Categories: accommodation

When it comes to memorable places to stay, Northern Ireland has lots in the way of 4* and 5* guesthouses, ranging from seaside hideaways to stately homes. Which one takes your fancy?

Finn Lough, County Fermanagh 

If you’re looking to truly get away from it all, Finn Lough is the place for you. Offering a great choice of accommodation packages, this experience means you can really escape on your trip. 

The on-site restaurant offers fresh produce grown in their very own polytunnel or sourced locally from providers, meaning you don’t have to leave to enjoy a high-quality dining experience.  

You can expect to completely unwind on the 2 hour Forest Spa Trail, a unique spa experience which begins with a salt room and heated pool, and finishes in the relaxation room, where you can relax with a herbal tea, soaking up the stunning panoramic views beside the wood fire.  

Newforge House, Magheralin, County Down (5*) 

Located just 30 minutes from Belfast by car, the beautiful Georgian Newforge House is the perfect place for those looking to get away in style. Take a stroll in the beautiful gardens before taking time out to admire the original 18th century features as you unwind in this beautiful country house. 

You will also enjoy an award-winning dining experience during your stay here, with local produce and homegrown fruit and vegetables on the menu, sourced from the small orchard and resident hens.  

Ardtara Country House, Maghera, County Londonderry (4*) 

The award-winning Ardtara House is renowned for its restaurant and stunning views across its’ eight acres of grounds. Located in the Upperlands, near a number of attractions on the Causeway Coastal Route, this country house is an ideal base to explore the area.  

The restaurant is known for its Chef Patron, Ian Orr, who is dedicated to support of local suppliers and produce. You can stay in any of the nine elegant bedrooms, each of which are individually styled. Each bedroom retains its original fireplace and is furnished with antiques.  

The Cuan Guest Inn, Strangford, County Down (4*) 

If you’re looking to spend some time by the seaside, this quaint accommodation is for you.  

Strongly connected with the TV show Game of Thrones, The Cuan Guest Inn housed the cast for seasons 1 and 2. Nearby you can find Castle Ward, which was the used as the location for Winterfell in the show. There are even Game of Thrones packages for fans available, which include a banquet, where guests can dress up as their favourite member of House Stark and dine like a true king.  

The Cuan is famous for its high quality home cooked food, in particular its’ extensive range of local produce, especially the delicious seafood. 

Laurel Villa Townhouse, Magherafelt, County Londonderry (4*) 

This charming townhouse is not only a beautiful place to stay, but it has strong links to Northern Ireland’s Nobel Laureate, Seamus Heaney. Embark on a journey of discovery into the world of Heaney on a 5* tour with Eugene Kielt, the house owner, and explore many of Ireland’s greatest poet’s works which are displayed throughout Laurel Villa. 

Filled with character and history, this family run guest house’s beautiful furnishings and period details are perfect for guests looking for something a little bit different. 

So there you have it… 

Just a few of our favourite guesthouses in one place. Whatever the type of getaway you’re looking for, you can be sure to find the perfect place to spend your time in Northern Ireland!  

Know a place that absolutely has to be on this list? Share your favourite guesthouses with us online using #DiscoverNI

Laurel Villa Townhouse
Guest House
Outside image of Laurel Villa with greenery on walls and red door

Laurel Villa is Trip Advisor's number one place to stay in the Magherafelt area and when you read our reviews it is easy to see why. We are ideally located within a 45 minute drive from Belfast, Derry, Giant's Causeway and Northern Ireland airports.

The Cuan
Inn
The Cuan Bedrooms

The Cuan is situated on the shores of Strangford Lough, on the Village Green in the beautiful tranquil village of Strangford. The Cuan is the perfect setting for a mid-week break, weekend getaway or an activity led holiday with the family.

Ardtara Country House
Guest House
Ardtara Country House Hotel, Northern Ireland

If an award-winning gourmet break is on the top of your list, look no further than the elegant Ardtara Country House just outside the village of Upperlands, near Maghera. Luxurious from inception, the Victorian property was built by one of Northern Ireland’s wealthy linen barons and is in a picturesque setting amid woodlands and lakes.

Newforge House
Guest House
Newforge House

Luxurious Georgian 5-star Country House accommodation set in mature gardens and fields. Period features seamlessly blend with contemporary comforts. Superb food, using local suppliers and much home grown produce, is central to our offer.

Finn Lough - Suites
Guest House
room

Situated one mile from the Donegal/Fermanagh Border, Finn Lough offers the ideal setting from which to explore both counties. For those who are keen to stay put and relax there is plenty on offer within the 75 acre island resort.