The three NI hotels that ‘should be added’ to exclusive list of Ireland’s top venues

The 2024 Ireland’s Blue Book features six local venues, all of which have appeared on the list before.

There are two new entries for 2024 from the Republic: Dromoland Castle in Co Clare and The Station House Hotel in Co Meath.

Pól O Conghaile, travel editor at the Irish Independent, said the half dozen accounted for just below 10% of 65 Blue Book members.

They are: Bishop’s Gate Hotel and Browns restaurant in Derry; Ardtara House in Maghera; Newforge House near Moira; the Old Inn Crawfordsburn, and the Bushmills Inn on the north coast.

He said: “Members pay for inclusion, but must also be accepted into the collection, and the standards are quite exacting.

“It’s a brand built over a half-century, with a very loyal audience, who have come to expect luxurious stays that are strong on heritage, charm and high-end, but warmly personal, hospitality. They tend to lean towards smaller stays and away from resorts, but there are a few exceptions — Dromoland Castle and Mount Juliet (Kilkenny) for example.”

He said while accommodation here was improving, it was a tough niche to fill.

He added: “To me, Regency House, The Culloden, and perhaps the forthcoming Dunluce Lodge, could be good fits.

“You could see a future case for The Harrison, perhaps Killeavy Castle, and possibly places like Ballygally Castle.

“It would be lovely to see more added in the future.”

Drone footage shows progress of five-star venue on north coast

Ballygally Castle and The Culloden Estate and Spa are owned by the Hastings family, while Regency House is owned by Anthony Kieran.

Killeavy Castle in Co Armagh is owned by Australian couple Mick and Robin Boyle, and Harrison Rooms of Distinction on Malone Road in Belfast is owned by Melanie Harrison.

Dunluce Lodge is due to open on the north coast this year — the area’s first five-star venue.

Mr O Conghaile said: “Like many hotel collections, Blue Book members pay annual fees.

“The calculus is that, in return, they benefit from the cachet of being included, exposure to the Blue Book’s customers and vouchers, and its marketing and promotional heft.”

Michelle Maguire, chief executive of Ireland’s Blue Book, said: “We have fantastic Northern Ireland properties in the collection.

“The Old Inn is a recent addition, but Bushmills Inn, Ardtara Country House, Newforge House and Browns Bond Hill are in the collection for many years.”

And she welcomed the arrival of Dromoland Castle and The Station House to the list: “Ireland’s Blue Book prides itself on being a trusted collection of hotels and restaurants, and we are thrilled to expand the collection.

“With the introduction of these two new additions, I am so excited for our customers to enjoy what makes both these very different properties so special.”

Blue Book is chaired by Marcus Roulston, owner of Ardtara Country House.

Lynsey Gordon, associate director of The Old Inn Crawfordsburn, said: “Galgorm Collection is thrilled to have The Old Inn recognised by Ireland’s Blue Book, a prestigious hallmark that celebrates the finest of Irish hospitality, charm, and heritage.

“Being part of Ireland’s Blue Book is a valued badge of quality, one that highlights the unique character and historic significance that make The Old Inn in Crawfordsburn a truly exceptional destination.

“We are proud to be counted among such distinguished properties across the island, each committed to excellence.”

News Catch Up – Wednesday 6 November