean they can be used for a vast array of different skin problems including dull, tired looking skin, acne prone skin, excessive pigmentation, oily or dry skin, enlarged pores and even fine lines and wrinkles.

The Science Behind Chemical Peels

The superficial peels promote exfoliation of the uppermost layer of skin to reveal healthier cells that improve the texture and feel of the skin. In addition to promoting exfoliation many of our peels work by unclogging blocked pores, breaking down oils, as well as boasting antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and problem pigment reducing properties.

What Can I Expect During & After My Chemical Peel?

After a medical consultation to determine your particular skin concern a peel will be selected for you by Dr Mottram. To start the process we will cleanse and degrease the skin. Delicate areas such as lips, nostrils and around your eyes will be protected by a barrier cream. The peel will then carefully be applied and left onto the skin for a number of minutes. The strength of the peel can be determined by the length of time the peel is left on the face (1-5 minutes) or by the number of layers of peel applied. During the peel process you will usually feel a pleasant warm feeling on the skin.

At The Skin Clinic we offer a range of superficial – medium peels, rather than deep peels, meaning that they can be used alongside microdermabrasion and micro needling to further enhance the results, while still consisting of minimal downtime. After a superficial peel the skin may appear a little pink/flushed, usually settling within hours. Moisturiser will alleviate any dry or tight feeling. Despite the name, many clients may not be aware of any peeling at all and it is important to highlight that obvious peeling is not necessary to achieve the desired results. A slightly stronger peel, or peels combined with other treatments may cause minor peeling for a few days. Our aim is always natural looking results with minimal downtime.

As with any aesthetics treatment, it is important to select a professional practitioner. At The Skin Clinic Dr. Mottram. Is delighted to offer the SkinCeuticals Gel Peel GL; containing 20% Glycol Acid, 10% Lactic acid with a pH of 3.2. This gentle pH peel makes it ideal for any gender, age group and any Fitzpatrick skin type. It is ideal for sensitive skin, used to treat problematic skin (with or without breakouts) photo damage and to improve skin elasticity and wrinkles.

Aftercare 

After any peels the skin will be more sensitive to the sun and it is therefore vitally important to protect against the sun’s damaging rays by using a Broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen. Choosing an anti-oxidant serum such as the SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic will enhance the results of any peels reducing fine lines and helping stimulate collagen.

For more information and to enquire with Dr. Mottram, click 

here

Let’s face it, from time to time we have all been troubled by the unwelcome arrival of a few spots, but for some this can be persistent with acne considered more than a minor inconvenience to many. In this month’s blog, Dr. Mottram helps us understand the main causes of acne, the rationale behind treatments advised and the aesthetic treatments available at The Skin Clinic, Galgorm.

Let’s face it, from time to time we have all been troubled by the unwelcome arrival of a few spots, but for some this can be persistent with acne considered more than a minor inconvenience to many. In this month’s column, Dr. Mottram helps us understand the main causes of acne, the rationale behind treatments advised and the aesthetic treatments available at The Skin Clinic, Galgorm.

What is Acne and who is typically affected?

Acne is described as an inflammatory disorder of the Sebaceous (oil) glands. It is one of the most common dermatological disorders and is in fact considered a chronic disease. While it is commonly recognised as a condition that affects teenagers and young people, with acne often clearing up spontaneously, it is often overlooked that there is an important group of people greatly troubled by acne in later life. It is reported that affects 12% of women and 3% of men over the age of 25.

What are the 4 main causes of Acne?

• Increased oil production: The oil glands increase production in response to hormone (androgen) levels. This explains peaks in puberty, at certain times of your menstrual cycle, sometimes during menopause and with polycystic ovaries.

• Comedone formation: (Blackheads & Whiteheads) These are formed when pores become blocked by skin debris and dead skin cells. Blackheads are open pores while whiteheads are enclosed.

• Bacteria living on the skin: (Cutibacterium Acnes) The bacteria thrive on the increased oil, dead skin cells and skin debris leading to the formation of painful inflamed spots.

• Production of inflammation: Bacteria multiplying in the blocked pores triggers the body’s immune response from the blood’s white cells (lymphocytes) leading to redness, swelling and often pain.

Why and how do we treat acne?

For those who suffer from acne it may range from being a little irritating, to physically painful, resulting in scarring and irregular pigmentation, to causing significant psychological stress and to social withdrawal. For all these reasons it is vital we try to tailor treatment to the individual.

Looking at the 4 main causes can help direct us to your best treatment options. Once you have given over the counter acne treatments a trial for 6-8 weeks you may need something else. Knowing what causes acne, we need to focus our treatments on:

1. Reduce Oil/Sebum: Physically or by hormone control

2. Gentle Exfoliation: Removing the dead skin cells and debris that clog pores and cause acne (harsh exfoliation may worsen acne)

3. Eliminate bacteria: Acne causing bacteria are killed or prevented from forming therefore reducing spots.

4. Reduce Inflammation: Reduces the redness and irritation from the acne

What treatment options are available?

Dr Andrew Mottram currently works as a GP with enhanced skills in dermatology and has had a special interest in dermatology, running skin clinics since 2009. Typically, NHS treatments consist of topical creams, oral antibiotics and oral contraceptive pills. Isotretinoin capsules, commonly known as Roaccutane, are another option available, however these can only be supplied in a hospital setting with blood monitoring at present in NI.

In addition to prescription medications, Dr. Mottram offers a range of acne treatments at The Skin Clinic, including:

1. Personalised Prescription Skin Care: Dr Mottram works closely with pharmacy professionals to formulate specific combinations of Tretinoin, Niacinamide & Azelaic acid which is a real game changer not only for acne and acne rosacea but also for sun damage, pigmentation concerns and even wrinkles.

2. Medical Grade Peels: Superficial and medium grade peels are an excellent treatment for acne prone skin. They promote exfoliation of the uppermost layer of the skin allowing healthier cells to the top. Salicylic acid in addition to promoting exfoliation unclogs blocked pores by breaking down oils, is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. A series of peels is recommended for optimum results.

3. Medical grade Microdermabrasion & Peel Combination: This uses infiltration of serum to the skin then gentle suction and graded exfoliation to remove much of the skin’s dead cells and environmental debris. A suitable medical grade peel is then selected and as the dead cells have been removed, the effect of mild-medium grade peel is greatly enhanced. A series of these is recommended.

4. Dermapen Microneedling: This medical grade device is not only great for active acne but amazing for even severe acne scarring. It feels like an electric toothbrush on the skin after numbing cream has been applied. It is effective in reducing active acne, rosacea, thread veins, uneven pigmentation, and even severe scarring. It involves very little down time and can get results equivalent to laser therapy after a course of 4 treatments.

5. Dermalux Flex MD: Medically CE certified device for the treatment of acne, psoriasis & wound healing. This device uses a combination of specific wavelengths of light which can provide great improvements when other treatments have failed. I liken it to removing the sun’s harmful UV rays and only using very narrow band wavelengths to heal the skin. This can be used after treatments or even rented for home treatment.

If you are suffering from acne, it is important to know that there are treatment options available. For more information on Aesthetics at The Skin Clinic and to contact Dr. Mottram, please visit

galgorm.com