In the High Flyers spotlight this week is Lynne McCabe, owner at Arthur’s boutique guest accommodation in Royal Hillsborough
What was your first job?
Harvesting potatoes like most country children! My first adult job was as an administrator with the NI Meat Exporters Association during the 1996/97 BSE crisis.
What qualifications do you have?
A BSc in agricultural economics from Queens University Belfast.
What do you attribute your success to?
My parents. My father was a farmer and my mother worked in the home and on the farm, so money wasn’t flush. The mantra was if you want it, work for it!
How would you describe yourself to someone who’d never met you?
Hard working and sociable with a flair for interiors, antiques and hospitality. Arthur’s, a new boutique guest accommodation in Royal Hillsborough, is very much a passion project for myself and my husband. It allows us to offer a unique experience in a beautiful, rural setting.
Who do you look up to in business?
I look up to successful friends who’ve either grown companies from scratch or created something special from an inherited business. I’m also loving the TV show The Mayfair Hotel Megabuild and am in awe of Paddy McKillen.
How do you get the best out of people who work for you?
I try to remain empathetic whilst ensuring that our clients receive the very best service. I also prioritise transparency and clear communication with staff – I’m very proud of our low turnover!
If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?
It would be great if our VAT rate was more competitive with the Republic’s 13.5 per cent.
What website or app could you not do without?
I love Eviivo, for synchronizing bookings with major channels like Expedia, and Booking.com.
What was the last book you read?
Hillsborough by Canon Barry. This is such a special place, rich in both heritage and culture.
What car do you drive?
A Ford Mustang Mache E.
Tell us something interesting about yourself?
I founded a fire and security company and ran it for 20 years. No mean feat in a male dominated world! My husband joined the business around 2005 and we eventually sold it in 2017 to capitalise on our shared enthusiasm for tourism. We now run three properties offering luxury, bespoke guest accommodation throughout Royal Hillsborough and Historic Moira – Lisnacurran, Ralph’s and, most recently Arthur’s.
What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
Interior design. At Arthur's, I’ve personally curated each of the 12 suites to blend history, antiques and charm. Each room is individually named and themed to reflect aspects of the rich tapestry of life in Royal Hillsborough.
