Categories: accommodation

Find a luxury city stay in Northern Ireland 

Northern Ireland has some of the best city escape hotels and apartments hiding away in plain sight. If you want to add a touch of chic or a spark of urban razzle-dazzle to your weekend away, here are some of the ritziest places around.

Escape to Belfast’s bright lights 

If you've a head for heights, and a taste for luxury, how about a stay in Northern Ireland’s tallest hotel?  The most recent addition to the Belfast hotel scene, the Grand Central Hotel (4*) comes complete with a 23rd floor rooftop cocktail bar, The Observatory.  With a cocktail in hand enjoy the epic views from here across the city.  The hotel is at the heart of the city with cool restaurants, lively bars, theatres and shopping all within a few minutes’ walk.

Right in the heart of the city, The Flint (4*) is modern, convenient accommodation with beautifully designed rooms - simplicity at its finest.  The Flint prides itself on having the comfiest of beds – why not try it out for yourself and take advantage of the numerous restaurants and bars nearby while you're here.

While its former life as Ulster Bank HQ may set off an array of banking metaphors and idioms, let’s vault over those and talk about how the Merchant Hotel (5*) has a dazzling mix of Art Deco chic and Victorian pomp that will leave you awe-struck. 

Or how its stunning luxury spa, fine dining menus or glorious afternoon teas will confirm this as the best escape plan ever planned. 

If that doesn’t do it, maybe hiring the hotel’s chauffeur-driven Rolls Royce Phantom for a day out will have you purring quietly or finding an exclusive bag or pair of shoes at Harper will have the Cheshire cat looking at you jealously.

High above, you can use the rooftop gymnasium and enjoy panoramic city views as you work out – and work out how to stay an extra day. And with the Cathedral Quarter on your doorstep, another quick look to the heavens in thanks may also be in order. 

Standing discreetly in plain sight beside the Grand Opera House is five-star superstar powerhouse, the Fitzwilliam Hotel (5*). This masterpiece of elegance and design on Great Victoria Street redefines what boutique hotel chicness is all about. 

This unhidden gem is effortlessly cool. And that stuff oozing from every corner? That’s called elegance. 

As for your room - well, just wait until you get there. Talk about making a great first impression.  It then backs it up with even better second, third and fourth impressions. If you bundle five-star fabulousness in state-of-the-art splendidness and then wrap it in tactfully attentive service splendiferousness, you’d have this place summed up.  

As its name quite rightly suggests, this self-catering apartment, Lagan View (4*) has spectacular views overlooking the Lagan and is close to the Waterfront Hall for all you theatre and concert goers.  Open plan living accommodation with a south facing balcony that gets sun all day means you can have the best of both worlds for a spot of relaxing or getting out and exploring the city.

Escape behind Derry-Londonderry’s walls 

If you’re going to visit an historic walled city, the chance to stay in a 19th century building should appeal to just about everyone. 

Palace Street Apartments (5*) are just the ticket - luxury self-catering apartments within the old walled city, located just 150 metres from the city centre. Now you can’t get much closer to history than that. You’re less than 0.5 km from St. Columb’s Cathedral, The Diamond and Free Derry Corner. 

However, everything else about the apartments is pure 21st century – wifi, microwave, flat-screen TV, washing machine and coffee machine, and all the usual conveniences of modern life.  

Opposite the apartments, you’ll find the exquisite Bishop’s Gate Hotel. This listed building built in 1899 boasts stunning Edwardian architecture which has been sensitively restored in homage to its rich heritage. 

But 21st century sensibilities and needs have been seamlessly integrated including a cocktail and champagne bar. Not surprising to learn that a Hotel of the Year gong recently made its way here. You will follow the footsteps of some illustrious visitors to the hotel, among them Winston Churchill, Field Marshall Montgomery and poet W.B. Yeats. So, maybe arise and go there. 

These sister B&B’s, Bridge (3*) and Station (4*) are both in excellent locations within walking distance of the city walls, shops, bars and restaurants.   The stunning boutique Station B&B boasts spacious luxurious rooms, off-street parking within the grounds and first-class amenities.  Enjoy breakfast in the beautifully refurbished dining room, while looking out onto the dreamy tree-lined garden.

Guest comfort is key at Bridge B&B which was featured on local country star Daniel O’Donnell’s B&B TV show a few years ago.  In an ideal city centre location with unrivalled views across the River Foyle, each room is individually designed and guarantees a real home-from-home stay.

Shipquay Hotel (4*) is a modern, boutique style hotel overlooking the City Walls and the Guildhall and with just twenty-one bedrooms is the perfect place for an intimate and luxurious stay in the city. 

The Holiday Inn Express (3*) is perfectly located close to the River Foyle and Peace Bridge.  This new addition to the city’s hotel offering, provides the perfect affordable base for your break in the city.  Modern rooms with blackout blinds and your choice of goose feather pillows guarantee you a great night’s sleep after a day on the go.

A night in Newry

Newry has two new city centre apartments overlooking the city and canal. Both of these 4 star, two bedroom apartments are finished to a very high standard.  Custom House Apartments (4*) in an unrivalled rooftop location provides spacious, luxurious accommodation while Godfrey Mews (4*) also offers bright, modern open plan luxurious living.  Both in a perfect location for exploring the city.

At the Canal Court Hotel and Spa (4*) enjoy a luxury spa break in the heart of the city.  Pamper yourself with a dip in the rooftop outdoor hot tub, and afterwards enjoy a spa treatment.  The hotel is within easy walking distance to shops and local bars and restaurants so you can make the most of your city break.

Escape to Armagh

Soak up the sights and sounds of Ireland’s oldest city with a stay at Armagh City Hotel (3*).  Perfect for a city break or for exploring the surrounding orchard county, this hotel has a swimming pool on-site and modern bedrooms.

That’s a little taste of what a break away in our cities could be like, but there’s so much else for you to discover here, not least another little bit of luxury in the shape of our city hotels and apartments for you to discover all on your own - and all for you. 

We hope you enjoy these suggestions.  Let us know how you get on and join the conversation online with #MyGiantAdventure.

The Grand Central Hotel
Hotel
Grand Central Hotel Exterior

The Grand Central is more than a hotel. It’s an ode to a city. Standing tall in Bedford Street, this impressive jewel combines glamour and grandeur with a uniquely Belfast spirit. Head to the 23rd floor to discover The Observatory Bar, an awe-inspiring cocktail lounge with spectacular views of Belfast and beyond.

The Flint
Guest Accommodation
The Flint

A unique 'design led' property in the very centre of Belfast. Probably the best beds you will ever sleep on.

The Merchant Hotel
Hotel
The Merchant Hotel's Victorian Facade

Situated in the heart of Belfast city centre's historic Cathedral Quarter, The award-winning 5 AA Red star Merchant Hotel is a harmonious blend of Victorian grandeur and Art Deco inspired sleek modernity with award-winning restaurants and cocktail bar, a tranquil spa and rooftop gym and hot tub.

The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast
Hotel
Afternoon tea at The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast.

Sleep in one of our 146 elegantly designed guestrooms. Cocoon yourself in sumptuous surroundings and create your own oasis of comfort. Warm American walnut walkways ease you into your personal sanctuary.

Lagan View - The Perfect Location To See The City
Self-Catering
A view of the waterfront hall from across the River Lagan taken from an apartment window.

A 10 minute walk to SSE Arena and Titanic Belfast, or 5 minute walk across the river to city centre with fabulous restaurants, bars, theatres. A 3 minute walk to Lanyon Place train station links to all the sights of Northern Ireland and beyond.

Palace Street Apartments
Self-Catering
Palace Street Apartments

5 star self catering accommodation within the walled city; peaceful setting - close to all - Cathedrals, Churches, Peace Bridge, Guildhall, Museums & restaurants. All rooms are finished high standard and living dining kitchen areas are spacious.

Bishop's Gate Hotel
Hotel
Bishop's Gate Hotel

The exquisite Grade B1 listed Bishop’s Gate Hotel is perfectly positioned within the historic city walls in the heart of Derry City’s Cathedral Quarter. An iconic landmark with a unique history, the hotel is an intimate urban oasis featuring 31 luxurious guestrooms.

Bridge B&B Derry
Bed & Breakfast
Bridge B&B Derry

Built in 1820, Bridge B&B has a fantastic city centre location, with beautiful views across the River Foyle. Privately owned and run by a local family with more than 15 years experience in hospitality.

Station B&B
Bed & Breakfast
Station B&B

Join us for a one of a kind stay in the city's only Grade-1 listed B&B with first-class amenities including private, off-street parking, super-fast Wi-Fi and a wide range of delicious breakfast options made to order.

Shipquay Hotel
Hotel
Shipquay Hotel

One of Derry’s coolest boutique hotels is located on Derry’s famous Shipquay Street. Overlooking the Old City Walls and Derry’s famous Guildhall, Shipquay Boutique Hotel is a luxurious and intimate boutique hotel.

Holiday Inn Express Derry-Londonderry
Hotel
The exterior view of the hotel.

This modern new hotel is ideal for your next short break - take a stroll round the 17th Century City Walls, check out the magnificent Guildhall and don't forget to snap a selfie on the Peace Bridge which offers spectacular views of the city.

Custom House Apartments
Self-Catering
Custom House Apartments

Custom House is Newry’s leading location for businesses and professionals seeking modern conference facilities, event spaces, meeting rooms or luxury overnight accommodation in our rooftop, serviced Suites.

Godfrey Mews
Self-Catering
Godfrey Mews

Godfrey Mews, three luxury spacious bedrooms in Newry’s city centre, with fully fitted kitchens, two bedrooms, bathrooms & en-suite. Lift access, secure entrance with CCTV. With easy access to public transport.

Canal Court Hotel and Spa
Hotel
View of the front of the Canal Court Hotel and Spa building, fountain also in the picture.

The Canal Court Hotel & Spa is a fine four star property, with a total of 110 bedrooms & suites, extensive Health & Leisure Complex and stunning Spa, perfectly located in the heart of the City close to both Bus & Rail Stations.

Armagh City Hotel
Hotel
Armagh City Hotel

Welcome to Armagh City Hotel, where contemporary decor, spacious layouts, and modern conveniences come together to create a comfortable stay. Nestled in Ireland's oldest city, our elevated position offers panoramic views of a historic landscape, providing the perfect backdrop for your visit.