Nestled at the foot of the Mourne Mountains in Newcastle, County Down, Shimna Valley is our special respite centre offering a relaxing ‘home from home’ experience for the whole family during or after completion of your child’s treatment.

Shimna Valley can accommodate up to four families at a time and currently has ten modern en-suite bedrooms. You can enjoy fresh sea air and panoramic mountain views as you relax and unwind in the idyllic setting of the Mourne Mountains. Families will enjoy home cooked meals provided by our friendly staff, who are there to nurture you from the moment you arrive so that you leave relaxed and ready to face the next step in your cancer journey.

There are lots of things for the whole family to do during a stay at Shimna Valley, both indoors and outdoors. Indoor play and family rooms provide the perfect retreat, while a special pamper room situated in Narnia log cabin is available for mums and dads to enjoy a variety of relaxing treatments. If the weather is good, families can enjoy the beautiful surroundings while children have fun in the extensive garden and play area.

We understand that you may be a little nervous before your first trip to Shimna Valley, so we’ve listed some information below that we hope will help answer any questions you may have and prepare you for what you can expect from your stay.

How often can I go to Shimna Valley?

Families can enjoy one week-long break and two weekends at Shimna Valley per year. Shimna Valley is also available for care supporters, such as grandparents or a grandparent and their friend, to take a mid week break.

How do I book?

Bookings can be made by contacting our Respite-Co-ordinator Anne Gordon on 077 6077 7993 or email anne@nicfc.com.

How much does it cost?

It is free of charge to stay at Shimna Valley. We are only able to offer these breaks to our families thanks to the ongoing generosity of the public. If you feel you would like to make a donation after your stay, please contact Respite Co-ordinator Anne Gordon on 077 6077 7993 or email anne@nicfc.com.

Parking facilities and transport during your stay

Parking facilities are available within the grounds of Shimna Valley during your stay. For those families who do not have access to their own transport, we have volunteer drivers who can collect you and bring you to Shimna Valley, or pick you up from the local bus station if you live further afield.

During your stay at Shimna Valley, you can make your own way into Newcastle for day trips, walks or even a family meal out, and our volunteer drivers are also on hand if you prefer to leave the car behind.

Meals

Shimna Valley is renowned for its hospitality and our families always tell us how wonderful the food is! Our catering staff are on hand throughout your stay and will cater for your every need, providing delicious, home-cooked meals that are suitable for all tastes and requirements. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and supper are all available and sandwiches, tasty snacks and even packed lunches can be made up on request. Families talk about ‘the Shimna Valley experience’ and after a break at Shimna Valley, you’re sure to go away feeling happy and well looked after.

Facilities

Shimna Valley will provide full bed linen and towels for the whole family so you don’t have to worry about packing these for your stay.

Full laundry facilities are also available, so families should let a member of staff know if they have any washing requirements during their stay.

Shimna Valley Staff

On arrival, Patricia Kidd, Complex Manager or Joan Burden, Deputy Complex Manager will be there to give you the famous Shimna Valley welcome. Either manager will be on duty at all times and will deal with any questions or problems you may have during your stay.

Medical help/ facilities

Often when families come to stay at Shimna Valley, their child is still receiving treatment, or in the case of our Young Shoulders Programme, a parent may be in treatment. As there are no trained medical or care staff or facilities on site, we ask that parents ensure that either they or their child are fit enough to spend time at Shimna Valley. We also ask that at least one parent remains with the children at all times as we are unable to provide staff to look after children in the absence of a parent.

What Our Families Say About Shimna Valley …

 “When I first heard about Shimna Valley I thought this is not for me.  I see enough of cancer.  But that was the turning point.  When we arrived we were exhausted and broken as family.  But from the minute you walk through the doors of Shimna Valley, a calm descends upon you.  I don’t know whether its the surroundings, the views, or the staff.  They have given me a chance to be me again, not just a mum or a nurse.”