I visited one of world’s best golf courses on stunning estate with luxury rooms, afternoon tea, spa & art galleries

HOT on the heels of The Open in Portrush last month, golf fans can swap the greens for galleries, art, and a luxury hotel experience in Rory McIlroy’s hometown of Holywood, on the outskirts of Belfast.

The five-star Culloden Estate and Spa is ideally located as a base from which to visit Belfast with its many attractions.

4

4

4

And if you are a golf enthusiast, you are perfectly situated to visit and play some of the best courses in the world, including, of course, Portrush.

Alternatively, if you simply want to relax and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the Culloden Estate, you can stay in the hotel, which was the official palace for the Bishops of Down in the 18th century.

The property still retains some magnificent stained glass windows and many of its original features, such as ornate ceilings and fireplaces.

Situated atop Holywood Hill overlooking Belfast Lough and the Co Antrim coastline, you can sip a glass of wine or a signature cocktail on the terrace, watching the ships, including ferries to Scotland, sail past.

With 12 acres of secluded gardens, a palatial spa, three restaurants, and my personal favourite – the Bollinger Garden – you can walk, relax, and enjoy the unique experience that is Culloden.

This month, until August 31, there is even more on offer as Art and Soul has returned to the hotel, showcasing works from some of the most celebrated Irish and international artists, including Ian Pollock, Eamonn Ceannt, Giacinto Bosco, Bob Quinn, Paddy Campbell, Sandra Bell, and John Fitzgerald.

Iconic names from the international art world include Andy Warhol, Damien Hirst, Julian Opie, Salvador Dalí, and even Banksy.

Their works will be displayed at the Culloden Estate & Spa in Rory McIlroy’s hometown of Holywood from July 27 to August 31.

Among this year’s highlights is a playful nod to golf through Patrick O’Reilly’s much-loved bronze bear sculptures, including Caddy Bear and Beyond the Rough.

I must say Patrick’s bears are simply gorgeous, my favourite being the well-worn and much-loved Teddy, similar to those many of us cherished during childhood.

New to the exhibition this year are works by internationally acclaimed sculptors Philip Jackson, Sophie Ryder, Matteo Lo Greco, Michael Ayrton, and Lorenzo Quinn.

I particularly loved artist Anna McKeever’s wonderful paintings. Chatting to her, it is very clear she loves painting, so much so that she gave up her career as a psychiatrist to focus on her art.

Thankfully, her brave move paid off, as her work is highly sought after by collectors.

OUTDOOR SCULPTURES

Hosted by Gormley’s Fine Art, the exhibition features over 250 pieces, with the larger outdoor sculptures displayed throughout the Culloden’s gardens overlooking Belfast Lough.

These consistently rank among the most popular attractions.

Even if you are not staying at the Culloden, you are more than welcome to visit and wander around the exhibits.

Enjoy a meal in the fabulous restaurant or pop down to the Bollinger Garden, where you can sit in beautiful surroundings with a glass of Bolly.

You can be sure that General Manager Cormac Fadden and his excellent team at the Culloden will do everything possible to make your visit a truly special experience.

Oliver Gormley of Gormleys Fine Art said: “Holywood is home to Rory McIlroy and one of Ireland’s most iconic hotels — the perfect setting to showcase some of the most celebrated artists of our time.

Art and Soul offers a unique opportunity to enjoy world-class art in an extraordinary setting, and with The Open taking place just up the road in Portrush, it’s a fantastic time to visit Northern Ireland.”

This marks Gormleys’ thirteenth major art and sculpture event, with the Culloden Estate & Spa hosting the exhibition for over a decade.

‘TRULY SPECIAL’

Howard Hastings, Chairman of the Culloden Estate & Spa, said: “Art and Soul brings something truly special to the Culloden.

“We’re thrilled to welcome guests to explore this exceptional celebration of creativity and culture in one of the most beautiful settings in Ireland.”

As part of the experience, the Culloden is offering a specially curated Art and Soul Afternoon Tea, alongside daily guided tours of the exhibition.

Supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council, Art and Soul is free to attend and open to the public daily from 11am to 7pm. Luxury overnight stays with breakfast are available starting from £243 (approx. €285) per person sharing.

More information about tour bookings and overnight stays can be found at cullodenestateandspa.com and gormleys.ie.

4