Words Mark Jackson originally published in the Irish Daily Mail January 2025
Arriving in the cosy town of Crawfordsburn is like stepping into the pages of a book. We were greeted by a clear blue sky casting a soft glow over its white-walled cottages – a scene that perfectly set the tone for what lay ahead. Just a mere 15 minutes from the lively streets of Belfast and a stone’s throw from the breezy seaside charm of Bangor, this enchanting village feels like stepping back in time. At its heart stands The Old Inn, a haven of rustic elegance with a history as rich as its atmosphere. Originally built in 1614 as a coaching inn, this timeless gem invites you to relax, indulge, and soak up the charm of days gone by.
Perched above the lush expanse of Crawfordsburn Country Park, the Treetop Spa offers a breathtaking view of the landscape that gently winds its way down to the cosy inlet at Helen’s Bay. Down by the beach, birdwatchers can marvel at herrings, guillemots, and, in winter, the graceful presence of brent geese. This colourful park is alive with nature including rabbits, badgers, and hedgehogs that make their home here. It’s a veritable Narnia of sorts and if luck is on your side, you might spot more than wildlife along the tranquil trails. It’s little wonder that literary genius C.S. Lewis chose this enchanting location to celebrate his honeymoon here with his wife Joy in July 1958. The cottage where they stayed is part of The Old Inn and attached to the spa.
The Old Inn itself is steeped in history, standing proudly along one of Ireland’s most ancient highways, once connecting Holywood Priory to the Abbey at Bangor and established in the 6th century. Legend even whispers that the infamous highwayman Dick Turpin sought refuge here while hiding out in Ireland. With such a vibrant history, The Old Inn is as much a storyteller as it is a sanctuary.
Stepping through the doors of The Old Inn, we were greeted with the comforting glow of a crackling fire but also the warmth of its staff. From the very first welcome at check-in, where they thoughtfully guided us through the hotel’s charming nooks and facilities, to the seamless way they anticipated every need on entering the spa or the dining room. It’s this unwavering attention to detail that makes The Old Inn feel less like a hotel and more like a home away from home.
Our room was a perfect blend of comfort and character spacious, inviting, and effortlessly luxurious. A mix of modern elegance and antiquated charm, it featured eccentric wallpaper and decorative panelling on the ceiling, adding a touch of whimsy to the space. The freestanding bath was a delightful novelty, turning even the simplest moments into an indulgence. And at the heart of it all, the king-sized bed promised a night of pure relaxation. But first it was time to slip into the bathrobes and flip flops.
The Old Inn’s spa is a true retreat for the senses and easily one of the most impressive I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing. Just a few hours here would have been enough to make the trip worthwhile. Mother Nature was on our side, blessing us with crisp, fresh air and the perfect contrast to the soothing warmth of the spacious Roman bath. Along the sides QR codes are placed, allowing us to order drinks without getting out of the water. As steam curled into the cool breeze and our glasses were handed to us, the moment felt almost magical.
Beyond the inviting jacuzzi, the spa offers a tranquil escape with its steam room, sauna, and a serene relaxation lounge that gazes out over the treetops of Crawfordsburn Country Park. It’s a place where time slows, and every breath feels like a luxury, the perfect setting for a romantic getaway.
Dining at The Old Inn was a feast for both the eyes and palate. The menu offered a diverse selection of dishes to suit every taste and crafted using local ingredients. Any questions about the dishes were met with enthusiasm, as the staff provided thoughtful, imaginative recommendations that only heightened the anticipation of each dish. We eventually settled on the venison with savoy cabbage and Atlantic Cod with mussels. This was washed down with delicious cocktails – the Coconut Margarita being a favourite.
After dinner, the hotel’s 1614 Bar provided the ideal setting to linger a little longer. The warm glow of the space, paired with the soulful sound of a live singer strumming his guitar, created an atmosphere that was both intimate and lively. With the hum of conversation, the clink of glasses, and music filling the air, it was the perfect way to end an unforgettable evening.
Factbox
To make a booking go to www.theoldinn.com or call 00442891853255
The old in is a member of Ireland’s Blue Book and vouchars are redeemable here
- From £280 per room
- Overnight stay
- Access to the Treetop Spa from 12 noon on day of check-in to check-out
- Three-course evening meal
- Full Irish breakfast
Dinner, Bed and Breakfast with Spa Treatment
- From £470 per room
- Overnight stay
- Access to the Treetop Spa from 12 noon on day of check-in to check-out
- Three-course evening meal
- Full Irish breakfast
- 60-minute spa treatment – launching 1st February (please see further info on these bespoke treatments here).
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