Whenever representatives of Conway Mill Trust visit Derry to present grants and/or meet with members of the community groups Conway Mill Trust supports – Altram and Naiscoil na Rinne (Irish language organizations), Dove House, or the Museum of Free Derry – they always stay at The Abbey Bed & Breakfast—Why? Because owners Seamus Kennedy and his wife Helen go “the extra mile” to make us feel “at home.” The luxury en suite rooms are intimately friendly and comfortable, and the extra personal touches Seamus and Helen provide like a lift to the train station, bus station or to view one of Derry’s many beautiful landscapes always make us feel like family and our stay memorable.
The Abbey is the only B&B in the Bogside and is centrally located within walking distance of all the popular attractions visitors look forward to seeing when they come to Derry. Seamus and Helen also have self-catering accommodations in Derry, and recently added a beautiful tea café to the Abbey – unique in every way.
Seamus’ and Helen’s son Jack will carry the Olympic Torch through Omagh on June 5. As his nomination story says, Jack is a strong young athlete who despite having mild dyslexia has been an inspiration to his family from a very young age. For example, one of his elderly neighbors who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease was lost and could not find her house. Jack walked her to her home, took her inside and phoned her home help. He then sat her down, covered her legs with a rug and made her a cup of tea. Seamus says, “He has time for everybody and is never embarrassed to show his affection. From the very young to the old, it’s all the small things of kindness he does that makes him a really good community person. Jack loves his football, boxing and swimming and has recently completed his bronze medallion in life saving. His aim in life is to be a fireman so he can help others. He is a truly amazing son.”
Planning a trip to Derry and looking for a warm welcome, the finest of accommodations and extraordinary service with an extra measure of hospitality, visit the Abbey’s Facebook page or www.abbeyaccommodation.com .
