McKeever Hotels has committed £1.8 million to a comprehensive upgrade of bedrooms at The Lodge Hotel in Coleraine, in response to rising tourism across Northern Ireland.

The outlay forms part of the family-owned group's wider growth plan, focused on reinvesting across its estate to uphold high standards, support local employment and enhance the visitor experience.

The project follows McKeever Hotels' purchase of the property in 2024 and underpins its ambition to reposition the venue as a leading accommodation choice on the North Coast.

Demand peaked during The Open Championship 2025, when the R&A fully booked the hotel to host international media, athletes and staff — underscoring its importance within the region's tourism infrastructure.

All bedrooms have now been refurbished to elevate comfort and bring the property in line with the broader McKeever Hotels portfolio. Tracy Young, The Lodge Hotel General Manager said: "We've always been incredibly proud of our strong connection to the local community. We see people returning year after year, whether that's families enjoying a North Coast staycation, locals and friends catching up, or golfers exploring everything the region has to offer. "We're really excited to welcome both new and familiar faces into our newly refurbished bedrooms, ensuring every stay at The Lodge feels comfortable, modern and truly memorable."

Eddie McKeever, McKeever Hotels Managing Director said: "This investment reflects our long-term commitment to The Lodge Hotel and to the North Coast as a key tourism destination. Following an incredibly busy period during The Open, it was clear there is strong and sustained demand for high-quality accommodation in the area.

"These upgrades will ensure we are well placed to meet that demand, while providing a comfortable and modern environment for both leisure and business guests."

Since taking ownership, the group has prioritised embedding the hotel within the local community and building on relationships with its loyal customer base, alongside commercial development plans, in line with its "We Do More" ethos.

Initiatives include the borough's first Chatty Hotel, launched in partnership with Causeway Loneliness Network to provide a welcoming space for people to connect and help reduce social isolation. Scott Smyth, Events Manager, said: "It's a really great new initiative and something we're genuinely passionate about as a team.

"We want to give back to the community that supports us every day. It's open to everyone, offering a welcoming space to meet new people and enjoy a game, pick up a book, have a cuppa, or simply sit in the company of others."