The Marcus Portrush to inject £1.6 million into the local economy

A new chapter in Portrush’s history unfolds in May 2025 with the opening of The Marcus Portrush.

This £11 million investment, part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection and managed by Andras House, restores a historic site in the heart of the coastal town. With the 153rd Open Championship returning to Royal Portrush, the timing couldn’t be better.

The hotel occupies the former Londonderry and Osborne Hotels site, undergoing extensive planning and conservation efforts. General Manager Heather Welsh noted: “We’ve worked tirelessly with conservation specialists to preserve key architectural features, such as the lovingly restored mosaic flooring, stained glass bedroom windows, and the original Londonderry Hotel facade.”

Welsh’s career spans 11 years in hospitality management. “I worked in hospitality as a student… now about 11 years into hospitality management within branded properties,” she said. She joined Andras House two and a half years ago and embraced the chance to lead The Marcus. “It teams the branded hospitality background that I have with my experience growing up in a small coastal town.”

Unlike standard Hilton designs, The Marcus embraces local character. “Each Tapestry hotel tells a story,” Welsh explained. “The Marcus embodies a sense of adventure and nostalgia, capturing childhood memories of Portrush holidays.”

The Marcus will feature 80 boutique-style rooms, a resident-only gym, and high-end dining. Its restaurant will offer Pan-Asian cuisine with local ingredients. “We wanted to create something different…think prime Northern Irish beef with a teriyaki twist,” Welsh noted.

Predicted to inject £1.6 million into the local economy, The Marcus will cater to golf tourists and create up to 70 jobs. The fully electric, carbon-neutral property aims for Green Tourism accreditation. “There will be no fossil fuels on-site,” Welsh confirmed.

Welsh summed up the hotel’s mission: “We’re not just opening a hotel; we’re contributing to Portrush’s future as a premier tourist destination.”

Make sure to check out our upcoming digital magazine to read full interview with Heather Welsh.