Rabbit Hotel to add 46 bedrooms and boost spa facilities

Plans have been approved to extend an award-winning hotel and spa in Northern Ireland.

The approved plans for The Rabbit Hotel and Retreat on the Antrim Road in Templepatrick include a 46-bedroom extension, enhanced spa and leisure facilities, alongside dedicated parking and garden areas. It represents a substantial £8million investment from the Galgorm Group.

This significant development builds upon Galgorm Collection’s previous investment of £2.5million in the hotel, which saw the establishment of the spa, refurbishment of bar and restaurant facilities, enhancement of banqueting and conference amenities, and upgrading of existing bedrooms.

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council approved the plans, and highlighted that the expansion will deliver a range of economic benefits for the area. This includes an anticipated 30,000 additional visitor stays per year, the creation of 30 new employment opportunities, construction jobs during the construction phase, and a boost in business for local supply chains.

Chairperson of the Planning Committee, Councillor Robert Foster commented: “This latest planned investment from the Galgorm Group underscores their commitment to enhancing tourism infrastructure within our Borough.

“The extension to The Rabbit Hotel promises not only to elevate the hospitality experience for visitors but also to stimulate economic growth and employment opportunities in the region.”