This fine four star hotel is just a couple of miles south of Londonderry, beautifully set in 32 acres of peaceful woodland, waterfalls and gardens.
Built in 1729, the house has retained many of its original details and it is an ideal destination for anyone who enjoys being in restful surroundings and yet close to the city. In additon to the genuine hospitality for which it is renowned, the lovely gardens and woodlands are the main attraction for many and, as well as 6km of woodland trails, there are picnic areas for fine weather and a new outdoor gazebo and terrace at the main pond area.
Having been in the care of the famously hands-on proprietor, Patsy O'Kane, since 1991, Beech Hill came into new ownership in 2018 when it was purchased by the team behind the terrific House Gastropub in Donegal Town, Barry and Adam Kemp, and Sam Harding. A happy outcome for Beech Hill and its many fans, as the established team remains in place under Patsy's nephew Conor Donnelly, who is General Manager - and the energetic new owners wasted no time in making some welcome changes, notably the addition of an new casual dining destination the Sixteen 22 gastrobar, in the cellars.
Echoing the success of their gastropub in Donegal, this atmospheric venue has multi-generational appeal and makes Beech Hill House an attractive destination for informal outings as well as the special occasions that have long been a favourite with local customers.
Other public rooms include a comfortable drawing room, a fine restaurant (in what was originally the snooker room, now extended into a conservatory overlooking the gardens) and, unusually, a private chapel, now used for meetings, private parties or small weddings.
Further changes will come gradually, but the hotel has always been well maintained and the comfortable bedrooms, while varying in size and outlook - some are quite grand and many overlook the gardens - are all thoughtfully furnished with the antiques that Mrs O’Kane loved to collect, and the ethos of warm hopsitality continues, so each guest always feels personally welcome.
Dogs have always been welcome at Beech Hill too, making this the perfect destination for anyone travelling in the region with their pet.
Public rooms include a good-sized bar, a fine restaurant (in what was originally the snooker room, later extended into a conservatory overlooking the gardens) and, unusually, a private chapel, now used for meetings, private parties or small weddings.
American visitors, especially, will be interested to know that US Marines had their headquarters here in World War II and an informative small museum of the US Marine Friendship Association is housed within the hotel.
*Beech Hill is understandably popular for weddings; private guests are advised to check if there is a wedding expected during their stay, as it may affect dining arrangements and the atmosphere in the hotel.
The Ardmore Restaurant:
The restaurant is a very attractive feature of this charming hotel; it is elegantly appointed and well-positioned, overlooking gardens and water features (a particularly pleasant outlook at breakfast time).
Frequently changed menus are led by seasonal availability of produce in the walled garden (see below) and other local supplies - including Lough Foyle oysters, which are a speciality .The house cooking style is modern classic with a strong Irish twist, highlighting local and Irish artisan produce in many dishes. A separate vegetarian menu is offered - also a good value set dinner menu.
In 2013, the hotel partnered with Lady Dunleath from Ballywalter Estate to promote food heritage and the benefits of growing your own seasonal produce. The walled garden is the main focus of this project and the kitchen team has developed historical recipes from a 150 year old cook book which they have inherited. The book references the walled garden and the dishes the author could create throughout the year, so this is a fascinating excercise.
An informative, well chosen wine list includes tasting notes and some wines by the glass and locally made Northbound craft beers are available on tap.
As elsewhere in the hotel, restaurant service is warm and professional.
