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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and indulge in a weekend retreat at Galgorm Resort. Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Northern Ireland, our resort offers the perfect setting for relaxation and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a girl’s trip, or a group celebration, our weekend breaks cater to every occasion, ensuring a memorable escape for all.

Deluxe Spa Stays

At Galgorm we have a wide range of deluxe spa stay packages, meaning our guests can enjoy the best of both dining and spa experiences.

Escape from the routine of everyday life and take time out for some pampering with 1-3 Night Deluxe Spa Escapes. Guests will enjoy an overnight stay in a Deluxe guestroom complete with complimentary mini bar and everything you need to ensure a relaxing stay. Moreover, each Deluxe guest room has either a River View or Garden View room, looking out over the River Maine or the picturesque Walled Garden. Deluxe spa stays include A La Carte breakfast and three course evening meal in Gillies Grill, Fratelli or Castle Kitchen + Bar. This stay also includes a choice of private spa experience, where each guest will experience a 60-minute treatment selected from our Spa Treatment Menu

The Spa at Galgorm offers the ultimate in relaxation and wellness. Succumb to the tranquility of the Thermal Spa Village where you can enjoy a range of indoor and outdoor spa facilities designed to offer a truly authentic Irish spa experience.

Explore our full range of spa escapes

here.

Superior Dining Escapes

Experience culinary excellence at Galgorm Resort with our dining packages. Indulge in delicious meals crafted with locally sourced ingredients at our award-winning restaurants, where each dish is expertly prepared right down to the finest details.

Whether you’re enjoying a romantic meal for two or a celebratory meal with friends, our dining packages promise an unforgettable experience. Included is a three-course evening meal in Gillies Grill, Fratelli or Castle Kitchen + Bar and relaxation in the tranquil surroundings of the Thermal Spa Village and breakfast the following morning.

At Galgorm we offer a range of 1–3-night superior stays, browse the full range

here.

Shepherds Hut Stays

Nestled in Galgorm Wood with the cascading River Maine running alongside, our Shepherd's Huts are perfect for luxurious, yet laid back countryside living.

Each hut is luxuriously appointed with a mini kitchen with facilities including hob, microwave, fridge and small freezer, coffee machine, kettle & toaster. The interior bathroom includes a shower room however the standout feature must be the outdoor bath on the terrace - get back to nature and bathe in the views, before watching the sun go down beside the fire pit. The perfect blend of luxurious living with a rustic feel.

Why not enhance your stay? Guests can choose from a wide range of Shepherds Hut packages, from a 1-night dining escape to 2-night spa retreat. Whatever guests choose, it’ll be the perfect choice. Explore the full offerings

here.

Cottage Suite Stays

Indulge in some well-deserved relaxation and experience an overnight stay in a Cottage Suite, featuring a complimentary mini bar and all the amenities for a tranquil stay, including a delicious A La Carte breakfast.

Unwind among the serenity of the Thermal Spa Village, boasting a variety of indoor and outdoor spa facilities tailored to provide an authentic Irish spa journey. Enjoy relaxation in the Thermal Spa Village from the moment you check in until your departure.

Why not upgrade this package to a Cottage Dining Escape which includes access to the Thermal Village and a three-course evening meal. Or maybe you would prefer a Cottage Spa Escape, which includes access to the Thermal Village, a three-course evening meal and a 60-minute spa treatment per guest.

Discover more

here.

Residence Stays

With our Residence stays, experience ultimate luxury in these secluded accommodations. All our residences are fully equipped with kitchen and dining areas including all the necessities for the perfect home away from home break; tea making facilities, coffee/espresso machine, cooker with hob & oven, kettle, toaster, microwave, fridge/freezer. Offering a luxurious and exclusive retreat the charming residences offers privacy and comfort for 8-12 guests and as a dog-friendly accommodation option, make it a trip for all the family with your furry four-legged friend.

All our residences also come with their own hot tubs, making for the most idyllic break. Or if you fancy the full Galgorm experience, access to the Thermal Village Spa can be added on to your package at an additional cost.

Galgorm’s newest residence, The Oaks can be found as you arrive at the iconic entrance to Galgorm Resort, nestled unobtrusively 150m from the main hotel.

Accommodating up to 8 guests, this accommodation option is perfect choice for a girls trip or a relaxing family getaway. Guests can unwind in their own private hot tub and sauna while taking in the breathtaking countryside views. Explore our full range of residences

here.

No weekend break would be complete without some entertainment. Guests can enjoy live music daily in McKendry’s Bar from 10pm. If you choose to dine in the Castle Kitchen + Bar you can enjoy live music from 8pm on Friday’s, 7pm on Saturday’s and 5pm on Sunday’s.

A Galgorm getaway, well known for embracing relaxation and tranquility, which is why it has become a popular babymoon location for expectant parents. The lead up to the arrival of your little one can be an exciting time but can also be overwhelming and exhausting so amidst the preparations it is also essential to take a moment to reconnect with your partner and indulge in some much-needed relaxation before your beautiful parenthood journey begins. What better way to do this than with a babymoon at, Northern Ireland’s Premier luxury Hotel and Spa, Galgorm.

No need to stress about booking flights and baggage or carrying your cherished baby bump through airport security. You could be anywhere in the world at Galgorm, beautiful in all weather, set against the picturesque backdrop of the River Maine and surrounded by nature offering tranquility, romance, and rejuvenation from the moment you arrive making it a truly unforgettable babymoon experience.

Offering a range of accommodation options to suit every preference. Whether you prefer a cosy

guest room

No babymoon would be complete without indulging in some much-needed pampering and relaxation which is what Galgorm is renowned for. The

Thermal Spa Village

For expectant mothers, The Spa offers a range of bespoke

treatments

Day Spa Experiences

Once you’re feeling suitably zen, it is time to think about culinary delights because after all the excitement you and your little one will have worked up an appetite. With a variety of dining options ranging from casual bistro dining to our robe-only Elements Spa Cafe, Galgorm has something to satisfy every craving and palate. Indulge in a romantic candlelit dinner overlooking the stunning Resort, surroundings savoring locally sourced ingredients expertly prepared by our talented chefs, or enjoy a delicately delicious

afternoon tea

After exploring the Resort your body and mind will need to reset. With beds known to provide the best night’s sleep, you will wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day. Said to be a breakfast like no other Galgorm will set you up for the day whether you prefer to choose from a sprawling buffet, or an a la carte offering, the only decision you will have to make is, Gillies Grill or The Conservatory?

For adventurers and thrill seekers, use Galgorm as a base for exploring a world of experiences in the surrounding areas with plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure during your getaway. Take a scenic walk along the riverbank through the Shepherd’s Hut meadow and Galgorm Wood, or why not take a trip to nearby forests and beaches. Offering an experience like no other, Galgorm is more than just a getaway, whether you're seeking relaxation, romance or simply a moment of respite before the arrival of your little one, pack your bag and look no further than Galgorm for an unforgettable babymoon that will leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to embrace the joys of parenthood.

The

1 Night Dining Escape

here

From Christmas Eve to Boxing Day, Galgorm, Northern Ireland’s Premier luxury Hotel and Spa, is hosting an enchanting Winter Wonderland experience, where every moment is wrapped in Christmas joy, to create truly unforgettable memories this festive season.

From festive cocktails and carols upon arrival to exquisite dining, spa relaxation, and holiday entertainment, the Winter Wonderland experience at Galgorm promises guests a blend of luxury, tradition, and festive cheer that captures the spirit of Christmas in spectacular fashion.

With lavish decorations, twinkling lights, and the warmth of crackling fires, visitors to the Winter Wonderland will find themselves immersed in a cozy yet opulent holiday retreat, where every detail is thoughtfully designed to celebrate the magic of the season.

A Winter Wonderland at Galgorm

For the ultimate Christmas escape, guests are welcomed at Galgorm on Christmas Eve from 2pm to a festive reception featuring Galgorm’s signature cocktails and canapés, with carol singers setting a magical scene.

The experience continues with an indulgent Festive Afternoon Tea and the peaceful retreat of the Thermal Spa Village. Families can also enjoy quality time at the pool or head to Mulberry Garden to toast s’mores by the open fire and enjoy games, mulled wine, and hot chocolate. Christmas Eve dinner awaits at the warm and welcoming McKendry’s Lounge & Bar, followed by an evening of festive entertainment.

On Christmas morning, guests will wake to a traditional Irish Breakfast and Bucks Fizz, followed by a visit from Santa himself, who delivers gifts to mark the day. A relaxing dip in the pool or a stroll through the resort’s scenic grounds provides the perfect prelude to a five-course Christmas lunch. The day continues with family fun in the games room and screenings of holiday films at Galgorm’s pop-up cinema, concluding with light bites and live music back at McKendry’s Lounge & Bar.

The festivities wind down on Boxing Day with a leisurely breakfast and a final visit to the Thermal Spa Village, ensuring guests depart with memories filled with holiday joy.

Winter Wonderland Package Pricing:

• Superior Guestroom | From £845 per person sharing

• Deluxe Guestroom | From £945 per person sharing

• Single Supplement | £300 per person

• Children under 12 | £250 per person

This Christmas, escape to the warmth and wonder of Galgorm’s Winter Wonderland for a holiday celebration unlike any other. For more information and to book,

click here