Accommodation

A great night’s sleep, and more, in County Antrim

There is so much to see and do in County Antrim that by day’s end you’ll need to take your happy but weary bones to a place of comfort, peace and replenishment. Dotted throughout the county, you’ll find top-class resting places to suit every budget. Whether it’s a B&B or five-star hotel, you’re guaranteed a warm welcome.

Within a pillow’s throw of Belfast

Just outside Belfast, The Rocks Bed & Breakfast is an award-winning B&B set on twelve acres of land, used for grazing horses. After the hustle and bustle of Belfast, this place offers seclusion and privacy and is the perfect place to relax and unwind. With a good night’s sleep under your belt, you’ll be ready to get stuck into their top-notch Ulster Fry.

There has been a farmhouse on the Ballylagan Organic Farm Guesthouse (3*) site since the 1800s. Naturally enough, it has changed quite a bit through the years but the owners of this lovely bright B&B have remained true to its roots - they’ve kept the animals. Given that it’s a mere twenty minutes from Belfast International Airport, the Causeway Coastal Route and Belfast, this is perfect place to base yourself and from here explore the county.

The blue plaque outside historic Abbeydene House (4*) in Newtownabbey commemorates former owner and Lord Mayor of Belfast Sir Crawford McCullagh. It was he who came up with the idea of remembering those who had died in World War I with silence. It’s little wonder his former house is so peaceful. Fans of Daniel and Majella O’Donnell will recognise the spot from their television jolly around Ireland. The owner, Tim, is mad on music and with over 70,000 pieces of vinyl, he is always ready to welcome fellow rock'n'rollers to spend the night. Keep an eye out for the photo of President Eisenhower who dined here in 1945 - hence the names of the rooms.

If it’s suburban seclusion you’re after, then Clydesdale Sheperd’s Hut on Portview Farm in Newtownabbey is just the ticket. It won’t suit everyone but it’s perfect for that romantic couple on their first adventures together. The hut is cosy to say the least and kitted out with every home comfort you need. There is plenty of room out front and fabulous outdoor spaces with seating and a barbecue area.

Countryside comforts for everyone

Ballyharvey House (3*) is another great spot to consider basing yourself. This lovely B&B is set in the Antrim countryside and has views extending to Lough Neagh & the Sperrins beyond. In terms of value, it’s hard to beat, and with several cycle routes and golf courses nearby this is one to consider for the more active among you.

For the less active among you - or maybe you just need a break - Galgorm Hotel (4*) near Ballymena is one of the many hotels in County Antrim. The River Maine winds its way through this spa resort set on over 150 acres and its easy flow is an essential backdrop. This place is all about relaxation. Most hotels do well to have one swimming-pool but this has two and there are so many pods, massage rooms, mini-jacuzzis and hot tubs that you might find yourself getting lost. No harm, as long as you make your way to the River Room in time for the exceptional dining.

Another unusual spot worth considering is the Bubble Den in Foxborough. This luxury pod on the banks of the River Bann is a cosy and romantic treat for two. At night-time the glass roof looks out to the stars and is a thoroughly unique way to relax.

Dunamoy Cottages and Spa (4*) is a family-run business driven by an ethos that the visitor “arrives as a guest but leaves as a friend”. Dunamoy is rightly proud of the visitors who come back each year and it’s easy to see why they do. For the self-catering crew, Dunamoy Cottages and Spa mix that little bit of luxury with all the relaxed benefits of self-catering. This haven is a cluster of four 18th century stone buildings that were lovingly renovated in 2012 into 4 holiday cottage retreats. They book out quickly, so you will need to book early.

Wake up to sea views on the Causeway Coast

Windswept seas and dramatic views are what you’ll get if you spend the night at the historic Blackhead Lightkeeper’s House overlooking Belfast Lough. The accommodation is clean, comfortable and fittingly sparse. This only adds to the atmosphere and sense of solitude and there is nothing better than looking out across the Lough as the lights of Belfast and nearby towns twinkle in the distance.

Ballygally Castle (4*) has been a feature and focal point in Ballygally since the 17th century. As a hotel it has been in operation since the mid-60s and is now well established amongst County Antrim’s finest coast hotels. You’ll find everything you need in this well-established four-star and its location overlooking the strand and Irish Sea is really rather spectacular. And, yes, it’s true that on clear days you can see as far as Scotland from some of their rooms.

Spectacular views, clean country air, relaxation and fine food. It’s all here in County Antrim.