September/October 2025
www.nitravelnews.com
LOCAL TOURIST | 69
County Down Estate Welcomes Opening of Luxury Riverside Cabins
AN historic Georgian country estate in County Down has opened its gates to the public, following the completion of a £1.7million investment in a collection of luxury lakeside self-catering cabins. The new ‘Birch Cabins’ development
is located at the Lagan family’s Florida Manor estate just outside Killinchy, Co. Down, and welcomed its first paying guests at the beginning of September. Dating back to 1676, the 200-acre site
was purchased by the Lagan family in 2005, with the objective of bringing the estate back to life, and eventual public use. Much restoration work has been completed to the original Florida Manor house, surrounding buildings and estate grounds over the last two decades. In its latest phase – developed by
Michael Lagan Jnr – a collection of eight self-catering cabins will bring the estate into regular public use for the first time. Sitting amongst the forest in the heart of
the estate, the cabins aim to bring guests closer to nature without compromising on comfort. Interiors feature large picture windows that showcase
the forest, tall
relaxed feel. Comfortable king size beds, balconies overlooking a tree-lined lake; walk-in rainfall
showers, well-equipped
kitchenettes, and private outdoor wood- burning hot tubs are all included. Speaking on the opening, Michael said: “Our family has been
Lagan Jr
lucky to have enjoyed the beauty and tranquillity of Florida Manor for the last two decades. Our family’s vision was to restore this historic site back to its former glory, and to one day share this beautiful place with the local community. “This is
the start of an beginnings, exciting
new chapter for Florida Manor. In Celtic mythology, of
the birch is a tree symbolising
renewal. trees,
shifting light and the quiet sounds of the outdoors in, with European oak cladding adding warmth and a timeless,
Overlooking a birch-tree lined lake in the heart of the estate, our Birch Cabins have been designed to create a relaxing space where people can check in and switch off, taking time out from the stresses of modern life, surrounded by nature. We hope our guests will find their own sense of personal renewal and Florida Manor is also home to a Grade
B+ Palladian Mansion – one of only two in County Down, and a Walled Garden.
Plans expansion
are also in place for further including
the development
of a 3-bedroom Birch Cabin, which is expected to follow in 2026.
Ballygally Castle Toasts to 400 Years with Launch of Local Craft Beer
AS part of its 400th anniversary celebrations, Ballygally Castle has launched a limited edition Ballygally Castle Beer, specially brewed in partnership with Whitewater Brewery, one of Northern Ireland’s leading Irish craft beer producers. This exclusive brew pays homage to the rich
history of the castle and the vibrant local flavours of County Antrim and is a unique fusion of tradition and innovation, offering guests a taste of something truly special during this landmark year. With 2025 shaping up to be one of the busiest
years on record for the hotel, the launch of this locally brewed beer is yet another highlight in a calendar full of festivities which has included a community event with a sea-swim and BBQ and a Murder Mystery evening as well as a selection of themed accommodation packages. Ballygally Castle’s food and beverage offering
has seen a remarkable 15% year-on-year growth, driven by increased visitor numbers, elevated dining experiences, and enthusiastic community engagement as part of the anniversary celebrations. Scott Weatherup, General Manager of Ballygally
Castle said: “The launch of the Ballygally Castle Beer is a toast to our heritage, our guests and the local community that has supported us through the centuries. We’re thrilled to partner with Whitewater Brewery who share our values of quality, craft and championing local – and it has already been a huge hit with our guests. Our 400th year is not only a celebration of the
past, but also of the present and future of Ballygally Castle.:
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