Formerly a Gentlemen's Club, this atmospheric boutique hotel is one of just a handful of interesting places to stay within the historic city walls - and, bringing history, style, service and a hint of luxury to the 'Cathedral Quarter, it's a great asset to Derry City.
Originally built for private residential use over two hundred years ago, this handsome building was remodelled in 1902 by the highly regarded architect Alfred Forman, to become The Northern Counties Club, which provided a home from home for businessmen, the judiciary and civic leaders for the next century. Then, following a closure, the Grade B1 listed building reinvented itself once again, beginning a glamorous new life as The Bishop's Gate Hotel in 2016.
Sensitive restoration pays due homage to the rich heritage of the building and there are some marvellous period features - notably the lofty leaded windows that light the whole central area over two storeys, lending a gentle sense of history to the mix of clubby and contemporary decor that breathes life into the main public areas (and some humour too - note the doggy portraits that line the stairwell!). And the charming staff are full of warmth, enjoying nothing better than sharing the history of the building with guests - a lovely pride of place that immediately makes new arrivals feel at home. (General Manager Ciaran O’Neill moved here from a nearby hotel to open The Bishop's Gate, and nobody understands better the value of the famous Derry warmth and welcome.)
The spacious bedrooms are individually decorated, all with big and very comfortable beds (some have four-posters), restful modern classic schemes and smart en-suite shower rooms. An especially desirable top floor suite has a view down Bishop Street to the Guildhall and the Peace Bridge, across the river - and even a glimpse of the hills beyond. The original windows have been retained due to the hotel's status as a listed building, and very handsome they are too - although lack of double glazing does mean that light sleepers might be advised to ask for a back room.
Destined to be a popular business hotel as well as a romantic weekend desination, Bishop's Gate has a number of conference and meeting rooms (all with natural light and high speed Wi-Fi) and the largest, the Northern Counties Ballroom - which is also perfect for small weddings - has its own bar, overlooking the cathedral and aptly named The Spire.
Restaurants
This delightful hotel lost no time in finding its niche in the heart of the city, with The Wig and Gown Champagne Bar and Grill soon establishing itself as the place to meet for a drink or a bite (informal all day dining, with live entertainment on some evenings). Executive Chef Paul Sharkey and a kitchen team led by Head Chef John Doherty offer a range of modern classic menus here throughout the day and, in the evening, The Gown Restaurant is the place to be. Entered from the bar or directly from London Street, this appealing room's original features include restored wall panelling which creates a warm and intimate ambience for dinner.
Come Sunday and there's a change of tone, with relaxing over the Sunday papers and brunch in The Wig Champagne Bar a popular alternative to the main event, a Traditional Sunday Roast Lunch, which is served upstairs in the lovely Northern Counties Ballroom – this is not a huge room and it is a more intimate experience than the same suggests. (Lunch is also available in The Gown Restaurant from 1pm.)
Every day except Sunday, a traditional Afternoon Tea is served in the Edwardian inspired Hervey Library - think dainty finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, pastries, cakes and sweet treats, served with loose leaf teas - or a glass of champagne, if decadence is on the menu...
