Galgorm Collection to invest £50m in two new properties

Galgorm Collection, the Northern Irish luxury hospitality group that operates properties including Galgorm and the Rabbit Hotel and Retreat, has invested in two new properties.

The Collection acquired Galgorm Castle Estate in Ballymena and Roe Park Resort in Limavady for a combined £28 million. It has committed to investing a further £22 million to enhance the properties over the next five years.

At Roe Park Resort, Galgorm Collection will create a new adults-only spa designed for ultimate relaxation.

At Galgorm Castle Estate there will be significant golf developments with the bold ambition of creating the top parkland course in Ireland. Detailed plans will be unveiled in the coming months.

The multi-million-pound transformation plans represent one of the largest investments in Northern Ireland’s hospitality.

Creating new wellness propositions

“Most importantly, we are excited to welcome the dedicated teams from Galgorm Castle and Roe Park into our collection,” said Colin Johnston, managing director of the Galgorm Collection. “Together, we will continue to drive innovation and excellence, shaping an exciting future for these renowned destinations.

“Our flagship property, Galgorm in Ballymena, has been at the heart of our journey, and the local community’s support has been integral to our success.”

Galgorm Collection is already a key player in Northern Ireland’s hospitality offering. “This investment demonstrates their commitment to the sector and is a vote of confidence in the tourism potential here,” said Conor Murphy MLA, Northern Ireland’s Minister for the Economy.

Christopher Brooke, owner of Galgorm Castle, added: “Developing Galgorm Castle estate from a state of disrepair to a thriving development has been a life’s work. Securing its future was critical and we have now achieved this. It has been an honour and a privilege to have played a small part in Galgorm Castle’s rich history.

“We felt the time was right for the estate to further evolve; becoming part of a larger organisation will help achieve this. The Galgorm Collection team has the expertise to develop the castle into something very special.”

Speaking on behalf of the Roe Park Resort, Alan Wilton, board chairman, said: “Galgorm Collection has an outstanding reputation in the hospitality industry. We are confident Roe Park Resort will go from strength to strength under its ownership.

“After almost 30 years at the helm, we believe now is the right time to hand over the reins to new ownership, ensuring the resort is poised for the future.”

Galgorm Spa underwent a £10m redevelopment project in 2022, which included a £2.5m investment in the resort’s award-winning Thermal Spa Village.

Facilities include a 10m infinity pool on the banks of the River Maine, the Palm House relaxation area and a salt room for halotherapy experiences. There are group hot tubs and saunas as well as riverside cabanas with private hot tubs.

The internationally renowned spa has been widely commended, winning six awards at the 2023 World Luxury Awards and securing the Best Destination Spa 2024 title at the Conde Nast Johansens Awards.

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