2024 Award Winners ATMOSPHERIC DESTINATION OF THE YEAR 2024

The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, Co Down

Simply oozing with genuine old-world ambience, this famous 16th century inn - the oldest in continuous use in all Ireland - is sure to steal your heart away. The quaint village setting belies its convenient location close to Belfast - and, while it has been upgraded and refreshed since joining the Galgorm Collection in 2021 - everything has been undertaken subtly and without loss of character. A welcoming fire and friendly staff in the cosy reception area set the tone for the whole hotel, which is full of charm, very comfortable – and always well presented. Rooms blend traditional features with modern amenities and even the smaller rooms are so thoughtfully designed to use every inch of space that they are sure to impress – and, somehow, they’ve even managed to tuck the delightful Treetop Spa just behind this atmospheric Blue Book property. It’s a popular dining destination too, offering good seasonal cooking in both The Restaurant and the cosy 1614 Bar – and, with Helen’s Bay (beach and coastal path), Crawfordsburn Country Park and golfing among nearby attractions, it’s a lovely short break destination.