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The pretty village setting of this famous and hospitable 16th century inn - the oldest in continuous use in all Ireland - belies its convenient location close to Belfast and the City Airport, and also the Ulster Folk & Transport Museum and the Royal Belfast Golf Club which are both nearby.The Old Inn was acquired by The Galgorm Collection in 2021 but all the staff were retained so continuity was ensured - and it is now a member of the prestigious 'Ireland's Blue Book' collection of special country houses, hotels and restaurants.
Oak beams, antiques and gas lighting emphasise the natural character of the building, an attractive venue for business people and private guests alike. 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 smartly presented.
There are five individually-styled and luxuriously-appointed room types – petite, carriage, highway, junior suites, which boast a standalone copper bathtub, and a suite with a private hot tub overlooking the Treetop Spa and Crawfordsburn Country Park. The Cottage is also available and is perfect for a romantic getaway - after all, this is where C.S Lewis and his wife Joy celebrated their honeymoon. An exceptional attention to detail in the planning, ensures that even the smaller rooms have everything that you could possibly need (and in the right place). A fridge, both a coffee machine and a kettle together with all the usual tea and coffee options (and a pack of those buttery little Clare's Irish Oatmeal Biscuits), for example, and carefully positioned lighting. Some rooms are also dog-friendly, with a moderate fee charged.
Dining options in the hotel are between The Restaurant for 'informal fine dining', and the dog friendly 1614 Bar where an à la carte menu is offered during the afternoon and early evening.
The Restaurant:
The Old Inn is one of the busiest establishments in North Down, with the 'bistro atmosphere with fine dining food' undoubtedly contributing to its popularity, along with its links to the celebrated author C.S. Lewis After an aperitif in the characterful bar, guests may repair to this impressive restaurant which combines comfortable tradition with elements of current style.
Along with a view towards the well-designed spa at the back of the building, a open kitchen is the main focus, where a keen kitchen team rustles up delicious dishes that showcase the best of seasonal local foods in popular modern Irish cooking. Extensive menu options are offered, including a very pocket-friendly short dinner menu.
And, as always at The Old Inn, courteous and helpful staff are the making of a memorable dining experience here.
A very good breakfast is also served in The Restaurant, where an imaginative buffet offers temptations that might lead you away from the menu (including an unusual cheese offering that is hard to resist) but, with Northern Ireland specialities including potato bread in the mix, the cooked to order main dishes are not to be overlooked either.
