Roe Valley Resort to be among ‘NI’s most sought-after resorts’

Roe Valley Resort is set for a transformative future as Galgorm Collection embarks on a major £22 million redevelopment of the Limavady-based destination.

With a £5 million investment already underway this year, the redevelopment of Roe Valley aims to enhance the resort’s appeal to families, golfers, and luxury travellers alike. Nestled beside the stunning Roe Valley Country Park, the resort will debut a range of new family-friendly attractions this summer, along with the opening of Galgorm’s acclaimed Italian restaurant, Fratelli. Future development phases will introduce a luxurious adult-only spa, a new bar, and upgrades to the resort’s PGA-standard 18-hole golf course.

This significant investment is part of a wider vision that also includes plans to develop a landmark £30 million championship links golf course at Bellarena on Northern Ireland’s breathtaking north west coast.

Following Galgorm’s £28 million acquisition of Roe Valley Resort and Galgorm Castle Estate last November, the company has committed to a multi-year investment strategy designed to unlock the full potential of these landmark properties and drive long-term growth.

Colin Johnston, Managing Director of Galgorm Collection, underscores the importance of Roe Valley in the group’s future plans:
“This transformation builds on Roe Valley’s strong heritage and outstanding offerings to position it as one of Northern Ireland’s most sought-after resorts for both local and international visitors.”

In tandem with Roe Valley’s redevelopment, Galgorm Collection is also setting its sights on the creation of the first championship links course in Northern Ireland in over a century. The proposed Bellarena Golf Links, located between Portrush and Limavady within the spectacular Causeway Coast and Glens.

Galgorm Collection managing director, Colin Johnston, said:
“Our exciting plans to develop a new 18-hole links golf course at Bellarena on Northern Ireland’s stunning north west coast will deliver a once-in-generation opportunity to drive a new era of golfing and tourism success that will amplify our outstanding and award-winning credentials while also creating hundreds of jobs.

“Preparatory work is already well under way that could pave the way for development from next year before we welcome our first guests in 2029. We look forward to consulting widely on our plans and engaging stakeholders at every level to ensure collective, shared success for the local community, the north west region and Northern Ireland as a whole.”

Subject to planning approval, work on Bellarena is expected to begin next year, with a planned opening in 2029. Altogether, Galgorm’s investment in the north west will reach approximately £65 million, creating an estimated 300 new jobs and acting as a catalyst for further tourism growth in the region.

“TLC, investment, and vision”

For Johnston, Roe Valley Resort’s potential was evident from the outset: “Our objective is to reposition Roe Valley Resort, which we believe has tremendous potential but requires careful attention, investment, and a clear vision. We envisage a three- to four-year redevelopment programme, with an investment of approximately £20 million.”

Rather than shutting the doors, the Galgorm Collection has committed to keeping the resort operational during construction. “Maintaining operations throughout the redevelopment is a challenge in itself, but the size of the property allows us to do so, which is crucial for safeguarding all existing jobs during this period,” Johnston said.

This commitment to continuity reflects a core philosophy of the Galgorm brand; prioritising people and place while creating lasting change.

A Summer for families

The summer of 2025 marks the unveiling of several new family-oriented features, including an outdoor amusement zone with a helter-skelter, bungee trampolines, mini–Land Rovers, kids’ jet skis, a bouncy castle, and slides into the family pool.

Charlotte McClean reinforced the motivation behind the family-focused direction: “The introduction of family-oriented attractions aligns with the seasonal demand and local demographics, addressing the previous lack of dedicated children’s facilities beyond the main play park.”

The investment reflects a wider strategy to tap into a market that has often been underserved- the luxury family traveller. “We identified a gap in the luxury family market on the island of Ireland, particularly in Northern Ireland, and this redevelopment aims to meet that unmet demand,” McClean said.

Two experiences, one resort

Roe Valley Resort will also cater to adult guests with new spa facilities that, when complete, will provide an oasis of relaxation, separated from the bustling family zones. “The adult-only spa will offer a sanctuary for relaxation, complete with a swimming pool, swim-up bar, and all the amenities for which we are renowned. This approach allows us to serve two distinct markets: families and adult leisure guests, each enjoying tailored experiences within the same resort.”

Charlotte agreed: “Our goal is to create distinct spaces within the resort, allowing all guests to enjoy their preferred experience, whether family-focused activities or adult leisure.”

This segmentation is essential for delivering what Johnston refers to as “personalised luxury.” “Luxury today isn’t about one-size-fits-all,” he said. “It’s about giving guests the experience they want – whether that’s a family with young kids or a couple seeking peace and quiet.”

The resort’s redevelopment will also see the introduction of a new, dedicated Garden Pavilion ceremony space, set to open in spring 2026. This glass-fronted venue will be nestled within Roe Valley Resort’s historic walled garden, offering a light-filled setting for civil ceremonies, with views of Binevenagh and access to landscaped grounds. While the resort has long been a popular choice for both ceremonies and receptions – with a range of adaptable event spaces – the addition of a purpose-built ceremony venue gives couples the opportunity to celebrate their entire day in one bespoke location.

Designed with both convenience and atmosphere in mind, the Garden Pavilion will provide a seamless transition from ceremony to celebration, all within the same picturesque setting. Flower-lined paths, a graceful bridge over a tranquil pond, a striking fountain and woodland trails of majestic trees offer natural photography backdrops. The new venue complements Roe Valley Resort’s one-wedding-a-day model, offering a distinct ceremony space while maintaining the sense of exclusivity and personalised experience the resort is known for…

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