GALGORM MANOR, BALLYMENA, CO ANTRIM, NORTHERN IRELAND
LOCATION: Northeast Ireland, 25 miles north of Belfast CityFACILITIES: Archery • Horse Riding • Clay Pigeon Shooting • Fishing • Water Sports (available nearby) • Hot Air Ballooning (can be arranged) • Helicopter Rides (can be arranged)
NEARBY GOLF COURSES: Galgorm Manor is an ideal base from which to play the great courses of Northern Ireland. An hours drive will take you to Portstewart and Royal Portrush, one of the world's greatest links golf courses. Ballyliffen is 90 minutes from Galgorm and its status as a superb links was confirmed when Nick Faldo attempted to purchase the property. Malone Golf Club is within an hour of the Manor, while Royal County Down, Northern Ireland's other world famous course is just past Belfast, 90 minutes from Ballymena.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: Some of the finest coastal scenery in Ireland is to be found along the North Antrim Coast. Pretty harbours, the unbelievable rope bridge at Carrick-a-rede, the Glens of Antrim, the World's oldest licensed whiskey distillery at Bushmills and best of all, the 'Eighth Wonder of the World' - the Giants Causeway all contribute to what is definitely an unforgettable experience. For the shopper, nearby Belfast City offers all and more in abundance.
Originally built early in the 19th century as the family home of the Cunningham family, Galgorm Manor was purchased by William Young in 1857.
The house remained in the family for almost a century and now stands as one of the finest Country House Hotels in Ireland. Set in 85 acres of glorious countryside, Galgorm Manor was totally refurbished in 1993 and now, with modern facilities and a pace of life from a bygone era, you will be able to put the rigours of the 20th century on hold during your stay. Whether at the end of a day touring the surrounding scenic beauties, or simply relaxing in the hotel, you have a choice of venues to enjoy a drink.
The main bar has a pleasant, informal ambience while the Ghillies Bar is perfect for the more adventurous.
There is a choice of dining at Galgorm Manor. The beautifully appointed dining room seats 73 and offers a choice of table d'hote or a la carte menus, with local produce used whenever possible.
For lighter dining, there is a full menu available in the Club Bar and the Ghillies Bar. The Manor is set in some of Northern Ireland's most beautiful scenery. The River Maine runs less than 100 yards from the main entrance and the hotel have fishing rights for this stretch of river, which is reputed to be the finest in Northern Ireland for brown trout.
ROOMS: 23 spacious en-suite bedrooms, including 3 suites, most of which offer spectacular views over the River Maine. Also available on the estate are 6 individually named and decorated country cottages. These are ideal for family holidays or for longer stays.