Tourism NI awards four stars to “reimagined” Belfast hotel following decade of major investment

A family-run hotel close to Belfast that has undergone a 10-year programme of investment and redevelopment has been awarded four stars by Tourism Northern Ireland. 

 

The Ivanhoe Hotel, located near Carryduff, was praised for its “exceptional service” as it received the four-star grade following an assessment by the Tourism NI Quality Grading Scheme.    

 

Over the past decade, the hotel has undergone major renovation, including the complete refurbishment of the bistro and reception area, and the extension and upgrading of the hotel’s conference and events facilities, including the Lagan and Bracken suites.  

 

The most significant phase of the project has been the recent £1.5 million investment in the hotel’s bedroom accommodation with all 29 bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms completely redesigned and refurbished to an exceptional standard. 

 

The interior design of the bedrooms was led by the late Hugh Wallace, one of Ireland’s most celebrated architects and designers as well as judge on RTÉ's Home of the Year. 

 

Alongside this substantial capital investment, proprietor Paula Keane has invested heavily in the development of her team. Working closely with Tourism NI Quality Assurance Team and training providers, she has ensured staff have received the knowledge and skills required to consistently deliver the high standards of hospitality and service expected of a four-star hotel. 

 

The Tourism NI assessment found that from the initial booking through to arrival, dinner, breakfast and departure, “the guest journey was consistently of a high standard” with staff “warm, welcoming, attentive and genuinely engaged”. 

 

David Roberts, Director of Destination Development at Tourism NI, said: “Tourism NI is delighted to award the Ivanhoe Hotel a four-star grading. 

 

“Through significant investment, outstanding design, a strong commitment to staff development and the delivery of genuine family hospitality, the Ivanhoe has created an exceptional visitor experience and is well positioned for continued success in the years ahead.

 

“At its heart, the Ivanhoe remains a true family-owned and operated business, with family members continuing to play an active role in the day-to-day running of the hotel. 

 

“Their passion, dedication and personal involvement are evident throughout the property and are key to the warm welcome and high standards guests experience during their stay.” 

 

Paula Keane, General Manager at Ivanhoe Hotel, said: “Following a £2.5 million investment in our ground floor and a further £1.5 million investment in our bedrooms, our ambition was to achieve four-star status for the Ivanhoe Hotel.  

 

“We're grateful to Tourism Northern Ireland for the guidance and support that helped us reach this standard. 

 

“We're incredibly proud of this achievement and remain committed to constantly elevating both the hotel and the service we deliver. We look forward to welcoming guests to the reimagined Ivanhoe Hotel to experience it for themselves.” 

 

The Tourism NI Quality Grading Scheme is a mark of distinction and gives visitors a clear idea of the standards of accommodation, service and cleanliness that they can expect during their stay.    

 

The scheme is open to hotels, guest houses, B&Bs, self-catering, hostels and guest accommodation with businesses capable of achieving a grade of up to five stars.   

 

Further information about the Quality Grading Scheme is available at Tourist Accommodation Quality Grading Scheme