46 | THE LOCAL TOURIST


www.nitravelnews.com


Renovations Underway to Save Famous Belfast Ship


DoubleTree by Hilton to Open in Belfast


HILTON has announced


the signing of DoubleTree by Hilton Belfast City Ten Square, as part of a franchise agreement with the Loughview Leisure Group. The current hotel will undergo a multi-million refurbishment before joining the brand later this year. The property features 131 guest rooms and suites, including the Jaffe Penthouse, with many rooms


across


or savour expertly prepared meals at Jospers Steakhouse. The Loft Lounge, a rooftop bar with an outdoor terrace, provides stunning views of the city.


This announcement marks another step in Hilton’s expansion


Northern


offering picturesque views of the city and the surrounding hills. The hotel also features a variety of dining and leisure facilities. The Linen Bar, located on the ground floor, pays homage to Belfast’s industrial past as a global centre for linen production, blending historical charm with a contemporary twist. Guests can also enjoy The Doffer, a stylish ground-floor tap room open Fridays and Saturdays,


Ireland, following the recent signing of DoubleTree by Hilton Derry-Londonderry and The Marcus Hotel Portrush, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, both scheduled to open this year. In addition to the signing, the Loughview Leisure Group recently completed a multi- million-pound refurbishment of DoubleTree by Hilton Belfast Templepatrick on the Kingfisher Country Estate, including


a comprehensive


renovation of all guest rooms, spa facilities, public areas and the 220-acre course.


parkland golf


A RENOVATION project has begun to replace the decks of SS Nomadic. SS Nomadic, the last remaining vessel of the White Star Line is currently undergoing a significant restoration project to replace its external timber decking. The renovations come as part of a joint effort by owners Maritime Belfast Trust and operators, Titanic Belfast Limited, to preserve and maintain the ship, which continues to be a vitally important part of Belfast’s maritime heritage. Built in 1910-1911, alongside Titanic at the Harland and Wolff Shipyards in Belfast, SS Nomadic served as a tender for Titanic, carrying first and second-class passengers from the French port of Cherbourg. The ship went on to serve in both World Wars and later a restaurant and party venue in Paris before returning to Belfast in 2006 and being integrated as part of the Titanic Belfast experience in 2015. The project is being supported by Consarc Conservation, who are overseeing the decking replacement. The work is being carried out by John Kearney Ltd Building & Marine Repair Service, a team of expert shipwrights with decades of experience. Using traditional deck-laying methods, they will carefully restore the deck, preserving the ship’s authenticity while maintaining the craftsmanship that defines its historic character.


Renovations will be completed in stages, deck by deck to allow for the ship to stay open to visitors. Kerrie Sweeney MBE, Chief Executive of Maritime Belfast Trust said,


“SS Nomadic is such an authentic part


March 2025


£750,000 Investment Upgrade at Dormans Magherafelt


of Belfast’s maritime history and we are committed to preserving her now and for future generations to enjoy.


The decking


repairs and replacement is a significant investment by Maritime Belfast Trust and Titanic Belfast Limited and will take over four years to complete. Visitors will still have the opportunity to visit the ship during this time, and whilst some access will be restricted, the public will have this unique opportunity to observe traditional shipwrights in action”


DORMAN Hospitality Group (DHG) has confirmed details of a major expansion of one of its venues. The Blind Piglet will be the latest addition to the group’s facilities at the popular Dormans Bar complex in Magherafelt.


The new addition will


create 25 new jobs when the doors open in mid- March after undergoing a £750 000 investment in the space.


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