Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel & Lodges

The spa was a real treat, with a steam room, sauna, jacuzzis and water features that made for a relaxing visit. We also ate well in the restaurant. The menu wasn’t huge, but there were good options; we shared a burger along with several starters and sides, and the seafood chowder was especially good. We stayed one night on a B&B basis in a Lakeview room with a balcony. The view was lovely, though the rain kept us from using the balcony much. Inside, the room and hotel were clean, warm and nicely finished. Being cosy indoors made the awful weather easier to enjoy. We’re looking forward to coming back.

The evening meal was the highlight. The restaurant food was really tasty, though expensive, and £15 for two pints of coke was diabolical. The hotel grounds were beautiful, and we were lucky to see them in the snow. The cleaners were friendly too. We’d booked two nights as our first spa stop on a road trip around NI, but came away disappointed. The beds were incredibly uncomfortable, and we both woke with bad backs. Our room faced the car park, where there was noise from Belfast Road and people coming and going. The spa was only okay compared with others we’ve tried. The leisure facility receptionist was very frosty. We were told we needed swim hats to use the pool and had to buy them for £2 each, then couldn’t swim because children were playing ball games. Breakfast was included, but the quality was poor. I’d suggest trying a different nearby spa.

It was lovely to meet and chat with Aidan, though I missed seeing Mo. Special mention to Anne Marie and Jackie. The rooms and beds were arranged really well, and as always, the staff gave us an exceptional welcome. We can’t wait for our next yearly visit.

Studio 10 was beautiful, with stunning views of the lake, but the bed felt like lying on a brick. I woke at 2am and couldn’t get back to sleep. All the doors are wooden and stiff, so they were noisy. Breakfast cost £36, and the room was hectic, with people setting and clearing tables while customers tried to get their food. It felt like an obstacle course. I can imagine the outside being beautiful for special occasions.