We've Got News

NI Hospitality School Joins Forces with Private Business Securing 36 Jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

https://www.nihospitalityschool.com/

Portavogie Prawn & Chilli Pasta

Serves 2

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

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

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

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

Marinated Heritage Tomato Salad, Ewings Smoked Salmon, Torn Sourdough, Fennel, Mint Pesto

Serves 2

• 100g smoked salmon
• 200g mixed ripe heritage tomatoes, sliced into even sizes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
• 1 bulb fennel, finley sliced
• 100g sourdough, torn and lightly toasted
• 80g fresh mint
• 50g toasted pinenuts (keep 1 teaspoon back for garnish)
• 1 garlic clove
• 125ml olive oil
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Edible herbs and flowers

1) Place the tomato pieces into a bowl and coat with the oilive oil, sherry vinegar and season with sea salt, black pepper and half a teaspoon of caster sugar. Allow to marinade at room temperature for one hour before eating.

2) To make the pesto, place all ingredients into a food blender and blitz until smooth. This can be placed into a refrigerator in a sealed container until needed.

3) Slice the smoked salmon into ribbons and finely slice the fennel on a mandolin.

4) To serve put a spoonful of pesto in a bowl and toss the shaved fennel in pesto, layer up all the ingredients, and finish with the remaining toasted pine nuts, herbs and flowers.

Valrhona Jivara Chocolate & Salted Caramel Sponge

Afternoon Tea Week is here and we’re letting you in on one of our sweetest secrets, the Valrhona Jivara Chocolate & Salted Caramel Sponge! Crafted in-house by our pastry chefs and a guest favourite from our new Afternoon Tea menu, this chcoclate sponge heaven treat is best enjoyed with a freshing brewed cup of tea, or for an extra celebration, a glass of champagne! 

Yield: 25 individual cakes (25g each)

Components:

• Chocolate Sponge Cake Batter

• Salty Caramel Topping

• Jivara Chocolate Glaze

• Caramel Crisp Garnish

Chocolate Sponge Cake Batter

Ingredients:

• Unsalted Butter – 195g

• Fine Sea Salt – 5g

• Caster Sugar – 118g

• Vanilla Essence – 8g

• Egg Yolks – 78g

• Light Brown Sugar – 48g

• Plain Flour – 156g

• Cocoa Powder – 39g

• Baking Powder – 2g

French Meringue:

• Egg Whites – 118g

• Caster Sugar – 30g

Method:

1. Cream butter, caster sugar, salt, and vanilla until pale and smooth.

2. Whip yolks with light brown sugar until ribbon stage (approx. 45°C), then fold into the creamed butter.

3. Sift and fold in dry ingredients (flour, cocoa, baking powder).

4. Prepare meringue: whip whites and gradually add caster sugar until stiff peaks form.

5. Fold meringue into batter in three stages, keeping the mixture airy and smooth. Reserve for assembly.

Salted Caramel Topping

Ingredients:

• Caster Sugar – 150g

• Water – 38g

• Liquid Glucose – 10g

• Warm Cream – 70g

• Vanilla Bean – ¼ pod, split & scraped

• Unsalted Butter – 105g

• Fine Sea Salt – 0.5g

Method:

1. Combine sugar, water, and glucose in a saucepan. Cook to a dark amber caramel (approx. 180°C).

2. Deglaze with warm cream infused with vanilla bean, stirring carefully.

3. Remove from heat, stir in butter and salt until smooth.

4. Emulsify with a hand blender until glossy and homogeneous.

5. Chill until thick enough to pipe but still soft.
   
   

Assemble & Bake

1. Preheat oven to 160°C.

2. Pipe 25g of chocolate batter into mini moulds.

3. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the cakes spring back lightly.

4. Cool cakes completely on a wire rack.

Finishing Touches

1. Using a piping bag with a fine round or flat nozzle, pipe long, delicate strips of the Salty Caramel Topping across each mini cake.

2. Optionally, dip the sides or top in Jivara chocolate glaze and garnish with caramel crisp pearls.

3. Allow to set at room temperature before serving.

The Gallaher Trust has today announced the launch of the Northern Ireland Hospitality School offering enrollers the chance to gain a hospitality qualification and secure guaranteed employment with one of Northern Ireland’s top hotels.

The Gallaher Trust has today announced the launch of the Northern Ireland Hospitality School offering enrollers the chance to gain a hospitality qualification and secure guaranteed employment with one of Northern Ireland’s top hotels.

Over the next three years, The Gallaher Trust will invest almost £260,000 in supporting the Northern Ireland Hospitality School, a brand new educational centre focused on providing hospitality training and a pathway to employment for those seeking a career in the industry.

Backed by City & Guilds, the school will offer a six-week Level 2 Award in Professional Bartending (Cocktails) course delivered in partnership with the Northern Regional College.

Upon successful completion of the course, newly qualified bartenders will be guaranteed employment at one of Northern Ireland’s top hotels; Adair Arms Hotel, Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort or Tullyglass House Hotel. With an estimated 72 jobs available over the next three years, the hospitality partnership represents a combined investment of more than £1.3 million into local employment.

Ian Paisley MP, Chair of The Gallaher Trust, said:

“I’m delighted to launch the Northern Ireland Hospitality School and confirm a significant jobs boost for the local area today. The Gallaher Trust is an independent charity committed to promoting job creation and skills development and providing support for disadvantaged adults in the Ballymena community.

The idea for the Northern Ireland Hospitality School came from a group of passionate industry professionals who wanted to fill a gap in the market for people looking to change or start their career in hospitality and, after years of planning, it’s fantastic to see the school open and ready for its first intake of enrollers.

For us, facilitating a pathway to employment is key to the school’s success and we’re thrilled to be working with three of Northern Ireland’s leading hoteliers to provide guaranteed jobs alongside first class skills training with education and delivery partner Northern Regional College all of which will meet the tenets of the Trust.”

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has also given some support and their Chief Executive,

Anne Donaghy added:

“After a challenging year for the sector, and for those employed in the hospitality industry, today’s announcement is a positive step forward in working towards recovery and generating new career opportunities. It’s also a fantastic boost for the local economy and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to supporting education and employment.”

Ashley Douglas, Northern Regional College Lecturer, said:

“We’re thrilled to partner with the newly established Northern Ireland Hospitality School and deliver a fantastic new training programme for those keen to pursue a career in hospitality. The new City & Guilds course offers a real mix of training, from basic bartending to the art of mixology, sales techniques and finance training to personal development.

We’re also excited to welcome the first intake of 12 enrollers in May, with a view to placing successful candidates into employment by late June. With no formal entry requirements, the course is accessible to everyone that can demonstrate a passion for delivering excellence and offers a fantastic opportunity for those interested in a career in hospitality to get a first foot on the ladder with a top Northern Ireland employer.

With further course intakes planned for late 2021 and into 2022, I would encourage anyone interested in applying for the course to visit 

nihospitalityschool.com

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.

Galgorm announced plans today to create a suite of new accommodation and thermal spa options within its 380-acre County Antrim Estate which forms part of a £10 million investment that will create up to 50 new hospitality jobs 

Galgorm announced plans today to create a suite of new accommodation and thermal spa options within its 380-acre County Antrim Estate which forms part of a £10 million investment that will create up to 50 new hospitality jobs over the next two years.

This new investment marks the first phase of a £30 million project to further expand and enhance Resort and spa facilities by 2027 and is the latest move by Galgorm Collection to ensure the Resort’s position as a world-class international tourism destination, having already invested £60 million since 2010.

In addition to the expansion of the Resort, 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.

The announcement was welcomed by Economy Minister Gordon Lyons on a recent visit to the Resort:

“I warmly welcome Galgorm’s expansion plans to increase its visitor capacity and provide an exciting, new travel experience. I’m delighted to see Galgorm Collection forging ahead with new opportunities to expand its offering and cement Northern Ireland’s position as a fantastic place to visit.

“My Department’s Tourism Recovery Action Plan aims to create a solid foundation for recovery and a return to the record breaking tourism figures of 2019. This announcement by Galgorm is evidence of the vital recovery already taking place within this important and much valued sector.”

Colin Johnston, Galgorm Collection Managing Director, said:

“Over many years, we have invested heavily to establish Galgorm as an award-winning international and world-class tourism destination, and we remain firmly focused on investment and innovation to secure our global position. This latest £10 million project will see up to 50 additional accommodation units added to the Resort over the next two years, which will increase our workforce and expand the Estate’s footprint.”

New for 2021 is the addition of a range of bespoke Shepherd’s Huts with the first now open to guests keen for a unique stay within the great outdoors. Representing an investment of £2.5 million, the area is earmarked for further expansion, housing up to 18 huts by summer 2022.

Nestled deep within the newly created ‘Secret Meadow’, the one-bed huts are equipped with all mod cons including a feature stove and a mini kitchen with hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, kettle, toaster, and coffee machine for a cosy woodland retreat. Each hut comes with its own outdoor bath and fire pit on the terrace, perfect to experience the healing and restorative benefits of the surrounding forest.

Expanding upon its existing Cottage Suites, work will commence on a £2.5 million project to add 23 new high spec one-bed cottages. Cleverly designed with everything guests need for a comfy stay, Cottage Suites are located within the serene grounds of the Resort and offer luxurious seclusion whilst in close proximity to the main Resort.

Plans are also in place to add five magical treetop hideaways set amidst the forest grounds, with the first opening next year in a £1.5 million investment.

“There has been a real surge in demand for outdoor experiences and pursuits as staycationers and visitors alike seek a connection to nature and the great outdoors. We’re delighted to expand our offering in this space with the launch of a suite of unique accommodation types and a host of new outdoor pursuits at the Resort. From fishing and falconry to cycling, hiking, clay pigeon shooting, and horse riding, guests can now enjoy a stay with a difference but with the same luxury and premier hospitality that Galgorm is renowned for”, added Colin.

The award-winning Thermal Spa Village will further expand by two acres in a £2.5 million project to add new hot and cold outdoor experiences, a second outdoor riverside pool to further expand the authentic Irish Spa experience within a stunning woodland setting.

An additional £100,000 has also been invested in a brand new Spa Suite. Complete with its own jacuzzi, sauna and private access to The Spa, the suite offers breathtaking views of the River Maine and provides guests with their own slice of serenity for the ultimate relaxation escape.

The Linen Merchants is the latest addition to the Resort’s residency accommodation which offers accommodation for up to 10 guests, along with an outdoor private hot tub, private garden with BBQ, two lounges, and a spacious kitchen; the ideal option for a family get-together.

Tourism Northern Ireland Chief Executive John McGrillen said:

“Today’s announcement by Galgorm is yet another positive sign for the tourism and hospitality industry and points to future growth and recovery of the sector as a whole. Galgorm Collection has continued to innovate and build on its established reputation as a world-class spa and golf resort over the last decade and I am delighted to see these ambitious new expansion plans progress. This investment will connect guests and visitors with Northern Ireland’s great outdoors, showcase our natural landscape and focus on building and maintaining environmentally friendly accommodation that will support the sustainable tourism economy of the future.”

For more information please

visit www.galgorm.com

Galgorm Collection has confirmed a renewed commitment to supporting local community group Cullybackey Community Partnership and has pledged funding of £15,000 over the next three years to assist the group in enhancing the Cullybackey area. 

Galgorm Collection has confirmed a renewed commitment to supporting local community group Cullybackey Community Partnership and has pledged funding of £15,000 over the next three years to assist the group in enhancing the Cullybackey area. 

Situated just outside Cullybackey village, Galgorm has been a long-standing partner to Cullybackey Community Partnership since establishing the Resort in 1998, working with the group to facilitate community initiatives, including opening up access to the surrounding countryside to the public through dedicated paths and walkways around the Resort.

This latest funding announcement will support the group to deliver a range of community initiatives.

Paul Christie, Chairperson of Cullybackey Community Partnership said:

“As a major tourism destination and local employer, Galgorm is an important part of the fabric of our community. I’m delighted to accept this funding and continue our relationship with the Resort to help regenerate the village.

As part of the Resort’s latest investment and upgrade of the property, it was necessary to restrict access to the pathways around the area which were enjoyed by local walkers and ramblers alike. I welcome Galgorm’s commitment to reconnect the community with the landscape and provide enhanced public facilities through the creation of a scenic pathway from the Resort to Galgorm Castle, which they are currently planning with other local partners.  

Similarly, I’m thrilled to announce that this generous funding will be used to support local community projects that will bring about most benefit to the village. Corporate social investment can bring about great benefits for both the investor and for the community and I hope that others might also consider similar investment.”

Colin Johnston, Managing Director of Galgorm Collection said:

“We’ve enjoyed a fantastic, long-standing relationship with Cullybackey Community Partnership for many years and we greatly value their input and feedback into ongoing investment and enhancement of The Resort.

As a business deeply committed to our local community, I’m pleased to commit £15,000 over the next three years to support the Partnership in its aim to further revitalise the village and deliver vital community-led initiatives for the benefit of everyone. We’re proud to be part of such a vibrant and connected community and we look forward to seeing these projects roll out over the coming months and years.”

For more information, or to put forward a community project idea, please visit Cullybackey Community Partnership on Main Street Cullybackey, phone

02825882281

cullybackey@nacn.org

Galgorm today announced the launch of a brand new recruitment drive to hire more than 180 additional new team members for a range of hospitality roles for its hotels and restaurants in Ballymena, Belfast and Templepatrick.

Galgorm Collection expands workforce by 25% and commits additional £5m investment annually in wages ahead of hospitality sector reopening

Galgorm today announced the launch of a brand new recruitment drive to hire more than 180 additional new team members for a range of hospitality roles for its hotels and restaurants in Ballymena, Belfast and Templepatrick.

From chefs to bar tenders, spa therapists and managers, to facilities staff, housekeepers, drivers and night porters, the company behind the world renowned Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort said the roles will help to meet anticipated demand when the hospitality sector reopens in the coming months.

Galgorm Collection said it is investing more than £5m in annual wages creating the new roles, which include both full and part time positions and forms part of its advanced preparations for the full and safe reopening of its properties.

Colin Johnston, Galgorm Collection Managing Director, said:

“I am absolutely thrilled to confirm more than 180 brand new jobs and to commence recruitment for a wide range of hospitality roles across our collection of properties. This new initiative will expand our team by an additional 25 per cent and bring our total workforce to 900 team members. “

Today’s announcement confirms our commitment to further developing our world-class hospitality provision and reaffirms our confidence in the sector’s recovery. We are currently working towards an April start date for our first new team members and we look forward to the Executive confirming a reopening date for hospitality and tourism sector so that we can begin onboarding our new recruits and facilitating a return to work as soon as possible.”

The announcement was welcomed by Economy Minister Diane Dodds:

“I warmly welcome the jobs announcement made by Galgorm Collection today and their commitment to recovery. This is positive news and represents a strong foot forward in Northern Ireland collectively forging a path to recovery. The hospitality industry has faced unprecedented challenges over the last 12 months and our focus now is on ensuring a safe and sustainable reopening of the sector when the time is right. Galgorm has continued to demonstrate strong leadership for the industry and this announcement will provide a beacon of light for the rebuilding of the sector.”

Tourism Northern Ireland Chief Executive John McGrillen also welcomed the news:

“The closure of the hospitality sector across Northern Ireland has been sorely felt and the full impact of this still remains to be seen. Today’s announcement will provide a much-needed lifeline for many hospitality workers in an industry hard-hit by the pandemic and I hope this important announcement will help provide renewed confidence and momentum in working towards the sector’s recovery.”

The world-renowned and multi-award-winning Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort, located in Ballymena, is set to hire an additional 94 team members across its accommodation, spa and restaurants. Recently named Best Spa Experience within the UK and Ireland at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2021 and crowned Resort Spa of the Year at the World Spa & Wellness Awards 2020, the new hires will bolster its 720-strong team and build upon its award-winning credentials.

In Belfast, 60 new team members will join Galgorm’s two city centre restaurants, the iconic 

Café Parisien

Fratelli’s

An additional 26 team members will be recruited to support the opening of Galgorm Collection’s newest venture, 

The Rabbit Hotel

For more information on the roles available and to apply, visit 

galgorm.com/work-with-us.html

Galgorm warns up to 75% of jobs in the sector could go by Christmas.

The managing director of one of Northern Ireland’s largest hospitality groups is calling on the Northern Ireland Executive to urgently find a safe and sustainable way to protect the sector from the devastating impact of any new lockdown restrictions.

The Executive will meet later on Thursday to review the recent rise in Covid-19 cases in Northern Ireland and is expected to discuss measures to mitigate its spread.

Galgorm Collection Managing Director, Colin Johnston, who runs Northern Irelands premier luxury Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort, is warning the Executive that unless a balanced way forward is found to protect health, jobs and livelihoods, up to 75% of jobs within the sector could go by Christmas.

“The industry reopened at the start of July and has been trading safely and sustainably during this time. If this cannot continue, our people must be in a position to be able to provide for their families. In the face of the very serious issues being discussed, support must be found to ensure that the entire hospitality sector and all its potential is not lost for at least an entire generation,” Colin Johnston said.

The stark reality is that if we enter another period of lockdown without any measures in place to safely sustain the industry, and a vital component of our economy, up to three quarters of hospitality jobs will be lost by Christmas.”

More than 750 team members are employed at Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort, with 900 employed across the Galgorm Collection range of hospitality businesses which includes Café Parisien and Fratelli in Belfast, The Rabbit at Templepatrick and Castle Kitchen and Bar in Ballymena. The company has invested more than £60 million in the sector over two decades.

Colin Johnston said, “As a resort that places the health and safety of our guests and team members as our absolute priority, we understand that everyone’s health is vitally important however we must urgently find a way forward to protect jobs and livelihoods and the very future of tourism and hospitality industry in Northern Ireland.”

The Northern Ireland tourism industry accounts for more than 65,000 jobs and was on track this year to deliver a record £1 billion in visitor spend. In recent years, Northern Ireland has cemented its status on the world stage as a must-visit destination with its rich tourism, culture and heritage offering supplemented by major international events including The Open Championship in July last year.

Earlier this year, Tourism Northern Ireland launched a new destination brand, ‘Embrace a Giant Spirit’, to promote Northern Ireland on the national and international stage. The Northern Ireland Tourism Alliance, established in 2018, had also forecast the sector would an additional 25,000 future jobs based on its growth potential.

One of the world’s premier, luxury hotel and spa resorts, Galgorm’s Colin Johnston is now calling for greater clarity from the Executive in relation to its plans, strategy and expected outcomes from its interventions and stressed the need for much greater contact and collaboration with the tourism and hospitality sector so that decision makers can clearly understand the impacts of the measures being taken.

Colin said, “We requested to meet with the Minister of Health, Robin Swann, and his advisors, on 18th August to open a meaningful dialogue and to create a forum where information and views could be routinely shared. Unfortunately, this was never reciprocated. We must have a collaborative approach to find the best way forward for the sake of our economy, our people and everyone’s health and wellbeing.”

Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort reopened on 27th July, following an 18 week shut down, in line with public health and government guidance and has been a champion for the industry nationally and internationally in prioritising the health and safety of its team members and guests.

The Resort was one of the UK’s first hospitality businesses to secure the new AA COVID Confident Mark for its health and safety commitment and was also a champion for the ‘We’re Good to Go’ industry standard, in partnership with Tourism Northern Ireland and Visit Britain.

For more information visit www.galgorm.com or for more information on Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort’s Hygiene Commitment visit

www.galgorm.com/ourcommitment.html.

Historic luxury hotel in Crawfordsburn reopens on 3 September under new ownership by premier hospitality group Galgorm Collection

Galgorm Collection today revealed plans to throw open the doors of its newest venture and welcome guests and visitors back to The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn from Friday 3 September.

Galgorm Collection confirmed the purchase of the luxury hotel in the picturesque village of Crawfordsburn in a multi-million-pound deal earlier this year. The highly anticipated opening follows an ambitious £1 million investment to revitalise and upgrade the historic destination, in line with other Collection properties.

Guests and visitors can enjoy the new-look 1614 Bar whilst the refurbished 120-seater Old Inn restaurant offers diners a brand new menu that marries homely classics with modern dining, featuring French-inspired dishes, seafood and salads. Exuding a relaxed yet elegant vibe, the restaurant also incorporates a large outdoor patio providing a front row view of Crawfordsburn Country Park.

Plans are currently under way to upgrade each of the hotel’s 32 individually-styled bedrooms, with junior suites incorporating bespoke finishing touches including a free-standing copper bath whilst the larger suite boasts its own private balcony complete with hot tub. The exclusive Cottage accommodation situated in the grounds of The Old Inn will also come complete with its own secluded outdoor hot tub for the ultimate tranquil forest bathing experience.

The development of a brand-new Tree Top Spa, featuring a variety of attractions including a vitality pool, two hot tubs, steam room and sauna and forest view relax space are also progressing. Additionally, plans to reimagine the hotel’s two wedding spaces are due to be revealed in the coming months, with refurbishment expected to be complete by early 2023.

The announcement comes as the hotel revealed its new brand assets which includes a fresh new logo and website – 

theoldinn.com

Colin Johnston, Galgorm Collection Managing Director, said:

“After more than four months of extensive renovations and a strategic investment of £1 million, we’re excited to finally reveal The Old Inn’s brand new look and to welcoming guests and visitors from Friday 3 September.

The Old Inn is one of Northern Ireland’s most historic hotels and our refurbishment works have been carefully considered to retain the property’s charm whilst updating the offering and experience for a new generation. We’ve significantly invested in remodeling the bar and restaurant area, upgrading room specifications and constructing a brand new outdoor spa area which will open in the new year.

We’re delighted to throw open the doors to visitors and guests alike and to welcome back the full Old Inn staff team to deliver the first-class service which Galgorm is renowned for. This has been a long-awaited project and we’re already experiencing strong demand for bookings, with the new website now live and available for booking overnight stays, dining experiences and private event hire.”

Occupying a prominent 1.5-acre site in the heart of Crawfordsburn village, the property is located adjacent to Crawfordsburn Country Park, providing a tranquil escape 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 and links to the world-famous local author C.S. Lewis, the Old Inn is primed for a new chapter of growth with Galgorm Collection at its helm.

“The Old Inn represents a strategic investment within the Galgorm Collection portfolio and affirms our commitment to cementing Northern Ireland’s tourism credentials and to broadening our reach of properties across the region. We’re thrilled to add The Old Inn and its fantastic team to our collection and take this iconic property forward into a new era for tourism and hospitality.” added Colin.

The acquisition of The Old Inn adds to the group’s already impressive suite of hospitality assets, which includes the award-winning Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort, the 3AA Rosette River Room Restaurant, Gillies Bar & Grill Restaurant and Fratelli’s. The group also operates Castle Kitchen & Bar at Galgorm Castle Golf Club in Ballymena.

In Belfast, it also operates restaurants Fratelli’s on Great Victoria Street and Parisien, offering a private events space in the iconic Robinson & Cleaver building overlooking City Hall on Donegall Square.

In June, the group opened its accommodation offering at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat, located in Templepatrick at the site of the former Templeton Hotel, as part of a £10 million investment.

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

Galgorm confirms £1,000,000 strategic investment following multi-million-pound deal

Galgorm Collection has today confirmed the purchase of the historic, four-star luxury hotel The Old Inn in a multi-million-pound deal.

The investment by Galgorm Collection, which owns the world-renowned Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort and a number of other properties across Belfast and Antrim, includes £1,000,000 in further development and extension plans to the property.

The company has also confirmed that all existing team members will be retained across the North Down property which is currently preparing to safely reopen its doors as soon as hospitality restrictions are lifted.

Colin Johnston, Galgorm Collection Managing Director, said:

“Galgorm Collection is committed to cementing the region’s reputation as a world-class tourism destination through our property portfolio. The Old Inn is one of the region’s most historic and appealing hotels, located in a unique and charming location which makes it a perfect fit for Galgorm.”

With a history dating back to 1614 and links to the world-famous local author C.S. Lewis, the iconic thatched-roof property has become one of the country’s top hotels, having received the prestigious accolade of AA Hotel of the Year in 2017/18 after a series of enhancements and extensions.

Occupying a prominent 1.5-acre site in the heart of Crawfordsburn village, the property is located adjacent to Crawfordsburn Country Park, offering a tranquil escape just 20 minutes from Belfast.

The hotel boasts 33 individually styled bedrooms, two wedding suites, and the 78-seater Lewis restaurant. As part of its investment, Galgorm Collection plans to develop the property to the rear of the site.

“With an initial strategic investment of £1,000,000, we are planning to build upon the hotel’s award-winning credentials and extend the site to incorporate a boutique spa with infinity pool, hot tub, sauna, steam room, private cabanas and relax space.

“We’re thrilled to add The Old Inn and its fantastic team to our collection and take this iconic property forward into a new era for tourism and hospitality. We are confident we will be in a position to reopen the restaurant and bar mid-to-late May, based on the easing of Government restrictions. Reservations for future stays can be made from 19th April and we look forward to safely welcoming guests back to enjoy a fantastic stay”, added Colin.

As well as supporting its world-class leisure proposition, the latest move by Galgorm represents a further strategic investment of the group’s hospitality assets, but also reinforces the company’s ongoing commitment to the tourism industry and Northern Ireland as a whole.

The acquisition of The Old Inn adds to the group’s already impressive suite of hospitality assets, which includes the award-winning Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort, the 3AA Rosette River Room Restaurant, Gillies Bar & Grill Restaurant and Fratelli’s. The group also operates Castle Kitchen & Bar at Galgorm Castle Golf Club in Ballymena. 

In Belfast, it also operates restaurants Fratelli’s on Great Victoria Street and Café Parisien, offering a French brasserie-style menu in the iconic Robinson & Cleaver building overlooking City Hall on Donegall Square.

Last year, the group confirmed the purchase and refurbishment of its latest hospitality venture, The Rabbit, located in Templepatrick at the site of the former Templeton Hotel, which is due to open on Friday 18 June 2021.

For more information please visit 

www.galgorm.com

www.theoldinn.com

Pictured celebrating the announcement are The Old Inn project team; Charlotte McClean, Andy Johnston and Colin Johnston