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Tourism NI Five-Star Guest Accommodation
Official five-star grading awarded to Ballyburren’s luxury adults-only lodges in 2026.
Our story & sustainability
The place of rocks. A place shaped by nature.
A family-created outdoor escape across 18 acres of woodland, wetlands and farmland in County Down.
Discover our story18acres
6,500trees planted
1.4kmnature trail
9timber bridges
800tof trail stone
Our story
Rooted in nature. Created with purpose.
Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes was created by Damien and Claire Butler with a simple ambition: to transform the land into somewhere people could slow down, reconnect with nature and experience the countryside thoughtfully.
Years before the first guests arrived, work began restoring ponds, planting trees and building a trail through the estate. Today Ballyburren is home to luxury adults-only lodges, alpaca trekking, woodland wellness and carefully curated outdoor experiences.
Damien and Claire Butler pictured as the lodges received Tourism NI Five-Star Guest Accommodation grading.
Restoring the landscape
From overgrown ponds to a living landscape
Restoration began long before Ballyburren opened. Ponds were recovered, streams reopened and new habitat connections established across the estate.
Early pond restoration — April 2020
Restoration underway across the ponds — March 2022
Our approach
Practical action, not vague promises
Our solar tracking systems follow the movement of the sun and can generate approximately 40% more energy than conventional fixed systems. Solar power also supports our island coffee trailer.
Across Ballyburren, we combine renewable energy with habitat restoration, responsible sourcing, lower-impact materials and carefully managed visitor numbers.
Sustainability at Ballyburren
Four commitments guiding every decision
Biodiversity
Restored ponds, meadow areas, woodland, hedgerows and wetland habitats provide space for nature to flourish.
Renewable energy
Solar tracking technology and thoughtful energy use reduce dependence on conventional power.
Local partnerships
Local people, producers, instructors and independent businesses are central to the Ballyburren experience.
Small-group tourism
Controlled visitor numbers protect the calm character of the estate and reduce pressure on habitats.
Our promise
Every new chapter should leave Ballyburren healthier, richer in wildlife and more resilient than before.
Animal welfare
Part of the Ballyburren family
Our alpacas’ welfare comes before the visitor experience. They have appropriate grazing, shelter, care and time away from activities, while every interaction is calmly managed by trained team members.
Designed around nature
Quiet luxury within the landscape
Our A-frame lodges, woodland wellness areas and pathways were positioned around the land’s existing character. Development remains intentionally considered and small scale.
Awards and recognition
Recognised for doing things differently
Our approach to nature-led tourism, thoughtful hospitality and memorable guest experiences has been recognised across Northern Ireland and beyond.
Best Tourism Business 2025
Winner at the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Business Awards.
Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice
Recognised in both 2025 and 2026 based on consistently positive guest reviews.
