Details of the internal and external plans to expand the property's award-winning facilities, which were named as the 'Best Place to Stay' in Northern Ireland for 2024 by The Times and Sunday Times, were shown to the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, Councillor Neil Kelly, at an exclusive behind the scenes visit.
Currently boasting 33 stylish guest rooms, the boutique hotel's new additions will bring the new total to 50 and will form as part of a new courtyard of accommodation, blending effortlessly into the hotel's already eye-catching accommodation.
These rooms will be available for use from Friday, 6 December. Furthermore, this will allow for 14 additional jobs, elevating The Rabbit's workforce to 150.
"I warmly welcome the jobs announcement and accommodation expansion plans shared by The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat, which highlight their unwavering commitment to providing employment opportunities in our borough, and to elevating the hospitality experience for both visitors and locals alike," said Mayor Kelly.
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"The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat has consistently demonstrated strong leadership in the hospitality industry within Antrim and Newtownabbey, and we look forward to seeing the latest development come to completion in December."
Meanwhile, Tiarnan O’Neill, Galgorm Collection Group Finance Director, said: "It was a privilege to welcome the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly to be among the first to see the plans for the 17 new bedrooms currently in development at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat.
"This £2.5 million investment underscores our commitment to continuously evolve and elevate our guest experience, while also creating valuable job opportunities for the local area."
He added: "We’re proud to contribute to the regional economy and boost tourism in the area, attracting visitors from across the island and beyond to experience the very best that Northern Ireland has to offer."
Guests can expect the same luxurious amenities in the new guest rooms as per the rest of the hotel, including Dyson hairdryers, retro Swan kettles, bluetooth speakers and for the one 'Luxe' room that complements the 16 other 'Comfy' rooms, an indulgent free-standing bath.
The Galgorm Collection purchased The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat in 2019, which has to date received a £12 million facelift – including an array of additions and refurbishments.
"The hotel has been the subject of significant investment since its acquisition by Galgorm Collection in 2019 and we are incredibly proud of the dramatic transformation that has been realised across the site," said Lynsey Gordon, Associate Director at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat.
"The extensive redevelopment – a result of our team's talents, dedication and efforts coupled with the unwavering support of our guests – has seen the hotel rightfully recognised both nationally and internationally as offering an outstanding experience to guests.
"With proposals agreed and contractors on site, I'm delighted to confirm that our 17 new bedrooms will be finished by the start of December this year and we look forward to welcoming our first guests just in time for the busy festive season."
For more information please visit rabbithotel.com.
