Northern Ireland has an incredible selection of stunning 4* and 5* accommodation, from stately country manors and sumptuous urban retreats, to windswept coastal estates and captivating castles. A short break in Northern Ireland can be the escape you didn't know you needed when you find yourself in these beautiful settings.
The following properties are a range of minimum 4-star rated hotels, guest houses, B&Bs and guest houses from across the country. So whether you’re in search of a chic city base, a country hideaway or something out of the ordinary, you’re in luck. Or rather, you’re in Northern Ireland.
Belfast dreams
The city may not sleep but you certainly will. Belfast loves its top hotels and your comfort’s their top priority. If you like your glamour with a Victorian or Art Deco twist, The Merchant Hotel (5*) is for you. The Fitzwilliam Hotel (5*) oozes contemporary style. While the Grand Central Hotel (4*) stands tall and proud at, as its name implies, the centre of its city.
A short hop away
Just 10 minutes from here (and what’s that among friends), in the picturesque Lagan Valley Park, stands the pleasingly-modern Crowne Plaza (4*). Or, if you’re a fan of palatial proportions, look no further than the magnificent Culloden Hotel and Spa. It’s a former Bishop’s Palace, set in 12 acres of gardens and woodland. Super-luxurious bedrooms and a beautifully-appointed spa area are just part of the welcome here.
Around and about in Antrim
Who doesn’t want a bit of peace and quiet on a luxury weekend away? The charming Dunadry Hotel and Gardens (4*) in Antrim delivers with bells on - silent ones, of course. Built on the site of an ancient fort, it’s riddled with history, beneath some very contemporary comfort.
A Thermal Village and Serenity garden at the Galgorm (4*) make for perfect chilling-time - before dinner in the beautiful River Room. And, as if reaching the tip of the Causeway Coastal Route weren’t reward enough in itself, someone’s only gone and put the enchanting Ballygally Castle Hotel (4*) there too. In truth, it’s been here since the 17th century when, no doubt, it was just as welcoming to visitors as it is today.
Castles, coach houses and more in Armagh
It’s all there for you at the stunning Killeavy Castle Estate (4*), at the base of Slieve Gullion. A Grade A listed castle. The modern comfort of a converted mill and coach house. Oh, and a self-contained Gate Lodge.
When in Armagh, do as the locals do - wake up to the beauty of apple blossom. A self-contained apartment in the East Wing of Crannagael House (4*) is the perfect base for cider tours and orchard visits. Or do you prefer eggs? Newforge House (5*) - a historic family-run country house - delights in providing warm hospitality, and local seasonal food. So local, the chickens who greet you on arrival may well be the ones who supply your breakfast egg.
Along the Causeway Coastal Route
The drive along the Causeway Coastal Route is one of the most scenic in the world. And full of top places to stay, like the town of Bushmills. Home to the famous whiskey distillery, it’s also where you’ll find the understated luxury of the historic Bushmills Inn Hotel (4*).
When you’re ready to hit the beach, where better than the cool and contemporary Blackrock B&B (5*) in Portrush. (Winner Best B&B/Guest House at the Giant Spirit Awards 2022).
A City Stop in Derry-Londonderry
Shipquay Hotel (4*), beside the historic Guildhall, complements its Italianate-style heritage with contemporary touches. It’s worth a trip to the 7th Floor of The City Hotel Derry (4*) for exceptional penthouse glamour. And there’s a bright and warming welcome at the Everglades Hotel (4*), within a short distance of the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Down on the water
Five-star luxury, cashmere mattresses and the sounds of the harbour outside. One Shore Street (5*) is a boutique B&B, overlooking Donaghadee Harbour. Water features too at Newry’s Canal Court Hotel and Spa (4*), close to the main shopping centres and within easy reach of the mountains. And sticking with the water theme, the family-run The Cuan (4*) on the shores of Strangford Lough, is just the spot to let relaxation wash all over you.
Relax and Unwind
There’s more relaxation to be had at Slieve Donard Resort & Spa (4*), with its golden beaches on one side and Royal County Down Golf Links on the other. Corick House Hotel & Spa (4*) has all the glamour of a country house, with a decidedly modern flourish. While four-poster beds and afternoon tea await at The Old Inn at Crawfordsburn (4*), close to the stunning North Coastal Path.
Cosy up in a cottage
Light, airy bedrooms and lovingly cooked breakfasts are just part of the attraction at Bay Tree Cottage Self Catering (5*) – a stonewall cottage, softened with New England style.
Lakeside Luxury
If it’s Fermanagh, it’s got to be lakeside. And lakesides don’t get much prettier than the Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel & Lodges (4*). Immerse yourself in the stunning local scenery or retreat from it all with a spa treatment. Just outside Enniskillen town, fall under the charms of the Manor House Country Hotel (4*), centuries old, but with everything in place for 21st century visitors.
Not too far away, Lough Erne Resort (5*) has everything you could wish for, from a Thai Spa to a Faldo Golf Course. Or, for something exceptional, be at one with nature at Finn Lough Suites (5*) – with all mod cons, king size beds, and walk in rain showers.
That’s a whistle-stop tour of Northern Ireland’s top hotels, country houses and cottages. Though, of course, there are more gems to discover. As you’ll find on your more leisurely travels.
