County Antrim

Photo of County Antrim
Photo of County Antrim
Credit: Image by John Callister from P
Photo of County Antrim
Credit: Image by Paul from Pixabay
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About County Antrim

County Antrim is a stunning part of Northern Ireland that is awash with glorious scenery. Its glacier-shaped glens and numerous waterfalls spring to mind, along with vast expanses of grasslands, all finished with a coastline that alternates between dark and rugged rocks and sandy, sweeping bays. And on the very edge the incredible Giant’s Causeway. Our pick of the best places to stay in County Antrim includes farm stays, B&Bs, converted castles and country houses, seaside retreats, and a rather grand spa hotel.

This is a hugely varied landscape and not surprisingly appeals to a wide range of travellers — walkers and hikers, fisher-folk, surfers, divers, families, lovers of Irish culture and traditions... But one of the major groups of visitors is those who are on a pilgrimage to destinations used in the filming of Game of Thrones. From Ballintoy Harbour, used for Pike and the Iron Islands, to the Caves of Cushendun, where Melisandre gave birth to a shadow-child.

The fantastic sight of the Giant’s Causeway is one of the region's great treasures, but don't miss the coastline around Fair Head, which has some of the same remarkable basaltic columns, Dunluce Castle and Carrickfergus Castle and Colin Mountain, for its cairns. Bushmills, which is known for its whiskey distilleries, and pretty, popular, port-side Portrush are some of the best places to stay in County Antrim if you’re looking for a small centre and base. If you’re looking for lovely beaches we recommend looking at Ballycastle, Cushendun and Larne.

The Best Places to Stay in County Antrim

For a golf and spa resort

  • The Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort is a large, and luxurious, spa hotel, set right next to a river, on 163 acres of mature woodlands just outside Ballymena. As well as impressive facilities, there’s an impressive array of rooms, plus private cabins, shepherd’s huts, cottages and lodges. If you want your own hot tub, that’s an option, and there are all sorts of romantic upgrades, as well as family-centric ones. The spa offers five outdoor hot tubs, two saunas, indoor and outdoor pools and a hydrotherapy pool. There’s also a gym, a choice of four dining options, tennis courts, championship golf course and opportunities to go fishing or horse riding.

For a countryside escape

  • Ballylagan Organic Farm has four guest rooms and a private, self-catering cottage, filled with rustic antiques and cosy, sitting and dining rooms. The food served is organic, local produce, but it’s quite gourmet in style as well as being fresh and wholesome. Families will do well in the self-catering cottage.
  • Ardtara Country House is an elegantly symmetrical country house, with lots of large windows — perfect for admiring the picturesque grounds. There are nine guest rooms, all uniquely decorated in classic country house style with nice antiques, soft fabrics, and tasteful art. The location is quiet and secluded, and the restaurant excellent.

For couples

  • Overlooking Portrush harbour, Pier 39 is a small and charming B&B with a nautical spin, and light, airy rooms, the best rooms of which boast a private terrace. The breakfasts are indulgent, and you’re within a very pleasant stroll of some excellent bars and restaurants.

For families

  • Ballygally Castle is every bit the ‘proper’ castle, complete with fairytale turrets worthy of Rapunzel. Its interiors are more contemporary than the exterior style, and while each of the 54 rooms and suites varies in size, they’ve all decorated with simple style and comfort in mind. The Family Suites are a good size, and the restaurant has a hearty kids’ menu, alongside its main menu which features plenty of local produce. Kids are also welcome in the castle’s walled garden. And of course you’re just across the road from a beautiful beach.
  • The Fullerton Arms is a charmingly traditional pub-with-rooms in the pretty coastal village of Ballintoy. There are just 13 rooms and suites, including family rooms which sleep up to six. All of them are decorated with great contemporary style. Downstairs in the pub there’s a hearty Irish menu and a great range of drinks.
  • The Marine Hotel in Ballycastle is perfect for a family seaside holiday. There's a good range of comfortable, modern accommodation (family rooms have bunk beds for the kids), casual dining at Marconi's and you're just steps from the sandy beach.

For a countryside escape

  • At Bushmills Inn there’s a friendly mixing of locals and tourists, with golfing holidaymakers as well as those here for the Giant’s Causeway. The award-winning restaurant is part of the draw, but the courtyard is charming and the atmosphere convivial. There are 41 rooms and suites, wood-panelled or white, with antiques and vintage pieces. 

Best b&bs

  • Portrush’s Blackrock House is an impeccably designed adults only B&B. Each of the three rooms has wonderful sea views, a pleasant mix of antiques and contemporary pieces and a white and soft grey colour scheme. There's a separate self-catering apartment overlooking the harbour, for those looking for a more independent or longer stay.

Prefer a private apartment or cottage?

  • If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Belfast Airport is in Aldergrove, which is in County Antrim. If you’re travelling to Antrim itself, it’s a 15 minute bus or taxi journey from the airport, or just over half an hour if you’re arriving into Belfast by rail. If you’re heading towards the northern coastline or the Giant’s Causeway, you need to aim for about Bushmills, which you can get to on a bus from Belfast, or towards Portrush, which you can reach by train from Belfast and Antrim.
  • If you want to hire one we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
  • If you’re hoping to see County Antrim in the nicest possible weather, the best time to visit is between late spring and early summer. This part of Northern Ireland has mild summers and cool winters, the regulating power of the Gulf Stream ensures temperatures are never too extreme, but it does catch quite a bit of squally rain in off the Atlantic. Spring is pretty with wildflowers, and if you wait until autumn you’ll see colourful foliage. Even winter has its appeals, especially if you like windswept coastal walks, atmospheric mountain views, and roaring pub fires afterwards!

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The best hotels in County Antrim

Marine Hotel
Marine Hotel

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.

  • Families - There's a good range of family rooms and suites, child friendly menus and you're steps from the beach
  • Local exploring - A superb location on County Antrim's stunning Causeway Coast
  • Restaurant - Marconi's Bar and Bistro serves dishes using the best local ingredients
  • Cooking classes - Every Wednesday morning the hotel hosts breadmaking demonstrations
from €145 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Ballylagan Organic Farm
Ballylagan Organic Farm

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.

  • Country Escape - Set on a lovely farm in County Antrim, this place is definitely for people who are looking for fresh air and open space.
  • Sights nearby - Take a day trip into Belfast and explore sights such as the Titanic Museum, the Falls Road and the Ulster Museum.
  • Great walks - The surrounding countryside is full of lovely walking routes.
  • Restaurant
from €115 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Fullerton Arms
Fullerton Arms

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.

  • Families - Spacious family rooms sleep 4 or 6 and the vibe of the hotel is very laidback, making this a good choice for families
  • Country Escape - With hearty cuisine, cosy rooms, and a spectacular rural setting on the coast — this is a perfect country escape
  • Outstanding location - Overlooking a stunning harbour and rugged coastline that was the setting for Iron Islands in Game of Thrones
  • Great walks - There is endless choice for scenic walks whether you want an amble or a full day hike
from €121 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Ballygally Castle
Ballygally Castle

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.

  • Local exploring - Whether you want to visit the set of Game of Thrones, view (other) ancient castles, or go on hikes — there's plenty to do here
  • Families - With family rooms, kids' menus, good pricing for children, and plenty of space — this is an easy choice for a family break
  • Sights nearby - Visit nearby sights such as Dunluce Castle, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and Bushmills (the world’s oldest distillery)
  • Great walks - The lovely Antrim Coast Road starts from near the property
from €121 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Blackrock House
Blackrock House

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.

  • Active Holiday - Find a host of outdoor pursuits in the surrounding region.
  • Great walks - Take a stroll along the scenic Portrush promenade and beach.
  • Restrictions on children - Adult only
  • Boutique
from €133 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Ardtara Country House
Ardtara Country House

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.

  • Country Escape - A beautiful country house tucked away amidst wodland and surrounded by some serious natural beauty.
  • Fishing - Ardtara is close to a variety of good rivers and lakes and the Irish sea is only 45 minute drive away.
  • Sights nearby - Make a trip to the nearby Dunlace Castle.
  • Restaurant
from €144 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Pier 39
Pier 39

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.

  • Local exploring - Set by the coast in Portrush on the Causeway Coastal route, there's beaches, historic sights, golf, and walking to enjoy
  • Sights nearby - Visit the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, or Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
  • Great walks
  • Sea Views
from €145 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Bushmills Inn
Bushmills Inn

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.

  • Local exploring - Packed with things to see from the stunning Giant’s Causeway to tours of the world's oldest distillery.
  • Foodies - Enjoy the locally sourced award-winning cuisine on offer, in a charmingly old school setting.
  • Sights nearby - Close to attractions such as Old Bushmills Distillery, The Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle.
  • Restaurant - Award-winning restaurant. Each dish is crafted from traditional roots, but with a Bushmills twist.
from €229 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Rabbit
The Rabbit

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.

  • Spa breaks - Enjoy the luxurious spa featuring lakeside hot tubs, Roman baths, and a heated pebble beach, perfect for a rejuvenating escape
  • Romantic Break - Indulge yourselves with an al fresco bathtub in your private courtyard, cosy wood-burning stove, and serene lakeside view
  • Learning - Partake in the Rabbit Bar's cocktail masterclasses, where expert mixologists teach you to craft the perfect drink
  • Local exploring - Explore the nearby scenic beauty and cultural attractions of County Antrim
from €241 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort
Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort

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.

  • Spa breaks - The spa is the real lure with five outdoor hot tubs, two saunas, and a River House for lounging half on land and half over water
  • Romantic Break - With romantic suites, private hot tubs, a spa, and fine dining — this is the perfect place for a romantic break
  • Golf - Galgorm boasts a Championship Parkland course and a 6-hole Pitch & Putt as well as a Golf Academy
  • Groups - Riverside Cabins, Cottage Suites, Shepherds Huts and Residence are ideal for groups or families
from €265 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Salthouse Hotel
The Salthouse Hotel

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.

  • Foodies - Savour locally-sourced seafood with Atlantic views at this coastal gem, perfect for indulging in regional flavours
  • Families - With spacious rooms, a garden, and stunning views, it's perfect for a relaxing family escape
  • Great walks - Head to Ballycastle Beach for a relaxing stroll along its golden sands
  • Learning - Visit the historic Bonamargy Friary, just a short walk from the hotel
from €267 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia