Ballygally Castle in Northern Ireland’s is marking its 400th anniversary with a major investment of almost €485,000 (£400,000).
The latest refurbishment, due for completion later this month, comes ahead of a year-long programme of events and festivities set to take place at the hotel throughout 2025.
“We are delighted to mark 400 years of Ballygally Castle," said Howard Hastings, Chairman of Hastings Hotels. "This unique property, steeped in history, is the jewel in the crown of Hastings Hotels and continues to go from strength to strength.”
Ballygally Castle remains Northern Ireland’s only 17th-century building still in use as a residence today. Built in 1625 by Scottish settler James Shaw, Ballygally Castle has stood for four centuries as a coastal stronghold, family home, and now a distinguished hotel.
The castle remained in the Shaw family until the early 1800s before being sold to the Agnew family for £15,400 (approx. €18,600).
It passed through several owners before entrepreneur Cyril Lord transformed it into a hotel in the early 1950s.
The late Sir William Hastings then acquired the property in 1966 for £40,000. (approx. €48,000), beginning a legacy of continuous investment and preservation.
“My father purchased the hotel almost 60 years ago, and since then, we have continued to invest significantly to provide an unforgettable visitor experience – from our stunning coastal location and luxurious accommodation to exceptional dining and, of course, our famous friendly resident ghost, Lady Isabella," said Howard Hastings.
“We have a brilliant team of 60 employees who are at the heart of Ballygally Castle, and the hotel continues to be a significant economic driver, contributing over £1.6 million (approx. €1.9 million) to the local economy annually, while attracting visitors from across Northern Ireland and around the world.”
Over the past six decades, Hastings Hotels has invested almost €9.7 million (£8 million) in the property.
As part of the latest investment, Hastings Hotels has renovated 18 Coastal Rooms and the Antrim Suite, incorporating new carpets along with refreshed fabrics and furnishings.
The castle’s exclusive private dining space, the 1625 Room, has been upgraded, and the lounge has also been enhanced.
“We are excited to celebrate 400 years of our castle on the coast and have put together a special programme of events to mark this momentous occasion," said Scott Weatherup, general manager of Ballygally Castle.
“Our calendar includes a murder mystery event, a community BBQ, and exclusive celebratory accommodation offers for our guests. We have also commissioned a timeline installation some of the historic global events from the past four centuries."
