Galgorm Collection celebrates triple triumph at AA Hospitality Awards 2025

In a glittering ceremony at JW Marriott Grosvenor House, London, the Galgorm Collection has solidified its reputation as a cornerstone of luxury hospitality in Northern Ireland, securing a trio of prestigious accolades at the 2025 AA Hospitality Awards.

The Old Inn in Crawfordsburn was crowned Hotel of the Year, Galgorm Resort achieved coveted AA 5-star status, and Gillies restaurant at Galgorm was awarded an AA Rosette, joining the Collection’s other culinary gems—Fratelli Galgorm, The Rabbit, and The Old Inn—in earning this esteemed mark of excellence.

The AA Hospitality Awards, attended by 1,000 industry leaders, are a benchmark of quality in the UK hospitality sector, recognising excellence across 18 categories. Judged by rigorous AA inspectors, these awards highlight the innovation, dedication, and guest-focused ethos that define the industry’s finest establishments.

For the Galgorm Collection, these accolades are a testament to its ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional experiences while driving significant investment in Northern Ireland’s tourism sector.

A Legacy of Excellence and Investment

The Galgorm Collection’s success at the awards reflects its substantial investment in enhancing its portfolio of properties.

Over the past 18 months, the group has invested more than £5 million at Galgorm Resort alone, including a £2 million redevelopment of its award-winning spa and wellness facilities. This is part of a broader £40 million expansion strategy through 2027, aimed at elevating Northern Ireland’s hospitality offerings and creating lasting economic benefits.

Since 2010, Galgorm has invested over £60 million in its flagship property, transforming it into one of the region’s premier destinations. Recent acquisitions, including Galgorm Castle Estate and Roe Valley Resort for a combined £28 million, further demonstrate the Collection’s ambition.

An additional £22 million is committed over the next five years to enhance these estates, ensuring they meet the same high standards as the group’s other properties.

The Collection’s portfolio also includes The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat, opened in 2019, and The Old Inn, acquired and redeveloped in 2021 with a £2.5 million outdoor Treetop Spa. These developments underscore Galgorm’s mission to blend luxury with sustainability, offering guests unparalleled experiences while minimising environmental impact.

Colin Johnston, CEO of Galgorm Collection, expressed immense pride in the team’s achievements, stating:

“These awards reflect the hard work and professionalism of everyone across Galgorm Collection.

“Our ongoing investment in product quality, guest experience, employee wellbeing, and sustainability continues to deliver tangible results.

“Our mission is to provide more than a stay – offering guests exceptional hospitality while minimising environmental impact. These recognitions motivate us to continue raising standards.”

He added, “I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the entire team across all our properties and restaurants for their hard work and commitment to our guests and the business. The awards reflect their dedication and I am immensely proud of everyone.”

A Culinary and Hospitality Powerhouse

The AA Rosette awarded to Gillies restaurant marks it as a standout in Northern Ireland’s culinary scene, joining Fratelli Galgorm, The Rabbit, and The Old Inn in holding this prestigious accolade.

These venues are celebrated for their innovative menus, locally sourced ingredients, and inviting atmospheres, catering to a range of tastes from fine dining to relaxed, family-friendly experiences.

Beyond its hotels and restaurants, the Galgorm Collection continues to innovate with offerings like the Galgorm Rewards programme, which allows guests to earn points across its properties, including Galgorm, The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat, The Old Inn, Fratelli Belfast, and Parisien.

This initiative enhances the guest experience, rewarding loyalty with exclusive benefits and encouraging repeat visits.

Driving Northern Ireland’s Tourism Forward

The Galgorm Collection’s strategic growth is not only about luxury but also about bolstering Northern Ireland’s tourism and hospitality sector.

By creating high-quality guest experiences and career opportunities, the group is positioning itself as a key driver of economic growth in the region. Its properties, from the historic charm of The Old Inn to the family-focused Roe Valley Resort, cater to diverse audiences, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

As part of its festive offerings, the Collection is preparing for a busy Christmas season. Highlights include A Winter Wonderland at Galgorm, A Crackin’ Christmas at The Rabbit, and A Merry Little Christmas at The Old Inn, each promising magical experiences filled with festive cheer, gourmet dining, and unique activities like spa dips and visits from Santa.

Roe Valley Resort also offers a family-friendly Together at Christmas package, complete with kids’ activities and fireside quizzes.

Looking Ahead

With its £40 million expansion strategy and a focus on sustainability, guest satisfaction, and employee wellbeing, the Galgorm Collection is poised to remain a leader in Northern Ireland’s hospitality industry.

The 2025 AA Hospitality Awards are a milestone in this journey, celebrating the group’s dedication to excellence and its vision for the future.

For those eager to experience the award-winning hospitality of the Galgorm Collection, bookings are available across its properties, with exclusive offers and updates accessible via the Galgorm Rewards programme and newsletter.

For more information, visit Galgorm, The Rabbit Hotel, The Old Inn, Fratelli Belfast, Parisien, or Roe Valley Resort.