The Templepatrick venue was the only one in NI to be recognised at the glittering ceremony at Grosvenor House in London, hosted by TV presenter Gabby Logan, which celebrates the UK’s top hotels, restaurants and bars across 26 categories.
Having opened its doors in the summer of 2020, the 33-bedroom boutique hotel and spa has been dramatically transformed to include a £2 million Relaxation Burrow spa area, boasting unique attractions including a Swedish sauna, an aromatherapy steam room, halotherapy salt chamber, Roman inspired bath and even a heated lakeside beach, complete with a Lake Bar.
The Relaxation Burrow, coupled with the hotel’s unique banqueting suite and stunning wedding venue - The Loft - has seen the Rabbit quickly gain a reputation as a laid-back and luxurious location.
Alderman Ross said:
“I am thrilled that the Rabbit Hotel & Retreat has been recognised for offering a top-class hospitality experience in the Borough, beating off stiff competition from other venues across Northern Ireland. I know how much hard work has gone in to the redevelopment of this location and it has certainly paid off.
“With its stunning and unique lakeside location, its close proximity to Belfast and also to Belfast international Airport, the hotel is ideally placed to offer an outstanding experience to guests. Well done to all the team at the Rabbit Hotel on their success.”
The Council continues to work closely with the hotel as one of the Borough’s leading hospitality venues.
Lynsey Gordon, General Manager at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat said she was “proud and honoured” by the recognition at the AA Hospitality Awards 2022.
She added: “This is a fantastic endorsement of all the hard work that has gone into the extensive redevelopment at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat.
“This award reinforces our unwavering commitment to delivering an outstanding experience and recognises our team's talents, dedication and efforts. We are incredibly grateful to all our guests for their support and we look forward to creating many more memory-making moments at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat.”