Tucked into a quiet corner just off the main Derry-Limavady road and close to the increasingly popular Derry City Airport, this low-key hotel dates back in parts to the 19th century and has been in the current ownership of the Horshi family since 1991. Membership of the Best Western Plus group gives it a strong international customer base, but it also has a loyal local clientèle, who appreciate the amenities for conferences, banqueting and meetings of all sizes, the excellent leisure facilities, the friendly can-do staff - and good food.
The hotel is Taste of Ulster accredited and the Managing Director, Selina Horshi, is a founding member and recent Chair of the LegenDerry Food network. The group's commitment to using the region's top quality produce (sourced from within 50 miles) is reflected in the hotel's sourcing policy and there are nods on menus to local foods including fresh fish from Donegal Prime Fish, the wonderful Dart Mountain cheeses from the Sperrins, and Broighter Gold oils from the Causeway Coast. Simplicity, seasonality and caring service are the aim and the cooking is good - it is telling that their house speciality is not some cheffy dish but a wholesome Seafood Chowder served with house made Guiness Wheaten Bread, with the focus on freshness and flavour.
Accommodation is in the same vein. The rooms are comfortable and smart without being overly design-led and - while, with 58 rooms, it is not an especially big hotel - they are thoughtfully furnished with a wide range of guests in mind including business travellers, families and the less able. This is a place where everyone can feel at home.
