Slieve Donard.
Photo: Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts
Hotel of the Week: This Northern Irish Retreat Is the Perfect Holiday Escape
Nestled at the foot of the Mountains of Mourne, the historic Slieve Donard has just unveiled a massive renovation
The redbrick Victorian landmark overlooks the Irish Sea. Photo: Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts
Luxury golf meets magnificent architecture at Marine & Lawn’s latest property, Slieve Donard, which occupies a monumental redbrick Victorian landmark overlooking the Irish Sea. Located in the ruggedly beautiful Mourne Gullion Strangford region, recently named a UNESCO Global Geopark, the 19th-century manor just got a facelift courtesy of its new owners, who paid homage to the local heritage by layering the 180 guest rooms with tartan rugs, choice antiques, and hand-carved crests. Among the amenities are a quartet of dining destinations, a state-of-the-art gym, and a two-story spa—all of which are located next to the famed Royal County Down Golf Club, one of Northern Ireland’s oldest and most esteemed courses.
The storied retreat is especially magical Christmastime thanks to its signature adventure called Santa’s Polar Express, which runs every 20 minutes from December 9 to 21. A perfect family activity, the festive event allows visitors to ride a special holiday train to Santa’s workshop and explore the hotel’s winter wonderland that includes story time with Mrs. Claus, letter-writing with the elves, Christmas movies, and of course meeting Santa himself.
See more photos of the newly revamped hotel below.
The exterior of Slieve Donard during the holiday season. Photo: Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts
The Polar Express experience at Slieve Donard. Photo: Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts
Meeting Santa is a huge draw during the holidays at Slieve Donard. Photo: Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts
JJ Farrell's. Photo: Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts
The lobby of Slieve Donard. Photo: Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts
The guest rooms feature hand-carved wooden crests. Photo: Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts
One of the revamped guest rooms. Photo: Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts
Wolf Bar. Photo: Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts
Percy French pub. Photo: Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts
Cover: Slieve Donard.
Photo: Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts
