A beautiful region to explore, Northern Ireland boasts everything from craggy coastlines to the hip city of Belfast, home to trendy bars and eateries aplenty, as well as heaps of history. With a burgeoning tourism industry, accommodation options are wide-ranging, offering everything from family-run B&Bs to elegant townhouse hotels catering to a variety of budgets. Whilst some of our favourite hotels are in Belfast itself, many of the best places to stay in Northern Ireland are charming country houses and cosy coastal escapes, making the most of the area’s striking scenery.
Featuring a number of national heritage sites, imposing city monuments and a cracking farm-to-table foodie scene, Northern Ireland offers countless wonders to satisfy the curious visitor. Amble through the bustling streets of Belfast, where attractive Victorian properties now play host to quirky cafes and bars, explore the rich maritime heritage of the Titanic Quarter, before discovering Belfast’s troubled past at Stormont, the Ulster Museum and Crumlin Road Gaol.
Beyond Belfast, the Causeway Coastal Route offers spectacular views of pristine seashores and rugged mountain tops, whilst the Giant’s Causeway needs almost no introduction. The 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption, have been recognised as an important World Heritage Site and the region is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Fans of Game of Thrones can marvel at key filming locations from the series, whilst golfers will find top-notch courses for a round or three, and ramblers can enjoy exploring dramatic peaks, lush countryside and unspoilt beaches on foot.
Years of peace have brought positivity and prosperity, and a boom in characterful small hotels across the region. Whether you’re eager to unwind at the spa, to feast on locally-sourced delights or to treat yourself to a chic city break, our pick of the best places to stay in Northern Ireland promises something special for everyone.
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County Down
With sprawling views out over the County Down landscape, the Peartree Hill is a charming spot. Featuring lovely rooms and excellent breakfasts, the B&B is within striking distance of both Belfast and the beautiful County Down coastline.
Belfast (Belfast BT7 1JL )
This chic hotel is located in Belfast's vibrant city centre. Interiors feature upholstered furniture, quirky artwork and cosy wood-panelling, while the stylish guestrooms boast feature wallpaper and plush soft linens. Don't miss the great food and cocktail menu in the restaurant; a lively city stay.
County Down
Overlooking Tollymore Forest Park, Cherryhill Lodge is a delightful B&B just outside Newcastle. Featuring smart rooms and lovely views, it's proximity to Royal County Down Golf Club makes it a great base for golfers.
County Down (Co Down)
An excellent and unpretentious waterfront hotel overlooking Strangford Lough. Cosy, elegant interiors behind its 18th century facade. Fantastic food in the award-winning restaurant and cookery masterclasses with the executive chef. Utterly charming and great for groups.
County Antrim
With pigs in the pens and sheep in the field, Ballylagan Organic Farm is exactly like its name suggests. The original farmhouse boasts four delightful rooms and there is the option of a self-catering cottage. Perfect for people looking for an immersive rural experience.
Belfast
Fashionable boutique hotel in a Grade 1 listed building, located in central Belfast. Comfortable rooms and excellent steakhouse and bar mean that this is the perfect place for relaxation after a busy day of business or pleasure in the Northern Irish capital. A hip spot in the centre of the city.
Londonderry
Right in the heart of historic Derry, the Shipquay Hotel is an excellent place to stay. Featuring plush rooms, a fine restaurant and spa facilities, it's a great base for a weekend of exploring the fascinating Walled City.
Belfast
An award winning property offering value rooms in the centre of Belfast. Elegantly styled throughout - expect light wooden furniture, enormous windows, soft hues and contemporary bathrooms. Exceptionally hearty breakfasts are offered - including whiskey infused porridge. A charming stay.
Belfast
A stylish boutique all-suite hotel located in the heart of Belfast. Beautifully designed rooms boast wonderfully comfortable beds, parquet flooring, dark blue hues, modern furniture, and small kitchens. With the best of the city on the doorstep, this is ideal for independent travellers.
Belfast
Set in a lovely Victorian townhouse, Maryville House is a delightful B&B a short way from the centre of Belfast. Featuring classy rooms and an excellent restaurant, it's a great base from which to explore Northern Ireland's capital.
County Down (County Down)
An utterly charming inn set in a quiet hamlet just outside Belfast. Elegant and characterful throughout expect enormous fireplaces, chandeliers, heavy four poster beds and rich hues. Opt for a historic suite to feel like you've stepped back in time. The exemplary restaurant tops this fabulous hotel.
County Down
Quiet and charming, Ballymote House is perfect for those looking for a peaceful getaway in County Down. Awash with heritage and character, the house offers lovely rooms, beautiful gardens and a host of activities such as horse riding.
Londonderry
Within the city walls of Derry, the Bishop's Gate Hotel oozes class and sophistication. It features sleek rooms, an atmospheric bar and an excellent restaurant. It's central location makes it ideal for exploring the Walled City's fascinating history and culture.
County Antrim (BALLINTOY)
A traditional pub, turned boutique hotel, in a picture-perfect setting in the coastal village of Ballintoy. Rooms have a contemporary feel with dark green hues & simple pale wood furniture; the best have sea views. Traditional Irish cuisine in the pub is worthy of a visit alone. Rural perfection.
County Antrim
An ancient castle with contemporary interiors located on the coast 40-mins from Belfast. Rooms vary in size but each has had a complete overhaul leaving a simple, modern and fresh feel. The restaurant serves hearty local dishes and there's a pretty walled garden outside. Well priced and laidback.
Bangor (County Down)
A quaint guesthouse overlooking the coast in the beautiful town of Bangor. Traditionally styled rooms feature elegant dark wooden furniture, patterned wallpaper and spacious bathrooms. A cosy, fire lit lounge offers the perfect respite after a day spent on the coast.
Belfast
Former warehouse turned stylish boutique in the heart of Belfast. The rooms' design is contemporary and bold with statement wallpaper, large windows, and modern bathrooms. Two-bedroom suites (one with a pool table) are great for friends. With a lively bar and restaurant, this is a hip city pad.
County Down
Ivy-fronted and impressive, Belmont House Hotel immediately stands out. Its class on the outside is replicated on the inside with elegant rooms, a stylish bar and superb restaurant. A lovely, stylish and relaxing place to stay.
Portrush
An impeccably designed boutique B&B boasting a coastal position in Portrush. Accommodation mixes the old and new with polished wooden floors, a few select antiques, white-washed walls and soft grey hues. A charming base to discover the region.
Portstewart
Overlooking Portstewart Strand, the Saltwater House is a stylish, modern B&B. With a selection of elegantly designed rooms and delicious breakfasts, it's a great base from which to explore the surrounding coastline. An especially good spot for keen golfers.
County Down
Resplendent in 19th century opulence, Nutgrove House is a delightful guesthouse. The period furnishings and classical artwork give the place a distinct character with the house's beautifully landscaped gardens adding to the ambience. Try the Shepherds Hut for something a little different.
County Down (Co. Down)
One of Northern Ireland's best known hotels set between the mountains of Morne and the sea. State of the art spa and pool complex, stylish contemporary rooms, and extensive conference facilities on the doorstep of the Royal County Down Golf Course. A great spot for avid golfers.
Hillsborough
Set in a beautifully renovated farm building, the Baytree Boutique B&B is a delightful place to stay in Country Down. Elegant and intimate, the rooms feature crisp monochrome decor and comfortable furniture. Start your day with a superb breakfast.
Bangor
A luxury rural hotel set in the Northern Ireland's rugged and picturesque countryside. Chic rooms are perfectly styled with geometric wallpaper, luxury bathrooms, and Scandinavian inspired furniture. Seasonal produce is used in the restaurant and there is a superb wine list. Country chic.
County Antrim
An imposing country house set in picturesque grounds. Beautifully designed throughout mixing contemporary styles seamlessly alongside the houses original features. Chef-patron Ian Orr has created an inspired restaurant. The staff are delightful and surrounding countryside sublime.
County Down (County Down)
Relaxed private country house in a beautiful coastal setting with its own private beach, polo ground and glorious wooded parkland. Three classical bedrooms with original Georgian features and elegant furniture. A wonderful B&B country escape for those who like to enjoy country activities.
Ballycastle (Co Antrim)
A family-friendly seaside hotel in the centre of town. A range of rooms (and a handful of suites) offer comfortable contemporary accommodations — the best come with sea views and some even boast a balcony. Marconi's serves crowd-pleasing dishes from local produce. An ideal base for local exploring.
Belfast
The Bullitt is situated in the heart of Belfast, the ideal spot for a city break. This designer property features contemporary and quirky interiors with plenty of artwork adorning the walls. Their funky rooms feature king-sized beds and satellite TVs. Breakfast on-the-go offered daily. A great stay.
Portrush (Portrush )
A charming small B&B in a spectacular location overlooking the sea in Portrush. Light and airy rooms have a distinctly nautical look and the best open onto private terraces. Indulgent breakfasts are served and, just steps away, are an exciting array of restaurants. Ideal for a coastal break.
Belfast (Titanic Quarter)
Set in the converted offices of Harland & Wolff (Titanic's designers) this hotel offers both history and contemporary luxuries. Sleek rooms are fresh and modern with Egyptian cotton sheets and grey hues. A fine dining restaurant is award-winning and the bar serves good cocktails. A chic city base.
Belfast
Chic yet funky boutique-style hotel with fantastic city-centre location. Eclectic decor ranges from contemporary glam rooms to sexy lounge bar & stylish minimalist restaurant. Top suites are sensational & there's a real emphasis on service. The best choice in town for those after affordable luxury.
Belfast
Locally-owned independent hotel close to the very centre of Belfast. An expansive bar & restaurant are the heart of the property; with interiors salvaged from local churches, this popular late-night spot has a dramatic gothic feel. Swanky rooms with fun decor are super comfy. Great-value city hotel.
Belfast (Holywood)
Luxury hotel and spa overlooking Belfast Lough. Opulent interiors, great food and five star service. Ideal for a short spoiling break to Northern Ireland if you don't want to be in the heart of Belfast, and great for business travellers.
County Fermanagh
A luxury resort set in the stunning Fermanagh Lakelands boasting no less than two golf courses and a Thai spa. Elegant rooms have a traditional feel with antique furniture, local artwork, and spellbinding views. Complete with four restaurants and an atmospheric whiskey bar, this is a has-it-all stay
Belfast
A historic hotel located in the heart of the city. Smart rooms are spacious and elegantly styled with soft hues, sink-into beds and contemporary bathrooms. The Causerie Bistro serves exemplary dishes and there's also the Piano Bar for high-teas or prosecco filled evenings.
County Armagh
A charming guesthouse with warm hosts, a scenic setting, & fabulous food. Rooms are country chic with statement wallpaper, Egyptian cotton sheets, and indulgent bathrooms. Three nights a week the host makes standout farm-to-table five-course meals which are worthy of a visit alone. A spoiling stay.
County Fermanagh (Enniskillen )
A collection of futuristic domes, suites, and villas set within an ancient woodland. Each room is designed to enjoy nature from glass ceilings to stargaze to a rolltop bath overlooking the forest. There's a Slow Food restaurant and a unique spa experience. The perfect hideaway for some R&R.
County Armagh (County Armagh)
Sophisticated family-run country house hotel with excellent food. Original Georgian interiors have been updated with modern elegance - fireplaces, large sash windows, paintings, and tasteful furniture are highlighted by lots of natural light and subtle tones. A romantic escape with plenty to offer.
Bushmills (Bushmills)
Renowned inn offering genuine Irish hospitality and scrumptious food in its award-winning restaurant. Classic-chic bedrooms in neutral tones with four poster beds. A warren of little snugs and Wild West-esque gas bar create a cosy ambiance. A great choice for groups and families.
County Down
A chic boutique B&B located right on the coast in Donaghadee. Five beautifully styled rooms boast pale wooden floors, vast Georgian sash windows, steel blue hues, and simple scandi-chic furniture. Each has wonderful sea views. A grown-up stay, ideal for local exploring.
County Antrim (Country Antrim, Northern Ireland)
A bohemian hotel and spa in the heart of Templepatrick. Interiors feature vibrant, eclectic decor with bold patterns and plush furnishings. The spa is superb with Roman baths, salt chamber, heated lakeside pebble beach, and disco ball lakeside bar, plus there's a buzzy restaurant. Laidback luxury.
County Antrim (Ballymena )
A luxury riverside hotel & spa set in 163 acres of mature woodlands. A wide range of accommodation includes rooms, suites, & lodges which feel traditional yet luxurious. With an award-winning restaurant & a stand out spa that boasts outdoor hot tubs & a snow cabin, this promises a rejuvenating stay.
Ballycastle (County Antrim)
A modern waterfront retreat in Ballycastle, just a short stroll from the beach. The contemporary decor blends natural tones with sleek finishes, creating a calm yet stylish atmosphere. There's a well-curated restaurant, cosy bar, and relaxing sauna. Perfect for a quiet escape with scenic views.
Belfast
Stunning transformation of a former 19th century bank. Eclectic contemporary rooms evoke a romantic Napoleon III-style Paris - luscious velvets and silks, rich wool carpets, gold and red chintz wallpapers, and statement artwork. Superb bar, spa and gym plus a live jazz bar. Divine.
