www.lux-review.com Page 39 LUXlife 2022 Resorts & Retreats Awards After the turbulence of the past few years and the rush of daily life, an escape to the Northern Irish countryside sounds idyllic. Tucked away near the town of Banbridge, Co. Down, is a unique accommodation option that is surrounded by Georgian and Neolithic history, woodland, and a spectacular lake. Indeed, Loughbrickland Courtyard is nestled amongst a setting that invokes relaxation and a sense of freedom, providing a tranquil retreat into rural Ireland. John Henry Whyte and his wife Jean inherited the estate in 1972, and they quickly set about preserving the beauty of the buildings and the grounds. One of the couple’s main projects came in the form of converting the Coach-House into two self-contained cottages which they then named after the adjoining town lands. The cottages – Lisnagade and Coolnacran – have proven their popularity amongst tourists, steadily cultivating a loyal clientele with many returning year upon year. Whilst both cottages feature plush bedding, bright living quarters, and kitchen facilities, Coolnacran comes with the added benefit of accessibility. Loughbrickland Courtyard welcomes guests of all abilities and, therefore, it was hugely important for the business to provide such accommodation. The Coolnacran cottage has three double/ensuite bedrooms, one of which is on the ground floor with a ‘wet-room’ style bathroom which is accessible to guests with mobility issues and wheelchair users. Emphasis on customer service, however, does not end there. Evelyn Robb, who manages Loughbrickland Courtyard with Jean History, nature, and comfort combine at Loughbrickland Courtyard. Home to two selfcontained cottages, with one being accessible to those with mobility issues, the accommodation serves as the perfect place to relax and take in the scenic views of rural Northern Ireland. Jun22369 Loughbrickland Courtyard Best SelfCatering Cottage Accommodation - County Down Whyte, guides each guest as they make their booking, meets them on arrival, and is there to answer their questions and always give them information if needed. Furthermore, each visiting group is treated to a bespoke ‘Welcome Basket’ complete with fresh, home-baked wheaten bread and other goodies, along with milk, juice, tea coffee, sugar, salt, and other basic necessities. The cottages, which opened their doors in 2007, provide a comfortable base for those who plan to explore the local vicinity. From hiking in the Mourne Mountains to Belfast’s Titanic Exhibition, there truly is an activity suited to everyone. Also among the attractions at the location are the ‘Woodland Walk’ (1.45Kms) and the ‘Boundary Trail’ (2.15Kms) managed in partnership with Armagh Banbridge and Craigavon Council which lead the walker around the estate through ancient woodlands and more open vistas across the countryside. The Boundary Trail ventures into prehistory as it traverses two historic ring-forts or raths (Coolnacran Fort and Johnston’s Fort). It has been accredited as a ‘Short distance quality walk’ by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board. Some guests may choose to venture further afield, undertaking a two-hour drive to explore Giant’s Causeway, a place that has inspired art, science, and the imaginations of those that visit. Moreover, since April 2022, Loughbrickland Courtyard has had the additional attraction of the studio and locations tour for the popular series Game of Thrones in nearby Banbridge, just 2 miles away. The aforementioned elements have transformed Loughbrickland Courtyard into a premium source of accommodation for those journeying into County Down. This is, in part, due to its devotion to its guests; the business strives to provide visitors with an exceptional experience from the minute they book through to the end of their stay. Henceforth, a significant amount of work goes into maintaining not only the customer service aspect, but also into the upkeep of the grounds. ‘We are continuously undertaking Further Professional Development courses offered by the local Tourist Office and by the national Tourism organisation to enable us to better understand the business and keep upgrading our offering,’ Jean explains. ‘We have a schedule of annual or in some instances twice-yearly refurbishment accompanied by deep-cleaning and redecorating where necessary. And of course, we are fully compliant with all the requirements of the Tourist Board in relation to Fire Safety, the servicing of gas and electrical appliances, and alarms.’ Going forwards, Loughbrickland Courtyard will be continuing to undergo constant evolution in order to continue providing an impressive service to its guests. It has a steady stream of clients booking in throughout the end of 2022 – and its understandable why. With lovely walks, scenic surroundings, and accessible cottages, the Loughbrickland Courtyard and its charming accommodation makes for the perfect escape into rural bliss. Contact: Jean Whyte Company: Loughbrickland Courtyard Web Address: loughbricklandcourtyard.com/
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTQxNTg3MQ==