Hilton (NYSE: HLT) announced the signing of Tempo by Hilton Belfast City Centre, as part of a franchise agreement with Loughview Leisure Group. This marks the brand’s international debut, following its successful launch in the United States. The hotel will join a global portfolio of 56 hotels trading and pipeline, with further openings planned for 2025 in San Diego, California, Nashville, Tennessee and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
The signing reinforces Hilton’s ongoing commitment to increase its presence in Northern Ireland, following nearly 30 years of success in the region. With demand for high-quality accommodation in Belfast and beyond continuing to rise, the company is set to open three new properties in 2025 – the highly anticipated The Marcus Portrush, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, DoubleTree by Hilton Belfast City Ten Square and DoubleTree by Hilton Derry-Londonderry. This expansion will double Hilton’s room count across the country over the next 12 months and increase the number of brands represented from three to five by the end of 2026.
Nick Smart, vice president, development, UK and Ireland, Hilton, said, “Northern Ireland has a rich heritage and rapidly growing international appeal. We’re committed to ensuring that every traveller has access to a high-quality hotel to suit their needs – from business travellers and locals who want to explore what’s on their doorstep, to adventurous global visitors looking to experience everything this country has to offer. This latest brand entry is a significant milestone, and we’re delighted to work with partners like Loughview Leisure Group who bring a wealth of local experience and share our commitment to providing exceptional accommodation to suit every traveller.”
Set to revive a vacant office building in the heart of the city, the 144-room Tempo by Hilton Belfast City Centre will provide thoughtfully designed accommodation tailored to the ambitious, modern traveller. In line with the brand’s mission to help guests maintain their preferred routine during their travels, the hotel will offer wellbeing-focused amenities, and a balanced food and drink offer.
The spacious, fully equipped fitness centre will include top-of-the-range Technogym, Precor, or Life Fitness equipment, as well as traditional and circuit training options and hydration stations, delivering the brand’s signature ‘Power Up’ experience.
Guest rooms are designed with comfort and wellbeing in mind, featuring naturally derived Origins bathroom amenities. Each room will also include a dedicated ‘Get Ready Zone’ – a well-lit space with a vanity mirror, custom desk, and open wardrobe to help travellers prepare for their day. For added flexibility, guests can request In-Room Fitness Gear Kits for personalised workouts and unwind with ‘Power Down’ in partnership with the Calm app.
The hotel will be situated adjacent to the Cathedral Quarter and a stone’s throw from Belfast City Hall, offering easy access to the city’s top attractions. It will also offer convenient transport links, with George Best City Airport only a seven-minute drive away and Belfast International Airport a 25-minute drive away, providing the perfect base for short city breaks and business travel. The hotel is expected to open towards the end of 2026.
Chris Kearney, group finance director, Loughview Leisure Group, which also owns the recently renovated DoubleTree by Hilton Belfast Templepatrick and upcoming DoubleTree by Hilton Belfast City Ten Square, said, “We take great pride in driving investment into Belfast and the surrounding area. As we look to further shape the city’s hospitality scene, we are delighted to partner with Hilton, increasing Northern Ireland’s global appeal and pioneering new brands like Tempo by Hilton to attract new guests looking to experience everything Belfast has to offer.”
Guests at Tempo by Hilton Belfast City Centre will benefit from Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty programme. Members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences, and enjoy instant rewards and benefits, including contactless check-in with room selection and exclusive member discounts.
