Tourism NI awards four stars to renovated Armagh property with historic charm

 (L-R) Alison Leslie, Quality Assurance Manager at Tourism NI with Carly Duff, owner of 31 Lower English that has been awarded four stars by the Tourism NI Quality Grading Scheme.  

31 Lower English, a two-bedroom property with views of St Patrick’s Cathedral, received the grading following an assessment by the Tourism NI Quality Grading Scheme. 

Owners Carly and Padraig Duff carried out a full renovation of the property last year, creating a “very tastefully styled” home and “a peaceful, relaxing space for guests”.

Accommodating up to five guests, the property features a king-size bed in the master bedroom and a bunk bed in the second bedroom, designed with a playful Lego theme for children.

The Tourism NI assessment highlighted the quality of the master bedroom, which features “superb natural light”, as well as the vintage and “extravagant style” of the bathroom featuring accessories and products that “will exceed expectations”.

Alison Leslie, Quality Assurance Manager at Tourism NI, said: “Tourism NI is delighted to award a four-star accommodation grade to this wonderful two-story home right in the heart of Armagh city centre.

“Fully renovated in 2025, it is within walking distance to local pubs, restaurants, shops, and other local amenities and enjoys a picturesque view of St Patrick’s Cathedral.

“The significant work and the attention to detail carried out on this property has created a home that is tastefully styled with the superior quality décor and furnishings creating a peaceful, relaxing space for guests.

“We wish Carly and Padraig the very best with this wonderful property.”

Owner Carly Duff said: “This four-star grading truly reflects the attention to detail, quality of materials, and high standards for service that we aimed for in creating 31 Lower English and that we've worked hard to maintain since opening.

“It's incredibly rewarding and humbling to have those efforts recognised in this way.

“This past year, we’ve sincerely enjoyed welcoming visitors from across Ireland and further afield, and we are so grateful to all of the guests who have stayed with us as well as the local community who has supported us on this venture.”

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 Tourism NI Quality Grading Scheme is available at Tourist Accommodation Quality Grading Scheme