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.

Some of our Northern Ireland collections:

• Hotels with Pools in Northern Ireland

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.

The best places to stay in Norethern Ireland

For Belfast

• Merchant Hotel is housed in the restored former headquarters of the Ulster Bank, offering opulent decor with beautiful silks and velvets. A superb bar, restaurant and luxury spa make this a top Belfast base.
• The Bullitt is a cool city break pick offering slick modern rooms (categories range from ‘Dinky’ to ‘Roomy’), fantastic food and a buzzing rooftop bar with live music. A fun, funky bolthole in the heart of Belfast.
• Ten Square is a trendy boutique spot in the centre of Belfast. Modern rooms are chic and luxurious, and the proximity to the city’s bars and restaurant makes this a great pick for hip, well-heeled visitors. The smart, slick vibe also suits business travellers.
• House Belfast is a characterful boutique property in Belfast’s vibrant city centre. A fun choice for hip couples, the hotel features upholstered furniture in warm jewel-like tones, quirky artwork and funky wallpaper. Savour top-notch food in the atmospheric restaurant and indulge in awesome cocktails at the seriously cool bar. City chic!

For Londonderry

• Shipquay Hotel is a smart, boutique pick in the heart of historic Derry. With a great brasserie-style restaurant and swish, luxurious bedrooms tucked inside a period townhouse, this is an excellent base for a weekend in the fascinating 'Walled City’.
• Bishop's Gate Hotel offers a sophisticated city stay in a 19th century building. The atmospheric bar and excellent restaurant are wonderful places to unwind, whilst recently refurbished rooms and suites promise contemporary luxury. Larger apartments are great for families or groups of friends travelling together.

For a coastal B&B

• Saltwater House is a stylish B&B with five elegant white-on-white rooms, delicious breakfasts and beautiful views over Portstewart Strand. Golfers will love the proximity to Portstewart and Portrush (both within 5 miles), whilst ramblers are well-placed to explore the coastline.
• Cairn Bay Lodge is a lovely, laid-back guesthouse overlooking the coast in the beautiful town of Bangor. Think traditional wooden beds, bright artwork and sea views from some of the bedrooms. A family-run B&B offering great brunch, and the ideal base for walking, cycling and cosy evenings in nearby pubs.

For a Rural Retreat

• Tyrella House is a grand eighteenth century house offering three elegant Georgian bedrooms, mature gardens, a private beach and a polo ground. Stay here for riding and polo lessons, as well as marvellous old-world charm and a friendly family feel. Book the Family Suite if you're travelling with little ones, who can also safely swim in the sea.
• Newforge House is a sophisticated, family-run country house hotel with warm Georgian interiors, including four-poster beds and antique writing desks. Soak up the house’s romantic charm and savour fantastic fare from co-owner John, a professional chef. Wonderful!
• Ballymote House promises a peaceful getaway in Country Down, with four traditional rooms, beautiful gardens and heaps of outdoor activities — from fishing to horse riding, scenic rambles to great golf. Pick this place for a quiet, relaxed vibe and impressive big breakfasts.
• Ballylagan Organic Farm boasts four delightful rooms in a renovated farmhouse, and a separate self-catering cottage. With pigs in the pens, sheep in the field and a substantial offering of home-grown organic produce, this laid-back working farm offers the perfect rural retreat. A farm favourite for families.
• Peartree Hill is a charming hideaway with three lovely modern rooms, perfectly poised for exploring both Belfast and the County Down coastline. An intimate B&B boasting hearty breakfasts and spacious bedrooms.

For foodies

• Portaferry Hotel is a charming waterfront hotel with views over the Strangford Lough. Rooms are comfortable and old-fashioned, whilst the award-winning restaurant is the big sell. Mouth-watering dishes are crafted from the finest local ingredients — this is one for foodies who will appreciate a friendly atmosphere and a beautiful view.
• Ardtara Country House is an imposing retreat with nine bedrooms blending contemporary comforts with attractive period features. Stay here for the pretty rural woodland setting, the nearby fishing and hiking, as well as chef-patron Ian Orr’s inspired cooking. The award-winning restaurant prides itself on offering delectable dishes using local produce — including fruit and vegetables grown in the hotel garden.
• Bushmills Inn offers warm, Irish hospitality in a cosy inn, with traditionally-decorated bedrooms and lovely free-standing baths for long soaks after scrumptious, locally-sourced meals in the garden or evenings reading by the fire. Think roaring fires, live music, fresh oysters and a cracking tipple in the village which remains home to the world's oldest distillery. What's not to love?

For a spa

• Slieve Donard Resort and Spa is one of Northern Ireland’s best known hotels, and enjoys a picturesque location between the Mountains of Mourne and the sea. Rooms are stylish and contemporary, The Royal County Down Golf Course is right on the doorstep and the state-of-the-art spa features striking sea views. Unwind with restorative therapies in one of 16 treatment rooms. One for golfers and spa lovers.
• Culloden Estate and Spa offers a splendid stay, just 10 minutes from Belfast. Overlooking the Belfast Lough and set in 12 acres of grounds, this Gothic edifice promises luxurious rooms and suites, as well as terrific food and easy access to myriad attractions. Try the Total Body Bliss treatment at the indulgent ESPA spa — one of Northern Ireland’s best.

For Families

• Clandeboye Lodge offers chic rooms with Scandi-style furnishings and luxurious bathrooms in a pretty rural setting near Bangor. The Coq & Bull is a lively eatery focusing on homegrown and local produce, whilst there are stacks of activities for everyone in the area — from golf to interactive museums, beach fun to rural walks. Families will adore the friendly feel and the spacious family suite, which sleeps four people.

For a holiday cottage

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Northern Ireland has two main airports: Belfast International Airport and Belfast City Airport. Whilst Belfast City Airport is mainly served by the UK, the International Airport offers connections to cities across Europe.
• There are also frequent ferries between Belfast Harbour and Scotland, England and the Isle of Man. These high-speed vessels are also a great option if you’d like to bring your car.
• There’s so much to explore by road in Northern Ireland. If you would like to rent a car, we suggest that you contact our online partner Rentalcars.
• Visit between May and September for the best of the year’s weather. The long days offer great opportunities for scenic drives, walks and discovering both towns and rural areas.

Still not sure?

• Browse our list of all the the best places to stay in Belfast.
• Alternatively, check out our pick of the best places to stay in Ireland.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.