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 Galgorm

Weddings

30/12/2016

The Wedding Checklist | #GalgormInspiration


Happy New Year Brides-To-Be! You're now one year closer to your Wedding Day! If you find yourself counting down the days, you need our Wedding Planning Checklist in your life... Happy Planning!

Feature image Galgorm

Spa

27/09/2022

The Old Inn branches out with new luxury outdoor Treetop Spa offering as part of £2.5 million revamp


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.

Winer Wonderland Testimonial

Getaway

12/09/2025

The Price Family Review A Winter Wonderland | Christmas Stays at Galgorm


For the past ten out of twelve years, we’ve been to Galgorm for Christmas.

Winter Wonderland is our family tradition!

 

Post-Christmas, when you catch up with friends and colleagues after the break, the general consensus is that whilst they had a good time, it was stressful in one way or another.

Most families have their own traditions, but usually the build-up to Christmas poses, for most, a multitude of different questions—some good, some possibly not so good. Add into the mix children wanting their independence, and a common reply becomes: “Do we have to?”

For us, as a family and with our extended family, it’s simple—we go to Galgorm for Christmas. 

We have four children: the eldest is 12, twins are 10, and the youngest is nine.

For the past ten out of twelve years, we’ve been to Galgorm for Winter Wonderland, it's our family tradition. On the two occasions we’ve missed (and I can assure you, the backlash from young and old was not polite!), it was due to childbirth or the ill health of an elderly relative.

We go for three days—we arrive on Christmas Eve and check out on Boxing Day. Not only do we check out on Boxing Day, we also book for the following year!

From the second we arrive to the minute we leave, it’s simply magical. It’s something that neither young nor old would ever want to miss. The staff are amazing, the hotel is stunning, the ambience is magical, the food is wow—and just for three days, I start to believe.

The main question over the years from people who haven’t stayed there is: “Does Santa visit?”

Not only does he visit, but we see him on Christmas morning after taking the train down to meet him!

To try and convey to people how good it is, they genuinely don’t believe us—so here is a summary of our tradition:

 

 Galgorm

News

09/04/2021

Galgorm Collection acquires historic hotel The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn


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

Galgorm shop Galgorm

Christmas

09/11/2017

Your Elf Help Guide | #GiftLove | Galgorm


The big man is making his list and checking it twice! Fear not though, we've had a word with Santa himself and arranged a very special treat for you early shoppers...


 Galgorm

News

19/02/2019

£7 million investment for Templepatrick as Galgorm Collection agree to buy Templeton Hotel


Galgorm Collection have agreed to buy Templeton Hotel, marking a staggering £10m investment in Northern Ireland tourism by the hospitality giant in the last 12 months

The Galgorm Collection previously known as Tullymore House Ltd will invest a further £7million in the local economy as they agree to buy the Templeton Hotel in Templepatrick.

The property will join Galgorm’s already impressive investment portfolio, including the £1.5million investment in Belfast restaurants

& and the £600,000 purchase and refurbishment of the at Galgorm Castle Golf Club in 2018. The Resort is set to unveil additional luxury cottages within the estate this March offering guests a new way to stay and enjoy the Galgorm experience.

The recent acquisition not only reinforces the companies continued investment and commitment to the tourism industry, but Northern Ireland as a whole.

Managing Director Colin Johnston said: "Our multi-million-pound investment in Templepatrick will strengthen the local community and economy, as well as embolden Northern Ireland’s reputation as a world-class tourism destination. Over 50 jobs will be created in Templepatrick and all current staff will be retained.”

‘The Galgorm Collection are an extensive investor in Northern Ireland.  Our new project in Templepatrick will bring our current employee count to just short of 1000 people, reaffirming our commitment to the people of Northern Ireland.’

Galgorm are renowned for creating world-class hospitality experiences in Northern Ireland.  Exciting and energetic plans for the redevelopment of the Templeton Hotel are afoot and will be revealed soon.

Their stellar reputation was cemented last year when the Resort was selected to host one of the world’s most prestigious hospitality award ceremonies, the World Luxury Spa & Restaurant Awards, and are the current holder of the Global Luxury Spa Hotel of the Year award.

The Templeton Hotel was built by Stephen & David McCombe in 1990. It is a popular location for weddings, conferences and events, and is a firm favourite with locals. Galgorm looks forward to building on this commitment to the local community bringing a warm welcome and world class service to the people of Templepatrick.

World-Luxury

Awards

29/07/2024

World Luxury Awards Selects Galgorm As Hosts


 

FROM BALI TO BALLYMENA

WORLD LUXURY AWARDS SELECTS GALGORM AS HOST

Galgorm, Northern Ireland’s globally renowned luxury hotel and wellness destination, has been chosen to host one of the world’s most prestigious hospitality award ceremonies, the World Luxury Awards 2024.

The glittering grand gala is set to attract over 200 guests including VIPs, luxury hotel, spa and restaurant owners from countries across the globe, along with international media.

Galgorm is privileged to have been selected as the European host venue for the Awards on 19 October 2024, with a second ceremony taking place in Ayana Resort & Spa in Bali on 16 October.  

This is only the second time the awards have been held in the UK or Ireland with organisers choosing to return once more to the Galgorm venue after it successfully hosted the event in 2018.

John McGrillen, CEO of Tourism NI, said: “We are delighted to see the return of the World Luxury Awards to Galgorm Resort this year following the success of the event in 2018.

“Having the opportunity to welcome more than 200 luxury hospitality owners to Northern Ireland allows the destination to truly showcase internationally its sustainable, inclusive and innovative year-round, world-class tourism offering.”

Established in 2006, the Awards are accepted as the pinnacle of achievement for the luxury hospitality sector worldwide. Covering hotel, spa, restaurant and travel categories, they stand to reward and congratulate those which have excelled in their offering as voted by guests, travellers and industry players alike. Accolades are presented to winners on a country, regional, continent and global basis.

Speaking about the honour of hosting the ceremony, Colin Johnston, Galgorm Managing Director said; “This is truly a wonderful glamorous event celebrating best in class for the sector and we are very proud that the World Luxury Awards team have selected our venue as one of the two host locations this year.

“We could not be more thrilled to welcome the crème de la crème of the global hospitality industry to Northern Ireland and Galgorm.

“We are fully committed to enhancing the tourism infrastructure in Northern Ireland by delivering world-class facilities and providing an unrivalled customer experience to attract large events such as the World Luxury Awards. With the support of our loyal suppliers and partners we are excited to showcase our amazing produce, service and entertainment offering and we will ensure every guest receives an exceptional Northern Irish experience during their visit.

Joanna Macdonald, Events Manager from the World Luxury Awards said: “We are so excited to return to Galgorm in 2024 as our host for the Awards. We know that a magnificent event is guaranteed at this sensational, venue and we have no doubt each guest will receive a true, warm Irish welcome.

“Hosting an event of this stature is no small feat, every detail needs to be considered and every task and request undertaken with care. We chose Galgorm because we knew their highly professional team will deliver on our requirements and we know that the evening will be thoroughly enjoyed by all.”

The Awards are now open for entries @

with voting season running from the 2 August – 23 August. Winners to be announced at the glittery awards on Saturday 19th October 2024, Galgorm Resort

-Ends-

For further media information, please contact LK Communications:

Nikki Larkin or Kayleigh Tinney

General Office: 028 9042 7004

Notes for Editors

IMPORTANT DATES TO DIARISE

Voting Season:                                              2 August – 23 August

Voting Interim Results:                               28 August

Gala Ceremony Booking Link:                   28 August (you will have the choice of which event you wish to attend)

Gala Ceremony Booking Deadline:           25 September

Final Results:                                                 21 October

To register and enter:

About Galgorm

Situated just 30 minutes from Belfast and 2.5 hours from Dublin, Northern Ireland’s premier luxury hotel Galgorm is set within 450 acres of lush parkland next to the spectacular River Maine. The Resort is home to 125 luxurious guestrooms, as well as 29 cottage suites, 16 Shepherd’s Huts, six log cabins, four large residences and recently opened Forest Den accommodation. All lodging accommodation is dog-friendly and located just a stone's throw from the hotel. Its unique Thermal Spa Village was previously crowned Global Luxury Spa Hotel of the Year and in 2023, was awarded ‘Best UK Spa’ at the prestigious AA Hotel Spa Awards.

For further information visit

Facebook: facebook.com/Galgorm  

Instagram: @galgormresort

X: @GalgormResort

Chcocolate sponge  recipe  blog post galgorm Galgorm

Eat & Drink

11/08/2025

Recipe | Valrhona Jivara Chocolate & Salted Caramel Sponge | Afternoon Tea Week


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.

Wla tara Galgorm

Awards

21/10/2024

World Luxury Awards 2024


The World Luxury Awards Celebrate Excellence with Stunning Gala Ceremonies at AYANA Bali and Galgorm in Northern Ireland — The World Luxury Awards, the pinnacle of recognition for the global luxury hospitality industry, successfully hosted two grand gala ceremonies this past week. The iconic AYANA Bali and the glamorous Galgorm served as the prestigious backdrops for these celebrated events, held on 16 and 19 October 2024, respectively.

 
AYANA Bali Gala – A Night of Tropical Elegance

On the 16th of October, AYANA Bali welcomed distinguished guests from around the world for an unforgettable evening of tropical elegance. The luxurious beachfront setting provided the perfect ambiance for recognizing the finest of luxury establishments. Attendees were treated to a spectacular display of Balinese culture, including traditional dances, gourmet cuisine featuring local delicacies, all in an enchanting setting of lights and glamour.

Winners in categories spanning from luxury hotels and wellness retreats to Michelin star restaurants and premium travel facilities were announced amidst applause. The night was a tribute to innovation, excellence, and the relentless pursuit of perfection in the luxury hospitality sector.

 

Galgorm Gala – A Symphony of Sophistication

Just three days later, the awards moved to the enchanting Galgorm in Ballymena, Northern Ireland. On the 19th of October the sprawling estate, known for its lush gardens and opulent interiors, played host to a sophisticated evening of celebration. The gala embraced the rich cultural heritage of Northern Ireland, with live music performances, a gourmet banquet, and a true Irish sendoff at McKendry’s Bar after the closing of the ceremony.

The Galgorm ceremony honored outstanding achievements in luxury travel, fine dining, bespoke wellness experiences, and the best in the luxury travel sector. Esteemed guests, gathered to celebrate the achievements, speak on camera and network with their peers.

 

Www movement Galgorm

Wellness

10/09/2024

Embrace Movement and Vitality this World Wellness Weekend at Galgorm


At Galgorm, Northern Ireland’s globally renowned resort, we understand that true luxury lies not only in relaxation but also in nurturing the vitality that sustains us. This World Wellness Weekend, we are focusing on one of its key pillars: Movement and Vitality. This pillar reminds us that the energy we exude stems from how we care for both our bodies and minds. Movement is essential for well-being, and vitality is the feeling of being truly alive—both can transform the way we experience life.

 

The Importance of Movement

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s tempting to come home after a busy day and simply unwind. But while rest has its place, staying physically active is key to maintaining not just physical fitness but also mental clarity and emotional balance. Movement should become as routine as sitting down for lunch or dinner—a daily ritual that you look forward to.

To ensure that movement becomes a seamless part of your lifestyle, choose activities that bring you joy. This way, you’ll return to them regularly, embedding movement into your daily routine with ease.

Feature image Galgorm

Getaway

10/11/2022

The Old Inn join Ireland’s Blue Book for 2023


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.

New cms blog images Galgorm

Getaway

18/02/2022

Dog-Friendly Breaks at Galgorm


Everyone deserves a little luxury in their lives, even your furry companions. Enjoy the tranquility of secluded woodland and a riverside setting in the celebrated Northern Irish retreat of Galgorm. An impressive location set within 450 acres of verdant parkland, sitting on the banks of the River Maine, close to the dramatic seascape of the Causeway coastal route and only 30 mins from Belfast City Centre. Galgorm is home 125 bedrooms and dog friendly lodging accommodation around the estate, because a break isn’t a break without the dog.

 Galgorm

Getaway

17/08/2021

An Escape Beckons | Autumn at Galgorm


As a kaleidoscope of colour descends upon the Resort, the distinct chill in the air making its return and the fiery sunsets of Autumn put on a show, it’s time to fill your Autumn diary with the promise of an escape from the everyday. After all, who said spontaneous trips are the reserve of Summer? Say hello to Autumn, where an escape beckons…

 Galgorm

Getaway

29/03/2021

Galgorm Collection set to open The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat this Summer


The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat is set to welcome guests from 18th June following a £10 million investment and dramatic refurbishment.

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