The latest new hotel investment on the north coast has been completed ahead of next year’s Open Championship at Royal Portrush.
Black Rock Hotels, the owner of Leighinmohr House in Ballymena, has officially announced the opening of Gray’s at Bushmills.
Formerly known as The Smugglers Inn, the property was put up for sale last year following the retirement of Joe and Jenny McLaughlin, who ran the business for a quarter of a century.
Its new owner, entrepreneur Adrian Fullan, completed an investment programme backed by Ulster Bank in recent months.
His hospitality company Black Rock Hotels has rebranded the 17-bed boutique hotel on the Antrim coast, naming it in honour of his late grandmother, Ellen Gray.
The individually-styled rooms are complemented by a brasserie, led by executive head chef Simon Turner.
Mr Fullan said his longer term plans for boutique hotel will provide an economic boost for the area.
He said the business currently employs almost 40 people, which will continue to grow as it expands its hospitality offering.
“This is a significant new chapter for Black Rock Hotels as we expand our footprint and we’re looking forward to unlocking the full potential of the newly rebranded Gray’s at Bushmills.”
The hotel sector on the north coast has witnessed significant change and investment over the past year.
Three new hotel projects are in development in Portrush ahead of The Open’s return in 2025.
Andras House is investing £11 million in the new Marcus Hotel, while the five star Dunluce Lodge is due to open this autumn following a £16.5m investment.
The 28-bed Adelphi Hotel has also closed in the centre of Portrush, with US investor AJ Capital Partners due to reopen it next year under its exclusive Marine & Lawn golf hotel brand.
Meanwhile, the four-star Roe Park hotel and golf resort in Limavady went up for sale last month with a £14m asking price.
Ulster Bank senior relationship manager Davina Kerr said: “We’re very pleased to help Adrian acquire this long-established business.
“Tourism is vitally important to the local economy in Northern Ireland and Adrian’s vision, along with his proven expertise in the hospitality industry, will no doubt make a significant contribution to the tourism offering in the area for domestic and international visitors alike.”
