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The River Bann Retreat

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Photo gallery for The River Bann Retreat

Sauna
Property video
Terrace/patio
Individually decorated, individually furnished, desk, laptop workspace
Exterior

Reviews

8.6 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Hot tub
  • Spa
  • Parking included

Explore the area

View in a map
Fisherman’s Walk, Ballymacombs Rd, Ballymena, Northern Ireland, BT44 8JX
  • Place, Heaney Brewery
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Ahoghill Park
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Place, Seamus Heaney HomePlace
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Airport, Belfast (BFS-Belfast Intl.)
    ‪45 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Luxury Cabin, 2 Bedrooms (Lodge 1)

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a TV, a clock, and a view through a glass door.

Luxury Cabin, 2 Bedrooms (Lodge 1)

  • Sleeps 6

View all photos for Deluxe Cabin, 1 Bedroom (Lodge 2)

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a TV, a clock, and a view through a glass door.

Deluxe Cabin, 1 Bedroom (Lodge 2)

  • Sleeps 5

View all photos for Superior Cabin, 1 Bedroom (Lodge 3)

A modern hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a TV, a clock, and a view through a glass door.

Superior Cabin, 1 Bedroom (Lodge 3)

  • Sleeps 5

View all photos for Deluxe Cabin, 1 Bedroom (Lodge 2)

Separate tub and shower, jetted tub, rainfall showerhead

Deluxe Cabin, 1 Bedroom (Lodge 2)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • River view
  • 450 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Luxury Cabin, 2 Bedrooms (Lodge 1)

Separate tub and shower, jetted tub, rainfall showerhead

Luxury Cabin, 2 Bedrooms (Lodge 1)

  • 500 sq ft
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 6
  • 1 King Bed, 1 Double Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Superior Cabin, 1 Bedroom (Lodge 3)

Separate tub and shower, jetted tub, rainfall showerhead

Superior Cabin, 1 Bedroom (Lodge 3)

  • 430 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Romantic Cabin, 1 Bedroom (Lodge 4)

Separate tub and shower, jetted tub, rainfall showerhead

Romantic Cabin, 1 Bedroom (Lodge 4)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 430 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Family Cabin, 1 Bedroom (Lodge 5)

Separate tub and shower, jetted tub, rainfall showerhead

Family Cabin, 1 Bedroom (Lodge 5)

  • 450 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 5
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

About the neighborhood

Ballymena

The River Bann Retreat places you within a 10-minute drive of Heaney Brewery and Seamus Heaney HomePlace. This 5-room, 5-star lodge has private in-room plunge pools along with a full-service spa and free self parking.
View more Lodges in BallymenaOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Heaney Brewery - 9 min drive - 5.0 miles
  • Ahoghill Park - 11 min drive - 6.9 miles
  • Seamus Heaney HomePlace - 12 min drive - 7.2 miles
  • Gracehill Village Old School Museum - 15 min drive - 8.6 miles
  • County Hall - 17 min drive - 11.3 miles

Getting around

  • Cullybackey Station - 18 min drive
  • Belfast International Airport (BFS) - 43 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Cosy Corner Bar - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪The Wild Duck - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Blend&Brew - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪The Conservatory - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Fratelli - ‬14 min drive

About this property

The River Bann Retreat

A full-service spa, a sauna, and free WiFi in public areas are featured at The River Bann Retreat. Free parking is available if you drive. Staff members can help with accommodation requests, and provide luggage storage. Other amenities at this luxury lodge include a hot tub, express check-in, and express check-out.
Guests can expect to find 44-inch Smart TVs with cable channels. Along with relaxing touches like rainfall showers and jetted tubs, bathrooms offer designer toiletries and slippers. Other standard amenities include private plunge pools, outdoor private hot tubs, and fireplaces.
Recreational amenities at the lodge include a hot tub and a sauna.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Guests can indulge in a pampering treatment at the lodge's full-service spa, Wellness garden. The spa is equipped with a sauna and a hot tub. The spa is open select days.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Couples/private dining
  • Private picnics

Things to do

  • Bicycle rentals
  • Bicycle storage
  • Bicycle tours
  • Fishing
  • Full-service spa
  • Hiking/biking trails
  • Hot tub
  • Mountain biking
  • Playground
  • Rowing/canoeing
  • Sauna

Family friendly

  • Dining table
  • Playground
  • Private plunge pool
  • Separate in-room dining area
  • Soundproofed rooms

Conveniences

  • Guidebooks
  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Proposal/romance packages

Business services

  • Coworking space

Outdoors

  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Picnic area
  • Terrace

Full-service spa

  • Hot tub
  • Sauna
  • Spa open select days

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Hardwood flooring in room
  • No elevator
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-width doorways

More

  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Designer toiletries
  • Jetted bathtub
  • Rainfall showerhead
  • Separate bathtub and shower
  • Slippers
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 44-inch smart TV with cable channels
  • Private plunge pool

Food and drink

  • Champagne service
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Dining table
  • Electric kettle
  • Freezer
  • Restaurant dining guides
  • Separate dining area
  • Tea bags/instant coffee
  • Toaster

More

  • Access via exterior corridors
  • Connecting rooms available
  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Fireplace
  • Heated floor
  • Heating (climate-controlled)
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Laptop workspace
  • Mobile key entry
  • Office
  • Separate sitting area
  • Soundproofed rooms

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 10:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

There is no front desk at this property
Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours will receive an email within 24 hours before arrival with check-in instructions and an access code; access will be through a private entrance
Prior to arrival, you must complete online registration via a secure link
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Access code, private entrance

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Firewood fee: GBP 10 per accommodation per night

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit/debit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and outdoor lighting
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
Checking in and out are easy with express services. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit/debit cards. Cash is not accepted.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and outdoor lighting.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions and guests can access their rooms with a mobile device.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Connecting or adjoining rooms can be requested, but all rooms are subject to availability. Contact the property using the phone number on your booking confirmation.
  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

The River Bann Retreat Lodge
The River Bann Retreat Ballymena
The River Bann Retreat Lodge Ballymena

Frequently asked questions

What's there to do close to The River Bann Retreat?

This lodge is located in Ballymena, close to Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Gracehill Village Old School Museum, and Heaney Brewery. You'll also find Ahoghill Park and Lough Beg nearby.

How much does it cost to stay at The River Bann Retreat?

As of Jul 2, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The River Bann Retreat on Jul 3, 2026 start from $360, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is there parking available at The River Bann Retreat?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the lodge. Wheelchair-accessible parking and bicycle parking are also available.

Is a spa located at The River Bann Retreat?

Wellness garden is the name of the lodge's full-service spa available for guests to enjoy. The spa is not open daily but only on select days.

Are there luxury amenities available at The River Bann Retreat?

Yes, guests can indulge in luxuries such as a private plunge pool, champagne service, and couples/private dining at this lodge.

Does The River Bann Retreat feature a casino?

No, The River Bann Retreat doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at The River Bann Retreat?

No, this lodge doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is a hot tub.

Is The River Bann Retreat a good place to stay for couples?

There are many amenities for couples at this lodge, including a private plunge pool and a private outdoor hot tub in each guestroom, and some feature river views.

Does The River Bann Retreat have a hot tub?

No, but all guestrooms at this lodge have jetted bathtubs.

Does The River Bann Retreat have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

No, The River Bann Retreat doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Does The River Bann Retreat allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at The River Bann Retreat.

Does The River Bann Retreat have connecting rooms available?

Yes, this lodge has connecting rooms you can book for your group event or vacation.

What is the closest airport to The River Bann Retreat?

The closest major airport to The River Bann Retreat is Belfast International Airport (BFS), which is 25.2 mi away (43 minutes by car). Another top airport is Londonderry (LDY-City of Derry), which is around 29.5 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies at The River Bann Retreat?

Yes, every guestroom at The River Bann Retreat comes with a furnished patio and some offer river views.

The River Bann Retreat Reviews

Reviews

8.6

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 11 out of 19 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 19 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 19 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 19 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 19 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

8.8/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Suzana

Beautiful spot, what does the room everything for
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Diana

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The accommodation was very comfortable, clean, and quiet. We enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Steven

Accomodation great but but it comes up short on privacy.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Caroline

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was lovely had what you need. It was quite cold but the weather was appalling therefore no fault of the room but I did get up at 3am and have to override the thermostat to put the radiator on. I would suggest thicker better quality towels for a 5 star rating but overall. Friendly helpful staff and spotless. Would come again and recommend to friends.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Superb

Second time staying here, can not fault the place one bit
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

5 star retreat

Took the children away for an overnighter. We all enjoyed every minute of it. Beautiful space and of course the hottub was amazing!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lauren

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

A little bit of heaven

We had a lovely couple of nights here. I was travelling with a toddler and wanted somewhere she could play outside safely. Plus the hot tub was a massive bonus and we both enjoyed a bit of relaxation time in there. The lodge was clean and comfy and had everything we could want. We will be staying here again next time we come over.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Simon

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
We were only there for 1 day but it was so relaxing for the 4 of us in our group, we feel rested and recharged, ready for the week ahead. I had emailed a request to the owners the day before we were due to arrive, the owners reply was prompt and they accomadated our request as much as possible. Thank you for a great stay.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great Getaway Experience

Great wee getaway for a couple however do not arrive an hour or 2 early thinking you can check in because you can’t. Do arrive to whatever check in time is. Not much privacy around as people are looking in. Shame the wall is front-facing opposite the hottub looking out towards the beautiful scenery as there was a lovely sunset as you would expect every night at summer term.
Stayed 1 night in May 2023
Verified

6/10 Okay

David

Modern and clean and set in a beautiful location. The lodges are well presented but small. Sleeps 6 but only one two seater sofa so the only option is to sit at the dining table or lay on the bed which is not ideal. Kitchen area is poor. Never seen accommodation like this with no oven, we bought food to cook and had to bin it.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Verified traveler

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Misrepresentation of the number of rooms

From the start, we had a bad experience with River Bann Retreat. The communication was very poor- I had to chase them to respond to emails and you can’t reach them on the phone. Our main complaint is that Lodge 1 is advertised as a 2 bedroom lodge. It in fact has only 1 bedroom, with a bed and a sofa bed in the living room /kitchen area. Our guests had to go home because it wasn’t as described. The kitchen area is not well equipped. Very defensive staff when our issue was raised about the misrepresentation of the rooms. Do not recommend.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Rules not listed, and management hard to contact.

Nice to look at, and really modern compared to some others. However, had to wait over 11 days to get a reply from the owners regarding the booking after trying 3 different methods of contact. Phone calls and emails were never returned. Place was generally clean but the cutlery provided was filthy and there were some dead insects stuck to the roller blind at the patio doors to the rear. Also think it’s mad that the rules aren’t listed on the website or in the booking information for both the pod and hot tub - especially the 11pm cut off time. The necessity to shower is understandable for hygiene between hot tub usage, but the time constraints paired with the fact that every passer-by riverside has a clear view of you, as the only prevention is a stapled pair of curtains to one side, makes the price so unjustifiable. Again, lovely pod but could be so much better for the price.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2023
Verified

6/10 Okay

Helen

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Reece

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jackie

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ben

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Carly

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2023

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