Enjoy 5* star luxury in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland has stunning 5* accommodation, from glorious country manors and captivating coastal estates, castle demesnes and chic city retreats. A weekend escape in Northern Ireland can be everything you could wish for when you choose to stay in one of these beautiful places.
5* hotels in County Antrim & Belfast
If you prefer your retreat with a more urban piquancy, the Merchant Hotel Belfast (5*) could be just the taste you seek. While this former bank headquarters may leave a dent on your bank balance, it'll be for all the right reasons, with an unforgettable blend of Art Deco chic and Victorian pomp making for a sumptuous stay in the heart of the city.
A stunning luxury spa, fine dining, glorious afternoon teas and exclusive fashion boutique await your arrival. High above the city, a rooftop gymnasium affords panoramic city views. And with the Cathedral Quarter on your doorstep, another quick look to the heavens in thanks may also be in order.
Standing discreetly but proudly beside the Grand Opera House is five-star superstar, the Fitzwilliam Hotel (5*), one of the top hotels in Northern Ireland.
This design masterpiece on Great Victoria Street remains the blueprint for boutique hotel chic. It oozes elegance and effortless cool from every corner. As for the walk to your room – not to mention the room itself – well, you only get one chance to make an impression. Five-star fabulousness surrounded by state-of-the-art splendidness all wrapped up in the most attentive service you’ll ever experience.
5* accommodation in County Armagh
From the moment you walk in the doors of Newforge House (5*), an Ireland Blue Book member, you feel to the manor born.
A cosy drawing room, a pot of artisan leaf tea or fresh coffee and homemade biscuits – now that feels like a welcome. This exemplar of Georgian gorgeousness really does take warm hospitality to another level. Their passion for seasonal produce is reflected in their breakfast and dinner menus. A small orchard provides fruits for desserts, chutneys and preserves and the owners raise friendly chickens that lay eggs for the legendary breakfast.
Picture yourself cradled in lush green surroundings and stunning gardens where tranquillity emanates from your breath. Keep it all to yourself for an unforgettable romantic break or share its wonderfulness with family for an intimate gathering or magical small wedding. Whatever you choose, you’ll feel at home.
5* star accommodation in County Down
Standing on the sylvan slopes overlooking Belfast Lough stands the Culloden Estate and Spa (5*). When they originally chose this site back in 1876 as an official palace for the Bishop of Down, divine inspiration surely played a part.
Outside your bedroom window are acres of heavenly mature gardens. Inside, it’s cathedral calm with quiet nooks to reflect. The luxurious spa is a sanctuary for body and soul, a tranquil antidote to the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And all backed up with the type of service that can only be described as your eternal reward here on earth.
Nestled between the Royal County Down Golf Course, the Irish sea, and the Mourne Mountains stands The Orchard (5*). This self-catering accommodation boasts four bedrooms (3 king & 1 single), complete with 500-thread-count sheets offering an unparalleled blend of comfort and opulence.
5* accommodation on the Causeway Coastal Route
If you’d rather be nestled away in quiet countryside, set your satnav for Crowfield House (5*) on the banks of the River Rhee. This hidden gem some four-and-bit miles from Coleraine has just what you’d hope for in an intimate luxury B&B. But then it delivers more.
A short drive brings you to the Giant's Causeway’s epic scenery. A simple walk along the quiet country lanes surrounding Crowfield House brings you peace and tranquillity. A taste of the imaginative home cooking from your award-winning chef-owner bring you epicurean joy. That’s 5* and more.
At less than a mile from Royal Portrush Golf Club and conveniently located for exploring the entire Causeway Coastal Route, you'll discover Blackrock Beach House (5*), a luxurious 5-star retreat perfect for extended families and groups of friends. With six spacious en-suite bedrooms, including one with a jacuzzi bath, this stunning home offers plenty of space for relaxation and entertainment. Sliding glass walls open onto stunning views of West Strand Beach. After a day of fun in the sun, rinse off in the heated outdoor shower and wind down in your own private home cinema, complete with a twinkling ceiling.
5* luxury accommodatione in County Fermanagh
Lough Erne Resort (5*) in Enniskillen could win awards just for its spectacular views alone. Well, from the 600-acre peninsula between Castle Hume Lough and Lower Lough Erne, you certainly have enough of Fermanagh’s Lakelands all to yourself to marvel at.
But it’s everything else that it does that merits the well-deserved garlands. Home to two championship golf courses, unique Thai-inspired luxury spa treatments and culinary wizardry from the acclaimed kitchen, it goes beyond the definition of 5* luxury. Indeed, anyone who has sampled the famous Afternoon Tea would attest to this.
If having your own castle wing is on the bucket list, then may we suggest Belle Isle Estate’s Abercorn Wing (5*).
This stunningly restored five star piece of castellated elegance offers views across Lough Erne like no other. Choose from the opulent Bridal Suite with a grand four-poster bed or sumptuous elegance of the Tower Room. Or for lavish indulgence, fill up the Sweet Pea Room's deluxe roll-top bath with bubbles and relax. Guests also have full use of a private kitchen, library and drawing room.
After reading of all this decadence you’re now ready to trade balance sheets for the Egyptian cotton kind, working breakfasts for more leisurely ones in bed or Q&As for more intimate pop-the-question moments, we hope this has been a handy guide to just some of the best five star hotels and guesthouses in Northern Ireland.
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