Have A Merry Little Christmas

The birds are singing, the mornings are brighter and there’s a grand old stretch in the evenings. All that can mean just one thing – Spring has sprung at last.

And with those feel-good vibes in the air, it’s the perfect time for an indulgent rest and recharge to set you up for the action-packed months ahead.

The Old Inn, Northern Ireland’s historic rural retreat, nestled in the charming village of Crawfordsburn can be found a short 10-minute drive from Belfast city centre. Overlooking a fabulous country park and just a short walk from the spectacular Co Down coastline, the hotel dates back to 1614 and is packed with history, charm and character.

Renowned for its exceptional dining experience in the AA Rosette Old Inn Restaurant and for the top-class facilities and breathtaking views from the Treetop Spa, The Old Inn is the perfect location for a delightful getaway this spring.

The Old Inn

Settled in the beautiful village of Crawfordsburn, Co Down, The Old Inn offers a delightful getaway for the season. Overlooking a fabulous country park and just a short walk from the spectacular Co Down coastline, the hotel dates back to 1614 and is packed with history, charm and character.

Known for its exceptional dining experience in the AA Rosette Old Inn Restaurant, its Treetop Spa boasts top-class facilities and breathtaking views for a rejuvenating break away from it all.

Step into Spring

As the natural world reawakens after a long, cold winter, The Old Inn is an idyllic spot to watch it all unfold. The blooming flowers and budding trees, there in abundance, create a stunning backdrop for your own experience of Springtime rejuvenation. Take a leisurely walk through the nearby Crawfordsburn Country Park, relax in the Treetop Spa or sit by the fire with a good book. An overnight ‘Step Into Spring’ stay at The Old Inn, from £270 per room is available Sunday to Thursday in April and May, and comes complete with access to the Treetop Spa, a 3-course dinner and bottle of house wine, and a delicious Full Irish Breakfast to round it all off. A perfect getaway to rest and reset.

To find out more, or to book, visit

https://www.theoldinn.com/step-into-spring.html

Sunday Sleepover

Well, it is supposed to be a day of rest, so why not take your Springtime Sunday relaxation to the next level with a ‘Sunday Sleepover’ at The Old Inn? Tuck in to a delicious two-course Sunday lunch at The Old Inn’s AA Rosette restaurant with a meal from a carefully crafted menu. Visit the Treetop Spa, perched above the spectacular Crawfordsburn Country Park, and enjoy unrivalled forest views for a true sense of peace and tranquility. After a rejuvenating sleep, enjoy a Full Irish Breakfast before stepping back into real life, back to your best. Enjoy the Sunday Sleepover package at The Old Inn from £260 per room.

To find out more, or to book, visit

https://www.theoldinn.com/sunday-sleepover.html

All offers are subject to availability. For more information or to book The Old Inn this spring, please visit:

www.theoldinn.com

Address: 15-25 Main Street, Crawfordsburn, Bangor, Co. Down, BT19 1JH

Galgorm Rewards employs digital tech to elevate the guest experience into 2024 and beyond with an unrivalled rewards programme across its entire portfolio

Galgorm Collection, renowned for its legacy in luxury hospitality, has officially launched a new, groundbreaking loyalty initiative, Galgorm Rewards.

As the first of its kind for a Northern Irish independent hospitality group, this programme encompasses the Galgorm Collection portfolio; Galgorm, The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat, The Old Inn, and the esteemed Fratelli and Parisien restaurants in Belfast.

Creating endless opportunities to save, the new ‘Galgorm Rewards’ programme redefines guest experiences, creating a seamless and rewarding journey across all properties, enabling registered visitors and guests to unlock real value and new possibilities when they redeem their points for a variety of Galgorm Collection reward vouchers which they can use themselves.

Designed with simplicity in mind, the loyalty programme is complimentary to join, meaning every visit now comes with the added allure of earning points towards exclusive rewards. Guests can start to enjoy the benefits when they register, with 1 point gained for every £1 spent across any of its hotels or venues. Rewards span across all properties and can vary from either a pampering spa day to an exquisite dining experience, or a serene retreat.

Effective immediately, the new loyalty programme means visitors and guests can check their balance and redeem their Galgorm Rewards at any time. The App is available to download at the Apple App Store and through Google Play.

Elaine Kelly, Project and Systems Manager at Galgorm Collection, said, "At Galgorm Collection, we believe that every guest should be treated to a remarkable and memorable experience. Galgorm Rewards is our way of thanking our valued guests by adding an extra layer of joy to their visits. It's our gift—a token of appreciation for choosing us. The groundbreaking initiative is safe, simple and easy to use so that our guests can enjoy more of what they like most.

As the region’s first independent hotel group to introduce a digital loyalty reward scheme, our newest innovation underpins our reputation as a future-focused market leader committed to delivering hospitality excellence in every area.”

The new initiative marks the latest in a series of major milestones across the entire Galgorm Collection.

In December, Galgorm was named as the best UK Spa at the AA Hotel Spa awards, with its thermal village gaining the award due to its exceptional and exemplary spa standards and outstanding wellness experiences. It also won an unprecedented six awards at the prestigious 2023 World Luxury Awards hosted in Athens and secured the Best Destination Spa 2024 title at the recent Conde Nast Johansens Awards in London.

One of its newest properties, the Old Inn in Crawfordsburn, a historic landmark exuding timeless sophistication, became its latest venue to secure AA 4 Star Silver rating and a prestigious AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence. Since being acquired by Galgorm Collection in 2021, The Old Inn has already achieved a listing within Ireland’s Blue Book 2023 and was also named in the Irish Independent’s ‘FAB 50’ Top Stays in Ireland 2022.

“At Galgorm Collection, we listen to the needs of our guests and then innovate to ensure their experience is the best it can be – and there is plenty to enjoy,” Galgorm Collection Group Marketing Manager Victoria Brown said. “As we continue our focus on innovation, pushing the boundaries in loyalty and service, our new Galgorm Rewards programme marks an important milestone in our growth and in enhancing our guests’ overall experience every time."

Galgorm Collection also became the first hospitality group on the island of Ireland to achieve official ‘Great Place to Work’ certification, based on exceptional employee experience.

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.

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.”

For more information and to download the Galgorm Rewards App, visit:

www.galgormrewards.com

About Galgorm Collection:

Galgorm Collection stands as a beacon in the hospitality sector, offering a diverse range of luxury experiences across hotels, spas, and dining establishments. With an unwavering commitment to excellence and a fervor for creating unforgettable moments, Galgorm Collection continues to set the standard for hospitality in the UK and beyond.

Nestled within the picturesque village of Crawfordsburn, Northern Ireland, The Old Inn stands as a testament to the enduring charm of historic inns. 

A Timeless Gem: The Old Inn Crawfordsburn and its Surrounding Activities

Nestled within the picturesque village of Crawfordsburn, Northern Ireland, The Old Inn stands as a testament to the enduring charm of historic inns. With its origins dating back to the 17th century, this remarkable establishment combines rich history, luxurious hospitality, and a vibrant setting that invites guests to embark on a journey through time. Beyond the warm embrace of its centuries-old walls, The Old Inn opens doors to a world of captivating activities, showcasing the beauty and diversity of the surrounding County Down area.

A Glimpse into History

The Old Inn Crawfordsburn is a living embodiment of history. Built in 1614 as a coaching inn, it has welcomed guests for generations. Its thatched roof, ancient stone walls, and low ceilings are windows to a bygone era, where fireside tales were spun, and weary travellers found respite.

Today, The Old Inn has been lovingly restored to offer modern comforts without compromising its historic character. Each room tells a unique story, with period furnishings and modern amenities harmoniously blended to create an atmosphere of rustic elegance. Staying at The Old Inn is like stepping into a time machine, a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Northern Ireland's rich history.

Culinary Delights

The Old Inn Crawfordsburn is renowned for its culinary excellence. The on-site dining experience is a journey through Northern Ireland's flavours, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant offers a menu that celebrates the region's culinary heritage, featuring dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. From traditional Irish breakfasts to sumptuous dinners and afternoon tea, every meal is a gastronomic adventure.

In addition to the AA Rosette Restaurant, The Old Inn boasts the contemporary Lewis Restaurant 1614 Bar, where guests can savour modern dishes with international influences in a relaxed and inviting setting and bring their pooch along if they like as the bar is dog-friendly! The inn's commitment to culinary excellence extends to its afternoon tea, which is a delightful indulgence for visitors who love a timeless tradition.

Outdoor Adventure

The Old Inn Crawfordsburn idyllic location provides a gateway to a wealth of outdoor activities. The village of Crawfordsburn is situated on the stunning County Down coastline, offering easy access to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Northern Ireland.

1. Crawfordsburn Country Park:

Just a stone's throw away from the hotel, this park is a haven for nature lovers. Visitors can explore wooded glens, tranquil meadows, and a scenic coastal path that leads to Crawfordsburn beach, a sandy oasis framed by rugged cliffs.

2. Golfing:

For golf enthusiasts, Royal Belfast Golf Club is nearby, offering a challenging course set against the backdrop of Belfast Lough.

3. Water Activities:

The coastal location presents opportunities for water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. The clear waters of Belfast Lough are perfect for both beginners and experienced water adventurers.

4. Hiking:

The nearby Mourne Mountains offer excellent hiking trails. The Old Inn provides the perfect base for your day trips into the wilderness.

5. Cycling:

Explore the scenic Ards Peninsula on bike, which offers a network of cycling routes through charming villages and along coastal roads.

6. Bangor Marina:

Located just a short drive from The Old Inn, the charming coastal town of Bangor. Nestled on the southern shore of Belfast Lough, Bangor is known for its scenic beauty, historic sites, and vibrant atmosphere. It’s Marina is one of the largest in Ireland and provides a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls.

Cultural Exploration

The Old Inn Crawfordsburn serves as a gateway to Northern Ireland's rich cultural heritage. From The Old Inn, guests can easily explore:

1. Belfast:

The capital city is just a short drive away, where you can explore historic landmarks like the Titanic Belfast Museum, tour The Crumlin Road Gaol, or enjoy the lively market experience at St George’s Market.

2. Ulster Folk Museum:

Located nearby in Cultra, this open-air museum provides a fascinating glimpse into Northern Ireland's rural and urban heritage through reconstructed buildings and costumed interpreters.

3. Game of Thrones Locations:

For fans of the epic series, several iconic filming locations are within driving distance, offering guided tours for an immersive experience.

4. C.S. Lewis Square:

Pay homage to the beloved author with a visit to this square in Belfast, featuring sculptures inspired by his famous works.

Relaxation and Wellness

After a day of exploration, there's nothing quite like returning to The Old Inn Crawfordsburn for some well-deserved relaxation. Perched above Crawfordsburn Country Park, sits the Treetop Spa. The Old Inn offers a range of wellness experiences, allowing guests to unwind and rejuvenate. Immerse yourself in the lavish hot tub, luxuriate in the heated hydro pool, and bask in the radiant warmth of the sauna and steam room. Drift into serenity on sumptuous waterbeds and recline in utter luxury on our heated loungers. Indulge in the pinnacle of relaxation at our spa haven.

The Old Inn Crawfordsburn is a hidden gem that seamlessly blends history, luxury, and natural beauty. Its timeless charm, coupled with the wealth of activities in its surroundings, makes it an ideal destination for travellers seeking an authentic Northern Irish experience. Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking for a tranquil retreat, The Old Inn Crawfordsburn invites you to step back in time and create lasting memories in one of Northern Ireland's most enchanting locations.

The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, is the latest property to secure AA 4 Star Silver rating and secure prestigious AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence. 

Northern Ireland’s newest boutique hotel, The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, part of Galgorm Collection, has achieved AA 4-Star Silver status and been awarded a prestigious AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence 2023.

The latest accolade for Galgorm Collection sees the group awarded AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence across its entire portfolio of hotel restaurants including Fratelli Ristorante at Galgorm, Hunter’s Bar at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat in Templepatrick - currently AA Hotel of the Year for Northern Ireland - and now its newest offering, the restaurant at The Old Inn.

Its new AA 4-Star Silver status was awarded based on the property’s superior level of high standards across hospitality, service and cleanliness, as well as the quality of its food and dining offering.

The award follows a multi-million-pound investment into refurbishing the historic property to Galgorm Collection’s exacting standards, including a full revamp of the 1614 bar, 120-seater restaurant, lobby and selected guest rooms. The hotel also opened its showstopping outdoor Treetop Spa to guests in December 2022.

Led by Executive Chef Gavin Murphy, the restaurant at The Old Inn has been establishing itself as a premier gourmet destination since undergoing refurbishment last year and its new AA Rosette award firmly cements the venue in the top 10% of culinary establishments throughout the UK.

Judged independently by an AA Hotel & Restaurant Inspector, the award is bestowed to the very best restaurants that achieve standards that stand out in their local area, serving food prepared with care, using good quality ingredients and demonstrating understanding and skill in cooking and presentation.

Inspired by locally sourced, seasonal produce, Executive Chef Gavin Murphy has created an exquisite menu at the award-winning Old Inn Restaurant that marries homely classics with modern dining. From French-inspired dishes, to seafood, salads and new Afternoon Tea and £16.14 lunch menu offering, guests can enjoy a range of quality dining experiences in plush surroundings.

Commenting on the award, The Old Inn Restaurant Executive Chef Gavin Murphy said: “This s a huge achievement for the team here at The Old Inn - it means so much to us all. As Executive Chef, I have the honour of working with a dedicated team that is passionate about the work they do - from creating exciting fresh menus using locally sourced seasonal produce to delivering the highest standard of service in the restaurant. This award is a testament to their continuous drive to always going above and beyond and we look forward to the journey and hard work ahead needed to gain our second AA Rosette.”

Galgorm Collection Managing Director Colin Johnston said: “We’re very proud to receive the AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence for The Old Inn, bringing the historic property in line with our other award-winning restaurants. This is a fantastic endorsement of all the hard work that has gone into the extensive redevelopment at The Old Inn and by our Executive Chef Gavin Murphy who has developed a superb menu using the best quality, locally sourced food for an exquisite dining experience that really sets us apart. As Northern Ireland’s most exciting new hotel and restaurant offering, we’re committed to taking this iconic property forward into a new era for tourism and hospitality and that’s very much reflected in our enhanced new guest experience. We look forward to welcoming even more guests to enjoy all that The Old Inn has to offer.”

Since being acquired by Galgorm Collection in 2021, The Old Inn has achieved listing within Ireland’s Blue Book 2023 and was also named in the Irish Independent’s ‘FAB 50’ Top Stays in Ireland 2022. The new AA 4 Star Silver rating and AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence are the latest accolades in recognition of the historic property’s unrivalled guest experience across its accommodation, spa and gastronomic offering.