Northern Ireland is an often-overlooked hidden gem, but, despite its small size, it houses some of the most beautiful landscapes, complex history, inspirational art and impressive architecture in the world. We have compiled a list of the best hotels in Northern Ireland so you can explore in style and recharge in luxury.
Whether you are venturing up the Mourne Mountains or the Giant’s Causeway, seeing a show at the Grand Opera House, wining and dining in Cathedral Quarter, or are just a huge Derry Girls fan, these hotels are where you go to make the most of your stay.
The Merchant
Located in the lively Cathedral Quarter of Belfast is The Merchant, a grand Grade-A listed building adorned with columns and sculptures. Step into the foyer and you’re greeted with Art Deco luxe and Victorian opulence right in the city’s center. To top off the experience, guests are greeted with champagne upon arrival.
The Merchant offers a selection of rooms and suites, all curated with antiques and unique textiles. If you fancy yourself as the next Rory McIlroy, the golf stays package includes a complimentary golf bag and golf shoe cleaning service so you can explore the Northern Ireland courses and their stunning surroundings with ease.
Following a round of golf, the two AA Rosette-winning Great Room Restaurant offers fine dining, afternoon tea and a 200-bottle-plus wine list. For the traditional Irish pub experience, head to The Cloth Ear or visit Berts Jazz Bar for the only dedicated jazz venue in the city.
Looking for somewhere to relax? The rooftop gym and hot tub provide an escape from the bustle of the bars and pubs below, while providing a view of the River Lagan and the iconic shining yellow Harland and Wolff cranes (which stand taller than the Statue of Liberty!).
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Slieve Donard
Slieve Donard is a vast mansion tucked away at the foot of the glorious Mourne Mountains in Newcastle. With an opulent Victorian style and views up the hills and across the rolling ocean, it feels like you’ve been transported back in time.
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Suites and rooms at Slieve Donard are adorned in soft greens and deep blues with gold accents. The Sea View King Suite, the grandest room available, features a mini bar, walk-in shower and in-room dining, so you can indulge in the surroundings without facing the elements.
You may have to brace the infamously unpredictable Irish weather at some stage, but for the private putting green, mountain trails and surrounding Game of Thrones filming locations, it’s worth it. The spa, 66-ft indoor pool, thermal suite and hair salon offer relaxation and refreshment. Two restaurants and bars are also available, offering meals made with locally sourced ingredients.
Culloden Estate and Spa
The previous residence of the Lord Bishop of Down, Connor and Dromore, Culloden Estate and Spa, which is located on the Holywood hills and overlooks the glistening Belfast Lough, dates back to 1876.
The rooms and suites have soft color schemes that make the vibrancy of the grassy surroundings and deep blue lough pop out from the bedroom windows. The Palace Suite is the most luxurious, offering an eight-person antique dining table, a balcony overlooking the water and the option to connect surrounding rooms, making it perfect for hosting and entertaining friends. Self-catered apartments can also be booked, alongside a chef that can make your meals in the comfort of your own kitchen.
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The Spa at Culloden caters to your every need, with eight treatment rooms offering personalized holistic care. A eucalyptus steam room, Jacuzzi, rainforest shower, pool and sauna are all available too.
Galgorm Resort and Spa
For a secluded parkland spa getaway, there is no better hotel in Northern Ireland than the ultra-luxurious Galgorm. Surrounded by 450 acres of land with the River Maine gently flowing through, but still only 30 minutes from Belfast, this serene spot is designed for ultimate relaxation.
The hotel has 125 rooms and suites, but you can also book Log Cabins, Shepherds’ Huts, Forest Dens and more for the perfect family trip or get together. The 1,300-sq-ft Signature Suite offers a terrace and a hot tub gazing over the river, while the romantic Spa Suite has access to a private sauna and a Jacuzzi bath. Once you have settled into your room, go to the Conservatory for afternoon tea, or attend many of the restaurants for a bite to eat.
Galgorm was awarded Northern Ireland’s Best Golf Hotel in 2022, and for good reason. The par-72 Championship Castle Parkland Course is perfect for golf fanatics, whilst the six-hole pitch and putt is accessible for all members of the family. Trying to sharpen your skills? Attend Galgorm’s Golf Academy or the Toptracer range.
The highlight of Galgorm, however, is undoubtedly the spa and thermal village. With amenities such as a salt cave, saunas, a private walled garden hot tub, pools, a sanarium and a snow cabin, there’s everything you need to totally unwind. Once you’ve experienced it all, attend some live music at The Barn or a gin tasting at the Gin Library to close off the evening.
The Grand Central Hotel
Contemporary luxury has reached its peak at The Grand Central Hotel. Towering over Linen Quarter in Belfast city center, it provides easy access to the bars, pubs and restaurants of Cathedral Quarter, the Titanic Museum and SSE Arena in the Titanic Quarter, and the Grand Opera House.
There are 300 elegant rooms and suites spread across 23 floors, with particular highlights being the Mountain View Suites, and the Sir William Hastings Suite which is the most luxurious accommodation in the building.
The Grand Café at The Grand Central offers a relaxed dining experience in a light and airy space, with a range of different cuisines on offer to cater to everyone’s palette. The AA Rosette-winning Seahorse, however, is focused on fine dining and has a flair for the dramatics. On the 23rd floor is Ireland’s tallest bar, The Observatory, which has a 360-degree view of Belfast on show.
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The Fitzwilliam Hotel
At the heart of Belfast is The Fitzwilliam Hotel, a sleek modern oasis with cozy rooms and brilliant city views. Just like the city, the hotel is buzzing with things to do, from murder mystery dinners to afternoon tea.
Every one of the 146 rooms and suites in The Fitzwilliam is designed with geometric patterns, crushed velvet and vibrant pops of color. The brand new Penthouse Suite is the height of luxury, designed with elegant gold accents and a black marble bathroom. From £2,500 (approx. $3,190) a night you can expect an entertainer’s dreamhouse, with a baby grand piano, balcony, private butler, a chauffeur and a private shopper.
The Restaurant is dedicated to serving local, sustainable produce, and has achieved an AA Rosette for its work. The “crafternoon tea” at The Restaurant is the perfect alternative to those opposed to finger sandwiches and instead preferring mini steak burgers and brownies with a craft beer. For group dining, the glass-walled boardroom can be booked for a party of up to 30 for added privacy.
Finn Lough
Hidden away in the woodland at the Fermanagh and Donegal border is Finn Lough, a lakeside relief from the stresses of day-to-day life. Sustainability is a major focus, especially within the two restaurants and the bar. Everything traces back to nature here, so it’s perfect if you’re looking to reconnect through a little self care.
A vast array of accommodation is available, from wooden River Cabins, Sky Suites and Lake Suites, to Lake Villas, with breakfast made from locally sourced ingredients delivered each day. What makes this hotel so special, however, are the Bubble Domes with PVC ceilings. Nestled in the woods, you can stargaze from the comfort of your bed, or enjoy the views with your morning coffee.
There are two spas at Finn Lough curated to relax and reconnect. The Shoreline Spa features a lakeside sauna and has easy access for wild swimming in the lake. The Elements Trail Spa is a unique self-guided walk through the woodland, visiting a variety of treatment cabins combining hot and cold therapies.
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Lough Erne Resort
Lough Erne Resort sits on a private 600-acre peninsula in Enniskillen, with verdant surroundings and deep blue water. Hotel rooms and suites are available, alongside self-catering stays in large lodges, all decorated with soft colors to create that cozy, welcoming feel before you start your adventure.
The Presidential Suites are the most luxurious accommodation at Lough Erne Resort, featuring lounges, private balconies and four-poster beds. The luxury is carried into the four restaurants, where traditional Irish flavors are put on show with local produce. The fine-dining restaurant Catalina received three AA Rosettes for its elegant decor and top-quality cuisine.
With two golf courses, one of which being the championship award-winning Faldo Course, this hotel is a golfer’s paradise. Golf Academy masterclasses are on offer for those looking to learn, and two golf shopping outlets are on site for an abundance of souvenirs (and anything you may have forgotten!).
Once you’re off the course, retreat to the Thai-inspired spa for a personalized treatment. Various spa amenities include a 46-ft lakeview infinity pool, a crystal aroma steam room, a dry heat sauna, a Jacuzzi and a fitness suite, so you can go to bed ready for the next day of exploring Northern Ireland.
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